California Ag Network

Category: Featured Post

  • UC Davis Opens Resnick Center for Agricultural Innovation

    The University of California, Davis, celebrated the grand opening of the Resnick Center for Agricultural Innovation.

    Made possible by philanthropic support, including a lead transformative gift from Lynda and Stewart Resnick, through their foundation in 2022, the new center is housed within the UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. The center builds on the university’s longstanding global leadership in agriculture with a focus on translating research into real-world impact.

    “This center represents the best of UC Davis, uniting our strengths in agriculture, engineering and environmental sciences to address challenges facing communities across California and around the world,” said Chancellor Gary S. May. “We are deeply grateful to Lynda and Stewart for their partnership and support, which expand research opportunities and drive solutions that will shape the future of agriculture.”

    Students, faculty, staff, donors and industry partners joined university leaders May 19 to celebrate the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, open house and tours.

    “Lynda and I have always believed that growing more food with fewer resources is one of the most important things we can do,” said Stewart Resnick, chairman of The Wonderful Company. “UC Davis is the leading ag university in the country, and we all have a stake in giving them everything they need to continue leading on this important work. This center will train the next generation, drive practical solutions, and get this urgently needed progress to growers and communities around the world.”

    The Resnick Center reflects a broader commitment from the couple and their foundation, whose $50 million gift to UC Davis in 2022 included $40 million for the facility and $10 million to establish the Resnick Agricultural Innovation Research Fund, advancing research into sustainable uses for agricultural byproducts. Stewart Resnick also serves on the Chancellor’s Board of Advisors, underscoring the Resnicks’ longstanding commitment to the university and its mission.

    The 34,000-square-foot facility includes hands-on learning in an innovative and immersive environment that connects education to research and discovery. Experts across disciplines will work in labs equipped with robotics, sensors, data science and artificial intelligence — technologies transforming how agriculture is managed and scaled. Research efforts will focus on making agricultural systems more resilient, developing advanced technologies, maximizing sustainability through water and energy efficiencies, and expanding access to nutritious food.

    “The new Resnick Center strengthens our ability to integrate research, teaching and extension in ways that directly serve California and beyond,” said Ashley M. Stokes, dean of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. “It creates a dynamic environment where discovery, learning and community engagement come together — accelerating innovation, deepening partnerships with industry, and translating knowledge into real-world solutions. The design and flexibility of the space allow us to reimagine ideas and respond with agility to the evolving needs of our communities.”

    The center will incorporate specialized labs and equipment that bolster efforts to transform agricultural byproducts into useable materials. This work is supported by the annual competitive research grants funded by the Resnicks, through their foundation.

    Over the past three years, UC Davis researchers have explored how agricultural waste — including discarded hulls and shells from California’s iconic specialty crops like almonds, pistachios and pomegranates — can be repurposed as soil amendments, sustainable food products and low-cost industrial materials. The new facility will allow for widespread exploration of even more agricultural crops and potential uses.

    In addition to experiential learning opportunities, the facility houses The Wonderful Scholar Center, a student success hub that offers academic and career advising for more than 50 students who are attending UC Davis on a Wonderful Scholarship. With a commitment to supporting first-generation students, the Resnicks, their foundations and The Wonderful Company have awarded over 3,500 scholarships of up to $40,000, providing mentorship and tutoring support with dedicated coaches, and equipping students with the tools to succeed in college and beyond.

    “As a first-generation college student who grew up around agriculture, I came to UC Davis with a deep appreciation of what farming families are up against. The Wonderful Scholarship brought me here, and this center has shown me how research, innovation, and policy all have to work together to change the future of agriculture,” said Jose Gomez, Wonderful Scholar and second-year political science major. “What the Resnicks have built isn’t just a building. It’s a bridge across disciplines — driving research, innovation, and people forward. I intend to spend my life serving others and advancing solutions that strengthen our communities.”

    “Today marks the beginning of a new era,” Chancellor May said. “The discoveries made inside this building will extend into farms, fields, and communities around the globe, shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for agriculture.” — Story by Courtney Tompkins, UC Davis

  • ‘Beyond the Bag’ Webinar Scheduled for May 28

    The May 28 Dairy Calf & Heifer Association (DCHA) webinar features “Beyond the Bag, Part II: Translating Trends into Real World Calf Nutrition Decisions.” This webinar starts at 2 p.m. Central time (U.S./Canada). Actus Animal Nutrition Senior Director of Innovation Tana Dennis will lead this free, one-hour educational offering. Elizabeth Douglass will moderate the webinar. To register for the webinar, go to: https://bit.ly/ActusNut052826.

