California Ag Network

Category: Featured Post

  • September Orchard Tasks – Pistachios

    Pistachio harvest ended earlier than usual this year, but growers should not stop irrigating their orchards just yet. The early finish creates a longer post-harvest period before trees enter dormancy, making proper irrigation especially important.

    Research by Daniele Zaccaria, Mae Culumber and Anderson Safre of the University of California Cooperative Extension indicates that pistachio trees continue using water after the nuts have been removed. Although harvest is complete, evapotranspiration—the loss of water from the soil and through the trees’ leaves—continues until the trees become dormant.

    Because the post-harvest season will be longer this year, growers should continue monitoring their orchards’ water needs. Stopping irrigation too soon could place unnecessary stress on trees as they prepare for next season.

    However, the researchers suggest growers may be able to conserve water through carefully timed deficit irrigation. This practice involves applying less water than the orchard would normally use during selected periods. When managed properly, deficit irrigation may reduce water use by about 20% with little to no effect on the following year’s harvest.

    The key is timing. Growers should consider orchard conditions, soil moisture and the trees’ water needs before reducing irrigation. An early harvest does not mean water use has ended, and post-harvest management can play an important role in supporting the next crop.

    Read more about the research in the September issue of Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.

  • The 2026 Blueberry Convention Is in Your Backyard

    The 2026 Blueberry Convention, Sept. 22-25, is taking place right in your backyard in Monterey!

    Since it’s so close to home, this is an excellent (and convenient) opportunity to connect in-person with industry colleagues, gain valuable insights during education sessions and keynotes, and help shape the future of our industry.

    Here’s what you can look forward to:

    • Get the latest category data and economic outlooks to guide your operations.
    • See the latest tech and ag solutions on Blueberry Lane and Blueberry Row.
    • Find out how our Blueberries GO BIG campaign is driving demand.
    • Learn about our health research focus on cognitive health.
    • Experience the excitement of the Blueberry Boost Accelerator live pitch competition.
    • Attend Blueberry Night at a California gem – the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
    • Join the USHBC Council and NABC Board meetings on Wednesday.

    Get a glimpse into the experience here: youtube.com/watch?v=iH988J9kvss&t=2s

    Then check out the full schedule to plan your experience (like adding the Blueberry Data & Intelligence Summit), then sign up to join us!

    [REGISTER NOW]

    More Ways to Stay in Monterey

    The 2026 Blueberry Convention will take place at the Hyatt Regency Monterey. While the deadline for our group rate has passed, you can contact the Hyatt Regency Monterey directly to check availability and pricing. Be sure to mention the NABC Convention!

    With strong interest in this year’s convention, we’ve expanded our housing options throughout Monterey. See the full list on the “Travel Information” tab on our Blueberry Convention webpage.

  • September Orchard Tasks – Almonds

    Although almond harvest may be wrapping up, the work needed to prepare orchards for next season has already begun. Post-harvest priorities include monitoring for disease, irrigating trees, pruning and managing pests.

    Brent Holtz with the University of California Cooperative Extension advises growers to watch for red leaf blotch and rust. Bright orange spots on leaves may indicate red leaf blotch, while orange and black spores can be signs of rust. This year’s warm March appears to have increased the severity of rust, making it important to avoid irrigation practices that keep orchards humid for extended periods.

    However, growers should not stop irrigating altogether. Water should be applied as soon as the harvested nuts are removed from the orchard floor. Dr. David Goldhamer, emeritus irrigation specialist with UC Davis, says almond trees can use up to 11 acre-inches of water after harvest if their leaves remain active. Proper post-harvest irrigation can also help move salt below the trees’ root zone.

    Growers can also begin pruning mature orchards immediately after harvest instead of waiting until dormancy. Pruning early gives wounds time to heal before rainfall, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. While studies indicate pruning does not significantly improve almond yields, it remains necessary to provide enough space for orchard equipment to pass between trees.

    Fall is also a good time to manage gophers, ground squirrels and mice. Baiting or fumigation can help control ground squirrels before they enter hibernation. Growers should also look for pieces of almond shells left in tree crotches, which may indicate mouse activity.

