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Santa Barbara Independent Real Estate 2/5/26

Page 1


Reputation Matters.

3BD/2½BA

3BD/2½BA

of the buyer at 2072 China Flat Road, Sold for $10,160,000.

THE KOGEVINAS GROUP

805.331.7577

Team@Kogevinas.com MontecitoProperties.com DRE 01209514

on the successful representation of the seller at 945 Arbolado Road, Sold for $7,650,000.

CRISTAL CLARKE

805.886.9378

Cristal@Montecito-Estate.com

Montecito-Estate.com DRE 00968247

BROOKE FRASER

on the successful representation of the buyer at 3730 Roblar Avenue, Sold for $4,200,000.

on the successful representation of the seller at 2805 Spyglass Ridge Rd, Sold for $7,795,000.

Info@HomesInSantaBarbara.com

HomesInSantaBarbara.com DRE 01499736/ 01129919

on the successful representation of the seller at 622 Sunrise Vista Way, Sold for $4,200,000.

KARINA MATIC

805.680.7701

KarinaMatic@bhhscal.com

SantaBarbara-Homes.com DRE 01726170

BROOKE FRASER

805.550.8601

BrookeFraser@bhhscal.com DRE 01968328

on the successful representation of the seller at 3275 Long Valley Road, Sold for $3,750,000.

LAURA DRAMMER

805.448.7500

Laura@LauraDrammer.com

LauraDrammer.com DRE 01209580

on the successful representation of the seller at 3730 Roblar Avenue, Sold for $4,200,000.

JOE RAMOS

805.680.6849

JoeRamos@bhhscal.com DRE 02040488

on the successful representation of the buyer at 1226 Alameda Padre Serra, Sold for $3,700,000.

Randy@RandyGlick.com

Carmen@GlickRealEstateAssociates.com DRE 01234567 / 01953155

LAURA DRAMMER GLICK REAL ESTATE
JOE RAMOS
CRISTAL CLARKE
KARINA MATIC

Stand Out with 2026 Home Trends

There’s something about the start of a new year that brings renewal and motivation, particularly for homeowners thinking about selling their home in the coming months. If you fall into this category, then it’s a good time to start tackling the projects now, which can help with a successful home sale in the coming months.

To get a pulse on what buyers want, I turned to Zillow’s 2026 Home Trends Report, which highlights the most indemand features showing up in real estate listings today. The good news? Many of these updates are not only beautiful, but they can add to the overall functionality of your home and help you stand out in today’s market. Some of the top trends worth considering include:

Wellness & Sustainability

Homebuyers are prioritizing comfort, efficiency, and ecoconscious living, and listings that reflect those values are getting noticed. According to Zillow, listings that include wellness features are up significantly: spa-style bathrooms are up 22 percent, energy-efficient homes are up 70 percent, whole-home batteries are up 40 percent, and EV charging is up 25 percent. These upgrades don’t just add value; they reflect a growing desire for homes that support health, relaxation, and lower energy bills.

Traditional Charm, Yet Updated

Traditional design is making a big return yet is less stuffy and formal than you may think. Consider adding small touches, such as scalloped edges in bathroom tile, beadboard in an entry, or a bathroom vanity with vintageinspired hardware, to impress buyers. Zillow listings increasingly mention artisan craftsmanship (21 percent more), vintage accents (17 percent more), and a touch of whimsy (15 percent more). Buyers are looking for homes that feel thoughtful, and it’s often the small, well-chosen details that make a big impact.

Resilient, Future-Ready Homes

Safety and peace of mind are top of mind, especially in areas that like ours are prone to wildfires, debris flows, and power outages. Listings that highlight resilience are increasingly in demand.

Zillow reports more mentions of flood protection systems (up by 64 percent), elevated homes (up by 25 percent); fire protection features (up by 36 percent); and home fire systems (up by 28 percent). If your home includes these features, or if adding them is feasible, they can be a major selling point.

