Alexandre Family Farm Takes National Stage as Blake Alexandre Champions Regenerative Agriculture

by Roger Gitlin

CRESCENT CITY — One of Del Norte County’s most recognizable agricultural families stepped into the national spotlight this week when Blake Alexandre of Alexandre Family Farms spoke in Washington, D.C., during the USDA’s announcement of a new $700 million national pilot supporting regenerative agriculture.

Alexandre, whose family operates the first certified regenerative dairy farm in the United States, addressed federal leaders, farmers, and media as part of a national event highlighting a major policy shift toward soil-health-centered farming practices.

“It’s a true honor to be here,” Alexandre said, emphasizing that regenerative agriculture is “simply farming in harmony with nature, with the way God intended.” He explained that the approach focuses on improving the biological health of soil, enhancing nutrient density in crops, and ultimately producing healthier foods for families across the country.

Regenerative Agriculture Goes Federal

The USDA’s new pilot program, announced by Secretary Brooke Rollins with support from U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) and Dr. Mehmet Oz, aims to streamline conservation funding and support farmers transitioning away from chemical-dependent methods toward soil-based, natural systems.

The initiative will direct $700 million through existing NRCS programs — EQUIP and CSP — to support regenerative practices, whole-farm planning, water and soil protection, and expanded technical assistance.

Rollins called the move a “farmer-first” shift and noted that the program is structured by farmers, for farmers, with an emphasis on reducing red tape and rewarding measurable on-farm improvements.

RFK Jr. described regenerative agriculture as a pathway to both healthier soil and healthier Americans, linking the movement to chronic disease prevention and improved national food quality.

A Del Norte Voice at the Table

Amid national figures and high-level policy discussions, Blake Alexandre served as the practical voice of a working California farmer. Representing a multigenerational operation rooted in Del Norte County, Alexandre framed regenerative agriculture in real, local terms:

• Building nutrient-dense soil
• Improving water retention and protecting waterways
• Reducing erosion and improving air quality
• Supporting healthier livestock and ultimately healthier food

“For us, it’s chickens and cows,” Alexandre said. “And then ultimately it’s the milk and the nutrient density for food for humans.” He added that regenerative practices contribute to global benefits as well, including carbon sequestration and cleaner ecosystems.

“We all breathe the same air,” he reminded attendees.

A National Moment with Local Roots

The Alexandre family’s leadership in regenerative agriculture has long been recognized within the farming community, but this week’s USDA event placed Crescent City firmly on the national map of agricultural innovation.

For Del Norte County — a rural region that has long relied on farming, ranching, and natural resource stewardship — Alexandre’s participation in shaping national agricultural policy reflects both local expertise and growing national interest in farming methods that restore land rather than deplete it.

The USDA pilot will begin rolling out nationwide through county-level NRCS offices. For many North Coast producers, it could signal new opportunities to adopt regenerative practices with reduced financial and bureaucratic barriers.

As regenerative agriculture continues to gain traction across the country, Del Norte now finds itself in the conversation — because one of our own is helping lead the way.