Agavero Steve
Introduction from the Author
Farming has always been a central part of my heritage, as I come from a family that has been growing agave and cactus for generations. I never thought I'd be a farmer, but after taking many environmental science classes, I realized I could make a meaningful impact on the world—and on climate change—by farming what my family had been growing in Mexico all this time.
What stood out to me was the ability of agave and cactus to be dry-farmed, without putting pressure on California's water systems like aquifers and rivers. These crops could serve as a significant source of carbon sequestration and contribute to a local economy by providing healthy food that would otherwise be grown thousands of miles away.
I draw inspiration from the thousands of years of agave and cactus cultivation by Indigenous peoples of Mexico and the United States. I want to learn from these communities—while respecting their traditions—and contribute to the education and cultivation of agave and cactus in a responsible way.
It’s worth remembering that long before modern nurseries existed, Indigenous Californians cultivated a variety of agave species for food, fiber, building materials, and many other uses. These Indigenous models are something we can respectfully follow and build upon as we develop new systems.
Looking ahead, my vision for California agave and cactus is expansive: I want to see hundreds of different agave and cactus varieties thriving here, each selected for its resilience and utility in our unique environment.
Additionally, I see agave and cactus as key plants in the future of dry farming. Combined with drought-tolerant trees, cacti, and other native vegetation, agave is just one of many plants that can help us build a smarter, climate-conscious future.
In California, we don't only want to use agave and cactus for food or spirits—we want to explore the thousands of uses of these plants.
Some plants may be better for biofuels, while others might be better for construction materials, and some may be great for textiles. We really don't yet know all the possibilities of these plants.
About Steve
Steve is an American agave farmer with deep roots in Guatemala and Mexico. After earning his degree from UC Santa Barbara, he consulted for vineyards, farms, and plantations worldwide. Though he once planned to grow grapes, Steve has since dedicated himself to climate-smart, regenerative agriculture. He champions a diverse future for agave farming, prioritizing sustainability, inclusivity, and respect for traditional knowledge.