Reading Nooks & Quiet Corners

In today’s fast-paced, digital world, buyers are craving pockets of calm where they can unplug and reset, and mentions of reading nooks are up 48 percent in listings. Whether carved out of a stair landing or tucked beside a window, these cozy corners speak to wellness and spaces that cater to calm in our increasingly busy world.

I’d love to see your home updates! Tag me on social media @saltwood.interiors

THE STYLE SPECIALIST

THE BEATING HEART OF SANTA BARBARA

SPYGLASS RIDGE ROAD

The Santa Barbara Polo Residences: a rare offering of 40 private residences in a 11.5-acre enclave near Montecito.

We represented the seller of this stunning modern estate w/ main residence, GH, pool & ocean views on a 2.76-acre ridge. 2805

S OLD FOR $7,795,000

This serene Santa Ynez Valley ranch spans 5 acres with beautiful residence, guest suite, and equestrian facilities.

OPEN HOUSES

Goleta

405 Ellwood Beach Dr #B, 2BD, 2BA, Sat 1-4 & Sun 12:303, $775,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Stehpanie Young 805-453-8528, DRE#01712844

7039 Del Norte Dr, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sun 12-3, $1,295,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Patricia Garrett 805-5688661, DRE#01982565

112 Santa Ana Ave, 7BD, 4BA, Sat & Sun 1-3, $1,675,000, JBR Broker, Judy Beth Replogle 805-570-6164, DRE#00812543

San Roque

39 East Calle Crespis, 2BD, 2BA, Sun 2-4, $2,100,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Diane Waterhouse 805-886-2988, DRE#01257696

The Mesa

969 Miramonte Unit 5, 2BD, 2BA, Sat & Sun 12-2, $955,000, Douglas Elliman of California, William Turner 805-708-3236, DRE#01935111

2417 Calle Lineras, 3BD, 3BA, Sat 1-4 & Sun 11-1, $2,375,000, Your SB Team LUXURY Keller Williams SB, Rachel Quittner 805-637-8932, DRE#02168517

1547 Shoreline Drive, 5BD, 5BA & 1PBA, Sun 1-3, $14,500,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Chris Palme 805-448-3066, DRE#00989478

The Riviera

555 East Arrellaga Street #6, 3BD, 2BA, Sat 1-3, $1,450,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Nicole Dever 805-570-5226, DRE#02110739

1720 Mission Ridge Way, 3BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $3,695,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Kathy Henry / Chris Palme 805-637-4400 / 805-448-3066, DRE#01403548 / #00989478

Santa Barbara

3909 Calle Cita, 2BD, 2BA, Sat 1-4 & Sun 10-1, $1,149,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Erika Burrows 805-8861588, DRE#02222512

Saturday 2/7 & Sunday 2/8

2756 Miradero Dr, 2BD, 2BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $1,250,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Yekaterina G Sheets / Stefan Stojanovski 805-708-2323 / 805-570-0640, DRE#02061444 / #02112629

163 Lassen Dr, 3BD, 2BA, Sat 1-4 & Sun 12-3, $1,275,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Renae Conner / Rachel Brown 805-284-6344 / 805-5707160, DRE#02013226 / #01950975

834 W Valerio St, 4BD, 2BA, Sat 12-3 & Sun 1-3:30, $1,339,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Lyndsey Jones / Sunnie Maxwell 805-680-2856 / 805-252-9524, DRE#02125898 / #01463861

218 Santa Barbara St #D, 2BD, 2.5BA, Sat & Sun 12-4, $1,649,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Bob Walsmith Jr. 805-720-5362, DRE#01932231

3092 Calle Rosales, 2BD, 3BA, Sat 1-3 & Sun 12-2, $2,125,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Sarita Vasquez / Annette Vait 805-729-1115 / 805-886-1926, DRE#02232751 / #02044281

2800 Palomino Ridge Ln, 2BD, 2.5BA, Sat 3-5 & Sun 12-2, $2,495,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Todd Shea / Katya Sheets 805453-7730 / 805-708-2323, DRE#02028163 / #02061444

3715 Brent St, 3BD, 2BA, Sat 1-3, $2,495,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Steve Heller 805-252-2749, DRE#00929496

