Rusty Top Farm

18/08/2025

11/08/2025

Cacao in the Food Forest 🌱🍫
As our pioneer trees mature and cast the shade we’ve been waiting for, we’ve begun planting cacao in their understory — a living example of successional agroforestry in action. These seeds are rooted in our own story, collected from my great-grandparents’ home, my cousin’s home, and my aunt’s home here in Costa Rica.

Cacao has been cherished for thousands of years, not only for its rich flavor but also for its medicinal, ceremonial, and cultural importance across Central America. We’re excited to explore these traditions, learn more about cacao’s role in health and community, and share that journey with visitors to the farm. Each tree will stand as both a food source and a storyteller, carrying forward a piece of our family history into the next generation of our land’s ecosystem.

05/08/2025

Strong Families Strong Children, Orange County Veterans and Military Families Collaborative, and North County Vet Center, in collaboration with California Army National Guard Family Programs, invite you to the OC Veterans and Families Back to School Event on Thursday, August 7 from 4:00 – 8:00 PM at Cypress College 9200 Valley View Street Cypress, CA 90630 (Parking - Lot 5)

Enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, fun activities & games, and free backpacks for kids (Kids must be present to receive backpacks – first come, first serve)

Scan the QR code to register or visit: https://forms.office.com/r/136mqy28ku

📩 For more info, contact Mitzi Huff at [email protected] or 714-380-9381

04/08/2025

25/07/2025

🌵 Dragon Fruit Update from the Farm

We just finished weeding around each plant in the dragon fruit zone—sweaty work, but worth it.

The harvest is still coming in strong, and new flowers are already forming, promising even more fruit ahead.

Of course, it’s never all smooth sailing—while harvesting, I nearly smacked into a wasp nest tucked right in the canopy.
Let’s just say… nature keeps us humble. 🐝

Every day is a mix of patience, purpose, and paying attention.

Farming’s like that—you don't get the fruit without the thorns, the sweat, or the surprises.

25/07/2025

12/07/2025

🌱 Urban agriculture is taking root in California! 🌆

We’re proud to launch the California Growing Urban Agriculture Advisory Committee — a dynamic team of urban growers leading the way toward more connected, resourced, and resilient urban farming communities.

As part of CAFF’s Growing Urban Agriculture program, this committee will shape our statewide microgrant program, organize regional farmer gatherings, and make sure urban growers' voices are front and center in shaping policy and driving solutions.

📍 Priority Regions: Sacramento, Inland Empire, Fresno
🌿 Growing: leaders to shape equitable strategies with a paid contract of $10,000
🌶️ Building: deeper grower engagement across the state and urban ag infrastructure

Applications open until August 6th, 2025 and can be found at the link in our bio or caff.org/urbanagadvisory/

11/07/2025

🦥 Even the wildlife in Costa Rica knows how to take it slow...

Caught this sloth in full relaxation mode, living its best life and reminding us all to pause, scratch what needs scratching, and enjoy the moment.

Down here with Vital Roots Foundation and Rusty Top Farm, we’re building something rooted in peace, healing, and connection to the land.

And sometimes… that means appreciating the weird little reminders from nature to slow the hell down.

04/07/2025

Happy Independence Day

Dear Farmer Veteran Coalition Members,

As we celebrate the Fourth of July, I want to take a moment to honor each of you – the veterans, farmers, ranchers, and supporters who embody the very spirit of independence that this day represents.

Your dedication to serving our nation did not end when you removed your uniform. Every day, you continue to serve by feeding your communities, stewarding the land, and building a more resilient and secure America. Agriculture has always been an act of independence and hope – and your work ensures that our nation remains strong and nourished.

On behalf of the entire team at Farmer Veteran Coalition, thank you for your courage, commitment, and unyielding service to country and community. May today be a day of pride, gratitude, and reflection for all that we hold dear.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and meaningful Independence Day.

With respect and gratitude,

Jeanette Lombardo
Chief Executive Officer
Farmer Veteran Coalition

02/07/2025