    This webinar builds on the “Beyond the Bag” discussion from the 2026 DCHA Annual Conference by shifting the focus from trends and theory to execution and next steps. This presentation will highlight what levers can be pulled in milk replacer formulas to adapt to volatile ingredient markets and expected calf performance differences when adopting alternative ingredients to milk proteins. This presentation will also explore precision and phase feeding concepts and how to assess additives for optimal return on investment. Attendees will leave with practical takeaways they can apply immediately, regardless of whether they feed milk replacer or component-based programs when raising calves.

    Veterinarians and veterinary technicians may earn one Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) credit for attending this DCHA webinar. To learn more about this opportunity, contact JoDee Sattler at: jodee@calfandheifer.org.

    DCHA’s May 28 webinar is sponsored by Actus Animal Nutrition. DCHA does not support one product or company over another, and any mention is not an endorsement by DCHA.

    If you are a DCHA member and cannot attend the live program, you may access the webinar through DCHA’s online Member Center after June 11. To access the webinar recording, DCHA members need to visit https://calfandheifer.org/login and enter their username and password.

    For more information about DCHA’s webinars, e-mail Sue Schatz, DCHA member services director, at: sue@calfandheifer.org. Follow DCHA on social media or visit the DCHA website –www.calfandheifer.org – to learn about future webinars. — Story contributed by the Dairy Calf & Heifer Association

  • Walnut Commission Applauds House Passage of Farm Bill

    The California Walnut Commission applauded the House of Representatives’ passage of the Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2026 saying it was meaningful progress toward renewing federal farm policy.

    “California walnut growers, many of whom are multi-generational family farmers, face distinct production and market challenges that demand thoughtful, long‑term policy solutions, and the farm bill is an important step to that end,” the Commission wrote. “A comprehensive, five‑year farm bill plays a vital role in helping specialty crop producers remain resilient, competitive and able to deliver nutritious products that support the health of Americans and families around the globe.”

    The Farm Bill was passed April 30 and is awaiting signature by Pres. Trump. — Story contributed by the California Walnut Commission   

  • Almond Hulls Get Gras Status

    For decades, almond hulls have had a specific job — to be a low-cost animal feed ingredient. But a recent milestone could open the door to a different future for this familiar byproduct. Based on an extensive evaluation, almond hull powder (AHP) has been confirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use in human food, following a review by an independent expert panel.

    That may sound technical, but for almond growers, this decision has the potential to reshape the conversation around almond hull value.

    First, What Does ‘GRAS’ Actually Mean?

    In plain terms, GRAS status means that qualified experts agree that a food ingredient is safe for people to eat, based on scientific evidence and a long list of safety data. It’s a designation recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is a key factor for any ingredient that wants to enter the human food supply.

    In this case, an independent expert panel reviewed a comprehensive dossier, more than 180 pages, covering how Almond Hull Powder is made, safety for human consumption, how much people might eat and what happens when they do. The panel concluded that AHP is safe for its intended uses in food. The dossier and expert panel findings are finalized and submitted to the FDA.

    Why Almond Hulls?

    Almond hulls make up a significant share of the almond fruit by weight, yet historically they’ve delivered modest returns to growers. Most hulls end up in livestock rations, where they’re valued for fiber and energy, but prices can be volatile and demand is tied closely to dairy and feed markets.

    GRAS status changes the playing field by allowing almond hulls, when processed into Almond Hull Powder, to be used in human food products. According to the expert panel review, AHP can be used in a wide range of foods, including baked goods, cereals, beverages, bars and nutritional products. That doesn’t mean hulls suddenly replace almonds on the grocery shelf. But it does mean there is a pathway where hulls can move beyond feed and into higher-value food ingredient markets.

    What This Could Mean for the Hull Market

    GRAS status doesn’t instantly create new demand, but it removes a major barrier. The expert review means food companies can now seriously explore AHP as an ingredient without having to clear safety hurdles themselves. That opens the door to:

    • New markets beyond traditional feed channels
    • Higher-value applications tied to human nutrition and functional foods
    • More diversified demand, reducing reliance on any single end use

    The announcement also points to the next steps already underway, including finalizing processing parameters and external engagement with food manufacturers and partners.

    For growers, this matters because diversified demand is often the first step toward improved and more stable byproduct economics.

    The Bottom Line for Growers

    Almond Hull Powder earning GRAS status doesn’t change the hull market overnight. But it does something just as important; it expands what’s possible.

    By clearing the scientific and regulatory considerations for human food use, almond hulls move from being only a feed ingredient to becoming a potential food ingredient as well. Over time, that shift could translate into new demand streams, new partnerships, and a stronger value proposition for growers.

    For an industry always looking to make the most of every pound —Story contributed by the Almond Board of California

  • 42nd Carrot Conference Planned by UCANR

    UC Ag and Natural Resources will hold the 42nd International Carrot Conference, scheduled for June 2-3 at the Bakersfield Marriott Convention Center.

