Mendocino Firsts – GMO’s; Organics, and Sustainable Practices
Mendocino County Firsts Mendocino County was the first county within the United States to ban growing genetically modified organisms (GMO’s). Mendocino County also boasts the oldest organic winery in the United States, Lolonis Winery in Redwood Valley - http://www.lolonis.com/. The County is home to the Stanford Inn by the Sea which embraced sustainable practices bringing organic farming to the Inn’s grounds in 1985. The farm has expanded and is a major focus of activity for both staff and guests.
Furthermore, not satisfied with just organic farming, the Inn added The Ravens' Restaurant the areas first vegetarian restaurant serving a menu which is 99% organic. The Ravens' seeks to bring vegan and vegetarian dining into the mainstream by serving excellent food in the context of fine dining. The Wine List won an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator and features primarily organic wines or those produced from organic or sustainably produced grapes. There is a full bar in the Inn's lobby.
In addition, The Stanford Inn works with John Jeavons of Ecology Action to develop a sustainable standard based on the health of the soil. http://www.growbiointensive.org/
Catch A Canoe & Bicycles, too! In concert with the emphasis on sustainable lifestyles, the Stanfords provide activities that do not require fuels. Catch A Canoe provides canoes, kayaks and outriggers to explore Big River Estuary which flows through a canyon forming one of the State’s newest parks. The Estuary is undeveloped and uncluttered. There is no development along its shores and except for an abandoned quarry, and remnant of 150 year old logging operations, the canyon and estuary are pristine. At & Bicycles, too! the Stanfords provide mountain bikes for exploring Mendocino Coast’s back road and abandoned logging roads. Taken together Catch A Canoe & Bicylces, too! is the center for sustainable tourism in Northern California. http://catchacanoe.com/innlight/adventure.html