about opal creek farm
In 2022, long time friends and farmers Sarah Ory and Brian Coltrin founded Opal Creek Farm. Their shared dream was to someday have their own organic farming operation, and now that dream has come true!
Opal Creek Farm is nestled in the hills of Waddell Creek on 6 acres of certified organic land near Davenport, California. In the spring, the hills are painted yellow with wildflowers, and we are frequently visited by native animal friends. We grow our crops in harmony with the surrounding flora and fauna in mind, choosing management strategies that enhance the area’s biodiversity–even when the local fauna develop a taste for our strawberries (we’re looking at you, deer).
As a small, family-owned business, we do most of the farming work ourselves. When we bring on help for big harvests or other needs, we’re committed to ethical labor practices, compensating each person with a high wage, and providing a safe, healthy working environment.
education program
Opal Creek Farm is also dedicated to contributing to our surrounding community, particularly local schools and young people. Our education program includes farm field trips for schools, educational materials on sustainable food and ecology, and selling produce to be served in school meals.
Learn more about the Opal Creek Farm to School Project.
organic and Food safety certifications
Opal Creek Farm is certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) and in compliance with the USDA Food Safety Program. This means our crops have been grown and produced according to the federal USDA Organic standards. Certified organic crops and products must be grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, and are produced in a way that enhances biodiversity and works in harmony with nature.
Organic food production is at the heart of what we do, and–in our opinion–creates some mighty fine tomatoes.
about brian and sarah
Farmers Brian and Sarah each have over 15 years of experience in organic farming and policy, and have been deeply involved in the local Santa Cruz food community. They both have a comprehensive understanding of organic standards and the needs of organic farmers due to their involvement with California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) and the CCOF Foundation.
Brian is a graduate of the University of California, Santa Cruz Agroecology Apprenticeship Program and Sarah is a former student of the Cabrillo College Horticulture Program. Along with their families, Brian and Sarah live in Santa Cruz, California, just down the coast from the farm.