Support Measure A for sustainable agriculture

On a recent visit to Black Mountain Ranch near Point Reyes Station, I toured Little Wing Farm and Table Top Farm where I observed the harmony between farmers and land. Grown in healthy soils, the chard and strawberries were bursting with colors and nutrition. Nearby, the Stemple Creek Ranch business grazed their cattle on the mountain's green grasses. As I gazed across the landscape to see many food and ecological benefits, I felt delighted to live in a region that produces some of the best food in the world. Yet, our sustainable food system is at risk unless we renew the Measure A tax on June 7.

Our communities benefit from clean air, good food and healthy ecosystems at places like Black Mountain Ranch. Thanks to Measure A, many farms are permanently protected and managed with science-based stewardship. Approximately 2,000 acres of U.S. farmland are paved over or taken out of farming daily, according to the American Farmland Trust. Unless we protect farmland, we face an uncertain future where farms can be taken out of agricultural production. No farms means no food.

Measure A's sustainable agriculture program ensures that the people who grow our food can remain in operation. Farms and ranches that use climatesmart practices have the potential to help reverse the climate crisis and reduce extreme weather, like drought and wildfire. Producers can sell their products at farmers markets and grocery stores.

Measure A also has tremendous equity impacts through land access for beginning farmers and historically underserved groups. A new competitive grant program will fund community gardens, helping to empower communities to grow food through projects like Marin City's Intergenerational Garden, Sanzuma's farm at San Pedro Elementary and Community Action Marin's production farm.

Vote yes on Measure A to ensure a safe and thriving local food system for all.

— Andy Naja-Riese, San Rafael