THE SANTA ROSA ORIGINAL CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET

Nestled between the scenic villages of Bodega and Bodega Bay, Salmon Creek Ranch is more than just a ranch; it’s a testament to sustainable farming and a deep-rooted agricultural legacy. This 400-acre expanse of rolling hills, redwood groves, and natural pasture is a labor of love for owners Leslie and John, who have been selected as this month’s featured vendor at the Santa Rosa Original Certified Farmers Market.

Leslie and John’s path to Salmon Creek Ranch was paved with a passion for environmental stewardship and a desire to reconnect with their agricultural roots. Both originally pursued careers in the nonprofit sector, driven by a shared concern for environmental sustainability. However, their hearts yearned for a more hands-on approach to conservation and food production.

Inspired by their respective farming backgrounds—John’s upbringing on a dairy farm in New Zealand and Leslie’s ownership of a historic Ventura County ranch—Salmon Creek Ranch became their haven for putting ideals into practice. In 2007, they took the leap, acquiring the land and embarking on a journey to transform it into a model of sustainable agriculture.

At Salmon Creek Ranch, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s woven into every aspect of their operation. The ranch is certified organic by the California Certified Organic Farmers, reflecting their commitment to nurturing the land and respecting its natural rhythms. Here, Scottish Highland and Angus cattle roam freely, grazing on nutrient-rich grasses that sustain them from birth to market. Kiko goats, valued for their meat and breeding stock, also play a vital role in the ranch’s ecosystem.

Beyond livestock, Salmon Creek Ranch produces organic duck eggs and occasionally raises flocks of ducks and geese, adding diversity to their offerings while maintaining high standards of animal welfare and environmental impact.

No discussion of Salmon Creek Ranch would be complete without mentioning Angie (commonly known at the SROCFM as ‘The Duck Egg Lady’), their vibrant and essential ranch manager, who brings a unique flair to their booth every Saturday at the market. Angie has been a crucial part of the ranch, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and that the animals are well-fed and content. She even claims fluency in cow, goat, duck, and dog (though her interactions with the latter might be more comedic than communicative).

In May 2016, Angie found her calling at Salmon Creek Ranch amidst personal loss and heartbreak. Responding to a Craigslist ad, she embraced a new beginning, trading office walls for open pastures and the company of animals. “The ad on Craigslist sounded very compelling to me,” Angie recalls humorously. “I was looking for physical work, to get dirty, and to be surrounded by nature. I guess you could say I’m tough on the outside but kind of caring on the inside—especially when it comes to these animals!”

Since then, Angie has been an integral part of the ranch, bringing her intelligence, self-starting attitude, and ability to see the bigger picture while minding the details. Her journey at Salmon Creek Ranch has been more than just a job—it’s been a transformational experience of healing and growth set against the backdrop of rolling hills and grazing cattle.

John, Leslie, and Angie are not only farmers but also advocates for bridging the divide between urban consumers and the realities of sustainable agriculture. Through active participation in organizations like the Sonoma County Farm Bureau and the Santa Rosa Original Certified Farmers Market, they strive to educate and connect with their community. Their goal is to dispel misconceptions about farming practices and foster a deeper appreciation for where food comes from.

As Salmon Creek Ranch continues to evolve, they envision expanding their impact on sustainable agriculture and conservation. They aspire to be a beacon of hope and a model of resilience in an increasingly complex food system. Their journey is one of dedication, passion, and a profound respect for the land—a story that resonates with anyone who values quality, sustainability, and the connection between field and table.

Salmon Creek Ranch is more than a place—it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of sustainable farming and the power of stewardship. Through their dedication to organic practices, community engagement, and environmental conservation, Leslie, John, and Angie exemplify what it means to cultivate not just food but a brighter future for generations to come.

In every egg, cut of beef, and grazing goat, there lies a story of tradition, resilience, and commitment to doing things right. At Salmon Creek Ranch, the journey from pasture to plate is a journey worth taking—a journey that nourishes the body, enriches the soul, and preserves the land for future harvests.