    For more information about post-harvest almond orchard management, read the full article in the September issue of Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.

  • This Week in Ag – September 16

    California agriculture is seeing developments across several major commodities this week, from strong almond exports and an expanding citrus quarantine to concerns surrounding avocado production in Mexico.

    Here are five stories to know in this week’s edition of This Week in Ag.

    Almond Market Looks Strong Heading Into 2027

    The California almond industry is beginning the new crop year with strong global demand and a tighter supply outlook, according to a recent market update from Blue Diamond Growers.

    August almond shipments totaled 190 million pounds, with exports accounting for 143.2 million pounds. That represents a 31% increase in exports compared with last year.

    India was the standout market, receiving 44.3 million pounds of California almonds in August, up approximately 170% from 16.4 million pounds during the same month last year. Blue Diamond attributed the increase in part to stronger replenishment ahead of India’s festival season and unusually low shipments during August 2025.

    Domestic shipments totaled 46.8 million pounds, down 3.3% year over year.

    On the production side, the 2026 harvest began approximately two weeks earlier than last year. Nonpareil and Independence varieties are largely harvested, with pollinizer varieties following behind.

    Early receipts are also pointing toward lower yields for Nonpareil and Independence compared with 2025. Combined with tighter supplies and continued export demand, Blue Diamond says current fundamentals are supporting a stable-to-firm market outlook.

    HLB Quarantine Expands in Riverside and San Diego Counties

    California is expanding another quarantine boundary for Huanglongbing, or HLB, as efforts continue to limit the spread of the deadly citrus disease.

    Effective Sept. 11, the California Department of Food and Agriculture expanded the HLB quarantine in the Murrieta area of Riverside County and into San Diego County. The expansion includes grids 484, 499 and 510.

    CDFA also expanded Asian Citrus Psyllid Bulk Citrus Regional Quarantine Zone 6 in those areas to reflect the new HLB quarantine boundary.

    HLB, also known as citrus greening disease, poses a significant threat to citrus production. The Asian citrus psyllid can spread the bacterium associated with the disease from infected citrus to healthy plants.

    The quarantine includes regulations governing the movement of certain citrus plants, fruit and other regulated materials in an effort to reduce the risk of further spread.

    California Avocado Commission Responds to Report on Mexico’s Avocado Region

    A Los Angeles Times report detailing violence and intimidation in a major avocado-producing region of Mexico is drawing attention from the California avocado industry.

    The report focuses on families in San Ángel Zurumucapio, Michoacán, where avocado production has provided economic opportunities but growers and residents have also faced extortion, kidnappings and violence.

    The California Avocado Commission cited the report while renewing its call for limits on Mexican avocado imports under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

    The commission argues that import limits would help protect U.S. avocado growers, the domestic industry and the food supply.

    The proposal represents the California Avocado Commission’s position on trade policy as it continues advocating for domestic avocado producers.

    Colin O’Neil Joins Organic Trade Association Leadership

    The Organic Trade Association has hired Colin O’Neil as senior vice president to lead the organization’s public affairs efforts.

    O’Neil will direct legislative and regulatory work, advocacy and stakeholder engagement for the trade association, which represents organic farmers and businesses throughout North America.

    His responsibilities will include initiatives aimed at reducing barriers to organic adoption, strengthening confidence in the USDA Organic seal and expanding opportunities for organic farmers and businesses.

    The Organic Trade Association says the organic sector is now valued at approximately $76 billion.

    O’Neil will also oversee the association’s political action committee.

    Sun World International Celebrates 50 Years

    Sun World International is celebrating five decades in the fresh produce industry.

    The company marked its 50th anniversary during its 2026 Symposium and Field Days. Founded in 1976 by Howard Marguleas, Carl Maggio and Domenick Bianco, Sun World began as a California produce marketing company.

    Over the following five decades, the company expanded into fruit genetics and licensing, with its work including the commercialization of seedless watermelon, seedless table grapes and lemons.

    Sun World also recognized Board Chairman David Marguleas for 40 years of leadership and contributions to the company.

    As part of the recognition, Sun World established the David Marguleas Endowed Research Fund in support of UC Davis Viticulture & Enology and dedicated the David Marguleas Tasting Room at the Sun World Center for Innovation.

    Stay Connected With California Ag Network

    From strong export demand for California almonds to new challenges and developments affecting citrus, avocados, organics and fresh produce, This Week in Ag brings together five stories shaping the industry each week.

    For more news impacting the California ag industry, follow California Ag Network.

  • Sun World International Celebrates 50 Years

    Sun World International, a global leader in fruit genetics and licensing, celebrated its 50th anniversary during its 2026 Symposium and Field Days, marking five decades of innovation that have helped shape the fresh produce industry. The company also honored Board Chairman, David Marguleas, for his 40 years of leadership and contributions to Sun World, establishing the David Marguleas Endowed Research Fund in support of UC Davis Viticulture & Enology and dedicating the David Marguleas Tasting Room at the Sun World Center for Innovation.

    Founded in 1976 by David’s father, Howard Marguleas, along with Carl Maggio and Domenick Bianco, Sun World began as a California produce marketing company, but over five decades, they have introduced the first commercialized seedless watermelon, seedless table grapes and lemons, and have become a global fruit genetics and licensing business with brands recognized in markets around the world.

    “Fifty years ago, Sun World was founded on a simple but ambitious idea: fruit can be better,” said David Marguleas. “That idea has guided the company through every stage of its evolution, from early product introductions to the genetics, brands and global connections that define Sun World today. This anniversary is a celebration of the people who built that foundation and the opportunity we have to carry it forward.”

    More than 450 growers, licensees, marketers, retailers, researchers and industry leaders gathered for the company’s Symposium and Field Days, where attendees explored the next generation of Sun World innovation and the future of fresh produce. The anniversary celebration also brought former breeders to the stage alongside Marguleas, recognizing the scientific talent, shared expertise and long-standing relationships that have shaped Sun World’s programs across generations.

    Marguleas joined Sun World in 1986 and held leadership roles across the company for four decades. He became president and CEO in 2019 and assumed the role of executive chair in January 2025. During his tenure, Sun World evolved from a diversified produce marketing company into a global fruit variety development and licensing business, expanding its presence in key growing regions and building a broader portfolio of proprietary fruit offerings.

    The David Marguleas Endowed Research Fund will provide support for UC Davis students, faculty and researchers whose work advances California’s grape industry, while fostering stronger connections among research, education, and the industry. The David Marguleas Tasting Room dedication recognizes his vision, leadership and lasting impact on Sun World’s culture of discovery, collaboration and innovation. This will be a dedicated space where Sun World teams and guests can evaluate fruit, exchange perspectives and continue developing new consumer experiences.

    “David’s deep industry knowledge and commitment to discovery have helped shape who we are today,” said Bernardo Calvo, president and chief executive officer at Sun World International. “He has helped set a standard for how Sun World approaches innovation: stay curious, bring the right people together and keep raising the bar for what fresh produce can deliver. The research fund and tasting room reflect that legacy while creating spaces and opportunities that will help inspire the next generation.”

    Marguleas influence extends beyond the company’s business evolution. He has championed the relationships that link breeding and research with growers, licensees, marketers and retailers, helping Sun World build programs around both commercial performance and the consumer experience.

    “Sun World’s story has been written by people willing to ask what can be improved and then work together to make it happen,” said Marguleas. “I am deeply honored by these recognitions, and grateful to the many colleagues, growers, researchers and industry leaders who have contributed to the company’s success over the past 50 years.”

