Podcasts about California Agriculture

Even with slightly lower overall expenses in 2024, producers across California and the U.S. are still feeling the pinch of high input costs, rising interest rates, and falling commodity prices.

According to the group's President and CEO Dave Puglia, “Rescinding the ‘no-staggering' rule eliminates needless cost and complexity, giving farmers the flexibility they need to meet real-world labor demand.”

Officials are responding to a Mediterranean fruit fly detection in San José with an aggressive quarantine and sterile fly release program.

This time of year, you'll hear any number of oinks, neighs and bleats from livestock on show at county fairs. But in California, cock-a-doodle-doos are missing from that chorus. Bird flu has shut down poultry exhibitions. That's upended life for 4-H members who normally raise chickens and competitively show them at fairs. In this episode of Unfold, guest host Caroline Champlin with University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources visits the Orange County Fair to see how young 4-H-ers are adapting. And we'll hear from a UC Davis/UC ANR expert on how the virus is adapting to new hosts, including dairy cattle. Is bird flu here to stay? In this episode: Maurice Pitesky, associate professor, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources Cooperative Extension specialist You can read a full article on how bird flu is upending life for 4-H-er's at UC ANR's Green Blog. 

In a powerful conversation on the AgNet News Hour, Fallbrook grower and entrepreneur Elaine Collotti—known as The Lipstick Farmer—delivered a frank assessment of California's agricultural and political climate. Collotti, who has been directly impacted by the Palisades Fires, warned that the state's lack of financial transparency, infrastructure failures, and policy neglect are threatening the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities across the Golden State. Funding Shortfalls and Federal Tensions Collotti described a grim reality in post-fire recovery, accusing state leaders of leaving devastated communities without resources. According to her, federal funding from FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers ended without sustainable follow-up from the Newsom administration, leaving clean-up incomplete and property owners in limbo. She believes the Trump administration's planned presence in California—including new legal representation—could uncover mismanagement of funds and bring accountability. Water, Labor, and Immigration Solutions Water policy remains a flashpoint for California agriculture. Collotti criticized the state's lack of attention to water infrastructure and applauded efforts to address water loss from mountain runoff flowing unused to the ocean. On labor, she urged a three-tier approach to immigration reform—protecting long-time workers, creating legal pathways for seasonal farm labor, and deporting criminal offenders. She also proposed a domestic work sponsorship program, allowing wealthy households to legally sponsor employees such as nannies, gardeners, and agricultural workers, bringing stability to both families and farms. SNAP Reform to Support Small Farmers One of Collotti's most striking policy suggestions was redirecting SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) subsidies away from large agribusiness and toward local small farmers. By partnering with federal agencies like HHS, she envisions a system that purchases directly from regional producers, utilizes rail for efficient distribution, and delivers fresh, local produce to those in need. “Get the best food to the most needy for the best price,” Collotti emphasized, calling small farmers “our gold” and the key to making America healthy again. A Call for Political Focus and Leadership Collotti warned against “grifters” in the crowded gubernatorial race, advocating for a single strong candidate capable of reversing California's debt crisis, restoring business confidence, and defending the state's multi-billion-dollar agriculture industry. As California farmers brace for higher fuel costs, water challenges, and ongoing labor uncertainty, voices like Elaine Collotti's are pushing for immediate reform, federal cooperation, and a renewed commitment to rural prosperity.

Fighting for California Agriculture: In today's AgNet News Hour, Nick Papagni and Josh McGill welcomed Rich Kreps, for a wide-ranging conversation on the biggest issues facing agriculture in the Golden State, from water and labor to policy reform and the future of farming. Kreps, a longtime advocate for California farmers, stressed that agriculture is at a critical juncture. He pointed to an ever-tightening regulatory climate, rising costs, and political disconnect as threats to the state's ability to feed the nation and the world. “We have the best farmers in the world,” he said, “but they can't compete if we make it impossible to do business here.” One of Kreps' top concerns is water management. He noted that the state has failed to invest in storage and infrastructure, even in wet years, leaving growers vulnerable to drought and restrictive environmental flows. Without a balanced approach that serves farms, communities, and the environment, California risks losing production permanently. The conversation also tackled labor and workforce challenges, particularly immigration reform. Kreps underscored the need for a legal, stable labor supply, arguing that lawmakers in Sacramento and Washington must understand how essential these workers are to keeping farms viable. Looking ahead, Kreps emphasized the importance of supporting young and beginning farmers. With the average California farmer nearing retirement age, the industry must find ways to lower barriers for the next generation — from access to land and capital to education and mentorship. Listeners also heard updates on: The upcoming Citrus & Specialty Crop Expo Changes in federal ag leadership International trade developments affecting California exports Kreps' closing message was clear: agriculture must stay united and engaged in the political process. “If you're not at the table, you're on the menu,” he warned, urging farmers to share their stories and advocate for policies that will keep California agriculture strong for decades to come.

