Tonya Antle, principle of Tanimura & Antle, was named 2017’s Ag Woman of the Year by Monterey County’s Ag Against Hunger, on Friday, April 28. Antle was recognized for her considerable contributions to produce, agriculture and the local community.
Born into agriculture, she started working on the family farm at age 10 and, after graduating from college, joined Freida’s at a time when women in produce were still rare. Antle’s career took her to organic table grapes with Pavich Farms and then on to Earthbound Farm, where she became its organic ambassador in the trade, playing a key role in the company’s impact on the expansion of organic production and sales. She, along with Matt Seeley, recently co-founded the Organic Produce Network, with the goal of sharing their experience in organic produce with other organic growers, packers, and shippers.
The 2016 recipient (along with her husband, Rick) of United Fresh Produce Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award, she has served industry in many roles: as a member of the Executive Committee of the US Department of Agriculture’s Advisory Board on Research, Education and Economics; and a member of several boards, including the Produce Marketing Association, Organic Trade Association, and Produce for Better Health Foundation. She was a founding committee member for the Produce Marketing Association’s Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference, helping to increase opportunities for women following in her wake. And most important, she is energized by mentoring young people – especially young women.
“Receiving this honor from Ag Against Hunger was both a thrilling surprise and reaffirming,” said Antle. “My career and life's work for the organic produce community has never been about me, but rather about delivering on the promise for our farmers, customers and consumers. To be recognized for my efforts makes me proud that I played a small role in making the organic choice viable.”
The Agricultural Woman of the Year award seeks to honor unique leadership qualities held by women working within the agricultural industry in Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties. The winner of this prestigious award is someone who demonstrate a significant contribution to local agriculture, is a leader for our community and an advocate for agriculture.
Ag Against Hunger is a non-profit organization, based in Monterey County, that works with growers, packers and shippers to collect surplus produce and distribute it to foodbanks. Annually, the organization distributes more than 12 million pounds of fresh produce to foodbanks.
Contact:
Samantha Cabaluna
Tanimura & Antle
Tel: 831-455-3685