SW New Mexico News

Thirty miles north of Santa Fe, a farm lies surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in Santa Cruz. This four-and-a-half-acre farm, known as Santa Cruz Farm, has been in Don Bustos's family for over 400 years. Bustos grew up on the farm and took over in the 1980s, transforming it into a modern operation that grows 72 varieties of produce and operates entirely on solar power.

Bustos is recognized across northern New Mexico for his sustainable agriculture practices and organic farming advocacy. He supports underserved communities and mentors new farmers, sharing knowledge gained from his experience.

Bustos credits much of his success to a partnership with New Mexico State University (NMSU), particularly the Sustainable Agriculture Science Center at Alcalde. "We have four seasons in New Mexico," he said, "and we’re able to produce all four seasons using the knowledge that comes from the Alcalde science center."

His father, Frank Bustos, established ties with the science center decades ago. Don Bustos maintains this relationship and serves on its advisory committee. He acknowledges researchers like Ron Walser and others who have contributed to his farm's growth. Walser's research convinced him to grow blackberries, which are now among his best-selling crops.

Asparagus is another successful crop added with guidance from Rich Phillips. NMSU also helped Bustos understand farming finances through business training classes initiated by Edmond Gomez.

Saeid Zehtab Salmasi, research director at the Sustainable Agriculture Science Center at Alcalde since 2023, emphasizes community engagement with growers like Bustos through workshops and training sessions.

"For the Sustainable Agriculture Science Center at Alcalde," Salmasi stated, "it is very important to work with pioneer farmers like Don Bustos." This collaboration aims to enhance sustainable farming research beneficially for communities across New Mexico.

The story originally appeared in ACES Magazine's fall 2024 issue.