AgCircle Spring 2022 by Brock Center for Agricultural Communication

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cal poly in san luis obispo spring 2022

WEDDING FLOWER SHORTAGES INSIGHTS INTO A NATIONWIDE PROBLEM WITH FLOWERS RUITIZ FAMILY FARMS LOCAL FARMER PROVIDES MORE THAN PRODUCE TO HIS COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP THROUGH LIVESTOCK STUDENTS SUCCESSFULLY COORDINATE THE LARGEST WESTERN BONANZA TO DATE

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Letter from the EDITORs Welcome to the Spring 2022 edition of agcircle. Our team of students has been working hard for the past three months to bring you a dynamic and engaging online publication. We are excited to share our stories of agriculture from father-daughter coffee farming to the cut-flower industry and, how students and industry alike are transitioning postpandemic.

agcircle EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Caleigh Martella

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Cassidy Mueller Josh Dean Olivia Jarrett Hanna Almuti

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Cassidy Mueller

WRITERS

COVER IMAGE PHOTOGRAPHER

Emily Demler Erin Dobbe Sunny Anderson Lauren Soto Carolyn Ringer Makenna Howell Mary Adams Caleigh Martella Genevieve Regli Lauren McEwen Olivia Jarrett Grace Alonso

Our goal with this publication is to showcase student writing, editing and design skills, photography, and journalistic techniques. Thank you to all those who contributed to the magazine and helped support our students throughout the process. We hope you enjoy the efforts of our talented group of student contributors. Happy reading!

Contributors

Maureen LaGrande

EMILY DEMLER Page 6

ERIN DOBBE Page 6

SUNNY ANDERSON Page 10

LAUREN SOTO Page 10

CAROLYN RINGER Page 13

MAKENA HOWELL Page 18

MARY ADAMS Page 22

CALEIGH MARTELLA Page 22

GENEVIEVE REGLI Page 29

LAUREN MCEWEN Page 32

OLIVIA JARRETT Page 34

GRACE ALONSO Page 34

PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE All material in this issue may be reproduced with the expressed written permission of California Polytechnic State University. The content of agcircle is generated by students and does not reflect the opinions of California Polytechnic State University, its administration or faculty. CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC STATE UNIVERSITY 1 Grand Avenue, Building 10, Room 234 San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 #agcirclemagazine

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agcircle EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Caleigh Martella

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Cassidy Mueller Josh Dean Olivia Jarrett Hanna Almuti

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Cassidy Mueller

WRITERS

COVER IMAGE PHOTOGRAPHER

Emily Demler Erin Dobbe Sunny Anderson Lauren Soto Carolyn Ringer Makenna Howell Mary Adams Caleigh Martella Genevieve Regli Lauren McEwen Olivia Jarrett Grace Alonso

Contributors

Maureen LaGrande

EMILY DEMLER Page 6

ERIN DOBBE Page 6

SUNNY ANDERSON Page 10

LAUREN SOTO Page 10

CAROLYN RINGER Page 13

MAKENA HOWELL Page 18

MARY ADAMS Page 22

CALEIGH MARTELLA Page 22

GENEVIEVE REGLI Page 29

LAUREN MCEWEN Page 32

OLIVIA JARRETT Page 34

GRACE ALONSO Page 34

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CONTENTS 06

WEDDING FLOWER SHORTAGES INSIGHTS INTO A NATIONWIDE PROBLEM WITH FLOWERS Emily Demler & Erin Dobbe

SLO CITY FARM

Marijuana Mayhem CANNABIS AND ITS FIGHT FOR LEGITIMACY

Sunny Anderson & Lauren Soto

Carolyn Ringer

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SHOOTING FOR SUCCESS CAL POLY STUDENTS EARN 2ND PLACE IN INTERNATIONAL VIDEO PRODUCTION COMPETITION Dr. Moses Mike, Payton Paschoal & Natalie Victorine

CAL POLY’S QUARTER HORSE ENTERPRISE CREATING STUDENT TRAINERS

RUITZ FAMILY FARMS LOCAL FARMER PROVIDES MORE THAN PRODUCE TO HIS

Makena Howell

SPRING 2022 PHOTO CONTEST THE BROCK CENTER’S ANNUAL PHOTO CONTEST

FATHER & DAUGHTER BREW UP BUSINESS IN SLO COUNTY Lauren McEwen

DAIRIES FUELING THE FUTURE CALIFORNIA DAIRIES FUELING THE FUTURE IN THE GREEN ENERGY MARKET Genevieve Regli

LEADERSHIP THROUGH LIVESTOCK STUDENTS SUCCESSFULLY COORDINATE THE LARGEST WESTERN BONANZA TO DATE Olivia Jarett & Grace Alonso

COMMUNITY Mary Adams & Caleigh Martella

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CONTENTS 06

WEDDING FLOWER SHORTAGES INSIGHTS INTO A NATIONWIDE PROBLEM WITH FLOWERS Emily Demler & Erin Dobbe

SLO CITY FARM

Marijuana Mayhem CANNABIS AND ITS FIGHT FOR LEGITIMACY

Sunny Anderson & Lauren Soto

Carolyn Ringer

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SHOOTING FOR SUCCESS CAL POLY STUDENTS EARN 2ND PLACE IN INTERNATIONAL VIDEO PRODUCTION COMPETITION Dr. Moses Mike, Payton Paschoal & Natalie Victorine

CAL POLY’S QUARTER HORSE ENTERPRISE CREATING STUDENT TRAINERS

RUITZ FAMILY FARMS LOCAL FARMER PROVIDES MORE THAN PRODUCE TO HIS

Makena Howell

SPRING 2022 PHOTO CONTEST THE BROCK CENTER’S ANNUAL PHOTO CONTEST

FATHER & DAUGHTER BREW UP BUSINESS IN SLO COUNTY Lauren McEwen

DAIRIES FUELING THE FUTURE CALIFORNIA DAIRIES FUELING THE FUTURE IN THE GREEN ENERGY MARKET Genevieve Regli

LEADERSHIP THROUGH LIVESTOCK STUDENTS SUCCESSFULLY COORDINATE THE LARGEST WESTERN BONANZA TO DATE Olivia Jarett & Grace Alonso

COMMUNITY Mary Adams & Caleigh Martella

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WEDDING FLOWER SHORTAGES INSIGHTS INTO A NATIONWIDE PROBLEM WITH FLOWERS Story by Emily Demler and Erin Dobbe

he wedding industry is booming, and the flower industry is blooming... if flowers are available. Flowers are an important detail in any big event. In fact, floral arrangements can compose up to eight to ten percent of an overall wedding budget. They add extra color and texture and provide a special feeling to any event, especially a wedding. Flowers symbolize elegance with their immaculate beauty, fragrance and color. The Central Coast is an extremely popular destination for weddings and appeals to many couples for their wedding venues. Local Event and Wedding Planner, Colleen Stefanek, states, “Here on the Central Coast, businesses say the wedding industry is booming, with the average couple spending more than $50,000 on their big day.” In addition, local florist, Lexi Lupton, stated, “We have a record number of weddings in San Luis Obispo (SLO) County and California. This year is a BIG year of catch-up.”

