Oak Valley Farm
SIZE:
10.5 acres
YEARS IN BUSINESS:
9 years
PRODUCTS:
Fruits, vegetables, flowers, berries, herbs, raw milk, eggs
MARKETS:
CSA & u-pick for fruits & vegetables, local families purchase raw milk and eggs, and supply produce to Vietnamese restaurants
COUNTY:
Santa Clara
Nestled in the outskirts of Morgan Hill lies Valley Oak Farm, a biodynamic haven providing the local community with fresh, organically grown produce. Established in 2015 by Shariar Moghaddam and his family, the farm emerged from what was once a golf course, dirt racetrack, and vineyard. Upon acquiring the property, Shariar found the soil arid and compacted. Shariar collaborated with a permaculture consultant to optimize land use and available resources.
Prioritizing soil health, he dedicated two years to rejuvenating the land by spreading mulch throughout the property and enlisting the help of his herd of sheep to help with the process. He employs rotational grazing practices, benefitting both the animals and soil regeneration. Since then, the farm has been transformed into a flourishing oasis of plant diversity with nutrient rich soil.
Sustainability is at the heart of the Valley Oak Farm, utilizing the principles of permaculture and biodynamic farming, the orchard is meticulously stewarded to minimize pest and disease issues, while also prioritizing water conservation with drip irrigation to responsibly manage their resources. Wood chips are used to nourish and fortify the soil, promoting soil health. Despite the challenges of labor, capital, and water, Shariar remains committed, investing his earnings from his consulting job into the farm’s growth. With an unwavering optimism, he strives towards achieving complete sustainability on his farm.