As the cost of fertilizer, seed, fuel and other expenses continues to rise, some farmers are finding new ways to make a living off the land — turning their farms into classrooms, event venues and destinations for visitors.
Across California, small farms are increasingly leaning into agritourism and other ventures to help offset the rising cost of doing business.
The farm also hosts about 30,000 children and parents each year for science field trips and a simulated mining experience.
"It's not to make more money. It's just to offset the costs because everything just keeps going up," Cates said. "The cost of fertilizer and seed and fuel this year was significantly more for my son and his partner than it was last year."
"I've had members do garden parties during almond bloom," said Steven Fenaroli with the California Farm Bureau. "So there are a lot of really cool ways farmers and ranchers are figuring out that there is this appeal."
The organization supported Assembly Bill 518, which was signed into law last year and established a framework allowing some farmers and ranchers to host overnight campers on agricultural land for a fee.
"A lot of people are doing weddings. A lot of people are doing the Airbnbs, they've got campers. There's a lot of different ways they can do it," Cates said. "We started doing corporate events."
Cates says rising prices at the grocery store don't necessarily translate into more money for farmers.
Fenaroli said farmers receive only a small portion of what consumers ultimately pay at the grocery store.
The California Farm Bureau says the financial challenges facing agriculture contribute to farms closing across the state each year.
"Success is not just about money," Cates said. "It's about the impact you've had on your community, your schools, your homes, families. That's what's important."
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