Needs Assessment on Tools & Technology for Small Farms in the San Joaquin Valley

Community Alliance with Family Farmers (CAFF) recently published Small Farms and the Future of AgTech - A Needs Assessment on Tools & Technology for Small Farms in the San Joaquin Valley of California.

While agricultural technology has advanced rapidly, innovation has largely centered on large-scale, capital-intensive operations. Small farms – despite their outsized contribution to local economies, biodiversity, and food security – are often excluded from these advances. The gap between the tools available and those that are practical, affordable, and relevant for small-scale operations remains wide.

This report aims to fill that gap by identifying the specific technology needs of small-scale farmers in California’s San Joaquin Valley, examining barriers that limit or slow adoption, and offering actionable recommendations for policymakers, funders, technical assistance providers, and technology developers.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT

Key Findings

Small farms in the San Joaquin Valley operate in a complex and resource-constrained environment, where economic pressures, ecological challenges, and regulatory requirements shape daily decisions. While a wide range of agricultural technologies exist globally and domestically, adoption among small farms remains limited – partly because suitable tools are not always available locally and partly because most are designed for large-scale operations rather than small, diversified systems.

• Identify the top technology needs and priorities of small farms in the San Joaquin Valley.

• Examine structural and practical barriers to technology development, access and adoption.

• Highlight opportunities for investment, collaboration, and innovation that strengthen small farm resilience and sustainability.

• Provide recommendations to ensure agricultural technologies are appropriately scaled, accessible, and equitable.

"I’d like to see increased funding for sustainable and renewable energy including cold storage for farms, as weather is so variable. Extreme heat makes it impossible to keep produce food safe and marketable during peak grower season." - Lilian Thaohaochay, GT Florists

The report was published in November 2025 and highlighted at the Small Farm Tech Expo in December. Many F3 partners took part in the report, providing feedback and information. The report includes a mention of F3 Local's Tool Lending Library, and connects to the work of SF-ADAPT, serving as one of the sources used to ensure the alliance works with the needs of local, small farmer.

Learn more about the report at: https://caff.org/tech-assessment/