To: Board of Supervisors
From: Diane Burgis, District III Supervisor
Report Title: RECOGNIZING HARVEST TIME IN BRENTWOOD ON THE OCCASION OF THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY
Recommendation: Recommendation of the County Administrator
RECOMMENDATIONS:
ADOPT Resolution Recognizing Harvest Time Brentwood on the Occasion of Their 50TH Anniversary as Recommended by the Supervisor Diane Burgis
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
BACKGROUND:
See Resolution
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
None
The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County, California
body
IN THE MATTER OF RECOGNIZING HARVEST TIME IN BRENTWOOD ON THE OCCASION OF THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY
WHEREAS, since 1976, Harvest Time, a non-profit organization in Brentwood has connected families and visitors gaining global recognition as the U-Pick Capital of the World. For the last 50 years, Harvest Time has remained dedicated to supporting local farms, farm stands, educating the general public and “foodies” about farming, while improving agritourism in Brentwood, Oakley and the surrounding towns of East Contra Costa County, including Byron and Knightsen. Each year, they champion farmers through the annual educational Farm Trail Map to help visitors discover, support, and return to our local growers’ season after season; and
WHEREAS, Harvest Time has become the ultimate U-Pick destination, with over 65 farms offering a delightful array of U-Pick options, visitors near and far come by every year seeking the freshest produce, vibrant farm experiences, and the abundance of the year’s harvest. U-Pick isn’t just an experience, it’s a cherished tradition that farmers and visitors anticipate year after year; and
WHEREAS, for five decades, the spirit of farms in East Contra Costa County has been defined by its soil, what started as a vision to protect the agricultural heritage blossomed into a legacy that now serves as the bridge between hardworking farmers and the community, ensuring that local farms thrive; and
WHEREAS, the families behind these farms represent a legacy that stretches back over a century. When you look across a cherry orchard or a field of summer corn, you are seeing the tireless dedication of local families. Many of these families were stewards of this land long before Brentwood was even incorporated as a city, and their roots run deeper than the oldest trees in our valley; and
WHEREAS, the impact of these multi-generational families stretches far beyond the fence line of the farm. They are the quiet benefactors of our schools, ensuring children have the resources they need to grow alongside crops. From sponsoring local sports teams to providing first jobs for teenagers, farmers invest in the character of the next generation. They serve on city and local boards, support our nearby small businesses, and have been the bedrock of civic life in East Contra Costa County since the very beginning; and
WHEREAS, these families have shaped the very identity of Brentwood and beyond, bringing recognition to East Contra Costa County across the region and around the world; and whether a longtime neighbor or a visitor traveling from afar to experience the magic of a Harvest Time harvest, each is part of this shared story; and
WHEREAS, the “U-Pick” experience helps ensure that this land remains vibrant, green, and agriculturally productive for generations to come, and as Harvest Time celebrates this significant milestone, it reaffirms its enduring commitment to its founding mission while honoring its rich history and looking ahead with renewed purpose; and
WHEREAS, Harvest Time draws strength from the families and farmers who have guided its journey, and it is well-positioned for continued growth. Over the past fifty years, its dedication has helped preserve agricultural heritage while establishing East Contra Costa County as a valued and thriving agritourism destination; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: that the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors does hereby recognize and commend Harvest Time for fifty years of steadfast commitment to preserving roots, building resilience, and community service in East Contra Costa County, for its ongoing support of local farmers and stewardship of the land, and for its role in enhancing the region’s identity as a premier agricultural and visitor destination. The Board extends its sincere congratulations to Harvest Time on this milestone anniversary, with appreciation for its past achievements and best wishes for continued success in the generations to come.
end