1239 Orchid Drive, 3BD, 2BA, Sat 1-4, $2,995,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Marie Sue Parsons 805-895-4866, DRE#00629053

3919 Antone Road, 6BD, 2.5BA, Sat 1-4 & Sun 12-2, $3,165,000, Bell Tower Realtors, Ann Rasmussen 805-705-3865, DRE#01818392

3855 Calle Cita, 4BD, 3BA, Sat 2-4, $3,495,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Caleb Overton 805-453-7080, DRE#02117608

9 E Quinto St, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sat 1-4 & Sun 12-2, $3,500,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Ken Switzer 805-6804622, DRE#01245644

905 Laguna Street, 4BD, 3BA & 1PBA, Sun 1-3, $3,995,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Scott Westlotorn 805-403-4313, DRE#01875690

1051 Via Chaparral, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sat 12-3, $4,595,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Peggy Reagan 805-6793882, DRE#01341553

1643 La Vista Del Oceano, 3BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $4,998,700, Compass California, Stan Tabler 805-689-2305, DRE#00774377

4678 Bedrock Ct, 4BD, 3BA, Sat 1-4 & Sun 12-2, $5,500,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Jason Anderson 805284-5234, DRE#02181545

737 Sea Ranch Drive, 4BD, 3BA & 1PBA, Sun 2-5, $5,500,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Sherry Lawson 805-252-4400, DRE#01019856

1367 Via Veneto, 6BD, 6BA, Sun 2-4, $5,895,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Jo Ann Mermis 805-895-5650, DRE#00891742

Montecito

480 Toro Canyon Road, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sat 1-3, $4,450,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices CA Properties, Carmen Galzerano 805705-3080, DRE#01953155

315 Calle Elegante, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sat 1-4, $4,995,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Joe Stubbins 805-729-0778, DRE#01002182

830 Summit Rd, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sat 10-1 & Sun 1-4, $5,195,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Maude Morehart Boersema 805-881-2121, DRE#02003961

1383 School House Rd, 4BD, 3BA, Sat 1-3, $5,795,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Sophia Taylor 805-9475979, DRE#02156425

Carpinteria

231 Linden Ave #18, 1BD, 1BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $825,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Danielle Darin 805-6185805, DRE#02222700

3950 Via Real #239, 2BD, 2BA, Sun 1-4, $845,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Marie Larkin 805-680-2525, DRE#00523795

5455 8th Street #5, 3BD, 2BA, Sat 11-2, $899,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, David Pringle 805-350-2140, DRE#02068477

349 Ash Ave #45, 2BD, 1BA, Sun 12-2, $1,049,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Yolanda Van Wingerden 805-570-4965, DRE#01308141

4700 Sandyland Rd #54, 2BD, 2BA, Sun 12-2, $1,150,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Georgette Owens 805570-6138, DRE#02172408

Santa Ynez Valley

639 Roskilde Rd, 2BD, 1.5BA, Sat 2-4, $682,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Dianna Zlaket 805-390-8382, DRE#01701860

536 Elkton Ln, 3BD, 2BA, Sat 11:301:30, $749,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Kelly Mahan Herrick 805-208-1451, DRE#01974836

91 Six Flags, 2BD, 2BA, Sat 10-12, $795,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Angie Marrufo 805-863-6866, DRE#02231894

1334 Edison St, 3BD, 2BA, Sat 1-3, $1,235,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Laura Drammer 805-448-7500, DRE#01209580

1570 Mountain View Dr, 3BD, 3BA, Sat 12-3, $1,385,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Judy Crawford 805-5881425, DRE#01280176

4600 Tims Road, 3BD, 4BA, Sat 1-3, $5,895,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Summer Smith 805-2846840, DRE#02180602

Prime Investment Opportunity MIXED USE PROPERTY | $5,995,000

6EastValerioStreet.com

This downtown Santa Barbara mixeduse property offers a 3-bedroom residence and 4 profitable shortterm rental units just steps from the city’s vibrant dining, cultural, and entertainment scene. Schedule a private showing.

