Sweat bee foraging in California poppy.

California Farm Champions Honored

Community Alliance with Family Farmers announced the 2025 California Farm Champions: individuals, farms, and businesses who are making a positive difference in California. These inspirational change-makers are blazing trails for regenerative agriculture, strengthening local food systems, and working tirelessly to grow a healthier and more just future. The honorees include New Farmer of the Year Rizpah Bellard, of Nova Farming, and the Legacy Farmer of the Year, Russ Lester of Dixon Ridge Farms. In addition, Rancho Las Palmas was selected as the Ecological Farmer of the Year and Moises Plascencia from Santa Ana Unified School District will receive the Farm Advocate of the Year award. Assemblymember Lori Wilson is the Farm Policy Advocate of the Year and the Farmers Market Champion of the Year is Jaclyn Allen of The Hens Roost. Finally, the Food Business of the Year is Magpie Cafe.