Down on the Farm: ​California's Bounty, at its Sources

      Did you know that the state of California produces half of the fruit, nuts and vegetables eaten by Americans? That it makes more milk than any other state? That we're up there with Wisconsin in cheese production?

      Let's go experience Monterey County, the "Salad Bowl of the World"!  We depart San Francisco dressed casually and prepared for the likely prospect of wind and strong sun. An extremely well-informed local farmer will take us into the fields (weather conditions permitting) so that we can see up close the cornucopia that results from careful scientific planning and hard work. At lunch we feast on a variety of fruits and vegetables grown not far from where we sit. We may get to talk with farm laborers…perhaps enjoy a hay ride. We bring our day-long exploration to a close by visiting the Agricultural Museum that's part of the National Steinbeck Center in downtown Salinas. Did you know that "Cannery Row" is a real place? That Marilyn Monroe's first beauty title was Artichoke Queen? And what about all those larger-than-life art silhouettes along the roadside? Come, spend the day with us and see.

​        This tour usually takes considerable advanced planning, so it's best if you give us a least a month's notice, and if possible consider doing it during our dry season. Its fee will depend on the number of participants and the final itinerary.