Eddie Ito, Executive Director

SFUA Executive Director, Eddie Ito

Bio: Edward Ito

Edward Ito, Eddie, is a 3rd generation farmer from Orange County, California. He comes from a long and extensive farming background. He has maintained a close connection with Naturipe Berry Growers, one of the largest strawberry shippers on the West Coast. His family has been a mainstay within Naturipe Berry Growers as the oldest active members of the grower-owned co-op.

Along with his family farming business, Edward has served as a long-time member of the Orange County Farm Bureau. He was also instrumental in developing innovative ways to grow hydroponic strawberries for Naturipe Berry Growers.

Utilizing previous experience, Edward came out of retirement in 2021 to serve as the SFUA Production Manager for The Giving Farm at Westminster High School and has also assisted in the relocation and maintenance of the hydroponic fruit and vegetable systems for the Incredible Edible Farm.

Q & A with Eddie

When did your family start farming in Orange County? 

Originally in LA County, my uncle and grandfather began farming in California in the late 1950s. The focus was on vegetables, tomatoes, and strawberries were added in the early 60s. Our family has been involved in Naturipe for over 60 years. 

What are the biggest challenges for OC agriculture?

Biggest challenges I see right now are long-term, reliable access to water and supply of additional arable land for farming. There are developed pockets here and there (military basis, the South Coast Research Center) but not a lot of available farmable land left in Orange County.

What drew you to SFUA?

I had retired about 10 years ago but what drew me was the opportunity to work with A.G. and be involved in agriculture again. The vision of SFUA and giving back to the community attracted me as our family has always done that. It was instilled in us as kids.