    The Carrot Conference is an opportunity to share and discuss research findings and a way for people to exchange ideas and concerns in all aspects of carrot production. Topics such as breeding, new products, production, and pest management are discussed in formal paper sessions, poster sessions, and a field tour, as well as other social gatherings.

    The conference also provides continuing education opportunities with 4.5 other DPR hours approved for June 2. More details and an agenda can be found here. For additional information please contact: Jaspreet Sidhu, Kern County Cooperative Extension, 661-868-6222, 661-304-8870. — Contributed by UC Ag and Natural Resources

  • Hass Avocado Board Elections Underway

    The Hass Avocado Board has proceeded with elections with voting taking place electronically. Those who previously registered to vote electronically and/or provided an email address on a past paper ballot should have received an email with voting instructions. For those associated with multiple entities, separate emails have been sent for each entity — each containing a unique username and password for voting. Emails were distributed on April 27 and will come from either noreply@eballot.com or noreply@votenet.com.

    Participants are encouraged to open each email individually and use the corresponding credentials to cast their votes.

    The ballot includes the names and information of nominees running for open seats on the Board. HAB Chair Gwen Jackimek encourages all eligible voters to take the time to participate, emphasizing that every vote is important. — Story contributed by the Hass Avocado Board

  • Blue Diamond Releases May Market Update

    April shipments from Blue Diamond Growers totaled 219.8 million pounds, within industry expectations at an 8.8% decline year over year on the heels of the last two strong shipment reports. April exports reached 167.3 million pounds, down 10.9% from prior year but continue to surpass last year’s pace by 1.3% at 1.55 billion pounds. Domestic shipments for April were mostly flat at 1.3% behind prior year. Domestic year-to-date shipments remain behind at 444 million pounds, down 14.4%. Total industry shipments through April stand at 1.99 billion pounds, down 2.7% versus last year.

    Shipments

    India: For the month of April, India imported 31.6 million pounds, a reduction from last year’s 45.9 million pounds. Compared to last year, the gap has widened to 8%. The market has taken a step back as warmer temperatures have reduced local consumption. India remains a strong player for global inshell consumption and will need to re-engage to secure inventories ahead of new crop supply.

    China/Hong Kong/Vietnam: April 2026 shipments to China/Hong Kong totaled 3.7 million pounds, marking a 110% increase compared to prior year. Shipments to Vietnam reached 4.8 million pounds, down 34% for the month and up 46% year to date. Combined shipments to these regions increased 2.65% year to date.

    Europe: Europe took a slight step back this month, with its growth rate declining year over year from 7% to 4%. The market continues to be a solid performer and reliable outlet for California almonds. Buyer mentality has not changed all year. Calculated and cautious buying activity should be expected to continue through the end of the crop year, with many beginning to shop for new crop coverage. Spain (+17%), Italy (+9%) and Germany (+4%) continue to lead the region’s growth.

    Middle East: The region continues to be hampered by the conflict with Iran. Buyers in the Persian Gulf region continue to take a wait-and-see approach with little appetite for risk. Demand is still present across the region, but logistical challenges and increased transportation costs make it difficult to take positions. Trade flows continue to evolve with new destinations now serving as trade hubs with Dubai unable to participate. Turkey continues to show strength, up 35%, while Pakistan, now up 202%, has emerged as a new throughput option to service the region’s demand. Trade will always find a way if buyers want to engage, but until a resolution is reached, the industry will continue to define a new normal over the coming weeks and months.

    Domestic: The domestic market shipped 52.6 million pounds, resulting in a decrease of 1.3%. April was the second largest shipment month of this crop year, bringing the market year-over-year decrease to 14.4%. Softer monthly sales have led to forward commitments declining by 5.2%. After a long period of steep declines, it appears the domestic market is maintaining its new monthly shipping average just shy of 50 million pounds. With forward commitments of 199 million pounds, this market is well positioned to match prior year’s final quarter shipments of approximately 152 million pounds.

    Commitments

    Total commitments currently stand at 517 million pounds, trailing last year by 1.6%. New sales for the month were subdued in anticipation of the Subjective Estimate and totaled 160.7 million pounds, down from 192.5 million last year. The domestic market secured 39.9 million pounds, while exports added 120.8 million pounds of new coverage. Total commitments for the domestic market are now at 199.6 million pounds while exports have reached 317 million pounds. With softer sales for the month, uncommitted inventory is currently up 4.2% at 605.8 million pounds versus 581.5 million pounds prior year.

    Crop

    The 2025 crop receipts are trickling in with just 4 million pounds added in April, bringing the receipts to approximately 2.69 billion pounds.

