Greene and Hemly is a family-owned corporation that grows, packs, and markets pears and apples in California’s Sacramento River Delta. The Greene family originally began farming along the Sacramento River in 1850 during the California Gold Rush. Today the family’s fifth and sixth generation own and operate the business. The packing and cold store divisions are in full operation from July through January, handling both Greene and Hemly’s own production as well as selected outside growers. During the peak of the season the packing house runs up to twenty hours a day, seven days a week. Pear and apple varieties currently grown have been carefully selected for their compatibility with the local climate. The chosen pears are Stark Crimson, Bartlett, Golden Russet Bosc, Forelle and Seckel; apples are Gala, Granny Smith, Braeburn, Fuji, and Pink Lady. In addition to implementing the latest varieties and growing techniques, Greene and Hemly has been a leader in the quest to reduce the use of pesticides. The company makes its orchards available for university lead experiments and initiates programs with innovative companies with this goal in mind.