Our Story

Family OWNED and Family FARMED for Over a Century

How far would you travel to find a better life? For one family, the answer was simple: “As far as it takes.” In 1926, with Portugal grappling with skyrocketing inflation and a cost of living thirty times higher than in 1914, the future seemed uncertain. Fiscal instability and capital flight were crippling the economy, and for many, the only hope lay across the ocean.

Ellis Island became the gateway to a new life in America. From there, the journey continued westward, towards California, where the promise of fertile land and new farming opportunities beckoned. The Great Plains had been devastated by weather, and word spread that California’s Sacramento Valley was rich with potential. The family made the bold decision to settle there, putting their faith in the land and choosing to grow acres of rice.

As the years passed, the farm flourished. Christopher and Tina Cota, representing the fourth generation of the family, saw an opportunity to expand beyond farming. They recognized that the same values that had sustained their farm—hard work, dedication, and a commitment to quality—could be applied to a larger vision. Together, they transformed the family farm into a thriving merchandising company: Pacific Ag Commodities.

Chris and Tina understood the challenges farmers and millers faced. Farmers work tirelessly to produce the best crops, while millers strive to deliver the highest quality products. With this in mind, they built a company founded on the principles of integrity, consistency, and service. Their goal was to connect farmers, millers, and industry buyers in a way that benefited everyone—ensuring fair prices and seamless transactions for livestock producers, the commercial food industry, dairy operations, feed manufacturers, and more.

Today, Pacific Ag Commodities boasts a seasoned team of merchandisers who buy, sell, and trade a variety of grains and feed ingredients. These merchandisers not only help producers secure the best prices but also provide risk management tools and market insights, ensuring long-term success.

Four generations later, the family’s legacy continues to thrive. The Cota family remains deeply committed to farming, producing wholesome, healthful, high-yield rice while helping other farmers, millers, and seed companies achieve their goals. From the fertile fields of the Sacramento Valley to the broader agricultural markets, Pacific Ag Commodities carries forward a tradition of excellence, integrity, and service.

The Ingredients Today for the Foods of Tomorrow™

Our Commitment to being green and sustainable

We are also a supporter of GREEN friendly activities. For years, Pacific Ag Commodities has manufactured rice warehouse waste into compost for use as an ingredient blend for many soil amendment companies. We also purchase renewable energy credits for electricity used by our headquarters.

Pacific Ag Commodities is a supporter of Future Farmers of America, Ducks Unlimited, The St. Vincent de Paul Organization, Make a Wish and Shriners Hospital

Our Mission

To foster relationships with vendors and customers.
Pacific Ag Commodities

Trust

Our vendors’ most valuable resource and a steward of their trust.
Pacific Ag Commodities

Commitment

Our customers’ trusted partner who is committed to their success.
Pacific Ag Commodities

Integrity

An organization whose integrity sets the gold standard.
Pacific Ag Commodities

Opportunity

An employer of choice and a firm that gives back.