August 2026 FARM VISIT

THU, August 6th | 8am-12pm

SAT, August 8th | 8am-12pm

Howdy Y'all!

In August, we will visit several historic barns from the turn of the 19th Century. Anna and Brendon Fricke have invited us to explore four barns located on and near their property and to get a glimpse of Woodland’s dairy farming legacy.

The Fricke family purchased their home and property in 2025. Originally built as a dairy farm by the Plocher Family,a highly regarded dairy farming family, in the early 19th century. The property is situated alongside a golden safflower field. Most of the homes and barns included in this Barn Hop were originally constructed by the Plocher family and are located near the site of one of the last operating dairies in the county.

Cache Acres Dairy was established in 1906 when Frederick Plocher acquired the surrounding acreage and developed a large Holstein cattle operation. The dairy was later managed by Harold Plocher and subsequently by Rick Plocher. Located near County Roads 96A and 18A, Cache Acres Dairy remained in operation until March 21, 2009, when the herd of 310 Holstein cows was sold.

Anna has served on the Art & Ag committee for more than twelve years and is recognized for designing the welcoming atmosphere of Art Farm events. From large-scale displays and seasonal decorations to floral arrangements and centerpieces, Anna’s contributions have played a significant role in shaping the character and experience of the Art Farm event.

“I am excited to host the artists and share the local history. I love the connections the Art & Ag project makes between artists and farmers, allowing the ability to share the importance and beauty of our local agriculture.”

— Anna Fricke

I look forward to seeing you at the Barn Hop!

Jenna

P.S. This is the last chance I have to remind you to submit your art into the Art Harvest and Juried Silent Auction for this year's Art Farm celebration. I'm hoping you can help make this the most robust and diverse exhibition yet. I can't do it without YOU. See you on the 25th & 26th for Drop Off!

RSVP Here!

#1) Anna's Barn

The primary barn on the property was constructed in 1906 as a dairy barn, while the residence was built in 1908. The property consists of 2.3acres with multiple outbuildings including the old cream room, a chicken coop, and a small orchard full of almost ripe pears. A large heritage oak tree stands near the safflower field beyond the barn. Today, one side of the barn houses 4-H project animals, while the other is being renovated into a batting cage for the Fricke’s sons. According to local accounts, the barn was once used for raising exotic birds.

#2) Cattle Barn

Located west of Anna’s barn, directly across the road, this dairy barn was built in 1913 by the Plocher family. The property is still owned by Rick and Norma Plocher who hold a wealth of knowledge of the area. Their residence and the nearby water tower were among the last structures completed on the site in 1916. The property has views of open fields and the Berryessa Gap to the southwest.

#3) Old Adams Barn

Continuing west from the Cattle Barn, visitors will encounter the smaller, more rustic barn. Although the property was acquired by the Plocher family in 1906, the barn itself was not constructed until the 1920s by an extended family member. While the barn hasn’t been used for many years, the structure still contains its original cattle chute and fencing. The surrounding property is planted with tomatoes which will be close to harvest!

#4) Red Barn

To the east of the main property stands the Red Barn. This property is home to Marshall and Angie Bambino and operated by Louis Muller. The open landscape between the main property and the Red Barn offers expansive views, including sightlines to the Sutter Buttes on clear days.

Directions to the Barn Hop

36140 Couny Rd 18A,
Woodland CA 95695

Restrooms will be available.

As always in Yolo County, watch your step, there are snakes present.

The property allows limited vehicle access.
For use or accommodation inquiries, please email jharris@yoloarts.org.

Have you met Jamal yet?

Jamal Gunn Becker recently graduated from UC Davis with an MFA in Studio Arts. His artistic practice includes painting, printmaking, and sculpture and he is committed to socially engaged environmental art practices.

A busy bee, Jamal works with both YoloArts and the Gibson House + YCHC. He supports YA's Gallery Administration, Art & Ag program, and the Art Farm event. Make sure to give him a hearty hometown Art & Ag welcome on Saturday!

Last time at Rominger Brother Farms...

We had hotter weather in the region on our last visit to the tomato fields, but that didn’t deter you from venturing off to visit the three different sites. Our visit this month was coordinated by Stacey Wear from the Yolo Land Trust who connected us to our host, Bruce Rominger. Thanks, Stacey & Bruce!

Guests had many engaging perspectives to choose from; open vistas accompanied each individual site. Vast, expansive landscapes accompanied by the morning light—what could make for a better session?

Our base site was accessible from all sides, our second site provided views of rolling hillsides, and the third offered some shade and a slough area. We hope the visit was productive and engaging. Thank you to everyone who attended!

Photos Courtesy of Jamal Gunn Becker.

Call for Art Live!
Deadline August 26

August 26, Online Entry and Delivery Deadline

September 17, Art Farm exhibition Opening Reception

October 17, Art Farm

Artists receive 1/2 off event ticket price. Art Farm guests will be purchasing works from the Juried & Silent Auction. PLUS prizes totaling up to $1,950.

Want your Art featured?

Me too! Send me an email (jharris@yoloarts.org) or text (530.454.6616) with an image, title, medium, and how you would like to be credited, and I will include as many as space allows. Let's spend 2026 celebrating you!