Sustainability

Sustainable agriculture has many definitions, but the ultimate purpose is to “sustain farmers, resources and communities by promoting farming practices and methods that are profitable, environmentally sound and good for communities” (Western Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education).

Sustainable practices are not only good for the land; they ensure that the land and business is healthy to pass along to future generations. Mellon Farms embraces sustainability practices in many ways. Water is of ultimate importance here in the desert. Water usage is carefully monitored to maximize that resource to its fullest. We are testing alternate irrigation methods and have implemented an ongoing project to line our ditches with concrete, all to minimize the loss of water on its way to the crop.

Being good stewards of the land is an obligation, and ultimately makes the best business sense. Good sustainable practices include composting in a manner compliant with our Food Safety regulations, tilling under cop residue to incorporate the organic matter back into the field, and nutrient testing to prevent over fertilization. The summer months provide the opportunity to utilize solarization to kill harmful diseases and weed seed without chemicals prior to planting. Crop rotation is important to land health, and the fields are leveled and prepared using the latest in laser and GPS technology to optimize the growing area and water delivery.

Mellon Farms utilizes the most current technology to optimize their financial planning, crop analysis, reporting, and communication. We are ever mindful that those that work with us now and will in the future depend on our continuing business health to provide their livelihood. We also believe that trading with the local community promotes our local economy and in turn helps make Yuma a better place for ourselves and generations to come.