CCH Citrus: A Leader in Organic and Sustainable Farming

Corona College Heights (CCH) Orange and Lemon Association, a nonprofit grower cooperative headquartered in Riverside, California, has been specializing in citrus for over a century and organic citrus since 2001—and many of the cooperative’s organic growers embrace regenerative ag practices. 

“With a rich heritage, we are committed to community engagement through our family-owned farms spread across all citrus-producing regions in California,” said Garff Hathcock, director of field operations and organic division manager. “The cooperative boasts over 12,000 acres, ranging from modest 5-acre ranches to sprawling 1,000-acre farms. CCH growers have not only contributed to the state's reputation as a citrus haven but have also been leaders in the transition to organic and sustainable farming practices.”  

Garff Hathcock, Director of Field Operations and Organic Division Manager, CCH Citrus

With more than 3,000 acres of organic citrus in multiple California growing regions, Corona College Heights (CCH) offers organic lemons, oranges, and red grapefruit to its large US customer base.   

“Our primary customers are retailers and wholesalers across the United States, focusing on cooperatives, natural stores, and regional to national grocers,” Hathcock said. “Our products are available in over 50,000 grocery stores nationwide, serviced through various distribution systems.”  

The cooperative’s organic lemons are available year-round, while its two varieties of organic oranges are in season from December–April (navels) and April–October (Valencias). CCH organic grapefruit, grown in Riverside and Imperial Counties as well as the San Joaquin Valley, is available January–June. 

“CCH Citrus offers a range of organic citrus that satisfies a spectrum of palates and preferences,” Hathcock said. “The year-round availability of organic lemons and the sweet, healthful delights of navel and Valencia oranges place them at the forefront of consumer demand.”  

When asked about trends in the organic citrus industry, Hathcock highlighted an overall increase in demand as well as rising operational costs. He also said there is growing consumer interest in regenerative agricultural practices, something that many of CCH’s organic growers incorporate.  

“Beyond the basic requirements for organic certification, CCH Citrus growers implement a range of regenerative practices,” Hathcock said. “These include applications of organic matter to renew soil health using compost and green manure, integrated pest management strategies that exceed organic requirements, conservation tillage, and innovative water conservation methods including growing citrus under mesh cover. Such practices not only sustain but also enhance the land, save water, improve pest controls, and are ensuring that the cooperative's agricultural legacy can be carried forward to future generations.” 

In recent seasons, Hathcock said CCH growers have encountered a number of challenges, ranging from “erratic and extreme weather patterns to the emergence of new pests like the Asian Citrus Psyllid and quarantines aiming to eradicate the risk of Oriental Fruit Fly that create a risk to all citrus growing, conventional and organic.” 

“These obstacles require growers in the cooperative to adapt and implement a blend of traditional wisdom and modern technology, diversifying its farming practices for both organic and conventional crops and investing in cultural practices to keep fields clean of potential hosts of pests and following USDA protocols required to keep groves free of diseases,” Hathcock said. “This adaptability has allowed CCH Citrus growers to stay vigilant to maintain the quality and yield of its crops, even under these difficult conditions.” 

“Beyond the basic requirements for organic certification, CCH Citrus growers implement a range of regenerative practices. These include applications of organic matter to renew soil health using compost and green manure, integrated pest management strategies that exceed organic requirements, conservation tillage, and innovative water conservation methods including growing citrus under mesh cover." - Garff Hathcock

CCH is a pioneer when it comes to organic citrus, with Hathcock playing a critical role in the industry by helping craft both the National Organic Program and California’s State Organic Program. He was also instrumental in getting a number of well-known California citrus companies to start offering organics. 

“The turn of the millennium marked a significant shift for CCH Citrus with the launch of our organic program in 2001,” Hathcock said. “This shift responded to increasing consumer demand for organically grown produce and a vision to promote sustainable agriculture. Starting with less than 100 acres, the organic initiative has now flourished, encompassing over 3,000 acres of rich Californian soil, nurturing a variety of citrus fruits.” 

After more than two decades of organic experience, Hathcock said he remains optimistic about the future of the organic citrus industry. “The cooperative's dedication to sustainability, social responsibility, and regenerative agriculture positions us well to continue meeting the evolving demands of consumers,” he said. “CCH Citrus is open to sharing its journey and insights with others, keen on advancing organic agriculture through collaboration and shared learning.”