I recently had the opportunity to attend the California Wool Growers Association Annual Meeting in Minden, Nevada. The Wool Growers Association has a very interesting historical designation, as one of the oldest (or should I say long lived) associations in the state--and has an active membership in all parts of the state.

A diverse membership that spans the generational spectrum, is perhaps this organization's greatest asset. Multigenerational agriculturalists families are not uncommon within the association membership, nor is the occasional octogenarian.What is most inspiring about this group, however, is not its diversity, nor its vast experience and knowledge base. What is most impressive is this organization’s cohesiveness, passion and the deep connections that the membership has with their vocation and each other. Beyond these connections, and what connects this membership fundamentally is their relationships to ecology and the environment.It is evident that this organization values highly the resource environment, as it provides not only for their livelihoods but also an essential connection to their communities and environment. Another achievement of this organization that amazed me to no end, was its ability to integrate new technologies and ideas, including cutting edge ag software and green tech.

My impression is that the wool growers are active and informed members of our agricultural communities. The wool growers are not only pursuing individual ends but work diligently towards a collective result that is both visionary and enlightened. I am happy to call myself one of its newest members. For more information on the California Wool Growers Association you can visit them on the web at: www.woolgrowers.org. I would also like to thank Mel Thomson Sierra Farms, Johnny Cubiburu the current President, and Past President Joe Matus for their graciousness, time and hospitality.