340. Preserving Heritage Through Olives: Karmel Abufarha on Canaan Palestine

How can farming protect culture and sustain communities in the midst of conflict? Today on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Karmel Abufarha, Marketing Manager of Canaan Palestine. Since 2013, Karmel has worked alongside his father and Palestinian smallholder farmers to create a route-to-market for ancient olive groves and traditional crops. What started as a local effort to safeguard livelihoods has grown into a global movement, connecting Palestinian farmers with consumers who value sustainability, social responsibility, and regenerative practices. Tune in to hear how Karmel and the team at Canaan are preserving cultural heritage, uplifting farming families, and building hope for the next generation. In This Episode, You’ll Hear: Returning to Palestine: What led Karmel to leave Wisconsin and join his family’s farming mission [1:11] Water Conservation: Is mulching an effective method for olive groves? [11:47] Co-op Structure: What does the average family farm look like in Palestine? [13:46] Farming Amid Conflict: How current events impact Palestinian farmers’ work and livelihoods [17:17] Global Markets: Where is Canaan’s olive oil sold, and who are their customers? [23:02] Farmer Support: How Canaan provides resources and opportunities for their farming partners [26:32] Don’t miss this episode to learn how regenerative farming can protect cultural heritage and create lasting economic and ecological impact. About the Guest Karmel Abufarha is the Marketing Manager for Canaan Palestine, a pioneering initiative supporting smallholder Palestinian farmers and preserving the ancient olive groves of the region. Raised in Madison, Wisconsin, Karmel returned to Palestine in 2013 to embrace his heritage and pursue regenerative agriculture. He now plays key roles in marketing, farmer education, and building global connections that sustain both the land and its people.   📲 Connect with Canaan Palestine: 🌍 Website: Canaan Palestine 📸 Instagram: Follow @canaan.palestine 👍🏼 Facebook: Like Canaan Palestine ▶️ TikTok: Follow @canaan.palestine