Bridging Farm and City: Tim Tesconi Recognized for Leadership in Agriculture
The Santa Rosa Metro Chamber has recognized Tim Tesconi with its Leadership in Agriculture Award, honoring his lifelong commitment—through storytelling, education and leadership—to strengthening agriculture, the local economy, and our community.
For decades, Tesconi has been a trusted partner to the Chamber, serving as an agri-business liaison and helping connect the agricultural community with the broader business sector. Reflecting on the award’s history, he shared:
“I remember when community leaders Henry Trione and Jim Keegan established this award in 1988 as part of the chamber’s ongoing efforts to bridge rural and urban, farm and city, in Sonoma County. I am humbled to now be among the ranks of leaders like [J. Wesley] Jamison, … Rich and Saralee Kunde, Larry Bertolini, Louie Ricci, Gene Benedetti and oh so many more. They all devoted their time and energy to nurture the next crop of young farmers and ranchers who would take their place so agriculture would thrive in Sonoma County.”
Over his 35-year career as an agricultural journalist with The Press Democrat, Tesconi chronicled the evolution of local agriculture—from its deep roots in dairy, poultry, and prunes to the diverse and dynamic farming landscape it is today—bringing visibility and voice to the people and practices that drive our region.
His dedication extended beyond journalism. At the Sonoma County Farm Bureau, he led agricultural education programs, supported youth scholarships, and served as executive director, further deepening his impact. For many years—until his recent retirement—he continued to highlight the stories of land stewards as a contributor to the Sonoma-Marin Farm News.
A third-generation Sonoma County resident, Tesconi also serves on the boards of several agricultural and philanthropic organizations. His recognition by the Santa Rosa Metro Chamber honors a legacy of supporting agriculture, the economy, and our community—a legacy rooted in service, stewardship, and unwavering commitment to Sonoma County’s future.
