CA GROWN: What are you doing today?

Ryan: I have a blend of two jobs. I work for the Fresno County Farm Bureau during the day as executive director. And I farm wine grapes in Easton on nights and weekends. Farming is in your blood, it’s not a job it’s a lifestyle. Being a farmer makes me better at my job at the Farm Bureau. I also host Valley’s Gold a local show on PBS promoting farmers and ranchers.

CA GROWN: What is your favorite thing about farming?

Ryan: I have a lot of favorite things about farming, but if I had to pick one, it’s getting to take a full part in all the seasons. The annual renewal of producing a crop is something you just can’t explain. From beginning to end to beginning again, it drives farmers and ranchers.

CA GROWN: What drew you into the farming profession?

Ryan: Well I’m a fourth generation farmer on both my paternal and maternal sides. I wasn’t just born into it though; I was very engaged in the farm since the beginning. It just stuck with me. My other passion is politics. I was fortunate to find a position at the farm bureau that blended the two perfectly.

CA GROWN: What are your hobbies or pastimes when you’re not farming?

Ryan: My time is very limited, but anything with my two boys outside. My baby, Ranger is 23 months and Maverick is four, we are outside all the time.

CA GROWN: What advice would you give to someone who wants to become a farmer?

Ryan: Find a mentor and job shadow them. It’s a simple fact that many times farm life is made to look romantic like in the movies. But it’s more than that it’s a lifestyle and it’s very rewarding.