Image by Ramon Madrid, Rodale Institute
Chris and Marcie Baugher, the owners of Baugher Ranch Organics in Northern California, have been named the 2025 Organic Farmers of the Year. They were honored by the Organic Trade Association (OTA) at its annual Organic Leadership Awards, which recognize individuals who have demonstrated leadership and vision in advancing the goals of the organic movement.
For more than 40 years, Chris and Marcie have been advocates for organic production, playing a pivotal role in the growth of the organic almond industry. In 1984, they decided to transition their circa 55 hectares of conventional almond orchards to organic farming. At that time, organic practices were uncommon, and skepticism was widespread. However, guided by their vision and commitment to ethical and sustainable farming, the pair persevered. They grew their small almond farm in Northern California into a beacon of organic excellence, which today accounts for approximately 30% of California’s organic almonds.