Photo by Dylan Shea Photography 6 | Spring 2022

In SLO County, flowers rank among the top 10 commodities in value, behind strawberries, grapes and avocados. Floriculture is a prominent industry on the Central Coast, according to the Farm Bureau. While most businesses struggled during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, the floriculture and home improvement industry quite literally, bloomed.

Ben Dobbe, a fourth-generation flower farmer in Arroyo Grande, says that because everyone was staying home, farmers have seen a “worldwide increase in all demand because consumers had more time to gain knowledge of flowers and the way they make others feel.” Sending flowers to people was a way to recognize one another without seeing each other in person. “Since many domestic flower farmers converted to growing Cannabis, we had a higher demand in the flowers that we grow, due to a shortage in supply,” said Ben Dobbe. Despite this, things have changed recently due to the spike of enthusiasm and eagerness from farmers to grow a new type of commodity: Cannabis. Dan Vordale, the vice president of Ocean View Flowers says, “The cannabis deal is a big, big swing for our industry. All the growers in Carpinteria have transitioned into growing cannabis because the revenue is so much higher than cut flowers.” Unknown to most central coast locals, the neighboring city of Lompoc used to be called the flower capital of the world and annually hosts the Lompoc Flower Festival. Ken Ostini, President and CEO of the Lompoc Chamber of Commerce states, “It was easy for flower farmers to convert their operations to cannabis because, like cut flowers, it can be grown inside a greenhouse.” Because agcircle| 7

WEDDING FLOWER SHORTAGES INSIGHTS INTO A NATIONWIDE PROBLEM WITH FLOWERS Story by Emily Demler and Erin Dobbe

Photo by Dylan Shea Photography 6 | Spring 2022

Photo by Megan Braught Photography

Photo by Megan Braught Photography many domestic flower farmers converted to growing Cannabis, there was a higher demand for the flower farmers due to a shortage in supply.

delayed six to eight weeks past when we expected them, causing us to limit our overall flower numbers for Valentine’s Day sales,” says Dobbe, who buys bulbs from the Netherlands. “This will have a lasting effect on all flower farmers who planted

Valentine’s Day. Following Mother’s Day, wedding season comes in full force to make pressures worse.

With any agricultural commodity, there are supply and This conversion, as well as many demand issues that occur daily. other factors, are contributing Lupton has seen to the current a direct impact flower shortage on the central coast. “Since many domestic flower farmers converted to growing on the need to be flexible with The implications Cannabis, we had a higher demand in the flowers that we what is currently of importing grow due to a shortage in supply.” available for flower flower bulbs from Ben Dobbe supplies while other countries trying to manage is another factor her business, “I constantly have responsible for the current later than normal... now the to substitute flowers that I did shortage. Receiving shipments market is being flooded with not have to substitute for in of bulbs is always a conflict of production that we should have the past. I have been upfront interest for farmers in the U.S. had five to seven weeks ago,” with clients that flexibility with Each year presents a new issue in Dobbe predicts. flowers is necessary right now.” relation to regulation, labor and supply. Despite the challenges, flower As a result of COVID-19, there farmers are putting their best has been a drastic increase in This year receiving shipments of foot forward to continue growing demand, but supply cannot bulbs has been a taxing problem quality flowers for Mother’s meet that demand. Lupton states that continues to be a topic of Day harvest, one of the largest that she has had to increase her concern. holidays for sales alongside prices for clients, “A garden rose “Some of our containers were 8 | Spring 2022

can cost around 7 to 9 dollars per stem through my wholesaler. I have started to create a 10 to 15 percent margin for unexpected costs in budgeting for weddings.” It is crucial for small businesses like Lupton’s to have security when contracting with a client because of unforeseen circumstances that could occur. The flower industry has proved to be prominent in the past few years, especially in SLO County, as it is in the 92nd percentile for weddings per year in the United States. For local floral businesses to flourish, they depend on the income that the wedding industry on the central coast has to offer, as well as other life events where people enjoy flowers. Flexibility will play a significant role in the future of the floral industry on the Central Coast, as supply issues are recurring and threats to flower farmers remain.

Photo by Savannah Grace Photos agcircle| 9

Photo by Megan Braught Photography

Photo by Megan Braught Photography many domestic flower farmers converted to growing Cannabis, there was a higher demand for the flower farmers due to a shortage in supply.

Valentine’s Day. Following Mother’s Day, wedding season comes in full force to make pressures worse.

Photo by Savannah Grace Photos agcircle| 9

CITY FARM SLO Story by Sunny Anderson & Lauren Soto

mineral density and encourages soil by transitioning, on a global hat differentiates the integration of beneficial insects scale, to regenerative agriculture sustainable farming as well. Traditional ways of farming and land management practice.” from regenerative often include tilling the soil, which farming? Many people are One of the aspects that sets City disrupts its natural microbiome. confused by this question Farm apart from other farms is Due to this, part of City Farm’s and think of sustainable and their refusal to till. Shane Lovell, philosophy is using a till-free and regenerative agricultural practices the farm manager at City Farm, pesticide-free method of farming as the same. The largest difference explained that overall, tilling is alongside the use of compost. Both is that regenerative practices good for farming but bad for soil methods continue to develop as go beyond just sustaining the life because it damages the soil regenerative farming gains traction environment by focusing on ecosystem. across the world of agriculture. repairing and improving its “When you break [the soil] up and conditions. flip it around Regenerative it needs to all practices have a “To break it down easily, sustainable agriculture entails doing get rebuilt” and promising future the same thing over and over, and regenerative agriculture is “using the natural in the California when one does the same thing even better over and over. ” processes and not agricultural sterilizing the soil industry and one Shane Lovell is very important,” local San Luis he shared. Many Obispo farm is a could say that notable example The RIO explains the necessary the developed network between of that. steps in transitioning to the above and below ground regenerative farming practices: City Farm is a non-profit urban ecosystem is what makes City “First, we must reduce greenhouse farm that strives to achieve Farm so successful. gas emissions by transitioning sustainability through regenerative Kayla Rutland, the executive from fossil fuels to renewable agriculture. The farm provides director of City Farm, explained energy alternatives. Second, we small farmers with affordable how the farm also uses alternative must draw down the tons of excess land to enable sustainable crop strategies such as crop rotation and carbon already released into the production and strengthen integrated pest management to atmosphere and sequester it in the our local food system. Through manage their plot of land. volunteer days, farmer’s markets and an annual harvest festival, the farm aspires to bring people together from all backgrounds to share the passion of the region’s agricultural heritage. Additionally, the farm hosts youth empowerment programs to help local teens get involved with farm experience as well as develop and build lifelong skills. City Farm takes pride in their focus on rejuvenating soil health. One of the biggest leaders in supporting regenerative agriculture is the Regeneration International Organization (RIO). The organization defines regenerative agriculture as an approach to land management that focuses on how all aspects of agriculture are connected and work together. Using this approach leads to higher