Kirk Teixeira represents California in a national initiative shaping the future of U.S. cotton.

Senator Schiff challenges the USDA's decision to bypass California in its regional hub relocation plan and funding allocations.

State leaders and industry voices will discuss lending, labor, water costs, and more at August 5 meeting.

California fruit growers and national dairy groups respond as Dr. Julie Callahan is tapped for key agricultural trade role.

Brian Glenn, director of government affairs with the American Farm Bureau Federation, says several critical farm programs still need updating through a new farm bill.

This episode was originally published on April 27, 2025.  The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Evan Campbell and Patrick Fort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode was originally published on April 27, 2025.  The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Evan Campbell and Patrick Fort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode was originally published on April 27, 2025.  The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Evan Campbell and Patrick Fort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode was originally published on April 27, 2025.  The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Evan Campbell and Patrick Fort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode was originally published on April 27, 2025.  The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Evan Campbell and Patrick Fort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We step into the world of premium winegrowing with two of Sonoma County's most respected vineyard leaders.First, we hear from Jake Terrell, Director of Vineyards at St. Francis Winery, who shares how his viticulture background and years managing vineyards like Monte Rosso have shaped his approach to sustainable farming. Jake outlines how timing, precision, and green practices drive quality grape production. He also discusses his role in revising the Code of Sustainable Winegrowing Practices, showcasing his leadership in building a more environmentally conscious wine industry.Then, we're joined by Glenn Proctor of Puccioni Ranch & Vineyards, whose winemaking heritage dates back to 1904. Glenn gives us a rare look at the art of letting the vineyard speak for itself, drawing on a century of family knowledge and old-vine farming. We also explore his broader experience in the wine industry — from leadership roles at Beaulieu Vineyard (BV) and Sterling, to becoming a partner at The Ciatti Company, the world's largest grape and bulk wine brokerage.Together, Jake and Glenn reflect on the evolution of the wine business, how sustainability and tradition are converging, and what the future holds for vineyard operations amid changing climate, consumer demand, and labor dynamics.Listeners will walk away with an appreciation for what it means to farm for flavor, legacy, and longevity — and how lessons from the vineyard apply to agriculture across the board. Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/

New farmers and ranchers are finding guidance—and confidence—through a unique mentorship program launched by the California Farm Bureau's California Bountiful Foundation. Expanding Our Roots connects beginning producers with experienced mentors to help navigate the complex world of modern agriculture.

Farm Bureau economists say federal tax changes coming in 2025 could add pressure to California growers already navigating high costs and unpredictable conditions.

Big Ideas for California Agriculture on Today's AgNet News Hour Start your Tuesday morning strong with Nick Papagni, the Ag Meter, and producer Sir Josh McGill on the latest episode of the AgNet News Hour from AgNet West. It's a jam-packed show that covers the pressing issues, inspiring interviews, and innovative ideas shaping California's agricultural future. Rail Solutions and Tariff Updates Nick kicks things off with a fresh look at rail transport as a potential game-changer for California's freight crisis. Hear from Elaine Culotti, "the lipstick farmer" from Fallbrook, who's championing the idea of moving farm goods by rail to tackle soaring fuel, labor, and insurance costs. Could this be the answer to our transportation headaches? Tune in and find out how this rail revival could open new doors for local farmers. Tariff Talk and Global Trade Nick and Josh also dive into the latest tariff news, highlighting the recent federal appeals court decision that puts tariffs back on the table. With U.S. trade representatives like Brooke Rollins racking up air miles to strike better deals, our hosts explain why tariffs could be the key to a fairer playing field for American agriculture. Plus, find out how upcoming trade talks in Peru might open new export opportunities for California growers. The FFA Spotlight and Citrus Expo The episode shines a light on the Future Future Farmers of America (FFA) and its growing impact on young agricultural leaders. Plus, get the scoop on the can't-miss Citrus and Specialty Crop Expo coming up in August — an industry Super Bowl of seminars, panels, and networking for everyone involved in citrus and specialty crops. California Change with Steve Hilton In a compelling interview, gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton lays out his vision for turning California around — from water allocation woes to stifling labor regulations. Hear his no-nonsense take on how to make California agriculture thrive again. Don't Miss It! If you care about California's farms, food, and future, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts and join the conversation. Your voice matters — and so does the future of our farmers.

California ag leaders will tackle the future of single-use packaging at the June 3rd State Board of Food and Agriculture meeting. From cost concerns to compostable innovations, it's a discussion producers won't want to miss.

Almonds here in the state of California are entering into the hull split crop stage. On the grower anxiety risk list, that means cue up navel orangeworm and hull rot.

