When winemakers and grape farmers Gina and Mikey Giugni were approached by their long-time mentor about purchasing his vineyard property in Avila Beach, they knew it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The 112-acre parcel of rugged terrain included two wildlife corridors and three 10-acre vineyards that had been farmed organically for decades, providing an ideal foundation for the regenerative, climate-smart approach they had planned. But after spending every dollar they had to make their dream of land ownership come true, they needed help implementing their vision for the property. A regenerative farmer friend connected them with the Community Environmental Council.

We guided the Giugnis to apply for a Pollinator Habitat Program grant from the California Department of Food and Agriculture. With support from our team, Gina and Mikey received $60,000 to create pollinator meadows, install wildlife habitat, and plant hedgerows that support carbon sequestration, improve soil health, and save water.

“We have a responsibility to be good stewards of the land, and appreciate CEC’s invaluable guidance and technical support to help ensure we’re protected from climate impacts,” said Gina. As they look forward, the Giugnis have set their sights on bolstering their land’s wildfire resilience, working with a local shepherd to graze down the wilder, fire-prone areas of the property that back up to See Canyon. “We hope our story inspires other farmers to take action.”