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CITY FARM SLO Story by Sunny Anderson & Lauren Soto

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Photo courtesy of: SLO Growers Alliance

Rutland said that one of the alternative farm strategies City Farm uses is rotational grazing. The farm has four sheep which graze in a small area for three days and then rotate. The sheep also graze in weedy spots to increase soil fertility and it feeds the sheep for free. Lovell claims, “There is no natural ecosystem without animals.” Using the sheep as a controlled disturbance helps keep the soil healthy and maintain future plant health. The waste from the sheep who graze and de-weed the crop area also increases the fertility of the land. This is a prime example of how economically sound and natural resources can be used to help create strong and healthy agricultural production. City Farm also uses multiple forms of compost to fertilize the soil and reduce waste. The three forms are thermophilic composting, a worm bin, and the Johnson-Su aerobic bioreactor. These composting techniques may sound daunting but in practice, they are simple and uncomplicated ways to enrich the soil. Thermophilic composting can be described as a “hot way 12 | Spring 2022

of composting” in which bulk material is put in, creating a high bacteria count that forms the perfect ingredients to increase plant growth. In addition, City Farm also has a worm bin that also gives a high diversity of bacteria in the compost. Lastly, the JohnsonSu aerobic bioreactor is a process that takes organic waste and transforms it into an environment that fosters symbiotic relationships with plant roots. Through all these processes, City Farm “eliminate[s] waste and create[s] large amounts of microbial life to encourage the soil food web,” explains Lovell. Despite its small size of less than an acre of land, City Farm continues to produce crops at a surprising scale. They regularly sell a plethora of fresh produce year-round to local customers. To purchase quality produce items, one can either visit the City Farm SLO website, visit the Farm Supply farmers market on Tuesdays from 2 to 6 p.m., or purchase through the Harvestly website.

MARIJUANA MAYHEM CANNABIS AND ITS FIGHT FOR LEGITIMACY Story by Carolyn Ringer

“P

ass me a joint,” became legally on par with “pass me a beer,” when California voters approved the legal cultivation, sale, and recreational use of cannabis in November 2016. Creation of the systems and rules by which legal cannabis growers operate took until approximately 2018. Since the legal cannabis industry began, the state of California has been benefiting financially from the taxes levied on cannabis containing products,

netting over $300 million in the second quarter of 2021 alone states Peter Johnson, a reporter for New Times San Luis Obispo, in his February 16, 2022 article: “SLO County Grapples with a $3.2 Million Loss on Cannabis.” Some experts believe that 80 to 90 percent of cannabis production within California is still ‘underground’ leaving the few communities that allow cannabis cultivation to profit. Proposition 64, also referred to

as the “Adult Use of Marijuana Act,” not only decriminalized and legalized recreational cannabis use for adults 21 and over, but it also provided California counties —including San Luis Obispo— the right to “establish their own local policies and regulations for cannabis retail, manufacturing and cultivation,” according to Rogoway Law in “California Cannabis Laws and Regulations By County.” Of the 58 counties in California, only 53 percent allow for commercial sale or production of cannabis within agcircle| 13

Photo courtesy of: SLO Growers Alliance

MARIJUANA MAYHEM CANNABIS AND ITS FIGHT FOR LEGITIMACY Story by Carolyn Ringer

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A local dispensary in SLO county their county limits as set forth in “California Counties/Cities with Commercial Cannabis Business Laws” an article in CannaBusiness Law’s April 19, 2021 edition. In a nutshell, the citizens who reside in the 47 percent of California counties who do not allow for commercial sale or production of cannabis can use cannabis recreationally but are not able to engage in any commercial activities pertaining to cannabis. San Luis Obispo County is one of the California counties who voted to approve and regulate commercial cannabis ventures. Despite the legal acceptance of cannabis growing in SLO, they have seen huge push backs from county members. Counties such as Santa Barbara, Humboldt and Mendocino issued 1,917, 1,371 and 691 cannabis cultivation licenses respectively in 2018 14 | Spring 2022

alone indicated by John Schroyer in his article “Which California Region Will Emerge as Marijuana Cultivation Business Leader” in MJBizDaily. Comparing the number of licenses to that of SLO County— as of 2021, has issued a mere 20 permits and licenses total according to Schroyer. So, what is the pushback in SLO? The SLO County Board’s District 2 Supervisor, Bruce Gibson, feels that the dearth of cannabis cultivation in the county is due in part to the current “highly imperfect” ordinances and regulations. Gibson goes on to explain that he believes community members are “bringing a lot of (their) own baggage” to the bargaining table. He also feels there is “a clear sense” among residents that “anyone who brings about cannabis projects will also bring (about) criminal activity.” Gibson presents the

opposite view, explaining that of the cannabis growers he has met, the sentiment that cultivation and crime go hand in hand “couldn’t be further from the truth.” If recreational marijuana use is legal state-wide, if it has the ability to dramatically improve California’s financial wellbeing and if it is largely grown by respectable, responsible farmers, where does the resistance to allowing cultivation in SLO County originate?

Rather, they feel the “harmful” and unacknowledged effects of recreational marijuana use which they have experienced first-hand in their communities. Namely, the “disingenuous” ordinances, the “overwhelming smell” and the “ruinous” dynamic of armed guards and increased security industrial cultivation requires within their small towns. For more information on SCCW’s positions, check out its website: https://www. slocannabiswatchgroup.org/.

According to members of the SLO County Cannabis Watch Group (SCCW), Murray Power and Drew Van Duren, the negative effects of recreational marijuana use are being swept under the rug. Despite their organization’s slightly ominous name, Power and Van Duren explain they are not outright opposed to the sale or production of cannabis.

