Meet the Farmer

Growing up in Mexico, Martín Barraza and his family produced food to sustain themselves, a practice that goes back generations in his family. It was this relationship to the land that sparked his interest in farming. Upon moving to California, Martín worked as a farmworker for six years, picking strawberries and installing irrigation systems. But he yearned for greater freedom and a closer connection to the land. Martín set out to create and operate his own farm business, not only so he could find greater independence, but also to nourish and teach his community about producing healthy, organic food.  

Fueled by his passion, Martín joined the Organic Farm Incubator created by the Agriculture and Land-Based Training Association (ALBA), a program that supports beginning farmers to launch their businesses on ALBA’s land. Through the program, he was able to start Barraza Farms on two acres of land leased from ALBA while creating valuable connections, such as with fellow KTA client Martín Aviña of Aviña Organics.

After completing the incubator program early, Martín soon joined Martín Aviña in Aromas, CA, subleasing 4.5 acres from Martín. This collaboration has proved fruitful for both farmers. With the two businesses sharing not only a physical space, but also a support system, they exchange information on equipment and tools as well as share mutual thought partnership on each of their businesses. 

At Barraza Farms, Martín grows cilantro, green beans, chard, celery, and broccolini, all of which he currently sells wholesale. The farm uses organic practices, including cover cropping and crop rotation. By growing these vegetables, Martín is following in the footsteps of his family and fostering greater opportunity for freedom, connection, and community for himself.