Imagine Sonoma County without Crane melons, Bernier garlic, or Russian River pinot noir. Local farms shape the landscape, economy, and culture. But their future is uncertain, and what happens next depends on consumer choices and local support. Farming isn’t easy. In 2024, Sonoma County farmers face climate change, water shortages, labor gaps, and costly new technology. Unpredictable weather — droughts, floods, wildfires — threatens crops and disrupts practices. Managing water is crucial, as farmers juggle conservation and irrigation. Labor shortages push up costs and slow down operations. While tech can boost efficiency, it often requires heavy investment and specialized skills. These challenges demand resilience and innovation from the farming community. Farming has been essential since humans first cultivated crops.