Power and Van Duren’s complaints are heartfelt. Van Duren provides a personal anecdote in support of his opposition to commercial cultivation of cannabis in SLO County. His father’s 50-acre property is currently under threat of being “surrounded” by three cannabis production sites. Additionally, both Power and Van Duran claim that cannabis farming

zones are located “practically next door” to neighborhoods and schools. Gibson offers a clarification, “these are not neighborhoods in the typical sense of the word, these are homes that are located on agriculturally zoned land.” Gibson goes on to emphasize that “right next door” could still be miles away in these rural, unincorporated areas. As far as the smell of cannabis, there is a California state law that prohibits, “the discharge of any air contaminant or other material that causes injury, detriment, nuisance, or annoyance to or that endangers the public.” The trouble lies in determining what is considered a nuisance as opposed to simply a byproduct. “This is a crop. It has impacts, and we have to deal with it,” Gibson states. Certainly, says Gibson, there are

Map of California’s cannabis counties 44% of cities and counties allow at least one cannabis business type 56% of cities and counties prohibit all cannabis business types https://cannabis.ca.gov/cannabis-laws/ where-cannabis-businesses-are-allowed/

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and Van Duren both feel with need a “closer look” to determine if any number of legal and lucrative the implementation of required they are in fact actually negatively agricultural enterprises that create air filtering and purification affecting SLO County residents. If odors including feed lots, garlic systems within these contained they are, Gibson would like to see fields and dairies. But “no one” greenhouses, both constituencies clear rules and regulations that says Gibson, is calling the Board of growers and residents can start the county can apply in order to of Supervisors to complain about to coexist more peacefully and prevent this. those businesses. Again, Gibson perhaps even come feels people are to benefit one sensitive to the fact “This is a once in a generation opportunity and the another. that this substance transition isn’t necesarily going to be smooth, but that was recently Gibson concludes: doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. ” illegal in the state, “This is a once Bruce Gibson and therefore in a generation remains a Schedule opportunity and 1 prohibited the transition isn’t substance on a federal basis. necessarily going to be smooth, but SCCW proposes two changes. First, SLO County’s next steps as far as the commercial cultivation of cannabis are unknown. However, both cannabis camps offered up their own proposals. Gibson emphasizes that he hopes to see previously “inconsistent” decisionmaking on proposed cannabis projects become a thing of the past. He also feels that both previously approved and current projects

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it proposes a ban on all outdoor cultivation in areas closer to the cities located in SLO County. SCCW’s solution is to either move outdoor cannabis cultivation to the uninhabited portions of the county where the smell won’t affect residents, or if that is not possible, allow strictly indoor cannabis cultivation for all operations closer to city-centers. Power

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that doesn’t mean it’s not worth it.” Gibson and others who see the financial opportunity cannabis cultivation can bring to the county, recognize that with a little compromise, the concerns expressed by SCCW could be mitigated. But the real challenge for commercial cannabis cultivation will lie in revising legislation and educating the public.

CAL POLY STUDENTS EARN 2ND PLACE IN INTERNATIONAL VIDEO PRODUCTION COMPETITION Story by Dr. Moses Mike, Payton Paschoal, and Natalie Victorine

al Poly agricultural communications students placed second in an international video competition established by French wine maker, Le Grande Courtage. “I am always looking for learn by doing opportunities for my students, where they can achieve experience, recognition, and rewards as part of the package. In this case, they got all three”. This statement by Dr. Moses Mike, Agricultural Communications professor at Cal Poly, was well placed as the students worked feverishly throughout the early part of the Spring quarter to submit their piece for placement. Dr. Mike incorporated the video competition as part of the AGC 290: Ag Circle Enterprise course, a course designed to help students engage with entrepreneurship skills. Students had to arrange actors, develop the storyboard around the central theme, find props, scout locations, and direct the actors as they collected the footage for the video.

“As a Cal Poly student, I am continually surprised by the opportunities to gain realworld experience,” said Payton Paschoal, fourth-year agriculture communications student. Through courses such as these, students execute the full video production process from client correspondence to publishing. “As a first-year Agricultural Communications major, jumping headfirst into producing a quality promotional video for a winery was never something I imagined myself being a part of,” said first-year Natalie Victorine. She continued, “Being able to see a vision become a tangible product after weeks of storyboarding, scriptwriting, filming, and editing were extremely rewarding. It is amazing how our little enterprise class of four people, under the expert guidance of Dr. Mike, were able to make this all happen!” News of the placement was bitter-sweet, as competition regulations allowed for the organizers to reduce the prize pool based on the number of

submissions. However, the merits of the achievement still stand. “Students still talk about the very green actors being versatile, soliciting a random stranger for the shoot, and capturing footage hanging from a car window. They were very excited to get the kind of quality shots that was required to stand out, and they did it.” – Dr. Mike. It is apparent that the Agricultural Communications program at Cal Poly will continue to expand with ventures such as these, and students will achieve the highquality education they deserve at this university. Although celebrations were in order, the class has already begun their next project: creating a video highlighting the California Wine Tour that Cal Poly Wine and Viticulture students had the opportunity to embark upon. Students in the class reflected on their experiences with Le Grand Courtage and have the confidence and skillset to lead productions in the future. Click to watch the full video here. agcircle| 17

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SHOOTING FOR SUCCESS

CAL POLY STUDENTS EARN 2ND PLACE IN INTERNATIONAL VIDEO PRODUCTION COMPETITION Story by Dr. Moses Mike, Payton Paschoal, and Natalie Victorine

I CAL POLY’S QUARTER HORSE ENTERPRISE CREATING STUDENT TRAINERS Story by Makena Howell

Photos by Molly Virginia Photography

t’s 7:30 am and many people are just starting their day, but a group of Cal Poly students is already working hard at the Oppenheimer Family Equine Center. These students are part of Cal Poly’s Quarter Horse Enterprise, one of Cal Poly’s many enterprise classes that allow students to apply what they know through hands-on experiences.

from Peter and Mary Beth Oppenheimer. The pristine new center facilitates numerous programs and classes including the Quarter Horse Enterprise. Read more about the history of Cal Poly’s Equine Center here.

choice.”

Only two years after Cal Poly was established in 1901, the Horse Unit was developed. The Quarter Horse Enterprise first began in 1978 and has evolved to become an extraordinary program. In 2018, the Oppenheimer Family Equine Center was built thanks to a generous donation

learn as a rider. Glines, a senior agribusiness major, has been riding her whole life and still jumps at any chance to swing her leg over a saddle. “I take any opportunity to learn about different western equine sports,” she said, “so joining the Quarter Horse Enterprise was an obvious

explained.