Serene Riviera Retreat

4 BD | 4 BA | $2,465,000

1060TremontoRoad.com

Set on 0.88 acres along the Riviera, this home pairs timeless wood craftsmanship, mature oak privacy, and expansive decks with an unbeatable location near Roosevelt School, the Old Mission, and downtown.

Open Saturday from 12-3 pm

Santa Ynez Equestrian Estate 3 BD | 4 BA | $10,000,000 959EHwy246.com

This stunning 43.67-acre estate features a luxurious main house, guest accommodations, a 10-acre vineyard, an olive orchard, and world-class equestrian facilities. Schedule a private showing.

Hope Ranch Haven

3 BD | 3 BA | $3,600,000

4356ViaGlorieta.com

Set on 1.5 private acres in the prestigious Hope Ranch enclave, this home offers ocean and mountain views, a pool, spa, and wine cellar, recent updates throughout, and exclusive access to beaches and trails.

Open Saturday from 12-3 pm

“The team members at Baxter insurance were all super responsive, professional, and made getting my home insurance policy easy.”

- Matt M.

“Our Family has used Baxter Commercial Insurance for three decades and been very pleased with the relationship. Recently I had a need for home insurance and after spending three weeks talking and looking, my sister suggested trying Baxter. Never occurred to me. I had coverage at a reasonable rate in two days. I now sleep at night.”

- Sally T.

“Baxter Insurance have always exhibited impeccable integrity, they are highly experienced, and are very easy to work with. I highly recommend them.”

- Dennis A.

“I want to say how much! appreciate Baxter Insurance’s prompt and efficient attention to our insurance needs. They have assisted us in securing health, homeowners, commercial property, errors and omissions, and an umbrella policy from reputable carriers at affordable rates.”

- Gregory Y.

Steve Epstein DRE #994429
Kendrick Guehr DRE #1964065
Stan Aslanian DRE #1866069
Jedd Hewitt DRE #2118814
Kate Heitmann DRE #2160043
Stan Krome DRE #967246
Charles Brewer DRE #1477889 Roman Lic. #600029
Mark Heitmann DRE #1007490
Ajia Orozco Marketing

Proven performance across every price point

Mike and Kyle Richardson | Santa Barbara Real Estate

Personal Sales Performance from 2020-2025

153

Closed Transactions

165 Clients Represented

Your Mesa Realtors

111

54 Sellers Represented

$337,593,683 in Total Sales Volume

Average Saleto-List Price Buyers Represented 103.3%

$505,000-$8,750,000

Lowest to highest sale price

Mike and Kyle Richardson represent an exceptional range of Santa Barbara properties, from entry-level condominiums to multi-million dollar oceanfront estates. Their experience spans nearly every segment of the local real estate market, offering clients thoughtful strategy, clear communication, and proven results regardless of price point.

privacy on this fabulous Montecito estate. Resting at the property is a charming Craftsman style home circa 1912. Today, it modern amenities, and still charm. Located in MUS.

at $7,995,000

Rare ocean front estate on the Mesa! This spectacular 4bed/4.5bath ultra-luxury property boasts ~5,100+ sq. ft. of living space resting on over 1/2 acre of prime California coastline. Enjoy unparalleled ocean views from every corner of this contemporary home. Must see in person!

Sales by Price Range 2020-2025

Under $750k - 7 $750k–$1M - 24 $1M–$1.5M - 29 $1.5M–$2M - 35 $2M–$3M - 31 $3M–$5M - 23 $5-6M+ - 3 $8M+ - 1

Considering a sale? Work with a proven local team.

