In 2020 Jake Kosek and his family watched from across the highway as the flames from the CZU Complex fire engulfed all but a few buildings, their irrigation system, and favorite trees, each one steeped in memories like family heirlooms. When all was said and done about 85-90% of the farm was razed. For Jake, the worst part was telling his aging father that much of his life’s work had been destroyed. 

When he was eventually told about the fire he replied: “Imagine the possibilities.” In this dark period for their family, they also saw potential for new growth. Old buildings are being reimagined: a woodworking shop became an outdoor kitchen, and an old tool shed is being turned into a community gathering space.

Part of their plan to build back better involves incorporating more regenerative practices. They began with cover crops on a few acres, and now Jake says he’s hooked. Their grant from Zero Foodprint allowed them to spread compost between rows of trees and plant cover crops over the entirety of their growing area.