Podcasts about California Agriculture

Improved crop revenue projections collide with record-high fertilizer and rising diesel costs.

A UC Merced survey finds interest in agricultural technology training far outpaces interest in traditional ag programs.

AI is moving into the field, raising new questions for California farmers.

California specialty crop growers have plenty at stake as Congress takes another run at a five-year farm bill.

In this episode of The Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor welcomes Jennifer Martinez, Founder of Elevation Tea Company, for a unique and interactive conversation about tea, specialty agriculture, and the California-grown ingredients that make Elevation Tea Company stand out.

California researchers are invited to bring their beef cattle work directly to producers at this year's Cattlemen's Poster Session.

With farmer survey response rates declining, USDA is looking to satellites, streamlined reporting and new technology to strengthen agricultural data.

Wolf funding and grazing goats bring wins, while autonomous farm equipment remains unfinished business.

On today's episode of the AgNet News Hour, Ryan Jacobsen, CEO of the Fresno County Farm Bureau, returned for Part 2 of a wide-ranging conversation about the future of California agriculture. From predators and agricultural education to healthy food and the next generation of farmers, Jacobson's message was ultimately one of optimism. One concern is the growing pressure from predators. Jacobsen said California is already struggling to properly manage wolves, mountain lions and black bears, and questioned proposals to even study the reintroduction of grizzly bears before the state addresses existing wildlife conflicts. But much of the conversation focused on the next generation. Jacobsen strongly advocated for programs such as FFA, 4-H and agricultural technical education. He said those programs give students hands-on experience while developing skills ranging from public speaking and leadership to welding, mechanics and business. With shortages of skilled workers in many trades, Jacobsen believes expanding those opportunities can benefit agriculture and the broader economy. The discussion also turned to the growing emphasis on healthier food. Jacobsen, who is now a raisin grower himself, said he is optimistic that renewed interest in nutrition could create opportunities for California-grown fruits and vegetables. “I'm bullish or hopeful that through trying to make people eat healthy again, that raisins are a big part of that,” Jacobsen said. He also stressed the importance of clearly identifying California-grown products, particularly when food safety concerns involving products from elsewhere can negatively affect California farmers. Despite the many challenges discussed throughout the two-part interview, Jacobsen ended on an optimistic note. “I'm bullish on California agriculture. I'm bullish on the American farmer,” Jacobsen said. “We have so many opportunities to continue to feed this nation.” That may be the biggest takeaway from the conversation: California agriculture faces serious challenges, but Jacobsen believes the industry is still worth fighting for. Listen to Part 2 of the full interview with Ryan Jacobson below or on your favorite podcast app.

People's Choice voting is open for California Farm Bureau's Farm Dog and photo contests through September 7.

It's the middle of summer, and I want you thinking about garlic. Not because it's time to plant, but because if you wait until it's time to plant, the good seed garlic may already be gone! In this episode, I'm breaking down the real difference between hardneck and softneck garlic: the cold-exposure requirement called vernalization that decides which type will bulb properly in your garden, how clove structure and storage life differ between the two, and how to match your choice to your specific climate. I'll also cover why garlic bought at the grocery store is a gamble, what certified disease-free seed garlic protects you from, how much seed to order for the bed you're planting, and exactly what to do in your garden bed this month to set yourself up for a strong harvest next summer. Whether you've grown garlic for years or you're planting your first clove this fall, this episode will get your ordering and your bed prep sorted before the window closes. Let's dig in! Episode References: Episode 302 — Mulch Matchmaking (winter mulch materials and application for newly planted garlic beds): https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/mulch-matchmaking-choosing-the-right-mulch-for-your-vegetable-garden-ep-302 All the garlic episodes: https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/search/garlic Resources: University of Georgia Cooperative Extension — Garlic Production for the Gardener (Circular 854): caes.uga.edu/publications/C854/garlic-production-for-the-gardener University of Minnesota Extension — Growing Garlic in Home Gardens: umn.edu/vegetables/growing-garlic University of Missouri Extension — Fall Is a Good Time to Plant Garlic: missouri.edu/news/fall-is-a-good-time-to-plant-garlic Lincoln University of Missouri Cooperative Extension — Garlic Production in Missouri: edu/publications/garlic-production-in-missouri.html Utah State University Extension — How to Grow Garlic in Your Garden: usu.edu/yardandgarden/research/garlic-in-the-garden Oregon State University Extension — Get Your Garlic On: A Primer on Planting, Growing and Harvesting: oregonstate.edu/news/get-your-garlic-primer-planting-growing-harvesting Cornell Cooperative Extension, Warren County — Garlic: cce.cornell.edu/gardening-landscape/warren-county-master-gardener-articles/garlic Penn State Extension — Garlic Production: psu.edu/garlic-production University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (Contra Costa Master Gardeners) — Garlic, Love It or Leave It: edu/blog/hort-coco-uc-master-gardener-program-contra-costa/article/garlic-love-it-or-leave-it Just Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.com Gardening Courses: https://justgrowsomething.com/courses Just Grow Something Merch and Downloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shop Just Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/ Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomething Feed my coffee habit: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomething Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CDFA Secretary Karen Ross highlights Queensland's approach to agricultural innovation, investment and on-farm technology.

