Originally hailing from Mississippi, Robert Hoze settled with his family in Sacramento, California, in his early childhood. Growing up on the family farm, Hoze fell in love with the surrounding nature and, holding onto that dream, started his own family farm, Apple Creek Vineyard Farm, 12 years ago. Since then, Hoze’s deep commitment to organic farming, with a specific passion for innovation and healthy soils, lead him to begin the transition to certified organic farming.
With support from the CCOF Foundation’s Organic Transition Program, Hoze has focused his passion for growing organic products for his community on soil improvement and nutrient management. Concentrating efforts on producing crops that are healthy for people and planet, Hoze has tapped into science and technologies as a key to his successes. “Nutrient management focuses on applying nutrients based on right sources, rates, times …. I utilize soil testing and other nutrient monitoring to manage nutrient applications for crop rotation. Organic management will address natural resources including soil, water, wetlands, and wildlife. In addition, it will address livestock operations, soil health, plant pest pressure, pollinators, and other beneficial invertebrates.” Such a versatile and innovative perspective with a keen eye for improving the land has established Hoze as an effective and thoughtful farmer.
The CCOF Foundation’s Organic Transition Program grants support farmers and ranchers, like Hoze and Apple Creek Vineyard Farm, who seek to transition their farms or ranches into certified organic production. Participants receive $10,000 per year for the three-year transition to certified organic for a total of $30,000, with a possible additional $1,000 per acre up to 30 acres for qualifying soil health practices. To learn about this opportunity please visit our website or apply directly from October 7 through November 1, 2024. This program is funded in part by the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Organic Transition Pilot Program.
Applications for the Organic Transition Program grant are open now and close November 1, 2024. Additional cycles to be announced for 2025.
Visit our website for more information.
Please contact Larissa Hernandez at grants@ccof.org or (831) 346-6324 or Hanali Lopez-Tapia at (831) 824-6123 with any questions or for support.