YCSWA Tree Farmer of the Year Picnic and Tour

On July 25, 2026 we will meet at 9:30 AM to celebrate the Thornton Ranch being selected as the Yamhill County Chapter of the Oregon Small Woodlands Association's Tree Farmers of the Year for 2026. Nancy Thornton raised her family in Moores Valley. She was tutored daily by her husband Vernon on the ins and outs of creating a ranch. Their son Dale Thornton manages the property carrying on the family tradition of working hard, loving the land, and giving back to the earth.

There are special people along the way that offer mentoring and support. Our area was lucky enough to have Brent O'Nion assigned to us as our stewardship forester. He has been on many of our properties and his quick smile and words of advice have helped shape many decisions that impact us in both the short and long term. When Dale suggested that we throw him a retirement party in conjunction with the Thornton Ranch tour, I immediately agreed.