Koda Farms (Est. 1928)

Koda Farms is indeed a historic Japanese-American family farm that has played a significant role in rice cultivation in California. It is known for being one of the oldest and most influential Japanese-American rice farms in the state. However, it is important to note that Koda Farms is not specifically a Japanese farm, but rather a farm established by Japanese immigrants in California.

Koda Farms was founded in 1928 by Keisaburo Koda, a Japanese immigrant who settled in the San Joaquin Valley of California. Keisaburo Koda brought with him traditional Japanese farming practices and expertise in rice cultivation. He began growing rice using these methods, introducing new varieties and techniques to the local agricultural community.

One of the notable contributions of Koda Farms is the development and popularization of the Calrose rice variety. Keisaburo Koda and subsequent generations of the Koda family worked to refine and improve this strain, which eventually became one of the most widely grown rice varieties in California. Calrose rice is highly regarded for its medium-grain texture and ability to absorb flavors, making it a popular choice for many rice dishes.

Koda Farms has maintained its operations for several generations, with the Koda family continuing to oversee the farm. Their commitment to quality and traditional farming practices has earned them a reputation for producing high-quality rice. They take pride in their heritage and the role they have played in the history of rice farming in California.

While Koda Farms is not the only Japanese-American farm in California, it is often recognized as one of the oldest and most influential, particularly in the context of rice cultivation. Their legacy and contributions to the agricultural industry have made them a respected name in the farming community.