Blog

Behind every crispy French fry, delicious piece of cheese, fresh blueberry, and the numerous other crops we grow here at Threemile is a team of people working to make sure our cows are fed, crops are growing, and operations are running smoothly. Agriculture doesn’t follow a regular 9-5 schedule, and at Threemile, we recognize that our commitment to land stewardship, sustainable farming, and animal welfare is only possible because of our team. In honor of National Farmworker’s Day, and the work they do every day, we want to take a moment to highlight and thank our team for their dedication.

Our team is the backbone of our work. From milking parlors that run 24/7 365 days a year to long days cultivating fields, maintaining equipment, and supporting the essential day‑to‑day operations that allow our farm to always be moving forward, their contributions are felt in every corner of Threemile.

We’re proud to have over 400 full‑time team members, and about 150 seasonal partners who share a passion for farming. Our team includes multi-generational families and community members who joined after going through our intern program. We have also worked closely with the United Farm Workers for many years on the first large-scale agricultural contract of its kind in Oregon. Today, around 65% of our hourly team members belong to the union, under which they enjoy a competitive wage, as well as health and welfare benefits.

We believe that when it comes to agriculture, meeting standards is the bare minimum because consumers deserve access to safe, high-quality food. Our milk consistently surpasses quality benchmarks because our team refuses to cut corners. Our fields stay productive because people monitor soil, water, and plant health with an unmatched level of precision and care. Our sustainability goals become reality because of the daily decisions our people make to protect the land and animals.

“Without the people, this place doesn't exist,” says Threemile President Tom Ryan. “We have multi-generational talent on this farm, meaning we have the grandfathers, we have the sons and daughters, and then their sons and daughters, and everybody takes a pride and a piece of ownership in producing.”

In every department — milking, maternity, farm operations, agronomy, mechanic shop, irrigation, etc., our people bring a shared commitment to excellence and safety. That dedication is what allows us to maintain consistent production, deliver exceptional milk, and continue innovating our agricultural practices. Our mission only works because every person, in every department, buys in. For over 25 years, Threemile has been practicing responsible farming in a big way, and it’s because of our people that we get to keep doing that for many years to come.

While National Farmworker’s Day gives us a special opportunity to express our gratitude, our appreciation extends far beyond a single day on the calendar.

To every person who helps make Threemile what it is, thank you.