California Ag Network

Category: Featured Post

  • Free CE Course Now Available on Invasive Fruit Flies in California

    The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is offering an updated free Continuing Education (CE) course designed specifically for Pest Control Advisers (PCAs) and other industry professionals focused on invasive pest management.

    Titled Invasive Fruit Flies in California, this was a popular CE course last year. It has been updated for 2026 and provides an in-depth look at the rising pressure of invasive fruit flies (IFF) across the state and the critical role PCAs play in early detection and containment. This course is approved for 1.0 DPR CEUs.

    Participants will:

    • Understand the pest profiles of major IFF species affecting California
    • Learn the triggers that initiate quarantines in the state
    • Explore best practices for supporting growers with timely, science-based recommendations
    • Review the 2023-2026 IFF response strategies
    • Discover innovations shaping the future of pest detection and management

    This complimentary CE course is a valuable resource for PCAs looking to stay informedand proactive in the protection of California’s agricultural economy.

    To enroll, click the button below, sign into your CAPCA.com account, then go to “Online Learning,” then “Shop” to register at no cost.

    — Story contributed by CAPCA

    Enroll Here

  • 2026 Fresno State Grape Day Kicks Off Grape Harvest

    2026 Fresno State Grape Day California’s grape industry came together at Fresno State Grape Day to explore the latest research, innovations and management practices shaping the future of viticulture. From vineyard technology and sustainable growing methods to networking with industry professionals, the biennial event gave growers and researchers the opportunity to share ideas and discover new tools for success.

  • Participants Wanted for Wine Industry Survey

    The wine market is changing as consumers reconsider what they drink, how they make purchasing decisions and the role wine plays in their lives. UC Davis is inviting those in the wine industry to participate in a survey examining industry perspectives on current and emerging wine-consumer behavior.

    This survey is part of a research collaboration involving by Drs. Arran Rumbaugh (USDA Ag Research Service), Ha Nguyen (UC Davis), and Carola Grebitus (Arizona State University).

    The survey focuses on factors that may influence wine consumption and purchasing. The goal is to identify unmet consumer-insight needs and use the findings to inform future consumer research, applied projects, and decision-support tools that address practical industry priorities.

    About the Survey:

    •The survey takes approximately 10–15 minutes to complete.

    •Participants must be at least 21 years old.

    •Participation is voluntary.

    •Responses are anonymous, handled confidentially and reported only in aggregate.

    •Aggregated findings will be shared with participants so they can see perspectives from across the industry.

    Industry professional experience can help ensure that future consumer-behavior research reflects industry realities rather than assumptions.

    Complete the survey

    — Story contributed by UC Davis

  • Huanglongbing Quarantine Boundary Expands in Riverside, San Diego Counties

    Effective July 29, the Department is expanding the HLB quarantine boundary in the Fallbrook and Rainbow areas of San Diego County and into Riverside County (grids 499 and 500). A map of the expanded boundary can be found at https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/citrus/pests_diseases/hlb/regulation.html.

    Also effective July 29, the Department is expanding the Asian Citrus Psyllid Bulk Citrus Regional Quarantine Zone 6 in the both 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, email Raymond Niem (Raymond.Niem@cdfa.ca.gov) or call 916.274.6300.

    — Story contributed to the California Department of Food and Agriculture

  • Can Growers Store Carbon by Changing their Water?

    What if Central Valley Farmers could sequester carbon in their soil by only changing how they treat their irrigation water? That is the question driving a new $500,000 study at Fresno State. If 400,000 acres — 10% of the irrigated acres in California — adopted this practice, over 30 million tons of CO2 could be stored in soil through the water every year, as estimated by the research study’s hypothesis. Currently, less than 1% of the acreage in California is using it.

    “Soil health is what brought me to California, and this study is exactly the kind of work I came here to do. A simple change to water treatment could have a meaningful impact on soil health and carbon sequestration, and this research will help us understand that potential,” said Dr. Sangeeta Bansal, assistant professor of plant science at Fresno State and the principal investigator.

    The study is the largest and longest farm-scale investigation of CO2 in water treatment ever conducted, spanning three years on six working pistachio farms in California’s Central Valley. The California Energy Commission provided primary funding, with support from F3 Innovate.

    ECO2MIX, a Fresno-based agriculture company, is providing the water treatment for the study. Their equipment dissolves CO2 into irrigation water to produce carbonic acid, primarily to adjust water pH.

    “I started ECO2MIX because I saw the damage sulfuric acid was causing to farms and people, and I knew there had to be a better solution, and carbonic acid was exactly that. This study will finally help us understand the additional benefits after water treatment. If this can sequester carbon across the Central Valley through the water, that is a big deal for California sustainability,” said Waldo Moraga, CEO and President of ECO2MIX.

    High-pH irrigation water is common throughout the Central Valley and affects the health of soil and plants. Correcting water pH addresses many problems simultaneously. Carbonic acid also offers a safety advantage over current practices. Other acids are corrosive to equipment and require specialized handling and safety. On the other hand, carbonic acid, the same compound that gives sparkling water its bubbles, is safe to handle.

    “We are always evaluating what tools are available to us as farmers and what they can do for our operation. If the water we are already using can do more for the soil and increase profitability, we want to know about it,” said Joe Coelho, a farmer participating in the research and the Director of Sustainability and Member Outreach for American Pistachio Growers.

    About ECO2MIX

    ECO2MIX provides water pH control as a service by dissolving CO2 in water. The company designs, installs, and operates on-site reactors that treat irrigation water, which supports nutrient availability and efficient irrigation with additional soil health and sustainability benefits. ECO2MIX serves production agriculture and golf customers across high-pH water regions of the United States. For more information, visit www.eco2mix.com. For interviews or farm visits, contact Waldo Moraga at cherbert@eco2mix.com or call 559-321-7917.

