Tule Trust Talks SERIES: #9
TULE TRUST TALKS
A series highlighting the people behind the Tule Basin Land & Water Conservation Trust.
From staff to volunteers to the Tule Subbasin farmers, we’ll hear about their background, and we'll get down-to-earth details on their involvement, and why they're so passionate about Tule Trust. For this month’s talk, we reached out to Mike Pitigliano. He’s the newest board member of the Tule Basin Land & Water Conservation Trust.
Thanks for talking with us, Mike. Please tell us about your background.
Mike Pitigliano: I have worked for my family farming operation since 1985. I am now a partner in Pitigliano Farms and Pitigliano Farms Services which is a custom farm management service.
How did you get involved with the Tule Trust?
Mike: Currently I am a member of the Pixley Ground Water Sustainability Committee. This got me interested in being involved with developing sustainable plans to help the growers utilize their ground water more efficiently.
How has your background helped with your work at the Trust? How are you involved with its various projects?
Mike: Since I am a brand new board member, I am just now getting involved with the Trust. However, I have several years of irrigation management experience; I believe this experience will give me insight into the Trust projects.
How is the Trust helping farmers and our community?
Mike: The Trust is able to help farmers and growers through developing conservation projects and eventually acquiring or developing land easements that will help lessen water demand. This will, in turn, help the farmers and stabilize the ground water for the rural communities.
What’s next for the Tule Trust?
Mike: I hope we are awarded grant funding that will allow the Tule Trust conservation projects to be scaled up, so that these projects can help lessen demand and stabilize the water for the rural communities. I would also like to see the projects implemented by the farmers themselves.
Every acre we protect and restore begins with you!
>>To join Mike in his efforts to help represent and protect the community, please donate today!
The Tule Basin Land and Water Conservation Trust is a 501(c)3 dedicated to protecting the southern San Joaquin Valley’s incredible natural resources and preserving a viable farming economy for the future generations.
