history

Just 5 minutes from downtown Petaluma, as you arrive at Live Oak Farm, you are greeted by our namesake – a century old, expansive Coast Live Oak – a standing testament to the rich history of the property.

We are not the first to inhabit this land. We recognize the first native community of the Coastal Miwok peoples and their mark on this land, in a place they called Peta Lumaa. As we actively commit to the betterment of this land today, and for future generations farmers and food, we must also take time to pay respect to the people and efforts of those before us.

About 100 years ago, this land became known as the Bundesen Ranch. It was lovingly cared for by four generations of Bundesens who, we like to think, sought shade underneath that magnificent oak tree. The Bundesens were chicken farmers who helped build the agricultural legacy of Petaluma, once called the “Egg Basket of the World.”

In 2014, Randy Goldstein purchased the 30-acre property. Randy was interested in food, health, and as a green energy entrepreneur for 35 years, the impact farming had on the environment. He was inspired by the idea that small scale solar and wind projects could ultimately provide enough energy for society. And he wondered, “Could small farms feed the world’s growing population in a more environmentally friendly manner?”

Combining his interests in green energy and growing healthy food, along with his desire to build an energy efficient house, and live in community, Randy turned toward the country and started work on the agrihood in 2014.

We’ve been busy. We began our first growing season in 2015. In 2016, our farm land was certified organic by CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) and added a 1,000 fruit trees, including apples, pluots, pomegranates and persimmons. In 2017, we completed the road that that leads to the community’s homes, the first two of which were built in 2021 and 2022.

Over the next few years we’ll continue to develop the farm, while construction of new homes begins in Spring 2023. We hope you’ll join us in growing community, honoring the rich history of this beautiful property. weekly newsletter too to stay in the loop with all things Live Oak Farm.