Local farmer who hosted a president honored in Sacramento

A local ag industry titan is being recognized for his lifelong service in farming and civic life.

Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria has recognized Firebaugh farmer Joe L. Del Bosque as her office’s 2024 Latino Spirit Award Honoree.

Following years of migrant farm work, Del Bosque’s family established themselves on the westside of the San Joaquin Valley, where he grew up on the farm with his father, going to work at age 10.

He graduated from Fresno State in 1975 and then his started own operation in 1985. Del Bosque Farms produces organic melons, tomatoes, almonds and cherries.

Del Bosque is a vocal advocate for farmers and farmworkers impacted by water policies.

He also advised presidents on Central Valley drought and water issues, hosting Barack Obama in 2014 at his farm south of Los Banos.

Del Bosque has been serving on the California Water Commission since 2010, and currently serves on the Ag Foundation Board at Fresno State, the board of AMOR Wellness, and is a member of the California Melon Research Board.

Additionally, he is a member of the California Latino Water Coalition, Western Growers Association and the California Farm Bureau.

Because of his service to the California ag industry, Soria has chosen Del Bosque to be her honoree of the California Legislative Latino Caucus’ Latino Spirit Award.

“Joe is an example of the best in agriculture in the Central Valley. His work and advocacy has benefited our communities and state,” said Soria in a statement. “Joe has uplifted Latinos in all of the spaces he has been a trailblazer in. I am honored to recognize Joe at the State Capitol for his impact and contributions to California agriculture.”

Del Bosque was honored to receive the recognition.

“Thank you for recognizing the talents of Latinos across California. We are a diverse community and our contributions span all sectors.  As a former farmworker and now farmer I am humbled to receive the Spirit Award in Agriculture,” he said