PROGRAMS :: Past Projects

Our History

Our organization has been around for almost 30 years, and in that time we have developed revolutionary technical assistance programs, pioneered innovative communications models, and much more. Below are a sampling of our past successful projects. You can view a more detailed history of CAFF on our History page.

BIOS (Biologically Integrated Orchard Systems)

• The BIOS program is based on high quality training in best management practices, coupled with consistent public outreach. The BIOS program emphasizes a "whole system" approach to orchard management, where each component practice is understood to affect the outcomes of all other practices. The essential elements of this approach are organizing project management teams of local experts, producing field days, farm visits and field monitoring of pest and beneficial organisms.

Lighthouse Farm Network

• CAFF's Lighthouse Farm Network built a community of farmers and other agricultural professionals who readily share dinformation about farming systems that are profitable yet rely less on chemicals. Every month, farmers and other ag professionals met at breakfast meetings, lunch meetings or field days to share technical information about biologically-based farming practices.

Watershed Stewardship Project

• Watershed Stewardship Project provided rural landowners in Solano and Merced counties with information and contacts for improving their management of natural resources. Healthy watersheds are important for every member of our communities.

CSA-West

• CAFF founded the CSA-West Project in 1994 and was instrumental in bringing this unique community farming & marketing model to California. Find a CSA near you on our Local Food Guide.

National Organic Directory

• From 1983 to 2001, CAFF published the most complete guide to organic industry, allowing vendors and farmers in the fledgling organic foods industry to find each other and aiding greatly in the development of the organic foods market.