Named after farm owner Eleazar’s childhood nickname “Chay,” Chay’s Farm is a small, 7 acre operation located in Watsonville, California – where some of California’s best berries are produced.
The farm was started in 2017 by Eleazar Ortiz and is now operated by him and his three sons. You likely see the two youngest sons, Alexis and Christian, at the North and South Berkeley Farmers’ Markets. Christian and Alexis’ favorite part of having a farm is the community they’ve built at farmers’ markets. From trading with the other vendors to connecting with new customers, the energy of the market lights them up!
That said, they’re also transparent about the challenges they’ve faced in their short time farming.In February of 2024, the huge rainstorms experienced across California led to immense flooding and the breaking of a large levy near Chay’s Farm. This rupture completely flooded their farm and forced the family to start over from scratch for the year’s planting. With limited financial support from the local government, they re-seeded the entire farm and experienced a less profitable yield this year compared to last.They’ve also had to raise prices in recent years to match increasing water and electricity prices. Despite being certified in the past and continuing to practice pesticide and chemical fertilizer free farming, Chay’s Farm had to cease their Organic Certification because of rising fees of certification that would lead to even higher prices for customers.
Pictured above is Alexis Ortiz, proudly holding his harvest. Chat with them at the market to learn more!
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