Director Spotlight: Justin Ritchie

At Kern County Farm Bureau, we’re proud to highlight the dedicated individuals who help guide and support our organization. This month, we’re highlighting Director Justin Ritchie and the experience and commitment to family farming that have shaped both his career and his service to the agricultural community.

A fourth-generation California farmer on both sides of his family, Justin’s roots in agriculture run deep. From a young age, he spent countless hours alongside his family in the fields, learning firsthand what it takes to grow crops and care for the land.

“I remember bringing late dinners to my dad while he was driving tractor to get crops planted,” Justin shared. “As a kid, I was helping flood irrigate alfalfa, corn, and sugar beets, standing in knee-high water because I couldn’t even hold the valve wrench correctly yet.”

Those early experiences inspired Justin to pursue a degree in Plant Science at California State University, Fresno, with the goal of bringing new knowledge back to both his family’s operation and other local growers.

Today, Justin farms almonds and pistachios with his family while also serving as a licensed Pest Control Advisor (PCA), making agronomic recommendations on crop needs and plant health. Alongside his brother, Joe, he operates R&R Farms, providing custom orchard services including spray applications and almond harvesting throughout Kern and Tulare counties. Together, they have provided custom agricultural services throughout the San Joaquin Valley for more than 15 years.

In addition to their work in the field, Justin and Joe enjoy documenting life on the farm through the R&R Farms Instagram page (@rrfarms.co), where they share drone footage, behind-the-scenes videos, and everyday moments from the family farm.

“Not many careers allow you to work with your parents and siblings every day,” Justin said. “I’ve been fortunate to do that for many years. I live on a farm property that allows for a mix of work and family life that I couldn’t achieve anywhere else.”

He also appreciates that no two days are ever the same and enjoys the challenges that come with each growing season.

Justin believes one of the biggest misconceptions about agriculture is that farming simply consists of planting and watering crops. In reality, today’s farmers must continually educate themselves on changing regulations, crop inputs, and evolving production practices while working with others across the industry to solve challenges and remain compliant with state and county requirements.

When asked what advice he would give someone interested in pursuing a career in agriculture, Justin encouraged young people to seek out relationships within the industry and never be afraid to get their hands dirty.

“Talk to people in agriculture,” he said. “Find an area or crop you’re interested in. Somebody knows somebody who’s willing to help an eager young person who’s determined to find their path. And don’t be afraid to get dirty.”

Justin’s decision to become involved with Kern County Farm Bureau came after being encouraged by another director. While he was already familiar with the organization, serving on the Board has introduced him to many new aspects of agriculture beyond his own farming operation.

“After my first year as a director, I found myself submerged in many new aspects of agriculture outside of my family farm,” Justin said. “Our board meetings have been exciting with ag discussions, new technologies, policies, ag safety measures, and the many committees that organize great events for local outreach and education to all ages. I found myself on two committees this year and anticipate to grow into more.”

Outside of agriculture, Justin stays busy raising his four children with his wife, Briana, and cheering them on at their sporting events. He also enjoys playing guitar, flying drones over the family farm, and sharing good food with good company. He serves as a director for the American Slavonic Social Club in Delano, an organization that has hosted cultural events and agricultural industry luncheons for more than 75 years.

We are grateful for Justin’s service on the Kern County Farm Bureau Board of Directors and for his continued commitment to supporting agriculture and serving the farming community.