Meet the Farmer

Alberto Mendoza came to the United States from Oaxaca, Mexico as a teenager. He spent his young adult life working various jobs on farms, in a garlic packaging factory, and in construction. Eventually, Alberto learned about the Agriculture and Land-Based Training Association (ALBA) through a colleague. At first, he began as a farmworker at ALBA, primarily on the strawberry farms, but soon his colleagues encouraged him to strike out on his own. An idea started to take shape: if Alberto launched his own business, he would be able to pursue his life-long passion while maintaining the independence of being his own boss and making his own schedule. 

He officially established Ayoquezco Organic Produce in 2019, and currently leases 4.5 acres near Salinas. His new life chapter has brought his story full circle — in Mexico, Alberto grew up helping his father and grandfather with their harvests. His father often planted corn, beans and nuts, and his grandfather grew chilies and tomatoes. Now, through Ayoquezco Organic Produce, Alberto grows tomatillos, chilies, green beans, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, zucchini, strawberries, celery, beets, cilantro, kale, tomatoes, and more. He cares for his land by avoiding pesticides, and has adopted practices like crop rotation and utilizing drip tape to reduce water use. 

Currently, Alberto sells his produce to local school districts and direct to customers at farmers markets. He enjoys connecting with customers face-to-face and seeing the joy they get from his produce. Some days, his three oldest daughters come with him, helping out at the stand. 

For Alberto, Ayoquezco Organic Produce’s purpose is to bring healthier, chemical-free produce to the people in his community, especially low-income families and kids. This desire motivates him to continue pursuing his passion and legacy every day.