Yolo County Board of Supervisors presents Yolo Land Trust with a Proclamation honoring the 35-year history of A Day in the Country. From left are Supervisor Mary Vixie-Sandy, Kathry Ward (Yolo Land Trust Board vice- president), John Currey (Yolo Land Trust executive director), Supervisor Lucas Frerichs (chair), Supervisor Jim Provenza and Supervisor Oscar Villegas. Photo courtesy of Minea Herwitz Studio

CLARKSBURG, CA (MPG) - Supporters of the Yolo Land Trust (YLT) gathered on Sunday, Sept. 8 for the 35th Annual A Day in the Country. This event has been a cherished tradition for 35 years, continually bringing together the community to celebrate and support Yolo Land Trust’s mission to conserve agricultural land in Yolo County.

“We come together not only to celebrate the legacy and abundance of local agriculture,” explained Yolo Land Trust Executive Director John Currey, “but also to build meaningful connections with our dedicated supporters. Together, we acknowledge the irreplaceable nature of Yolo County farmland and the crucial need to protect it for future generations.”

Originally a potluck, A Day in the Country has evolved since 1989 to feature a diverse array of culinary offerings from renowned restaurants, all spotlighting Yolo County’s rich agricultural bounty. Reflecting on the event, one supporter shared, “Great event and excellent food! The caliber of restaurants who participate is always impressive.”

This year's event showcased 11 restaurants serving dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients. Highlights included Cucumber Gazpacho from Chez Panisse, Chile Verde Carnitas and Serrano Pepper Milk Bread from Faria Bakery, and Bahn Mi Endive from Kitchen 428. Yolo Land Trust Emeritus Board Member Paul Muller of Full Belly Farm plays a crucial role in the event’s success by connecting chefs with local growers.

Guests enjoy Yolo County’s finest farm-grown food at A Day in the Country, while supporting Yolo Land Trust’s mission to conserve local farmland. Photo courtesy of Minea Herwitz Studio

The event took place amidst the scenic vineyard and Home Ranch at Bogle Family Vineyards in Clarksburg. The Bogle family, who have a conservation easement with Yolo Land Trust on nearby farmland, share Yolo Land Trust’s commitment to preserving local agricultural land. Yolo Land Trust Board Member Lynnel Pollock expressed gratitude to Jody Bogle for hosting, noting the historical connection between the Bogle family and the event’s origins. Jody reminisced about past events and her involvement with her mother, Patty Bogle, a former member of the original event planning committee along with Pollock.

In celebration of the 35th anniversary, a history wall and photo slideshow highlighted Yolo Land Trust’s journey from its founding to the present day. The event was attended by many past and founding board members, including Helen Thomson, who, alongside Rich Rominger, was instrumental in establishing the Yolo Land Conservation Trust. Additionally, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors presented Yolo Land Trust with a Proclamation recognizing 35 years of community engagement through A Day in the Country.

The event’s success was made possible by the dedicated efforts of local farmers, restaurants, wineries, breweries, and volunteers. Special thanks are due to Pioneer High School FFA, Clarksburg 4-H, Woodland Community College’s Culinary Arts & Agriculture Departments, and Bayer staff for their invaluable volunteer support.

Yolo Land Trust is deeply appreciative of the community’s support through sponsorships and ticket purchases. The success of A Day in the Country provides funding to advance Yolo Land Trust’s mission of conserving farmland in Yolo County. Since its founding in 1988, the Yolo Land Trust has permanently conserved more than 13,030 farmland acres on more than 78 farms in Yolo County.