Ag Tour

Conference Ag Tour

Ag Tour Title Sponsor

Pioneer


Experience Arizona agriculture firsthand during the ASFMRA Annual Conference Ag Tour. Departing The Wigwam Resort at 7:00 a.m. and returning at approximately 3:20 p.m., this full-day tour will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to visit several leading agricultural operations in the Phoenix area.

Participants will gain insights into a diverse range of agricultural enterprises, including large-scale crop production, onion transplant cultivation, organic farming, and innovative conservation practices. Throughout the day, farm owners and industry leaders will share their experiences, discuss current challenges and opportunities facing agriculture in the Southwest, and provide behind-the-scenes looks at their operations.

 


Tumbling T Ranch

Stop #1: A Tumbling-T Ranches

A Tumbling-T Ranches is a multi-generational family farming operation based in Goodyear, Arizona, with a strong legacy of agricultural production and land stewardship in the Southwest. Operated by the Rayner family, the ranch grows a diverse mix of crops including cotton, alfalfa, durum wheat, and sorghum across thousands of acres in Arizona and California. The operation is recognized for its innovative conservation farming practices, including reduced tillage, crop rotation, and water-efficient management techniques that support long-term soil health and sustainability in the arid desert environment.

Through a commitment to innovation, responsible resource management, and family values, A Tumbling-T Ranches has become a respected leader in Arizona agriculture, demonstrating how modern farming practices can balance productivity with environmental stewardship.

  • Presentation #1: Explore the Rayner family's agricultural heritage and learn how the operation has adapted to the challenges and opportunities presented by urban growth and development in the Valley.
  • Presentation #2: Gain insights into innovative farming practices, including vertical farming concepts, cotton production, and the technologies shaping the future of agriculture in Arizona.

Sunbelt Onions

Stop #2: Sunbelt Transplants Inc
Sunbelt Transplants is a fourth-generation, family-owned agricultural business based in Buckeye, Arizona, specializing in the production of high-quality bare-root onion transplants for commercial growers, market gardeners, nurseries, and farm operations across the United States. Since 1978, the company has built a reputation for providing vigorous, field-grown onion transplants, including both conventional and certified organic varieties, cultivated in Arizona's ideal growing conditions.

  • Presentation #1: Learn about the history and growth of Sunbelt Transplants, along with an overview of Arizona's onion industry and its role in agricultural production.
  • Presentation #2: Explore the onion transplant production process, from seedling development and field management to harvesting, distribution, and delivery to growers throughout North America.

Flying R Farms

Stop #3: Flying R Farms

Flying R Farms is a long-standing family-owned agricultural operation located in Buckeye, Arizona. Established by the Rovey family, the farm has been part of Arizona's agricultural landscape for more than a century, growing a variety of crops including alfalfa, Bermuda grass, wheat, sorghum, and cotton. In addition to crop production, the farm offers agricultural services such as custom harvesting, tractor work, and land leveling, reflecting its commitment to supporting the region's farming community.

Today, Flying R Farms continues to blend tradition with innovation, playing an important role in Arizona agriculture while supplying products and services to both local and broader markets.

  • Lunch: Enjoy a catered lunch from Cain's Backyard BBQ while networking with fellow attendees.
  • Lunch & Learn: During lunch, attendees will hear a presentation focused on water management in Arizona, exploring the challenges, opportunities, and strategies shaping agriculture in the region.

Duncan Family Farms

Stop #4: Duncan Family Farms LLC
Duncan Family Farms is a family-owned organic farming operation based in Goodyear, Arizona, and one of the nation's leading producers of certified organic vegetables, herbs, and microgreens. Founded in 1985 by Arnott and Kathleen Duncan, the farm is recognized for its commitment to sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and providing fresh, high-quality produce to communities across the country.

  • Presentation #1: An overview of Duncan Family Farms' history, growth, and commitment to organic culture.
  • Presentation #2: A guided tour of the operation, highlighting production practices, sustainability initiatives, and day-to-day farm operations.