With small farms making up the majority of U.S. agriculture, the American Farm Bureau Federation is pushing for policies that protect family-run operations. As California farmers face mounting challenges, new USDA attention could bring much-needed support.

Growers have until May 22 to return their Almond Board election ballots. Meanwhile, USDA forecasts a strong 2025 crop—up 3% from last year.

Wildfires in Southern California this past year had an impact on the crop. Will the trees recover?

A new University of California report warns that dust storms—intensified by climate change—are threatening crops, livestock, and labor productivity. The study outlines both the causes and the consequences for the nation's top agricultural producer.

James Schaeffer of Helena Agri-Enterprises gives an update on this year's almond crop and the challenges its facing.

California Dairies, Inc. has unveiled its cutting-edge Valley Natural Beverages plant—a 200,000 square-foot facility in Bakersfield focused on shelf-stable dairy products.

Growers in San Joaquin County are navigating a season of mixed signals—adequate moisture, but a stagnant market. According to the California Farm Bureau, concerns over vineyard removals, shifting consumer habits, and tariff impacts are creating plenty of unknowns in the months ahead.

Gustavo Lopez, Helena Agri-Enterprises, discusses the need for a plant health focus amidst dry conditions.

The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump administration has already begun cutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the U.S. National Weather Service. What's the advantage to understanding the weather less? Guest: Daniel Swain, weather and climate scientist with the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From drones to robotic harvesters, new ag tech took center stage at a UC field day in Ventura County.

Maurice Pitesky, poultry specialist with the University of California Cooperative Extension, has developed the Waterfowl Alert Network. The system delivers real-time data about where waterfowl are roosting and feeding.

From reduced export inspections in Japan to easier conservation funding at home, here's what growers need to know.

The U.S. Department of Commerce plans to withdraw from the 2019 Agreement suspending the antidumping investigation on fresh tomatoes from Mexico.

California Senator Adam Schiff is hitting the ground running as the first California Senator in over 30 years to serve on the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee.

California dairy farmers are on track to exceed the state's methane-reduction targets ahead of the 2030 deadline, according to a recent Ag Alert from the California Farm Bureau.

California almond growers have voted to continue the Almond Board of California's federal marketing order for another five years.

On today's episode, UC ANR's Gabe Youtsey shares how 'The Plant,' a cutting-edge food and ag innovation center being developed near UC Davis, will unite ag, biotech and AI to fast-track innovations from lab to market and boost opportunities for California growers.   Supporting the People who Support Agriculture Thank you to this month's sponsors who makes it possible to get you your daily news. Please feel free to visit their website. Deerpoint Group, Inc. - https://deerpointgroup.com/dpg-potassium-plus/

With seven known wolf packs and additional areas of activity—including several packs meeting the breeding pair definition—CDFW has adjusted its approach as outlined in its 2016 Conservation Plan.

Honeybee producers are kicking off 2025 with big losses.

Governor Gavin Newsom sent a letter of appeal late last week to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, urging a reversal of the termination of $47 million in funding meant to support California farmers who grow produce for food banks, schools, and community centers.

Carlo Bocardo, a cooperative official from Bakersfield, will serve as the 2025 president of Cotton Council International, the export promotion arm of the National Cotton Council.

Scientists who study and keep the public informed about wildfires, hurricanes, avalanches and climate change are reeling from the Trump administration's mass firings at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the National Weather Service. We talk to climate scientist Daniel Swain about the essential work NOAA does in California and nationwide and the impacts of the firings on public safety and mission-critical scientific research. Tell us: Are you affected by the NOAA layoffs? Guests: Daniel Swain, climate scientist, University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources & UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability Heather Welch, terminated research biologist at NOAA Fisheries who worked on the NOAA Climate, Ecosystems and Fisheries Initiative in Monterey, California Kayla Ann Besong, terminated duty scientist for NOAA's Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu, HI

The Los Angeles area is battling massive fires. At least five people have died, and more than 2,000 structures have either been damaged or destroyed so far. Tens of thousands of people remain under evacuation orders, including parts of the region that aren't usually at immediate risk for fire damage. Lenya Quinn-Davidson, director of the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources's Fire Network, breaks down how the fires were able to spread so fast. Later in the show, Bob Corn-Revere, an attorney with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, talks about the group's defense of Iowa pollster Ann Selzer in a suit brought by President-elect Donald Trump.And in headlines: World leaders pushed back against Trump's threats to take over Greenland and the Panama Canal, the Justice Department asked a federal appeals court for permission to release part of the special counsel's report on Jan. 6, and Las Vegas police said the man who blew up a Tesla Cybertruck on New Years Day used AI to plan his attack.Show Notes:Support victims of the fire – votesaveamerica.com/reliefSubscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – https://tinyurl.com/3kk4nyz8What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcastFollow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday