The Growers Collaborative only sells produce from small family-owned farms. Farms that sell produce through the Growers Collaborative practice sustainable agricultural methods that protect the long-term health of soil, water, air, open space, wildlife, and fish resources, including:

• Eliminate or significantly minimize chemical inputs such as solvents, fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides
• Adhere to "Organic" production standards such as no chemical use
• Protect water resources from sediment and chemical contamination
• Prevent erosion
• Control noxious weeds and pests through integrated pest management reducing the use of synthetic chemical controls
• Use a monitoring system to measure condition of range, pasture, riparian and/or water resources
• Provide open space
• Provide fish & wildlife habitat
• Do not use genetically engineered seeds or other organisms (GMOs)
• Conserve energy, such as using energy efficient equipment & lighting
• Use renewable energy
• Recycle
• Use fuel-efficient vehicles
• Reduce waste and dispose of waste in a safe and responsible manner
• Provide "living wage" jobs
• Provide health insurance and other benefits to workers

Check-in system

Every grower commercializing through GC submits an annual statement of principles and practice providing detailed information about production practices, size, commitment to sustainability, and workforce. This form is reviewed by GC, and follow-up visits are scheduled where necessary for clarification and review. “Spot checks” to verify growers’ accuracy in self-declaration are carried out on about 1 in 15 growers every year.