One of the main goals of the enterprise is to produce wellrounded, hardworking, and knowledgeable student trainers. The program starts at the beginning of Cal Poly’s winter Besides training horses, students quarter when students are paired work in committees to run the up with horses to begin their enterprise and the annual sale. training. Most of the horses are The Quarter Horse Enterprise two or three years old and have and Sale is supervised by faculty already been through Cal Poly’s In the Quarter Colt Starting class Horse Enterprise, where students “I take any opportunity to learn about different students are handle the young western equine sports” responsible for horses and start Taylor Glines training young the basics of their project horses training. that will be offered at Cal Poly’s member Lou Moore-Jacobsen, “The student managers and I annual Performance Horse Sale. who has over 40 years of look at the list and decide which Equine programs have always experience training and showing student is going pair up best been part of Cal Poly’s history, horses. with which horse, and then if it providing students opportunities For student Taylor Glines, the doesn’t work, we swap it around. that embody Cal Poly’s Learn by best part about the enterprise I always get on all the horses as Doing philosophy. is the opportunity to grow and well at some point.” Jacobsen It is a big commitment; students meet Monday through Friday to work with their assigned horse, and they are expected to care for their horse on the weekends as well. Under Jacobsen’s guidance, students train the horse’s maneuvers, introduce them to

Director Lou Moore Jacobsen helping a student with this year’s colts 18 | Spring 2022

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I CAL POLY’S QUARTER HORSE ENTERPRISE CREATING STUDENT TRAINERS Story by Makena Howell

Photos by Molly Virginia Photography

choice.”

explained.

Director Lou Moore Jacobsen helping a student with this year’s colts 18 | Spring 2022

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cows and ride them out on trails. The horse that Glines is working with this year is a flashy dappled palomino colt whose registered name is Nine Ball Wild Card, although they call him Merlin around the barn. “He is a total sweetheart,” said Glines,“I call him my 1300-pound golden retriever, he’s eager to please and happy to go to work each day. He’s super friendly and smart and loves cows!” Merlin is one of the 23 horses that will be going through this year’s sale and will be sold to the highest bidder. Despite her busy schedule as a student, Glines is enthusiastic about the program. “It’s great to be able to start my day with Merlin, he always leaves me with a smile and is a great way to kick off my mornings,” she said. The program takes pride in producing quality horses that 20 | Spring 2022

can be used for a variety of activities. “We actually have four or five horses out on the show circuit right now that are doing really well,” Jacobsen said referring to Cal Poly horses that have gone through the Cal Poly Performance Horse Sale in previous years. One of these horses is CP Metallic Dual, who was bought through the sale by non-pro rider Kathy Wilson in 2020. Wilson and Metallic Dual recently became the non-pro champions of a National Reined Cow Horse Association Derby, a high accomplishment. Many of the horses in the Quarter Horse Enterprise were born at Cal Poly as part of the Breeding and Foaling Enterprises, while others were bought from outside breeding programs as weanlings and raised at the school. Bloodlines play a key role in the program because they allow a buyer to predict certain traits

in a horse based on how it was bred. While some buyers are just looking for a well-mannered, versatile horse, others are looking for horses that will excel in certain techniques of riding, and a pedigree can indicate a young horse’s potential. This year, the program is proud to be offering quality horses by accomplished stallions. The sale will be held June 18 with a live viewing of the horses offered the day prior. If you are interested in viewing the program, hours are Monday through Friday 8 am to 10 am. Contact Lou Moore-Jacobsen at hmooreja@calpoly.edu to make an appointment. For more information on the program and this year’s sale, check out Cal Poly’s performance horse website here.

The 2021 sale’s highest seller: Mollie Big Sky “Mollie”

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The 2021 sale’s highest seller: Mollie Big Sky “Mollie”

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RUITIZ FAMILY FARMS

LOCAL FARMER PROVIDES MORE THAN PRODUCE TO HIS COMMUNITY Story by Mary Adams and Caleigh Martella

eet Jerry Rutiz: a resident of SLO, a farmer, a father and an entrepreneur who has followed his passion for horticulture and crops through the production of a variety of fruit, vegetables, herbs and cut flowers at his very own Rutiz Family Farms. The farm, located in Arroyo Grande, grows over 50 varieties of handharvested crops ranging from summer varietals like sweet corn, peppers, berries, squash and tomatoes to winter items such as beets, brussels sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, lettuce and potatoes. The farm specializes in pesticidefree and organic products that are of optimum quality yearround due to the temperate central coast climate. They sell all their products directly to community members at their farm stand located on the farm itself. Rutiz recommends stopping by the stand between May and Thanksgiving for the best selection of produce. “I think organic helps to improve the soil so that when you’re done farming your crops, rather than depleting the soil and mining the soil of all of its nutrients, you’re actually building that soil every year,” said Rutiz. Transitioning to organic production paved a way for Rutiz to differentiate himself from his competitors through what he called his “marketing niche.” According to USDA’s 2019 Organic Survey, organic produce sales increased by 31% from 2016 to 2019. This statistic proves the increased demand for organic

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produce from farmers and validates Rutiz’s entry into the organic products playing field. Rutiz graduated from Cal Poly in 1978 with his degree in crop science and shortly after, in 1981, began farming his own land to develop Rutiz Family Farms. What started out as a challenging wholesale endeavor with little payoff, slowly turned into a more community, need-based operation. As farmer’s markets became prominent in the early 1980s, the demand for organic, pesticide-free produce emerged. According to an academic article that analyzes the historic growth of farmer’s markets in California, the passage of the Farmer-toConsumer Direct Marketing Act of 1976 played a tremendous role in the growth of farmer’s markets throughout the state. Rutiz realized that working directly with the consumer was beneficial for both parties— consumers can tell the producers what they want, and the farmer can earn a higher percentage of the consumer dollar instead of losing profit due to a middleman. “Slowly the markets started to evolve. And our customers started asking us to grow other things, more herbs, more cut flowers, strawberries, blackberries, things like that. And so, we did,” said Rutiz. Rutiz’s dedication to his customers and willingness to adapt to their needs is a significant reason people choose to buy products from him week

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RUITIZ FAMILY FARMS

LOCAL FARMER PROVIDES MORE THAN PRODUCE TO HIS COMMUNITY Story by Mary Adams and Caleigh Martella

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Photos by Mary Adams agcircle| 23

BROCK CENTER SPRING 2022 Photo contest The photos showcased are the winning entries and honorable mentions from the Brock Center Spring 2022 Photo Contest. The contest was open to students of all majors, the public, and all backgrounds and expertise levels. Thank you to all those who participated in this years contest and congratulations to our winners.

overall winner after week. Purchasing local and in-season produce is one of the best ways to not only support a farmer but also receive the freshest produce possible and get the most out of your money according to Rutiz. After years of working at farmer’s markets up and down the coast of California, Rutiz decided he wanted to focus all his efforts back on his local community at their family’s farm stand.

wonderful getting to support a local small business,” said Megan Kosky. The farm stand is currently open to the community Tuesdays and Fridays from noon to 5 p.m. as well as on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stopping by the stand or participating in summertime ‘U-picks’ gives the community an opportunity to get hands on with

newsletter here. Rutiz continues to build a strong following in his community through the newsletter which is subscribed to by over 5,000 loyal customers. The newsletter shares weekly updates about the available crops on the farm, various farm stand events, family anecdotes, the research behind the value of organic, and more.

