Changes on the Spate Farms' raisin operation in Fresno, Calif. have improved the profitability of the family farm.

The changes include expanded raisin grape acreage, finding a job off the smaller farm to increase family income, removing older Thompson seedless vine and planting back with the Selma Pete variety, and a proactive 'preventative approach' to pest and disease control.

The farm is operated by Steve (fourth generation farmer), wife Tracy, and son Matthew who is a student at Fresno State (fifth generation grower?).