California growers face steep losses as consumer concerns surrounding a cyclospora outbreak weigh on lettuce and fresh produce demand.

Farming in California has never been simple, but for Cannon Michael of Bowles Farming Company, adapting to changing conditions has become a fundamental part of keeping a sixth-generation operation moving forward. In the latest AgNet News Hour, Michael discusses everything from extreme heat and limited water supplies to labor, regulation and the future of farming on California's West Side. Bowles Farming Company manages roughly 11,000 acres near Los Banos and across the western San Joaquin Valley. The operation is remarkably diverse, producing carrots, sweet corn, garlic, onions, watermelons, cantaloupes, honeydew, tomatoes, almonds, pistachios and other crops throughout the year. That diversity has become one way the farm continues adapting. Michael said Bowles expanded significantly into additional crops beginning around 2016, helping transform the operation into essentially a year-round business. But water remains one of the biggest challenges. Michael discussed the frustration of receiving only a 25 percent water allocation despite relatively full reservoirs, pointing to aging infrastructure and regulations that have made moving water through California increasingly difficult. "We keep delivering food to the markets," Michael said, noting that agriculture continues finding ways to remain productive despite the challenges. Michael also addressed another concern facing California agriculture: whether the next generation will still see farming as a worthwhile future. He said increasing costs and regulatory pressure can discourage younger family members from returning to agricultural businesses that previous generations worked to build. Still, Bowles Farming Company continues investing in its future. Michael highlighted drip irrigation, solar energy and conservation efforts, including 650 acres the family placed into a permanent federal easement for wetland habitat along the Pacific Flyway. The conversation offers a look inside one of the West Side's major farming operations—and the constant balancing act required to grow food in California today. Listen to Part 1 of the full interview with Cannon Michael on the AgNet News Hour.

What a strengthening Pacific climate pattern could mean for California agriculture.

Business Launchpad offers nine weeks of training, coaching and networking for small- and mid-sized agricultural businesses.

The world is on fire. While that seems alarmist, this summer has been the summer of fire. Wildfires have spread all around the world, with specific fires in Spain, France, Canada and the US seizing global headlines. While the summer in the northern hemisphere is typically wildfire season, this year seems to mark an increased intensity and occurrences of these fires. On today's show we will explore what has been the cause of these fires. What environmental conditions have lead to the increased intensity of these fires? And what should be done both locally and globally to better manage wildfires? [ dur: 58mins. ] Doug Specht is a Chartered Geographer, a Reader in Cultural Geography and Communication, and Head of the School of Media and Communication at the University of Westminster. He is the author of Mapping crisis: Participation, datafication and humanitarianism in the age of digital mapping and most recently in the Conversation There’s nothing ‘wild’ about most wildfires, humans start them and have made them more dangerous. Daniel Swain is climate scientist with University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR) and a research partner at the NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research. He is the co-author of Anthropogenic warming has increased drought risk in California and Climate change is increasing the risk of a California megaflood. He is the author of the Weather West blog. This program is produced by Doug Becker, Maria Armoudian, Ankine Aghassian, Anna Lapin and Sudd Dongre. Environment, Politics and Activism, Climate Change, Environmental Activism, Wildfires

CDFA and USDA are responding after HLB was detected in a residential citrus tree in Calexico.

California Almond Board-funded research finds potential benefits for adults with prediabetes

State recognized among the nation's top Farm Bureaus for agriculture communications

New federal regulations revise threatened species protections and critical habitat decisions.

Reliable water supplies and practical regulations remain two of the biggest issues facing California agriculture, according to congressional candidate Kyle Kirkland. In Part 2 of his interview on the AgNet News Hour, Kirkland expanded on his vision for addressing the state's water challenges, arguing that growers, environmental interests and communities all benefit when policymakers focus on practical solutions instead of political gridlock. Kirkland acknowledged California's water system is complex but said solving the problem begins with listening to those who depend on it every day. "I don't profess to be the expert," Kirkland said. "What I do profess to be is someone that can look at a complicated problem, listen, and then come up with some pretty unique solutions." He said California should bring together agricultural leaders, builders, water experts and regulators to identify long-term strategies that provide reliable water while protecting environmental resources. Rather than eliminating environmental protections, Kirkland said the state should evaluate whether current regulations are accomplishing their intended goals or simply creating unnecessary obstacles for food production. "There is a difference between regulation and suffocation," he said, arguing that California has increasingly moved toward policies that make it more difficult to produce food, housing, energy and other essential resources. During the interview, Kirkland also discussed the importance of balancing agriculture, environmental stewardship and the needs of California's growing population. He said long-term solutions should include better water management, improved storage and greater collaboration among stakeholders rather than continuing years of political conflict. The conversation broadened to include California's overall business climate. Kirkland argued that reducing unnecessary regulations and encouraging domestic production would help lower costs for consumers while strengthening the state's economy. He pointed to agriculture, energy and manufacturing as industries that can thrive when businesses have regulatory certainty and policymakers focus on encouraging production instead of creating additional barriers. AgNet News Hour hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill noted that water reliability continues to be one of the most common concerns raised by California farmers. They agreed that growers need predictable policies that allow them to make long-term investments in permanent crops and maintain productive farming operations. Wrapping up the interview, Kirkland encouraged Californians not to lose hope, saying he believes many of the state's biggest challenges are solvable through collaboration, common-sense policymaking and greater support for businesses that drive California's economy. Listen to the full Part 2 interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

Senate misses deadline to advance AB 1603.

California farmers need predictable water supplies, practical regulations and policies that encourage production if agriculture is going to remain competitive, according to congressional candidate Kyle Kirkland. During today's episode of the AgNet News Hour, Kirkland discussed the challenges facing the Central Valley and shared why he believes business experience can help address many of the issues affecting California agriculture. Kirkland, who is running for California's 21st Congressional District, said his background as a businessman has shaped the way he approaches public policy. He argued that many of California's biggest challenges stem from policies that have made it more difficult to produce food, build housing and operate businesses. "I look at those and say those are fixable problems," Kirkland said, explaining that California has reduced production in several key industries while demand has continued to grow. A major portion of the interview focused on agriculture. Kirkland said one of the most common concerns he hears from farmers is the need for reliable and predictable water supplies rather than constantly changing allocations. "When I've talked to my friends in ag, they're just saying, 'We want reliable, consistent sources of water and predictable sources,'" Kirkland said. He added that uncertainty makes it difficult for producers to plan for future crops and investments, particularly for permanent plantings such as orchards and vineyards. Kirkland also discussed California's regulatory climate, arguing that environmental regulations have become increasingly difficult for businesses and agricultural producers to navigate. While emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship, he said regulations should be evaluated to determine whether they are achieving their intended goals without unnecessarily limiting production. He suggested that policymakers should regularly review regulations after implementation to determine whether they are working as intended and make adjustments when necessary. The conversation also touched on the importance of domestic food production. Kirkland expressed concern that increasing regulations could discourage future generations from remaining in agriculture, ultimately leading to greater reliance on imported food. He argued that California should continue supporting in-state production while maintaining the state's role as one of the nation's leading agricultural regions. AgNet News Hour hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill noted that reliable water supplies remain one of the most frequently discussed issues among California growers. They also highlighted the unique challenges permanent crops face when water availability changes from year to year, making long-term planning especially difficult for producers. While the interview reflected Kirkland's perspectives as a congressional candidate, it underscored broader issues that continue to shape California agriculture, including water reliability, regulatory certainty and maintaining a strong business environment for farms and ranches. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

Policy group says mandatory update could reduce commodity program support.

California Farm Bureau's Ag Alert highlights growing interest in agave as a drought-tolerant crop with potential beyond distilled spirits.

USDA's one-time assistance program is still accepting applications, but the deadline is just days away.

New California research investigates whether wolves influence cattle health and ranch profitability beyond livestock losses.

New project could help identify genetic traits for healthier commercial flocks

Nematodes may be hidden underground, but they can have a major impact on the long-term productivity of orchards, vineyards, and specialty crops. In this What's Working in Ag segment, Daniel Abruzzini of Corteva joins Farm4Profit to discuss Salibro, an innovative nematicide that's changing how growers manage root-knot, lesion, and ring nematodes in perennial cropping systems. Unlike traditional fumigation practices performed before planting, Salibro offers growers the flexibility to make in-season chemigation applications through existing irrigation systems, helping protect valuable orchards throughout their productive lifespan. Daniel also shares insights into California specialty crop production, including almonds, walnuts, grapes, citrus, leafy vegetables, brassicas, tomatoes, and more, while explaining why healthy root systems are critical for maximizing production over decades. Topics include: What nematodes are and why they matter Traditional fumigation versus in-season management Salibro chemigation applications Root-knot, lesion, and ring nematodes Orchard establishment and longevity California specialty crop production Irrigation and chemigation systems Soil sampling and treatment thresholds Root health and yield protection Long-term orchard profitability Whether you farm orchards, vineyards, specialty crops, or simply want to learn about emerging crop protection technologies, this episode offers a practical look at one of agriculture's newest tools for underground pest management.   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/Farm4Profit Media is not a financial, legal, or tax advisor. Content is provided for informational purposes only, and we serve solely as a platform for third-party opinions. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After years of federal scrutiny surrounding the platform, the Department of Agriculture is now sharing videos with the public.

Millions of sterile flies helped eliminate a Mediterranean fruit fly infestation near San Jose.

Farm Bureau white paper examines ways to reduce fertilizer price volatility and strengthen U.S. supply.

FDA finalizes first major change to pasteurized orange juice rule in decades.

New research suggests winter crops may offer California farmers an alternative to fallowing land while adapting to groundwater restrictions.

New funding will reimburse livestock losses while producers continue pushing for longer-term solutions.

California researchers are looking for almond and pistachio growers to participate in a new field study.

The discussion covers everything from almonds, vineyards, tomatoes, melons, cucurbits, tobacco, cotton, sweet potatoes, peanuts, peaches, apples, and leafy vegetables while comparing production practices to the corn and soybean systems familiar to much of the Farm4Profit audience. Topics include: Specialty crop production across the United States California almonds, walnuts, pistachios, vineyards and vegetables North Carolina sweet potatoes, tobacco and cotton Why long-term planning matters in permanent crops Water management and irrigation challenges Labor costs versus traditional row crop production Weed management strategies and residual herbicides New Corteva herbicides including Hulk CA Managing nematodes with Celebro Disease and insect pressure in specialty crops How growers balance profitability with quality expectations Multi-generational family farms across specialty agriculture What all farmers can learn from one another The conversation highlights that regardless of geography or crop, every producer faces weather risk, pest pressure, rising input costs, and the need to make timely management decisions. 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/Farm4Profit Media is not a financial, legal, or tax advisor. Content is provided for informational purposes only, and we serve solely as a platform for third-party opinions. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New advocacy campaign highlights trade concerns ahead of negotiations with Mexico.

New EU trade agreement creates a duty-free opportunity for eligible U.S. almond shipments through 2029.

Inking, staining, and skin discoloration are putting added pressure on stone fruit quality this season.

Proposed federal antitrust settlements allege three egg producers coordinated bids that helped influence wholesale egg prices.

The winning applicant will receive a $10,000 prize and national recognition from the American Farm Bureau Federation.

The future of California agriculture will depend on water reliability, regulatory reform, and stronger support for rural communities, according to Assemblyman David Tangipa. During a recent appearance on the AgNet News Hour, Tangipa discussed the challenges facing farmers, proposed new taxes, wildfire preparedness, and why he believes California must change course to remain competitive. Tangipa said California agriculture continues to face mounting pressure from regulations that increase production costs while making it more difficult for growers to compete with producers in other states and countries. He argued that many of the state's policies are created without sufficient input from the people who work in agriculture every day. One issue Tangipa highlighted was California's proposal to expand taxes to certain business services and commercial software. While aimed at generating additional state revenue, he warned the proposal could increase operating costs for businesses across California, including agricultural operations that depend on specialized software for irrigation management, payroll, accounting, and compliance. "We continue to ask businesses to do more while making it harder for them to succeed," Tangipa said. "At some point, people simply decide it's easier to do business somewhere else." Water infrastructure also remained a major focus of the conversation. Tangipa said California has failed to adequately invest in new water storage and conveyance projects despite experiencing both severe droughts and years with abundant rainfall. He believes expanding storage capacity would improve water reliability for agriculture, communities, and environmental needs alike. Tangipa also discussed wildfire preparedness, saying California must continue investing in forest management, fuel reduction, and emergency response capabilities. He noted that protecting rural communities and agricultural lands requires proactive management rather than reacting after disasters occur. Throughout the interview, Tangipa emphasized that California's farmers are among the most innovative and productive in the world but often operate under some of the nation's most restrictive regulations. He said preserving agriculture will require policies that encourage investment instead of creating additional uncertainty. The discussion also touched on California's political future as voters prepare for the 2026 gubernatorial election. Tangipa encouraged Californians to become informed about candidates' positions on agriculture, water, energy, and rural economic development before heading to the polls. "We have to make sure the people making decisions understand the consequences those decisions have on the families producing our food," Tangipa said. Despite the challenges, Tangipa remains optimistic that California can restore its agricultural competitiveness through practical policymaking, improved infrastructure, and stronger collaboration between lawmakers and the farming community. He said California's natural resources, climate, and farmers continue to make the state one of the world's premier agricultural regions, provided future policies support rather than hinder those advantages. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

Monterey welcomes the annual gathering featuring the Blueberry Boost Accelerator and Blueberry Night at the Aquarium.

The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol is adding forensic testing to strengthen confidence in cotton supply chains.

Producer observations and photos help add local context to weekly drought assessments.

State and federal officials respond after detection of a mated female fly near Spring Valley.

Assemblyman David Tangipa joins Jason Scott on MyAgLife to discuss the biggest issues facing California agriculture, including water, SGMA, regulatory costs and grower representation in Sacramento. Tangipa shares why he believes farmers need a stronger voice in policy discussions and offers his perspective on the future of California agriculture and rural communities.

Family Tree Farms Vice President Daniel Jackson says California agriculture faces significant challenges from water policy uncertainty, but he remains optimistic about the future of farming and the next generation of growers. During the second part of a recent AgNet News Hour interview, Jackson discussed water regulations, labor concerns, blueberry production, and the importance of maintaining California's agricultural legacy. Jackson, whose family has farmed in California since the 1930s, said one of the biggest issues facing growers today is uncertainty surrounding groundwater regulations under California's Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). According to Jackson, constantly changing rules create difficulties for farmers making long-term investments in permanent crops such as peaches, almonds, and other tree fruits. “Farmers are not confident,” Jackson said, explaining that growers often do not know what water restrictions they may face several years into the future after making substantial investments in orchards and other perennial crops. He noted that reliable water supplies remain essential for maintaining productive farmland and supporting rural economies throughout California. Jackson emphasized that water infrastructure and storage projects could provide long-term benefits not only for agriculture but also for communities and environmental needs. Despite the challenges, Jackson remains committed to farming in California. He said Family Tree Farms continues to invest in the state while also expanding production into other regions and countries to maintain year-round supplies of fresh produce. Blueberries have become a major component of that strategy. Family Tree Farms now participates in blueberry production and marketing programs across multiple regions, allowing consumers to access fresh blueberries throughout the year. Jackson said demand continues to grow as consumers increasingly recognize the fruit's health benefits. “People need them,” Jackson said while discussing the popularity of blueberries and their reputation as a healthy snack option. California's blueberry season is expected to conclude earlier than normal this year due to unusually warm spring weather that accelerated crop development across many fruit-producing regions. Jackson said growers throughout the industry are seeing earlier harvest timing in numerous commodities, including stone fruit and blueberries. As for Family Tree Farms' stone fruit season, Jackson expects harvests to wrap up sooner than usual. He encouraged consumers to take advantage of peak-season fruit while supplies remain plentiful. Apricots, peaches, nectarines, and other specialty fruits continue to be available through the company's retail and wholesale channels. Beyond crop production, Jackson stressed the importance of encouraging future generations to remain involved in agriculture. He expressed concern that regulatory burdens and uncertainty may discourage young people from entering farming but remains hopeful that California agriculture can continue thriving with strong leadership and common-sense policies. Throughout the conversation, Jackson repeatedly emphasized the critical role farmers play in producing food for consumers and supporting local communities. He noted that agriculture remains one of California's foundational industries and said growers will continue adapting to challenges while working to provide safe, nutritious food. “We want to continue doing what we have a passion for doing,” Jackson said. “It's great to see somebody smile when they eat a big juicy apricot or a peach.”