    — Story contributed by Sun World International

  • Colin O’Neil Joins Organic Trade Association Leadership Team to Head Public Affairs

    The Organic Trade Association (OTA) has hired Colin O’Neil as Senior Vice President to lead public affairs where he will direct legislative and regulatory efforts, political advocacy, and stakeholder engagement for the membership-based trade association representing organic farmers and businesses throughout North America. In this new role, O’Neil will help drive growth of the $76 Billion organic sector by leading public affairs initiatives to build trust in organic, reduce barriers to adoption, strengthen the credibility of the USDA Organic seal, and expand opportunities for organic farmers and businesses. He will also oversee OTA’s political action committee.
    The Organic Trade Association (OTA) has hired Colin O’Neil as Senior Vice President to lead public affairs where he will direct legislative and regulatory efforts, political advocacy, and stakeholder engagement for the membership-based trade association representing organic farmers and businesses throughout North America. In this new role, O’Neil will help drive growth of the $76 Billion organic sector by leading public affairs initiatives to build trust in organic, reduce barriers to adoption, strengthen the credibility of the USDA Organic seal, and expand opportunities for organic farmers and businesses. He will also oversee OTA’s political action committee.
    Based in the Washington, DC area, O’Neil is an accomplished public affairs strategist and coalition builder across the food, agriculture, environmental, and public health sectors. Throughout his nearly 20-year career, O’Neil has brought together businesses, policymakers, advocates, and other stakeholders to advance federal policies addressing organic agriculture, agricultural conservation and climate change, food labeling, chemical regulation, and food safety.
    Some of O’Neil’s early priorities at OTA will be to advance the association’s Farm Bill priorities and key policy initiatives such as the Domestic Organic Investment Act (DOIA). Introduced in 2025, O’Neil will help advance the bipartisan, bicameral DOIA legislation that aims to establish a permanent USDA program to expand and modernize the US organic supply chain by providing grants to support domestic organic production.
    “Having known Colin for years, based on his successful track record leading policy and advocacy work, we are thrilled to have him join OTA’s leadership team as his expertise and passion for the organic sector will bring tremendous value to our members,” said Matthew Dillon, Co-CEO, Organic Trade Association. “With strong consumer demand and momentum for organic food and fiber, Colin is joining OTA at an excellent time to help us accelerate growth and drive meaningful results.”
    — Story contributed by the Organic Trade Association

  • LA Times Report Highlights Corruption in Mexico’s Avocado Region

    The California Avocado Commission said a new Los Angeles Times report detailing pervasive violence and intimidation in Mexico’s major avocado-producing region underscores the urgent need for USMCA import limits on Mexican avocados to protect US growers, safeguard the U.S. food supply and prevent criminal organizations from destroying a vitally important sector of American agriculture.

    The Times report, “Avocados were a lifeline — and then a bitter fruit,” chronicles the experience of families in San Ángel Zurumucapio, Michoacán, where avocado production brought new economic opportunity but where growers have also faced extortion, kidnappings and violence. Residents ultimately organized armed self-defense groups to protect their community.

    “The human toll described by the Los Angeles Times is heartbreaking, and Mexican farmers being threatened, extorted, or caught in cartel violence deserve our sympathy and support. California growers should not have to compete against a Mexican avocado supply chain exploited by cartels that can distort markets and undermine U.S. production,” said Ken Melban, president of the California Avocado Commission. “When criminal organizations can extort growers and influence the supply chain, American farmers are left competing in a market shaped by forces far outside normal agricultural competition. That’s why CAC is calling for a seasonal TRQ, to keep trade open while protecting American growers from market-disrupting import surges during our harvest season.”

    — Story contributed by the California Avocado Commission 

  • Huanglongbing Quarantine Boundary Expands in Riverside, SD Counties

    Effective September 11, 2026, the Department is expanding the citrus greening disease boundary in the Murrieta area of Riverside County and into San Diego County (grids 484, 499, and 510). A map of the expanded boundary can be found at https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/citrus/pests_diseases/hlb/regulation.html. 

    Also effective September 11, 2026, the Department is expanding the Asian Citrus Psyllid Bulk Citrus Regional Quarantine Zone 6 in these areas to reflect the HLB quarantine boundary expansion. A map of the expanded boundary can be found at https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/citrus/pests_diseases/acp/regulation.html.

    Regulated articles and conditions for intrastate movement under the quarantine can be found at Title 3 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) section 3435 & 3439. Pursuant to 3 CCR § 3435 & 3439, any interested party or local entity may appeal a quarantine area designation. 

    Process to Appeal the Expanded Boundary 

    The appeal must be submitted to the Department in writing and supported by clear and convincing evidence. The appeal must be filed no later than ten (10) working days from the date of this notification. During the pending of the appeal, the designated quarantine boundary under appeal shall remain in effect. 

