are cared for. The ranch boasts more than 50 species of birds, owls, ducks and bees. And they have planted more than 1,000 trees, which provide habitat for nesting birds while also helping to prevent erosion. The Poncias believe in being transparent with their sustainability efforts, hoping to inspire others. They regularly host soil scientists from around the world to cont inue improv ing and ref ining thei r ca rbon sequestration efforts. “My heart is filled with so much pride for what we’ve been able to do with this ranch,” Lisa Poncia said.
Planting the foundation for success All ranchers take great pride in their herds, and Loren and Lisa Poncia are no exception. But their pride goes deeper—deeper into the ground, that is. “The driving force here is to do what’s right for the soil and then everything else will get taken care of,” Loren Poncia said. “The product is going to taste better, it’s going to be better for the land and better for the animals, too.” The 1,000-acre ranch has been in his family for four generations, beginning with his great-grandfather who emigrated from Italy in 1902. Originally a dairy, the farm transitioned to certified organic Angus cattle in the early ’90s. The family practices rotational grazing, moving the cattle from one pasture to another. The cattle get different grasses and plants to eat and in turn put nutrient-rich fertilizer back into the pastures. At Stemple Creek Ranch, all creatures big and small
Tracy Sellers tsellers@californiabountiful.com
MORE ONLINE California Bountiful TV host Tracy Sellers takes viewers to all three families’ farms. Coming soon to californiabountiful.com.
Stemple Creek Ranch Marin County
Loren Poncia, left, with daughters Julianna and Avery and wife Lisa, use rotational grazing on their cattle ranch near Tomales.
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