Rutiz Family Farms has been and will continue to During the be committed “The products are fresh and they have a great variety of fruits pandemic, the to serving its local community and vegetables to choose from. It’s wonderful getting to support community. They a local small business.” members turned are dedicated to hometown Megan Kosky to connecting food producers central coast for their weekly their local farms. ‘U-picks’ are an residents with where their food is shopping to avoid going to event where customers pay to go grown and providing them with grocery stores. Consumers also pick their own produce directly the freshest and most natural had a desire to support local from the field. products possible. farmers during this challenging Harvest baskets that are filled Inviting everyone from garden time which made focusing on the with what is plentiful and fresh groups to elementary school farm stand an obvious decision each week are put together and children to come and experience for Rutiz. sold bi-weekly at the farm stand. the farm, Rutiz and his team find One local customer shared what The baskets usually consist of the work they are doing to be an she values about Rutiz Family 8-9 items that are hand selected integral part of their community. Farms. by Rutiz and sold for 20 dollars. Being an active part of the “The products are fresh and they Customers can find information community is something that have a great variety of fruits and about each week’s basket by Rutiz is proud of. vegetables to choose from. It’s subscribing to their weekly 24 | Spring 2022

Maureen LaGrande - An almond in its purest form

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Maureen LaGrande - An almond in its purest form

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Production

ENVIRONMENT 1

1. Morgan Elia - Production First Place Winner - This is a photo of one of the dairy cows at the Cal Poly Dairy Unit.

2. Yvonne Bee - A simplistic portrait of Cal Poly’s full-grown horse and two new foals grazing to the sunset.

2. Brittney Thompson - A piglet at the Cal Poly Swine Unit

3. Olivia Chamberlin - Food never tastes as good as when you’re camping. Am I right? 2

1. Raja Grossi - Environment First Place Winner - An image I captured of a sheep grazing in the Swiss Alps

4. Ariadna Romero - Spring 5. J. Scott Vernon - Environment Second Place Winner - The Loading Chute 6. Rebekah Yahner - Small lamb hangs close to its mom near the Dairy Unit in spring.

3. Olivia Chamberlin - Jenna Fields and Jeremy Schwartz ride through the cattle before bringing them in for vaccinations. 4. Ariadna Romero - Production Second Place Winner - Agriculture Sunset 2

5. Payton Paschoal - Junior livestock showman showing her charolais at Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza, themed Red, White, and Bonanza.

6. Jenna Fields - Goat kids from the Cal Poly herd at play while grazing at the Logging Unit. 4 4

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Production

ENVIRONMENT 1

1. Morgan Elia - Production First Place Winner - This is a photo of one of the dairy cows at the Cal Poly Dairy Unit.

2. Yvonne Bee - A simplistic portrait of Cal Poly’s full-grown horse and two new foals grazing to the sunset.

2. Brittney Thompson - A piglet at the Cal Poly Swine Unit

3. Olivia Chamberlin - Food never tastes as good as when you’re camping. Am I right? 2

1. Raja Grossi - Environment First Place Winner - An image I captured of a sheep grazing in the Swiss Alps

4. Ariadna Romero - Spring 5. J. Scott Vernon - Environment Second Place Winner - The Loading Chute 6. Rebekah Yahner - Small lamb hangs close to its mom near the Dairy Unit in spring.

3. Olivia Chamberlin - Jenna Fields and Jeremy Schwartz ride through the cattle before bringing them in for vaccinations. 4. Ariadna Romero - Production Second Place Winner - Agriculture Sunset 2

5. Payton Paschoal - Junior livestock showman showing her charolais at Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza, themed Red, White, and Bonanza.

6. Jenna Fields - Goat kids from the Cal Poly herd at play while grazing at the Logging Unit. 4 4

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PEOPLE 1

1. Jenna Fields - People First Place Winner - Jeremy Schwartz with his horse and dog, photographed at the Escuela Ranch at sundown.

California dairy families are working to be environmentally sustainable

DAIRIES FUELING THE FUTURE

2. Olivia Chamberlin - People Second Place Winner- One of my favorite photos ever, Sedar Kane roping at the Cal Poly Branding 3. J. Scott Vernon - Cattle drive 1

SMARTPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY 3 1. Warren Foote - Smart Phone Photography First Place Winner - Sun out, Tongue Out 2. Scott Vernon - Let the wind blow 4

3. Yvonne Bee - Smart Phone Photography Second Place Winner Bishop Peak’s view on Cal Poly’s agriculture and San Luis Obispo cityscape 4. Warren Foote - Day on the dairy

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CALIFORNIA DAIRIES FUELING THE FUTURE IN THE GREEN ENERGY MARKET Story by Genevieve Regli

heese, cows, and tractors are what often come to mind when talking about dairy farming. Over the last few years, these images have started to include something not so expected: green energy.

with large scale investments in combating climate change. Climate goals have challenged dairy farmers as one of their biggest obstacles but have also given them a tremendous opportunity. State Legislature established the goal that the

Emissions

Some opportunities to reduce GHG emissions from cows include selectively choosing animals with lower carbon emissions through genomic testing, using essential oils to “15 years from now dairy farmers ease the stomach will first receive of a cow and lessen their Carbon Credit the belch, and “15 years from now dairy farmers will first receive their check, then receive establishing crossCarbon Credit check, then receive their milk check.” their milk check” ventilation barns to Caleb Harper declared Caleb keep methane from Harper, executive releasing into the director of the atmosphere. state’s greenhouse gas (GHG) Dairy Scale for Good. In California, a major movement emissions must be reduced to Dairy Scale for Good focuses on has occurred revolving around 40 percent below the 1990 levels enhancing productive operations dairy digesters and green by 2030. This gave rise to a major to leave a smaller carbon energy. One example is Calgren economic investment for dairies footprint. As herd size increases, Renewable Fuels teaming up to lead in climate discussion. dairy farmers are navigating with dairy farmers and Maas Solutions to Combating GHG ways to turn manure into cash Energy Works to create a agcircle| 29

PEOPLE 1

1. Jenna Fields - People First Place Winner - Jeremy Schwartz with his horse and dog, photographed at the Escuela Ranch at sundown.

California dairy families are working to be environmentally sustainable

DAIRIES FUELING THE FUTURE

2. Olivia Chamberlin - People Second Place Winner- One of my favorite photos ever, Sedar Kane roping at the Cal Poly Branding 3. J. Scott Vernon - Cattle drive 1

SMARTPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY 3 1. Warren Foote - Smart Phone Photography First Place Winner - Sun out, Tongue Out 2. Scott Vernon - Let the wind blow 4

3. Yvonne Bee - Smart Phone Photography Second Place Winner Bishop Peak’s view on Cal Poly’s agriculture and San Luis Obispo cityscape 4. Warren Foote - Day on the dairy

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CALIFORNIA DAIRIES FUELING THE FUTURE IN THE GREEN ENERGY MARKET Story by Genevieve Regli

heese, cows, and tractors are what often come to mind when talking about dairy farming. Over the last few years, these images have started to include something not so expected: green energy.

