A new crop is taking root at the Manteca Farm, thanks to a partnership with the California Cherry Board.
Approximately 1,400 cherry trees are being planted on a former alfalfa field. While it will take a few years for the trees to mature, they will ultimately give Delta College agriculture students hands-on experience with one of San Joaquin County’s top commodities.
The Cherry Board helped fund the project, further diversifying the farm’s portfolio which already includes wine grapes, almonds, and hay.
A ribbon cutting on Friday drew not only Delta employees but also members of the farming community, including the Cherry Board and the San Joaquin Farm Bureau Federation.
"This is truly a milestone event for the college, for our students, and the cherry industry, not only in San Joaquin County but the state," said Donald Drake, manager of Delta's farm and longtime member of the California Cherry Board Research Committee.
The addition of cherries will allow students to conduct applied research on commercial varieties while building real-world skills in irrigation management, pruning, and crop production.
The goal is to further diversify the farm to reflect the region's agricultural diversity and give students the skills they'll need for local jobs, Drake said.
"We can train them here, and they stay here," he said.