    Mail Appeals to: CDFA – Citrus Division 1220 N Street Sacramento, CA 95814 

    Electronic Notification of Boundary Changes 

    California Code of Regulation allows interested parties to be notified of quarantine area boundary changes, as well as the opportunity to submit quarantine boundary appeals. If interested in receiving notifications, please sign up for regulatory updates through the email notification at: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/CADFA/subscriber/new 

    For questions regarding the regulations or map, please email Raymond Niem (Raymond.Niem@cdfa.ca.gov) or call 916-274-6300. — Story contributed by the California Department of Food and Ag

  • Almond Market Looks Strong Going Into 2027

    The almond industry is entering the new crop year from a solid position according to a recent market update from Blue Diamond Growers. This is thanks in no small part to exports to India.

    The 470.7-million-pound carry-in (of which only 447.1 million pounds is estimated as edible) is down from prior year and confirms the tightness in supply from one crop to the next. Downward pressure on crop potential and overall supply and demand fundamentals continue to support a stable-to-firm market outlook. Export demand remains healthy with the coming weeks expected to provide clarity on crop size, kernel sizing, and the degree to which rapidly appreciated pricing can be absorbed by end markets.

    The 2026 crop year started on a positive note, meeting strong industry expectations. August shipments totaled 190 million pounds. Exports reached 143.2 million pounds, an increase of 31%, while the domestic market shipped 46.8 million pounds at a modest -3.3% decrease versus last year. With six of the last seven last months’ total shipments outpacing previous year, the industry continues to experience strength in global demand.

    India was the clear standout in August, receiving 44.3 million pounds, up approximately 170% from 16.4 million pounds last year. The increase reflects stronger replenishment ahead of the festival season and a normalization from the unusually low August 2025 shipment level. The magnitude of the increase is notable given elevated pricing and confirms India’s continued importance as the primary outlet for California inshell almonds. Local consumption will become increasingly important ahead of festival season as buyers will begin to replenish stocks that dwindled at the end of the 2025 crop year.

    August domestic shipments totaled 46.8 million pounds, down 3.3% year over year. While this may not have been the start to the year the industry had hoped for, the improvement in shipment performance over the last six months provides optimism that the market has stabilized. As prices rose over the last month, purchasing activity slowed and shifted to closer, strategic locations. This cautious approach is expected to continue. Looking ahead, domestic demand is expected to remain steady, with a pipeline of commitments providing support for shipments in the next few months.

    The 2026 crop is progressing rapidly with current receipts for August coming in at 401.9 million pounds. The pacing of receipts is 55% above August 2025 due to harvest beginning approximately 2 weeks earlier than prior year. The increase in receipts over last year is not a reflection of projected crop receipts for 2026.
    Nonpareil and Independence varieties are largely harvested with pollinizer varieties following closely behind. In some of the most advanced areas, growers have completed orchard harvest activities and are focusing on post-harvest practices and minimizing water stress to support next season’s crop.

    Current Nonpareil reject levels are the lowest in several years, though ticking up slightly, driven by a third flight of navel orangeworm. Independence rejects are trending higher than last year, mainly due to brown spot from leaf-footed plant bugs.

    Yields are variable in Nonpareil and Independence depending on the region. Speculation on smaller kernel sizes coming into harvest are beginning to be realized. Yields in Nonpareil and Independence receipts are signaling a lower 2026 crop than 2025, as forecasted. There is continued downward pressure on crop potential, which will be informed by pollinizer varieties that hullers are beginning to process. Next month’s report may reflect further shifts to the forecast as pollinizer volume comes in and is accounted for.

  • Prune Board Looks to Seize on Good Harvest

    Prune growers enjoyed a more sizable harvest than last year, with excellent quality despite the early start. It now comes down to getting the word out about buying and consuming California prunes. Kiaran Locy from the California Prune Board spoke with Matthew Malcolm with California Ag Network to discuss efforts to promote and market their crop. Watch this quick video and learn more in California Fruit & Vegetable Magazine.