Duncan Family Farms Founder Arnott Duncan named Grower of the Year
Duncan Family Farms Founder Arnott Duncan named Grower of the Year
Duncan Family Farms announced that its founder, Arnott Duncan, has been named the 2025 Grower of the Year by the Organic Growers Summit.
The honor was presented last week at the organization’s annual event in Monterey, CA, where Duncan was selected from four finalists and announced as the winner during the summit.
The Grower of the Year award is among the organic sector’s most respected distinctions, recognizing individuals who demonstrate leadership, innovation and a commitment to advancing organic agriculture. Criteria include excellence in certified organic production, industry leadership, effective problem-solving amid environmental and regulatory challenges, and a record of building soil health, reducing pests and safeguarding food integrity.
Judges cited Duncan’s forward-thinking approach to climate volatility and changing growing conditions. Under his leadership, Duncan Family Farms has expanded organic production into new regions to create more resilient supply models and support year-round availability.
The company has also invested in new technologies and advanced production methods, including controlled environment agriculture to extend seasons and deliver consistent, high-quality organic culinary herbs and microgreens, even during extreme summer heat in Arizona. In addition, Duncan Family Farms has implemented an AI-enabled automated laser weeding system designed to precisely target weeds while protecting crops, improving field efficiency and reducing reliance on hand labor.
“This award reflects the dedication and expertise of our entire team, not just me,” Duncan said. “Organic farming is built on thousands of interconnected decisions, from soil health to harvest to how each product is packed. Those decisions are made by incredible people across Duncan Family Farms every single day.”
The recognition comes amid a period marked by weather volatility, industry consolidation, rising input costs and expansion into new growing regions. Company leaders said the award provided a moment of pride and celebration for the team.
“When the winner was announced, our entire team felt it,” said Will Feliz, CEO of Duncan Family Farms. “We’ve pushed through some incredibly challenging years, and this honor confirms that the effort, innovation and resilience have mattered.”
Under Duncan’s leadership, Duncan Family Farms continues to expand its branded organic herbs and microgreens throughout Arizona and surrounding states, reflecting ongoing growth and product innovation.