1/2 acre ocean front lot! This is a once in a life time opportunity to purchase a vacant piece of ocean front property located in one of Santa Barbara’s most desirable neighborhoods. Build your dream home to the exact specifications that you desire. Panoramic ocean views! The Richardson Team

Mike and Kyle Richardson Team@mrrealtors.com 805.963.1704

Mike and Kyle Richardson Team@mrrealtors.com 805.963.1704

www.mrrealtors.com

www.sbrealtor.com

Lic. #00635254 + #01902531

SOPHISTICATED COASTAL LIVING

in the Heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone

218 Santa Barbara St. Unit D | Santa Barbara, CA

2 Bed | 2.5 Bath | 1,954 Sq. Ft. | Offered at $1,649,000

Located in the highly desirable Villa del Mar community, this home features seclusion and privacy, the largest floor plan and an award-winning, open-concept layout by renowned architect Brian Cearnal of The Cearnal Collective. Natural light fills the spacious living areas, flowing seamlessly into a beautifully appointed gourmet kitchen with high-end stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, and elegant countertops—perfect for entertaining or relaxed coastal evenings at home.

SANTA BARBARA

A rare blend of timeless architectural distinction and modern sophistication, this estate captures elevate d California living with soaring ceilings, walls of g lass, and ocean, mountain, and Hope Ranch views. Natural ligh t highlights Brazilian Cherry wood floors, expansive decks and patios, and a first-floor primary suite with a spa-like bath and a generous walk-in closet. At the heart of the home, a gourmet kitchen with a dramatic island and premium appliances flows seamlessly to the outdoor dining terrace, creating an ideal setting for enter taining. Additional features include a media room, three en suite bedrooms, an attached guest suite, and over 1,000 s quare feet of outdoor living space. Set on 1.6 landscaped acres with a resort-style pool, cabana, and dual driveway access, this Don G. Sharp–designed architectural masterpiec e offers rare elegance, privacy, and enduring style. Offered at $8,000,000.

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SALES

CARPINTERIA SAND DOLLAR HOLDINGS LLC FISHER DANIEL EU $1,198,000 1/20/26

CUYAMA ARBAYO-GIL MATTHEW

GOLETA FRIEND ANGELIQUE EA

JEFFREY

JONI

LOMPOC LP & SM INVETMENTS

DUCKETT MICHAEL EA

SALADINO RESIDENCE LLC WESSELS KENNETH EA

TROY EA VARELA EMILY EA $2,525,000 1/20/26

BRADLEY

1/20/26 1497 TUNNEL RD

COSTA LIBRE LLC MORAIN KAMERON $1,470,000 1/20/26 730 E COTA ST

GRONSKY DAVID EA WHITE ALAN EA $865,000 1/21/26 208 POR

DOUGLAS EA

PINCUS PHILIP EA

RAMEZ EU

JARVIS JEANETTE EA MACDOUGALL-WEYMOUTH ELLIOTT E

RAMIREZ ARTHUR KONN EASTON

1/21/26 4440 SHADOW HILLS CIR C

1/22/26 215 E VICTORIA ST

LIVIO EA

ALEJANDRO EA

YNEZ ENOCH VERNA EA

LAURA EA

ALMA

1/23/26 602 E BUNNY AVE

GENE EA $3,400,000 1/20/26 4176 CASEY AVE CAPPEL EDWARD EA

KENT EU

DIANA EA

ROBERT EA

TO FREEDOM INC

1/21/26 1890 VIEW DR

1/22/26 4115 JALAMA RD GOOD NEIGHBOR HOMES LLC HARRIS JANELLE EU $606,500 1/23/26 3878 VIA MONDO

SCHMEISER WILLIAM EU YEPEZ-ARROYO JAVIER EU $715,000 1/23/26 3987 AGENA WAY

DUCKETT MICHAEL EA

• Only one available each week; first come first served! REALTORS: ask about our cover

• Exclusive full page exposure on our real estate cover

• Full page ad inside the issue to provide more photos & details

• Right hand page, across from an article

• 300x250 web ad online on independent.com for one week

• Social media shout-out during the week

Email advertising@independent.com for availability & details today

The Home Page

Sarah Sinclair brings you the inside scoop on real estate in The Home Page. Come along as she takes a peek behind the doors of grand estates, tiny houses, and everything in between. Enjoy style secrets, garden gossip, industry insights, and more in your inbox each Sunday.

