Dry Farming

For decades, CAFF has supported dry farmers and engaged in research about the impact of these practices in California. As California navigates increased water scarcity, this work is more pressing now than ever. We are pleased to continue this work under the leadership of  the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) and in partnership with the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) and Wine Institute. This project is funded by the Department of Water Resources and runs from late 2023 through June 2026.

This project aims to:

  • Build a network of dry farming expertise and interested farmers
  • Create grower friendly resources and tools for dry farming and water conservation
  • Provide site-specific technical assistance to inform growers considering dry farming transition, conversion, or establishment
  • Develop case studies and cost-benefit evaluations of dry farmed vineyards
  • Study soil-water relationships in dry farm systems Inventory and map existing dry farm operations

What is Dry Farming?

Dry Farming is farming that uses little to no irrigation, instead using specific practices to capture the water naturally present in the soil and from rainfall. This long-standing practice encourages deep root growth, resulting in high quality grapes that reflect the terroir of the vineyard. Dry farming is not exclusive to winegrapes, but this project is focused on research on this specific crop.

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Photo: John Rolph at Rolph Vineyards in Paso Robles. PC: Brittany App

Thank you CAFF for the continuing support of small family farmers. A drought farm grant would benefit our small family farm greatly. We farm in an area in Southern California that can be especially bad in the summer months. A grant will help us immensely in our ability to keep our trees, farm, animals alive and healthy. It keeps our farm standing on its feet, preventing crops from drying, ensuring we have enough water and it helps keeping a balanced ecosystem.
Elias Ammar
Elias AmmarColton
This grant means so much to my farm and family right now! We have struggled with so many cost increases caused by the drought that we’ve barely been able to stay afloat. This grant brings much need relief to get us through the winter and better prepare us for next year! I am beyond grateful for this emergency funding!
Alexandria Miranda
Alexandria MirandaTurlock
We're extremely grateful to have received a CFFEF grant from CAFF. The 2021 drought impacted our small farm in a big way. This grant will help us recover the lost momentum of that year by helping us afford the equipment and infrastructure improvements we need to settle into our new site. Our family, employees, and hundreds of members and clients will benefit. Thank you CAFF!
West County Community Farm
West County Community FarmSebastopol

Want to support?

Help us strengthen California’s food system by contributing to a trusted, equitable model for rapid relief.

  • Over $1.2M disbursed to date
  • 65% of recipients are BIPOC or immigrant growers
  • 45+ counties reached across the state
  • 25+ grassroots partners involved in distribution
I want to help

Resources

Dry Farming Wine Grapes

See our the original 2015 guide. 2026 version is coming soon!

Learn More

More Video Resources

Dry Farming California Vineyards

4 Videos

John Rolph at Rolph Vineyards in Paso Robles. PC: Brittany App