Emissions

Calgren Renewable Fuels is located on the side of Highway 99 and processes natural gas

centralized plant connected to farms through an underground pipeline. Here, methane is transformed into Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) used to power fleets of trucks and school buses. Maas Energy Works also focuses on collaborating with and connecting dairy farmers to engineers to build methane digesters on their farm. Maas Energy has currently facilitated this project with 43 dairies contributing 40 digesters, with an additional 50 digesters in development. In a conversation with Eileen Marinho, producer relations director for Maas Energy Works, she noted the substantial opportunity for dairy farmers with anaerobic digesters because they are not only decreasing the release of carbon emissions in the atmosphere, but also creating a green energy fuel source. “It’s twofold: meeting regulation, but it’s also the more they reduce their carbon intensity score, the more carbon credits 30 | Spring 2022

they have to sell,” said Marinho. This creates an incentivebased initiative that benefits the climate in the long-term. Marinho highlighted that revenue for dairy digesters comes from three primary areas which are the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, Natural Gas Value, and the Renewable Identification Numbers Program. California Efforts through Incentive Based Funding Maas Energy Works collaborates with dairy farmers by helping them apply for digester grants through the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). This helps reduce the barrier of entry into the digester markets and leverages the dairy’s current infrastructure. When deciding what dairies to partner with Marinho mentioned how they typically look for a dairy with at least 2,000 cows and that is surrounded by a cluster of dairies so they can connect or

extend a pipeline. For smaller operations, a different route focused on compost pact barns, separators, and grazing are taken to meet emission reduction goals. Additionally, companies like California Climate and Agriculture Network (CalCan) are assisting producers with the Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP) which funds nondigester alternatives to help reduce emissions. Dairy’s Responsibility in Emissions One leader at the Clarity and Leadership for Environmental Awareness and Research at UC Davis, Dr. Frank Mitloehner, has piloted conversations regarding methane’s impact on the environment. “Methane from cattle is shorter lived than carbon dioxide but 28 times more potent in warming the atmosphere,” said Mitloehner. When breaking down the numbers of what sectors of

the United States contribute to emissions, Mitloehner notes that there is a misconception that the dairy industry is largely responsible for climate change.

From Cow to Car: How Cow Manure Becomes Gas

According to Mitloehner, data show cows and other ruminants account for just 4 percent of all greenhouse gases in the United States. The dairy industry has been initiating efforts to reduce this number through creative methods. One example is the Strauss Family Creamery, which has been working to decrease the number of emissions by adding red seaweed to their total mixed ration which they feed their cows. Through educational videos, keynote addresses, and legislative meetings, Mitloehner prioritizes sharing efforts like these with the public. The dairy industry has made significant strides in reducing its greenhouse gas emissions over the last decade despite the difficult legislative and social challenges that they face. Click here to learn more from Dr. Frank Mitloehner. agcircle| 31

Calgren Renewable Fuels is located on the side of Highway 99 and processes natural gas

the United States contribute to emissions, Mitloehner notes that there is a misconception that the dairy industry is largely responsible for climate change.

From Cow to Car: How Cow Manure Becomes Gas

FATHER & DAUGHTER BREW UP BUSINESS IN SLO COUNTY Story by Lauren McEwen

l Paso de Robles - The dark, rich flavor of fresh-brewed Arabica coffee is one Valerie Nano knows well. Her family has cultivated the product in Villa Rica, Peru since the 1920s. As a co-owner of Nano’s Coffee Trading in Paso Robles along with her father William, she embraces the unique story of her family’s coffee company. Coffee cultivation runs deep in the Nano family. The practice began with William’s father, who owned 3,000 acres of land in Peru, of which 300 were exclusively used to farm coffee, Nano explained. In 2004, William established his own 10-acre coffee plantation with his wife Liz and their two daughters. Their business expanded with shipments to Europe, then their first dispatch from Villa Rica to the United States in 2019. Their farm now covers 63 acres (about the area of The Vatican) and the possibility of growth in their hometown continues to increase. “Coffee is in our blood,” says Valerie.

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Their plantation rests at a 5,500foot elevation, where rich soil and a high-altitude create the ideal climate for agriculture. The Nanos also provide shade for the crops by planting tall trees whose canopies act as a natural barrier to harsh sunlight and roots contribute to soil health.

“mostly family-involved,” Valerie explains. Her uncles, grandparents, family-friends, and local farm laborers aid in the production and harvest of raw coffee product. Valerie’s leading role in the company is directing marketing and importation of the product. Although family practices have taught her much As with most crops, pruning about the cultivation of coffee, has proved fruitful, boosting she sought higher education to aid in “Coffee is in our blood.” the company’s need Valerie Nano for marketing of their products. This proved to be a significant longevity and production of challenge when importing them coffee plants. Valerie explained to the United States. Valerie coffee plants take three years graduated from Cal Poly in 2019 to reach maturity “and after six with a degree in Economics and years, we prune the plant and a concentration in importation. wait two years before harvesting “All my knowledge came from again.” William says that growing Cal Poly,” she says, and the skills the coffee at varying stages and learned from her degree have harvesting the cherries from had a profound influence in plants of different ages helps “getting our name out there.” maintain a greater quality product overall. Nano’s Coffee Trading produces 20,000 or more kilograms (About 40,000 pounds) of beans annually. Nano’s Coffee Trading is

Additionally, William, the face of Nano’s Coffee Trading, attended weekly farmers’ markets around San Luis Obispo County to share the uniqueness of their

company. “My dad loves it,” says Valerie. “He really enjoys explaining the growing and harvesting of the coffee and conversing with customers.” In conversation with William during a recent San Luis Obispo farmer’s market, the father describes his two daughters’ fascinations with the family coffee products. Referring to Valerie: “She’s been drinking coffee since she was a little girl when we first started the business,” he says, and his younger daughter, a middle schooler, is eager to learn the trade. Valerie’s desire to work closely with her father and offer an active role in the business was piqued as she learned more about cultivation and trade.

the farmers’ market, groups of college students, couples and customers of all ages visited the booth for a hot beverage or to purchase a bag of roasted beans. “The quality of the coffee, that we take so much time and effort to create, is a product that [has] a good taste,” Valerie describes. “It is smooth, a little chocolatey and citrusy. It is a good coffee bean. Everything about it is simply good.” William’s wife Liz is also a key individual in sustaining the popular drive-thru location in Paso Robles. “My mom, besides always being next to my dad in supporting his dreams, is the hands-on person, baking goods

to be sold and giving countless ideas to improve the business,” Valerie said. Their single origin coffee is offered by the cup and bag at their drive-thru location off Golden Hill Road in Paso Robles and throughout the week at various farmer’s markets in San Luis Obispo County. Although the company offers three types of roasts, William suggests tasting the dark roast, his favorite, and serves it to each customer with a smile. Just a small spoonful of sugar and cream enhance the natural flavors of the coffee, a sip that brings their customers back for another cup.

