"A welcome addition to the ever changing agricultural community"...sounds like a ringing endorsement from a guy who should know!

Letter to the Editor from Ken Churches

Posted by: Kim_Hamilton on 06/30/2008 05:27 PM, Updated by: thepinetree on 06/30/2008 06:50 PM

Dear Editor,

As I read a recent letter to the editor by Lew Mayhew, it seemed very clear to me that he has not taken the time to either visit the Trinitas ranch or discuss the agricultural operations there with Mr. Nemee. Agriculture holds the key to the future of Calaveras County. The preservation of the County’s rural character is of primary importance to most County residents. Agriculture maintains this rural character and creates a sustainable fundamental economic base when ....agricultural lands are defined and protected as a vital resource. Agricultural operations including agri-tourism are a major contributor to the economic engine of the County. This economic fact goes well beyond the sale of food and fiber. Agricultural operations are, in large part, responsible for the growth of tourism and the resulting restaurants, lodgings and stores. Often overlooked in this equation is the role agriculture plays in providing the County and its residents with open space, wildlife habitat, watershed protection oak woodlands, recreational opportunities, and food security.The Trinitas ranch is one of the most innovative and productive olive oil operations in the Sierra Foothills. Mr. Nemee contacted me when he had first purchased the property for advice on developing a viable olive production program. He has served for a number of years on the Calaveras Grown Board of Directors as an outspoken advocate of agri-tourism. He is not just now “reinventing” its public image as suggested. His golf course has preserved the oak trees on his property and enhanced wildlife. The view across the oak strewn course and onto the 125 year old olive orchard is rural in nature, historically significant, and very pleasing to the eyes of tourists. I view this project as a welcome addition to the ever changing agricultural community, not the rural devastation that Mr. Mayhew seems to be describing.

Ken R. Churches
San Andreas