About Lisa LeCoump
Lisa LeCoump is a food photographer, agricultural expert, and passionate home cook dedicated to sustainable agriculture and seasonal, science-based cooking. Her blog brings together more than two decades of experience in both crop science and culinary creativity, helping home cooks gain confidence through flexible, master-based recipes built on real agricultural insight.
Lisa holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from California State University, Chico, specializing in soils and irrigation, along with advanced training in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) from UC Davis. Her background bridges the worlds of farming, food systems, and visual storytelling—showing readers how sustainable growing practices directly shape the flavor and quality of the food we eat.
She began her career working with California walnut and almond growers, alongside the UC Agricultural Extension Agent for nut crops, assisting with the groundbreaking research into Integrated Pest Management. Later she worked as a Pest Control Advisor in Patterson California, advising on eco-friendly pest management and crop health.
Working for over two years as an Agricultural Extension Agent in Thailand, she developed an innovative land-improvement program that restored damaged acreage by converting it into thriving tamarind orchards—revitalizing the soil and habitat without removing existing trees.
Lisa spent 27 years serving California as an Agricultural Inspector and later as a Deputy Agricultural Commissioner in Santa Cruz County, overseeing the organic program, pesticide use, food safety, sustainable farming practices, and consumer protection. She played a key role in shaping California’s organic regulations, contributing her scientific expertise and on-the-ground agricultural experience to help establish some of the most respected organic standards in the country. Her responsibilities included programs in organic certification standards, EPA compliance, and environmentally responsible farming methods.
Beyond the field, Lisa has also served as a baked-goods judge at the county fair, bringing her agricultural expertise and passion for baking together to celebrate quality, craftsmanship, and flavor. These experiences inspired her belief that great cooking starts in the soil and that transparency in food systems builds both better meals and a healthier planet.
Today, Lisa combines her agricultural expertise with her passion for food photography and recipe development. Her photography celebrates honest ingredients, local farms, and simple seasonal recipes rooted in sustainability. Through her blog, she shares practical cooking techniques, ingredient education, and the beauty of food grown and prepared with care.
Follow Lisa’s latest recipes and photography to explore how science, sustainability, and creativity come together in the kitchen.
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