Desert Farming Initiative

08/25/2026

The farm was buzzing with activity last week as new students in the College stepped into the world of high-desert agriculture.

New students from our Department of Agriculture, Veterinary and Rangeland Sciences, the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, and the Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences visited the farm as part of NevadaFIT.

Students got a hands-on look at organic production and what it takes to grow fruits and vegetables in Nevada’s high-desert environment. They learned about the varieties and crops grown at the farm, the challenges of farming in the high desert, and where produce from the farm goes.

The visit also introduced students to ways they can get involved at the farm through academic internships and paid positions, giving them a closer look at the hands-on learning and career opportunities available through our College.

University of Nevada, Reno | College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources | | | | | | | | |

08/20/2026

Learn what it takes to put down roots for an orchard in Northern Nevada. Join us Saturday, Sept. 19, for a hands-on Orchard Development Workshop covering orchard production and management.

Local farmers and industry experts will cover variety selection, site selection, irrigation, pest and disease management, pruning and soil nutrition.

Meet the speakers:
• Rex Dufour, Senior Fellow at the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT)
• Rob Holley, Holley Family Farms, certified organic farmer
• Eldon Louhela, Desert Farming Initiative, certified arborist
• Neil Crowley, orchardist, skilled grafter
• Bill Sharp, Tea House Gardens, orchardist
• Michael Janik, hobby orchardist
• Ray Johnson, Custom Gardens Farm, orchardist
• Karen Nichols, Cherry Dog Orchards, orchardist

Registration is $25 and includes refreshments. Only 30 spots are available, so reserve your spot today: events.unr.edu/event/orchard-development-workshop

This event is hosted through the Desert Farming Initiative's Grow Organic Nevada program. Grow Organic Nevada is supported through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). TOPP is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP).

University of Nevada, Reno | College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources | | | | | | | | |

08/18/2026

We had a beautiful day celebrating local garlic and the farms that grow it!

We loved joining the Riverside Farmers Market and Reno Food Systems for Garlic Fest, where we tabled alongside Reno Food Systems to raise awareness about Nevada-grown garlic and the importance of supporting local food systems.

At our table, we sold four garlic varieties grown right here at the University farm, along with jalapeños and tomatoes. Most of all, we loved connecting with our community, celebrating local food and seeing so many of our small farms.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by and supported local agriculture. Keep showing up for your local farmers and small farms. When you buy local, you help keep Nevada agriculture growing!

University of Nevada, Reno | College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources | Reno Food Systems | Riverside Farmers Market | | | | | | | | | | |

08/07/2026

We're excited to highlight Gaetano, our Farm Technician!

He joined DFI at the beginning of this growing season, bringing both experience and a lifelong passion for agriculture. He graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, with a B.S. in Fruit Science, specializing in orchard management and integrated pest management.

Before joining our team, Gaetano participated in the One Truckee River Workforce Program, where he helped plant native trees to increase shade and wildlife habitat, remove invasive species, improve irrigation systems, protect mature trees from beaver damage and safely remove dead or declining trees.

Since joining DFI, Gaetano has become an important part of our farm operations, supporting crop production, research activities and day-to-day field work. His knowledge, dedication and willingness to tackle every task have made him a valued member of our team.

We're grateful to have Gaetano on our team and look forward to the impact he'll continue to make!

University of Nevada, Reno | College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources | | | | | | | |

08/06/2026

Happy National Farmers Market Week!

This week, celebrate the farmers, ranchers and food producers who help feed our communities by visiting a farmers market. Farmers markets are a great way to support small farms, connect with the people growing your food and strengthen Nevada's local food system.

Whether you visit your favorite market or discover a new one, take time to support the hardworking growers in your community. Not sure where to go? Check out the Made in Nevada Farmers Market Directory to find a market near you: madeinnevada.org/farmers-markets/

If you're visiting the Riverside Farmers Market at Idlewild Park this Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., you can find our certified organic produce at the Reno Mobile Market booth, including fresh tomatoes, Swiss chard, cucumbers and jalapeños.

Here's to a week of celebrating and supporting Nevada's small farms!

University of Nevada, Reno | College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources | Farmers Market Coalition | Riverside Farmers Market | Carson Farmers Market | Nevada Farmers Markets | | | | | | | | | |

08/05/2026

08/04/2026

We're seeking a motivated student to join our Indigenous Food Sovereignty Program. This paid internship offers hands-on experience supporting Tribal food sovereignty, improving food access and working alongside Indigenous student leaders, faculty and community partners.

The program works to raise awareness of culturally significant plants in the region, uplift Indigenous voices and support Tribal communities in strengthening local food systems and food sovereignty.

As an intern, you'll:
• Improve food sovereignty and food access by working with culturally significant plants and foods at DFI and in the community
• Gain hands-on agriculture, gardening and research experience
• Contribute to educational materials, outreach and community events
• Have the opportunity to pursue a passion project focused on a culturally significant plant, food or topic that aligns with the program

Internship details:
• $16/hour, with opportunities for increased pay based on skills and responsibilities
• 8–12 hours per week
• In-person at the DFI
• Flexible schedule with some overlap required with the Food Sovereignty Program coordinator and DFI advisor

Preferred qualifications:
• Understanding of or experience working with Tribal communities and traditions
• Experience working with plants or knowledge of native plants in the region
• Interest in sharing technical skills and information to advance tribal food sovereignty and improve food access
• Career interests in sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, cultural resource management, traditional ecological knowledge or Tribal outreach

To apply, email your cover letter, resume and three professional references to Tatum Gogna at [email protected]. Applications are due Friday, Sept. 4.

Learn more about the program: naes.unr.edu/dfi/food-sovereignty.aspx

University of Nevada, Reno | College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources | Nevada Career Studio | Office of Indigenous Relations | | | | | | | | | |

08/01/2026

Working in Nevada’s heat can pose a risk of heat-related illness. Learn practical steps Extension professionals, farmers, ranchers, outdoor workers, and the public can take to reduce heat risks through planning, hydration, rest, acclimatization, monitoring, and early response.

07/31/2026

Join us for a fun-filled Beginning Farmer and Rancher Tour followed by a delicious Farm to Fork Dinner on August 8, 2026 at 5:30 PM!

07/31/2026