David was born in Sacramento and raised in West Sacramento right on the agricultural rich Sacramento River. David has always had a passion for farming, as he always says, " It's yin my blood, I can't help it." As a child, David's mother couldn't keep him out of their family garden. In fact, David always had his own little plot of land in the garden that was his to maintain. Dave's grandfather, Ellard Vierra, who helped settle West Sacramento, was also a farmer until the mid 60's when he was offered a job with Reclamation District 999. Ellard soon realized he could not stop farming, and thus he started growing a garden that could feed an entire army! That same garden is where Dave's Pumpkin Patch was born. On a fall trip to Apple Hill, Dave noticed all the small pumpkin patches that dotted the landscape and not to be out done, he told his family, " I can grow pumpkins." That's exactly what he did! He went home from that field trip and started planning what is now Dave's Pumpkin Patch. The next year Dave and his grandfather planted the first seed. From those humble beginnings over 15 years ago, it has grown into one of Sacramento areas favorite fall attractions. Dave has since started a family with his wife Erin. Together they have two sons, Jace and Ayden, and a daughter, Isabella who all live on the Farm where you and your family can join them every year for a trip to the patch.
 

Joe Perry ~ Partner

Joe Perry was born in Sacramento and grew up in South Land Park. When Joe was a teenager he moved with his family to the Perry Family Farm in Clarksburg, Ca. The family farm was bought at the turn of the century by Joe's Grandfather. Joe too has always had a love affair of farming. As a young man Joe ran the day to day operations while Joe's father, Jim Perry, worked for the state of California's publishing plant during the day.  After Joe's Grandfather passed away Joe stepped into the role as farm manager. Currently, Joe's  family farm consists of approximately 500 acres owned and 1000 acres rented.  Joe's farm is extremely diversified, growing crops such as wheat, alfalfa, safflower, corn, wine grapes, and of course pumpkins. Just in case you are wondering, "How did Joe get involved with Dave's Pumpkin Patch?"  Here is the scoop!   Joe and Dave are extreme hunters and  a few years back they took a hunting trip to Idaho.  During the ride, they were talking about their farms, as all farmers do, and Joe began asking questions about the pumpkin patch.  As the two talked it was quite apparent that they both could help each other out. Dave being a very young man didn't have the means to get any larger than that big garden in his grandpa's garden without a big financial commitment.  Joe already had plenty of resources to help the pumpkin patch grow, so the two went into a partnership.  Now Joe is responsible for all the farming, and Dave takes care of all the setup and publicity, but not to worry, because on any given day you can still find Dave out in his fields taking care of his farm.