While water and air issues are two of the biggest challenges facing farmers, they are certainly not the only ones.  Guardian Harvest programs help balance the goal of high-volume output with the common sense practices of resource management.  We also make sure that environmental regulations are not only adhered to but exceeded in most cases.

• Water – Evapotranspiration (ET) rates can vary from day to day depending on weather conditions, soil conditions, and status of the crop.  We constantly monitor the efficient utilization of water by the crop and irrigate accordingly.  This not only saves water but it’s much better for the health of the plant.  Careful water management ensures that any added soil nutrients or pest control applications stay where they’re needed and not swept away as runoff.
• Soil – Just as a human body needs certain vitamins and trace minerals to stay healthy, so does the soil.  By monitoring and adjusting the Ph balance and salinity of the soil, we are able to maintain stable soil for optimum plant health. 
• Air – Agriculture often takes the brunt of the blame for air pollution problems in the San Joaquin Valley.  The fact is, agriculture is part of the problem and Guardian Harvest is determined to be a big part of the solution.  We offer a variety of low-cost suggestions to clients that augment mandated air quality restrictions.  These can be as simple as keeping tractors tuned up to reduce emissions or spraying water on dirt roads prior to harvest activity to reduce dust.  It could involve changing from diesel to electric motors on irrigation pumps or utilizing an industrial chipper/shredder for orchard removal rather than the traditional burning. 

Environmental regulation is often a necessary fact of farming.  By bringing our clients the latest in research and technology, we allow them to stay well ahead of the regulatory curve, which in turn enables them to be the best possible stewards of the land.