Key Takeaways:
- Ralston Family Farms, a women-owned and multi-generational rice farming company, has received certification from Regenified™.
- The certification reflects the farm’s commitment to regenerative agriculture practices across all 6,000 acres.
- Regenerative practices at the farm include cover cropping, crop rotation, and no-till planting to improve soil health and enhance biodiversity.
- The farm’s regenerative efforts aim to foster ecosystem resiliency and water conservation.
- Ralston Family Farms offers a variety of regenerative rice products available nationwide, promoting transparency and environmental sustainability.
Certification Achievement
Ralston Family Farms, a women-owned and multi-generational rice farming enterprise, has achieved certification from Regenified™, a prominent third-party regenerative verification and supply chain solution company. This certification underscores the farm’s dedication to implementing regenerative agriculture practices across its 6,000-acre property in Arkansas.
Commitment to Regenerative Agriculture
Ralston Family Farms employs various regenerative practices such as cover cropping, crop rotation, and no-till planting. These methods are designed to improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, and conserve water, ultimately fostering ecosystem resiliency. Robin Ralston, co-owner of Ralston Family Farms, highlighted the significance of these practices, stating, “It’s increasingly clear that the real impact emerges from the synergy of linking these practices, culminating in a holistic strategy. Regenerative practices not only benefit the environment, but they can also bolster the farm’s economic sustainability.”
Multi-Tier System
The certification marks a significant milestone in the farm’s journey towards advancing regenerative practices through Regenified’s 5-tier system. This system provides a structured approach to achieving and maintaining regenerative agriculture standards. “The first step is deciding to farm regeneratively. Regenified met us where we were on the journey, giving us the guidance and confidence to move forward for certification,” Robin Ralston added.
Benefits of Regenerative Farming
The Ralstons’ commitment to regenerative farming extends beyond certification. By minimizing soil disturbance and fostering a network of plant roots and fungi, the farm enhances soil health. This biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and natural pest control, creating a resilient environment. The focus on the soil microbiome and the production of nutrient-rich food benefits both consumers and the environment. Tim Ralston, co-owner of Ralston Family Farms, noted, “The result is good for our bottom line and good for the environment. We’re honored to have Regenified validate our long-term efforts with certification. We are dedicated to farming with nature to produce high-quality, regenerative rice.”
National Reach and Consumer Impact
Ralston Family Farms’ rice products, certified by Regenified, are available nationwide. Salar Shemirani, CEO of Regenified, emphasized the importance of consumer support in driving regenerative agriculture forward. “The national reach of Ralston Family Farms’ rice means consumers can support regenerative farming through their everyday choices. The Ralston’s commitment to regenerative practices highlights the tangible benefits that can be achieved, encouraging others to follow their lead in transforming our food systems from the ground up,” he said.
