Manzanita utilizes gene-informed rapid breeding techniques to develop drought-tolerant crops from under-utilized native plants, specifically focusing on domesticating acorns and other native foods. This approach addresses the challenges of water shortages and crop failures in California's changing climate by promoting sustainable agriculture that preserves biodiversity and reduces reliance on irrigation.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
California agriculture faces increasing challenges due to water scarcity and climate change, leading to crop failures and unsustainable reliance on irrigation for non-native crops. The current agricultural system's dependence on a limited number of commercial species creates unnecessary risk and reduces biodiversity.
Solution
Manzanita addresses these challenges by domesticating drought-tolerant crops from underutilized native plants, starting with acorns, through gene-informed rapid breeding techniques. This approach aims to create a climate-adapted food system that reduces the need for irrigation, preserves biodiversity, and promotes sustainable agriculture. By working with existing landscapes and partnering with landowners, Manzanita seeks to turn unharvested native foods into sustainable resources. Their breeding process does not use genetic engineering, preserving the plants' value as habitat for native pollinators.
Target Audience
Manzanita's primary customers include landowners, food producers, and consumers seeking sustainable, climate-resilient food sources, as well as organizations focused on promoting biodiversity and sustainable agriculture in California.
Features
- Development of no-irrigation native crops resilient to drought conditions.
- Utilization of gene-informed rapid breeding techniques for crop domestication.
- Focus on domesticating acorns and other native foods for commercial use.
- Preservation of native plant habitats and support for biodiversity.
- Partnership with private landowners to harvest unutilized native foods.
- Carbon sequestration through deep root systems of native plants.