In attending weekly farmers’ markets, the Nanos meet new and regular customers who gravitate towards their coffee offerings over other local or convenient options such as Starbucks or Scout Coffee. “They just love our story. First, that we are family-owned and are involved in the entire process of coffee [production],” Valerie says. On this chilly evening at agcircle| 33

FATHER & DAUGHTER BREW UP BUSINESS IN SLO COUNTY Story by Lauren McEwen

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Additionally, William, the face of Nano’s Coffee Trading, attended weekly farmers’ markets around San Luis Obispo County to share the uniqueness of their

and is divided between two upper and lower-level leadership classes. The upper division class begins planning the Western Bonanza in spring quarter to be ready for the February show. After the leadership students begin the planning of Western Bonanza, they take on lower division students under their wing and help guide them in their new committee roles.

Leadership through livestock

Photo by Evan Garcia

STUDENTS SUCCESSFULLY COORDINATE THE LARGEST WESTERN BONANZA TO DATE Story by Olivia Jarrett and Grace Alonso

al Poly’s learn by doing motto offers more than just a hands-on learning experience— it evokes values of partnership, application of knowledge, as well as personal and professional development. One student-run organization, Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show, exemplifies this infamous motto. Well-known across the western states, Western Bonanza is one of the most widely recognized

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junior livestock competitions in the West. But what really sets the show apart from others is the fact that it is entirely run by students. After a year of the organization’s absence, due to the challenges of COVID-19, students put in hard work to ensure that the return of Western Bonanza in 2022 held its outstanding reputation. At the Western Bonanza annual show, youth and young adults between the ages of five and 22,

travel from all over California and surrounding states to exhibit large livestock such as beef, swine, sheep and goats. Exhibitors compete for market or breeding champion titles based on the judging of an animal’s skeletal structure, muscle to fat ratio, or maternal traits. The youth competitors for showmanship titles are awarded based on an individual’s animal handling capabilities. Those with the best scores receive

the title of show champion and win various forms of recognition and awards ranging from large cash premiums, handcrafted belt buckles, leather banners, recreational items, livestock husbandry supplies and honorable social media mentions. In addition to tangible awards, exhibitors benefit from the pride and satisfaction that results from the labors of their hard work and the responsibilities that contribute to

their success. Coordinating a livestock show consists of various moving parts which require full effort and commitment from students. To prepare for Western Bonanza and create an efficient structure for task organization, a livestock event planning course is offered within the Animal Science Department. The class is composed of over 120 students in the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences

While the event is a livestock exhibition, Cal Poly students of all majors and backgrounds are welcome to join the leadership team. In addition to livestock management, there are many other related roles that contribute equal importance such as coordinating retail vendors for the tradeshow, facilitating parking and camping locations, preparing meals for Western Bonanza students, media marketing, accounting of exhibitor entries, and designing merchandise. Along with these various tasks, students work hard to raise money through earning sponsorships. This year, students were able to raise more than $100,000 in sponsorship money. No matter what a student is interested in, the versatile positions offered in the leadership class can be applied to nearly any academic major, career, or hobby. Western Bonanza presents a large undertaking for students; they are responsible for hosting over 825 exhibitors, 370 head of cattle, 640 hogs, 460 sheep, 225 goats, all of which in total over 5,000 entries. For the duration of Western Bonanza weekend, students begin their day at four a.m. and end as late as one a.m. the following day. Even in a state of exhaustion, students exemplify a state of bliss as they agcircle| 35

Leadership through livestock

Photo by Evan Garcia

STUDENTS SUCCESSFULLY COORDINATE THE LARGEST WESTERN BONANZA TO DATE Story by Olivia Jarrett and Grace Alonso

34 | Spring 2022

Photo by Olivia Jarrett

Photo by Olivia Jarrett form new friendships and work toward a common goal.

and goat committee member and eventually became the 2022 general manager. Throughout her time on the team, she made it a priority to be accountable for her fellow team members.

three of which became her college roommates.

Hailey Rose Switzer is the advisor Despite the busy weekend, of Western Bonanza. Much like students leave the leadership Menefee, Switzer also began class feeling proud and her career journey by enrolling accomplished of all their hard The traits that Western Bonanza in the leadership course during work that contributed to Western instilled in Menefee also led her her time at Cal Poly. Upon Bonanza. This positive effect her college encourages graduation, many students “A cohesive team that has clear and effective communication among its Switzer was to pursue members can achieve any goal they set.” approached higher for the leadership Hailey Rose Switzer position of roles in the Cal Poly’s following advisor for Western Bonanza at years. One example is Kate to internship opportunities and the young age of 22. In addition a post-graduation job offer at Menefee, a fourth-year to this career, Switzer is also a agribusiness major. Yosemite Farm Credit. Menefee director of many other livestock added that Western Bonanza “The way I worked my way up shows and fairs across California, teaches students the value of was by always showing up for my teamwork and communication. such as the Cow Palace Grand teammates and never wavering National Junior Livestock Show. In addition to the valuable my word,” said Menefee. She lessons Western Bonanza Switzer’s memory as a past began her leadership career in provided, the program also left student in Western Bonanza Western Bonanza as a sheep Menefee with lifelong friends, 36 | Spring 2022

is one filled with passion and gratitude. She often recalls and relates to the incredible amount of time and effort that students put into successfully completing the show. When Switzer sees students work together, she says that’s where “the team truly becomes one unit” and how students fully blossom into their capabilities. She loves seeing students transition from being nervous and stressed to becoming confident, successful leaders. “Students are pushed beyond what they think they are capable of to pull off this incredible event,” she said. During Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza junior livestock show in 2022, students faced a new set of challenges, as many attendees had never seen the show due to the restraints of COVID-19. The cancellation of

Western Bonanza in 2021 led to more questions, uncertainties, and necessary guidance than a typical year. However, students rose above these obstacles and performed above expectations to successfully host the largest Western Bonanza to date. By the end of the weekend in February, students left with a new set of friendships, progressive leadership skills, and a feeling of unity and optimism for the following years in their academic careers. “I appreciate the feeling students have after the show knowing they accomplished

coordinating such a large event,” said Switzer.

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