    Blue Diamond’s May 9, 2026 Crop Estimate Report projects a California almond crop ranging between 2.675 and 2.72, with a center point of 2.69 billion pounds. The overall estimate reflects a balanced but cautious outlook acknowledging weather impacts, orchard abandonments and summer conditions which determine whether the crop reaches projected potential. The Blue Diamond crop estimate is closely aligned with similar estimates by the USDA Subjective Estimate (2.7 billion pounds) and others in the industry. We will continue to share crop updates in our June Market Report and our July Crop Forecast Report to provide a more precise forecast as we progress through harvest.

  • CAWG Appoints Megan Bell as Public Affairs and External Communications Manager

    The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) added Megan Bell to its team, joining the association as its Public Affairs and External Communications Manager.

    Prior to joining CAWG, Bell was the owner and winemaker of Margins Wine in Santa Cruz County for the past decade, co-managing a vineyard for six of those years. Before starting her winery in 2016, she worked in wineries and on vineyard crews in Livermore Valley, Napa, Willamette Valley, New Zealand and France.

    “Megan’s real-world winery and vineyard experience in California will be a tremendous asset to our organization,” said CAWG President Natalie Collins. “Her firsthand understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the industry will strengthen CAWG’s ability to communicate and advocate on behalf of California wine grape growers.”

    “The opportunity to advocate for California’s winegrape growers is a natural next step in continuing to serve an industry which I am deeply committed to,” Bell said. “I look forward to sharing the stories of winegrape growers and helping to advance our collective goals.”

    In her new role as Public Affairs and External Communications Manager, Bell will lead CAWG’s communications efforts to support advocacy, media relations and member engagement. She will help shape the organization’s overall communications strategy, translating complex policy, regulatory, and economic issues into clear and compelling messaging for growers, policymakers and the public. She will also serve as a point of contact for media inquiries and other external communications that elevate the perspectives of California winegrape growers.

    Bell is a UC Davis graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Viticulture & Enology and an English minor. She is also a recent graduate of the California Agricultural Leadership Program. — Story Contributed by California Association of Winegrape Growers

  • ARA and Smartwyre Announce Partnership to Help Retailers Improve Profitability

    The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) and Smartwyre have announced a new partnership designed to help agricultural retailers gain clearer insight into profitability, improve supplier program performance and increase margins by making more informed buying and selling decisions.

    Through this collaboration, Smartwyre will provide ARA members with services and technology offerings aimed at helping retailers better understand and manage key profit drivers within their business.

    As part of the partnership, ARA members will have access to a retail profit health assessment designed to help retailers analyze critical components of their operations, including better data visibility to drive stronger profitability.

    In addition to the assessment, Smartwyre will offer ARA members access to its technology platform and professional services designed to simplify complex commercial processes across retail operations.

    By combining Smartwyre’s commercial technology with ARA’s leadership and network within agricultural retail, the partnership aims to provide retailers with practical tools and insights that support stronger financial performance and more efficient operations.

    Both organizations believe the initiative will help retailers modernize how they manage supplier programs, pricing, and profitability—while reinforcing ARA’s role as a thought leader in supporting innovation in agricultural retail. — Story provided by the Ag Retailers Association

  • Opportunity for Public Comments on McCloud-Pit Hydroelectric Project

    State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board) staff released a “Revised Notice of Opportunity for Public Comments and Board Consideration of Adoption” (Revised Notice) extending the deadline to submit written comments on the “Draft Order Granting In Part and Denying In Part Petitions for Reconsideration and Certifying a Final Subsequent Environmental Impact Report”(Draft Order).

    The State Water Board is now accepting written comments on the Draft Order through noon, May 19.

    The Revised Notice is available on the State Water Board’s webpage: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/board_info/calendar/docs/2026/jun/revnotice-mccloudorder.pdf

    The Draft Order is available on the State Water Board’s McCloud-Pit Hydroelectric Project webpage: https://waterboards.ca.gov/waterrights/water_issues/programs/water_quality_cert/mccloudpit_ferc2106.html

    If you have questions regarding the Project, please contact Savannah Downey at Savannah.Downey@waterboards.ca.gov.

    To receive emails related to the McCloud-Pit Hydroelectric Project and other projects pursuing certifications managed by the State Water Board’s Division of Water Rights, interested persons should enroll in the “Water Rights Water Quality Certification” e-mail notification service. Instructions on how to sign up for the State Water Board’s e-mail notification service are outlined below:

    1. Visit: http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/resources/email_subscriptions/swrcb_subscribe.shtml#rights
    2. Provide your email in the required field, then click the “Submit” button.
    3. In the next page, below Subscription Topics, select “Water Rights”, then “Water Rights Water Quality Certification.”
    4. Click the “Submit” button.
    5. An email will be sent to you. You must respond to the email message to confirm your membership on the selected Subscription Topic(s).

    By enrolling in this email list, commenters will receive notices for other current projects overseen by the Division of Water Rights’ Water Quality Certification Program, including the Proposed Project.