Jeff White - "We want to give consumers a good, healthy product, the 'real deal' "
Looking to cook up an organic lifestyle? The recipe is located smack dab in the center of California’s agricultural heartland. Begin with a full measure of The Jeff White Family of the White River Ranch: farmer, Jeff, his wife, Dianne, sons Jonathan, Matt, and daughter, Noell. Add a heaping vision for commitment to family, health, and stewardship, strengthened by a strong dose of adversity, and finally, cover the entire mix with unwavering Christian faith, for lasting value. What you get is a pleasing result that attracts even the casual observer!
A full time optometrist, Jeff, and his wife Dianne, made a conscious decision 10 years ago, to move their family from the city of Hanford, out to a quiet spot in the country. Looking for an ideal setting in which to raise their family, they decided on a piece of property that included an additional career for Jeff, as well as built-in work for the entire family. At the age 34, Jeff became a farmer!
Why farming? “Well, when our kids were young, they loved plums, so we thought, why not grow them?” Jeff explains in his characteristic soft-spoken voice. The result is 40 acres of plums, pluots and cherries, all organic. “For us, farming, is a family affair! My kids helped in tractoring, suckering, and watering, when they were younger. As far as managing the farm, I have help from Ryan Palm, a friend and neighbor farmer, but we carry out the work. Out of necessity, our kids have worked hard, but it’s been a bonding experience and one that has shaped us into an appreciative family; we know the difficult work farming requires, and are able to appreciate how hard our farm laborers work for us. We are blessed to have this land and therefore, we try to be good stewards of it.” Jeff pauses to consider the benefits for his children. “Of course, my kids have developed a solid work ethic, not to mention the fact that being out here, on the ranch, has allowed us to raise them in a wonderful environment without the negative influences that are in many cities. We’re right here near the river; we can jet ski, canoe, and enjoy the outdoors. It’s really been a blessing!”
As an optometrist, the risks of farming were unchartered territory. How did you deal with the hazards associated with the life of a farmer; was it intimidating? “Yes, it was a bit scary, but we felt the benefits would outweigh the risks.” Farming families typically have methods for dealing with the ever-present threat of weather dangers, and The White Family is no exception. “Every year we have a tradition; at bloom time in the spring, we pray, as a family, and ask God to bless our crop for the coming harvest. We know that all farmers need God’s provision, and we pray for them, too. At times, when we’ve gotten hit with hail, we say, ‘this isn’t our time, but let someone else have a good crop this year.’”
What was the main reason that you went organic? “In 2002, I was diagnosed with, Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, which has been associated with exposure to herbicides and pesticides, among other substances. Naturally, I wanted to reduce my exposure to chemicals and toxins as much as possible. Thankfully, I am in full remission and have been for 3 years.” One can almost feel the relief in Jeff’s voice. “This has just spilled over into our entire family; we see organic farming as a way of life. Optimal health for our children, organic foods, and better nutrition, is where it begins. We want our children to benefit from the organic lifestyle, and we want our consumers to share in this benefit, as well. After all, the question must be asked: why are some diseases, such as the Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, on the rise? Certainly, environmental issues play a role. It makes sense to do everything we can to live in healthy surroundings; growing and eating organically is a big step.” Settling back in his chair, he continues. “So, we farm organically, and now we live with a few more weeds!” Jeff flashes a quick smile. “But you know what’s been really nice? We have so much wildlife out here since we went organic: quail, dove, squirrels, raccoons, possum, coyotes, and at night the barn owls are doing their jobs in keeping the mice and gopher population under control!”
Jeff is a striking example of how a life touched with cancer can be transformed into a life that is focused. “Since my cancer, I can honestly say I recognize the importance of not sweating the small stuff.” We’ve all heard that before, but when you literally see your life flash by, you begin to see priorities clearly. In our family, we have eliminated items such as clutter, and we now realize material things are just distractions, they are just ‘toys.’ Even my hobbies are on the back burner. Family is what matters.”
“My goals and dreams? Well, they tend to be more short term, since my little health episode!” Jeff says lightheartedly. “My birthday is next month; I am close to turning 50, and that’s my immediate goal.” He pauses. “I’ll just be happy to get there!” Jeff’s voice overflows with gratitude. “But beyond that, I’d like to know that in the future, our grandkids could come out here to the farm, get their hands dirty, learn about work ethic, and enjoy what this organic lifestyle provides for us: the wildlife, the good nutrition, good family time. I want this place to become a generational farm. I hope our grandkids say, ‘Please, please…Let’s go out to Grandpa’s! Let’s ride the blue tractor, get in the canoes, have fun!’…I want to be that grandpa.”
Who is it that inspires you? “Vernon Peterson. He has been a good mentor to me; I’ve learned a lot from Vernon from a farming standpoint, I’ve learned a lot from Vernon from a spiritual standpoint. He has taught me to be a good steward of our natural resources, to give back in whatever way we can.” Expanding beyond the personal, Jeff explains, “For our consumers, we want to give them a good, healthy product, the ‘real deal’…we’re delivering to people the ‘real deal’ because Vernon is the ‘real deal’…he walks his talk.” Jeff pauses as his mind travels back in time 3 years ago. “During my major chemotherapy treatment, when I was sick with the flu, losing my hair, and laying flat in bed, Vernon came over. He recited the King James’ version of scripture that he had memorized for me, and prayed for my healing…what a blessing he was! Yes, he is my mentor…he’s like the Good Shepard to us growers, and he’s always ready to share his vision, which is, of course, God’s vision!”
Family, stewardship, health, and faith. A visit to the White River Ranch is to be treasured, like a tried and true recipe; one that you’ll want to keep and put in your own family kitchen, to savor and rely on for years to come.
