Our Farming Practices
Working in Harmony with California's Ecosystem
At De Wit Family Farms, we believe that producing exceptional rice goes hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship. We nurture and care for the soils that grow our rice, ensuring that our agricultural footprint leaves a positive impact on the earth.
By working closely with environmentalists, scientists, and state water resource officials, we are actively improving local water resources and advancing conservation efforts across Sacramento and Yolo Counties.
Locally Grown
Family Farmed
Gluten Free
Non-GmO
The Winter Wetland Cycle
Before humans built dams and began plowing fields, natural marshlands covered our local floodplains. Today, we are proud to recreate that vital ecosystem.
After our rice is harvested in the fall, our fields do not simply sit empty. Instead, we intentionally flood them with water each winter to convert the agricultural land into vibrant, temporary wetlands.
This seasonal transformation serves three critical purposes:
Natural Soil Enrichment
The winter water naturally decomposes the leftover rice straw, returning vital nutrients to the earth and preparing the soil for the next growing season.
Sanctuary for Migrating Birds
The shallow, flooded fields provide a safe, food-rich resting place for flocks of migrating waterfowl passing through our region.
Vital Fish Habitat
Our flooded fields act as a protective nursery for young fish, offering them a place to feed and grow.
Championing the Chinook Salmon
One of our most rewarding environmental partnerships is our work with native fish populations. The winter wetlands we create in the Yolo Bypass serve as a crucial habitat for young, spawning Chinook salmon.
By mimicking the region's historic floodplains, our farm provides these young salmon with the nutrient-dense environment they need to thrive. Once they are strong enough, the salmon migrate directly through the Yolo Bypass and safely into the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.
"Through sustainable, sound farming practices, we aren't just growing rice—we are cultivating a thriving ecosystem where agriculture and wildlife beautifully coexist."
Taste the Difference Sustainability Makes
Support Local Agriculture and Wildlife with Every Bite
When you choose De Wit Family Farms, you aren't just bringing a delicious, highly nutritious, and uniquely sophisticated grain to your dinner table—you are directly supporting California's wildlife, water conservation, and sustainable local agriculture.
Experience the unique flavor of Riz Rouge Camargue while helping us preserve the natural beauty of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.