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SALES

BUELLTON/SOLVANG FAZIO JOSEPH EA OSBORN TAMI EA

$5,050,000 1/16/26 1645 STILL MEADOW RD CARPINTERIA MARTIN ROSEMARY ESSELSTROM JOSIAH

GRANT ROBERT EA

JENNIFER

GOLETA CURRENT NEAL EA CHG LLC

TURNER CASEY EU NELSON JOEL EU

LOMPOC WOLF GARY EA VEGA RAYMOND EU

ARRIAGA JULIO

J&J ACQUISITIONS

TARIQ EU

MONTECITO PIPER ROMEY LLC

796 HOT SPRINGS LLC

OLIVOS HANSON FAMILY GRUST

MARTINEZ ANAHI

GARSH-OCHOA ARIEL EU

ELISABETH EU

LYNN LEYLA EA

SILVERMAN JAY EA

LISA

MARILYN EA

AWELE

MATTHEW EU

$630,000 1/16/26 1051 BAILARD AVE 2

$775,000 1/12/26 4880 SANDYLAND RD 11

$900,000 1/14/26 7116 MADERA DR

$1,325,000 1/15/26 90 BRANDON DR

$400,000 1/15/26 315 E CHESTNUT AVE

$430,000 1/16/26 733 N SEVENTH ST

$580,000 1/14/26

1/15/26 1216 N C ST

$2,139,000 1/13/26 1308 PLAZA DE SONADORES

$8,464,000

Using Sound Waves to Map Soil Health

Soil is one of our most precious resources. Ecoacoustics, or the study of environmental sounds, has been around for a century, but it has only recently been applied to understanding soils. This emerging approach, called “soilsmology,” uses sound waves to assess soil health with minimal disturbance.

Traditional soil sampling requires digging holes and taking samples to be analyzed in a laboratory. It is messy, timeconsuming, and expensive, and it often damages the very soil it aims to protect and improve.

Soilsmology involves placing a metal plate on the ground, striking it with a hammer, and monitoring how the seismic waves move through the earth. The way the waves bounce back provides a remarkably detailed picture of conditions underground. The waves rebound off rocks and compacted soil, making their way back to the surface through all the interstices in the soil. Each type of soil microorganism has its own sound profile. The waves pick up the differing footprints of these tiny underground creatures earthworms, millipedes, and microbes as well as moisture levels.

This technology lets farmers know what is going on beneath their crops, allowing them to take measures to adjust their irrigation schedule, increase yields, and improve their land. Many farmers in Africa and other poorer parts of the world have never done soil sampling because soil laboratories are distant and unaffordable.

Earth Rover, a nonprofit founded by The Guardian columnist George Monbiot, is making this soilsmology technology widely accessible. Earth Rover wants to make a smartphone app available to any farmer for free to employ this seismic method for analyzing their soil and to receive tailored advice on how to make improvements specific to their fields.

Soil degradation is a global issue. Fertile land is being lost faster than it can regenerate. Most of the food we consume is dependent on soil fertility. Experts are warning that crop yields may drop by up to 50 percent in some regions. With increasing world population and decreasing soil fertility, a food crisis is looming. We need to change our agricultural practices.

Local historian Betsy J. Green researches local homes and their history for her column The Great House Detective, publishing monthly in the Independent She’s always looking for homes to investigate.

If you would like Betsy to trace your home’s history for her column, send her a message through the contact page of her website: betsyjgreen.com.

Adopting this innovative technology has enormous potential for farming communities, particularly in areas with limited access to traditional soil laboratories. It can help farmers restore fertility in their specific fields by addressing erosion, pesticide damage, and climate-related extremes.

A simple hammer strike can help farmers improve yields but can also track carbon storage in their soil. Carbon in the ground is often based on guesswork. As farmers get better information on the tim-

ing of adding organic matter, which boosts microbial life and water retention, they are also improving carbon capture.

To empower farmers to adapt, recover, and thrive will require collaboration between scientists, farmers, and technologists. The good news is that transformative tools are available.

Dennis Allen is chair of Allen Construction, an employeeowned company committed to building and operating sustainably. He is also former chair of the Dean’s Council at the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management at UCSB and a former boardmember of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History.

Dennis Allen
GREEN

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