n 2006 Dennie and Gemma Giles embarked on a new journey. With a passion for dogs
and after losing his job in the technology industry, Dennie decided to follow his
life long dream of becoming a dog trainer. He began his new endeavor by successfully
training several dogs but quickly learned that the business was growing a little
quicker than anticipated.
So with the help of Gemma's late mother, who considered
herself a farmer at one time, they purchased land in North San Diego county, an established
organic citrus and avocado grove. The property had enough land to build their new
kennel on. But in January 2007, just after 3 months of settling in, the California
freeze struck. The grove suffered from the extreme freezing conditions and their
very first avocado harvest was, unfortunately, lost. It was a very difficult and
disappointing introduction to farming.
During these past 5 years they learned all about farming, the avocado and citrus
industry, and the toils of hard work. They continue to educate themselves in the
importance of sustainable and local farming and have met other farmers whose passion
have inspired them. They now proudly consider themselves a part of the farming community
and their integrity lies in producing locally grown produce and providing a quality
item for you.
They have many challenges ahead and continue to face more every year.
Currently, the financial recession and the California water crisis are their biggest
challenges. The water crisis has forced them to cut down over 200 avocado trees to
meet the reduction requirements imposed by the State.
It has undeniably been a very
challenging 5 years and the question of staying in this industry arises constantly.
But continued encouragement and support from family, friends, the farming community
and our loyal customers have helped to curb this question momentarily. The trees
are, once again, healthy and bountiful. The fruits of their toil are clear and perhaps
their dream of building that kennel will come full circle. But in the meantime, Dennie
and Gemma's path have taken them to another journey that is just as equally important-
Support your local small farms and protect our land, air and water.
