Fifth generation Yamhill County family farmers

Bernards Farm was more than just a business — it was a five-generation family legacy in McMinnville. For over a decade, I worked there for little more than minimum wage, encouraged by my family’s promise of sweat equity and the chance to one day buy out the farm. Like so many family farms, ours faced the immense challenges of generational transition. The truth is, passing down a farm isn’t simple — it’s often heartbreaking. The agricultural industry has changed dramatically over the years, and state policies have only added more pressure on family-run operations already stretched thin. My story is just one of many, but it reflects a larger struggle facing farmers across Oregon: the dream of carrying on a family business colliding with the harsh realities of today’s economy and regulations.

Although closing Bernards Farm was one of the most painful decisions of my life, Georgia and I continue to farm over 100 acres of blueberries and hazelnuts, along with other crops. Farming is still in our blood, and our roots remain in the land. What gives me peace is knowing that when we closed the doors of Bernards Farm, we did it with integrity — every debt to our customers was paid. While the loss of a dream still stings, I hold onto that commitment to honesty and responsibility, and it’s the same commitment I will bring to public service.