Farm Grown Feature

Grizzlies Staff Member Rachael Navarro had the opportunity to speak with our Farm Grown Feature, Prestin Rollin. Prestin is from Riverdale, California and currently attends the University of Arizona where he is studying Computer Science and Agriculture Technology. He was the recipient of a Grizzlies’ Farm Grown Scholarship during the 2019 season, and we are proud to call him “Farm Grown.” Meet 18-year-old Prestin Rollin

In April of 2019, Prestin accompanied several local veterans on a Central Valley Honor Flight. This organization sends World War II, Korean, and Vietnam Veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit war memorials. Prestin donated $11,000 from the sale of one of his beef steers so veterans could go on this trip for free! “This was one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done,” Prestin said. “To see good come full circle motivates me to do more.” Way to go Prestin!

Rachael: How would you encourage kids interested in 4-H to join?

Prestin: If you’re interested in 4-H, tell your parents. Most clubs have a website, or if you know a friend who is a member of 4-H you could always ask them for information about your local club. Ask to sit in on a meeting and find out what clubs or events your group has to offer. There are show teams, cooking clubs, fishing groups, public-speaking teams, and so many more activities within 4-H.

Rachael: What is an important lesson you have learned through participation in FFA and 4-H?

Prestin: FFA and 4-H connected me to a variety of people and gave me leadership skills, as well as social skills, that are applicable in the real world. After the countless hours I put into FFA and 4-H projects, community service, and show teams, I learned that hard work definitely pays off. The more effort I put into my projects, the more I grew as a person.

Rachael: Why is developing technology so important for the agriculture community?

Prestin: Technology is revolutionizing agriculture. John Deere’s first tractor was built in 1918. Now, our family farm owns a John Deere that is controlled by GPS, and the only human-operated function is turning the tractor and raising/lowering the equipment. One day a tractor could be computer-driven remotely from home or on-site. It’s only recently that technology was implemented into agriculture, so it is important we keep developing as it could lead to numerous benefits for the entire industry.

The Fresno Grizzlies introduced their newest program, Farm Grown, to the Grizzlies Community Fund in April 2012. “Farm Grown” combines our role as a farm team in professional baseball and the Central Valley’s agriculture community. Our Farm Grown program is focused on unifying the agricultural community through baseball, education and grants.