  • ‘The Future Starts Here’ at Dairy Forum 2027

    The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announced that registration for Dairy Forum 2027 is now open.

    From Jan. 24–27, more than 1,200 leaders from across the dairy supply chain will gather in Orlando, for the industry’s premier annual event. Hosted at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, Dairy Forum 2027 will bring together executives from dairy processors, cooperatives, retailers and suppliers to explore what is next for the industry and chart a path forward in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

    The 2027 event theme, “The Future Starts Here,” spotlights the ideas, innovations and inflection points set to define what’s on the horizon for the dairy industry. From breakthrough technologies and evolving consumer expectations to shifting policy landscapes, Dairy Forum 2027 will explore how the industry can anticipate change and lead it. Attendees will walk away with a clearer understanding of what is ahead and how to position their businesses to thrive in a more dynamic, competitive environment.

    “Dairy Forum 2027 is where forward-thinking leaders come to get ahead of what is next,” said IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes. “It is an opportunity to challenge assumptions, explore new possibilities and gain the perspective needed to make confident decisions in a rapidly changing world. The insights and connections built here will help shape the future of dairy for years to come.”

    Dairy Forum will feature main sessions, deep-dive discussions, panel conversations, and special presentations from industry leaders and conference partners. Attendees will hear from experts in business leadership, technology, nutrition, sustainability, and food policy, with a focus on what lies ahead for the dairy sector.

    Set across more than 500 acres of natural landscapes, lakes, and working farmland, the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes offers a distinctive setting for both business and connection. The property features world-class amenities, including championship golf, a full-service spa, farm-to-table dining, and a range of recreational experiences for attendees and their families.

    Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations seeking to showcase their leadership and engage with the industry’s top decision-makers.

    To register for Dairy Forum 2027 and explore sponsorship opportunities, visit www.dairyforum.com. — Story contributed by the International Dairy Foods Association

  • Raisin Bargaining Association Announces Prices for 2026

    The raisin harvest is underway in California and growers are anxious to know what they’re getting for their crops. The Raisin Bargaining Association is ready to offer a higher bonus for quality raisins, with the organization wanting to incentivize a good product. RBA Chairman Charles Salmon spoke to Matthew Malcolm with American Vineyard to discuss raisin prices this year and what growers can expect. Watch this quick video and learn more in American Vineyard Magazine.

  • Leading Entomologist and PCA: How to Control Navel Orangeworm and Aflatoxin

    How can almond, pistachio, and walnut growers control navel orangeworm and reduce aflatoxin risk? UC Cooperative Extension entomologist Houston Wilson joins pistachio and almond grower and pest control adviser (PCA) Joe Coelho and Arielle O’Connor of the Arizona Cotton Research & Protection Council to discuss practical strategies for preventing infestations, limiting crop damage, and reducing the effects of aflatoxin.

    Presented by title sponsor Liphatech and premier sponsor the Arizona Cotton Research & Protection Council.

    Learn more about postharvest fumigation at https://liphatech.com/

  • 2026 California Fig Season Begins Strong

    Following a successful breba crop, the main crop of the 2026 California Fresh Fig season is officially underway, according to the California Fresh Fig Growers Association (CFFGA). Growers report a healthy crop, excellent fruit quality, and continued enthusiasm for the industry’s newest variety, the Emerald.

    “It was another stable off-season with ideal weather patterns, and our orchards are thriving,” says Karla Stockli, Chief Executive Officer of the CFFGA. “California growers are delivering beautiful, flavorful fruit once again this year, and the Emerald variety continues to generate tremendous excitement, which is contributing to the already growing fig category.”

    The Emerald, introduced commercially in 2025, has quickly become a standout. Similar in shape, color, and flavor to the beloved Calimyrna (no longer grown in California), the Emerald offers a creamy, crème-brûlée-like flavor profile and is self-pollinating (as are all commercially-grown figs from California), making it a reliable performer for growers, retailers and consumers alike.

    “California’s fig growers take tremendous pride in nurturing these orchards, and this year’s main crop is a reflection of that dedication. The fruit quality is outstanding across all varieties, and the Emerald continues to impress with its consistency and flavor,” says Kevin Herman, Chairman of the CFFGA. “It’s an exciting time for our industry as we see strong momentum, expanding consumer interest, and a crop that truly showcases what California agriculture does best.”

    California produces five primary fresh fig varieties, each offering unique flavor notes and culinary versatility:

    • Brown Turkey – Light purple to black skin with a robust, balanced flavor.
    • Emerald – Light green skin with a creamy, crème-brûlée-like flavor.
    • Mission – Purple to black skin with a deep, earthy flavor.
    • Sierra – Light-colored skin with a fresh, sweet flavor.
    • Tiger – Light yellow skin with dark green stripes and a bright red-purple interior, offering fruity raspberry-citrus notes.

    Growers are optimistic about the 2026 main crop, which will follow the successful breba crop that delivered the first Mission figs of the season in May and June. All varieties are available beginning in July and will continue to be through November. The industry expects a crop comparable to last year’s harvest of nearly 10 million pounds.

    While California Fresh Figs shine during their seasonal window, California Dried Figs remain available year-round, offering the same nutrition, flavor, and versatility. Consumers can substitute dried figs for fresh in salads, sandwiches, pizzas, sauces, baked goods, and more to enjoy California figs in every season. — Story contributed by the California Fig Advisory Board and the California Fresh Fig Association

  • Pistachio Week Begins Aug. 10

    Pistachio Week will begin Aug. 10, with restaurants throughout California sharing dishes that showcase American-grown pistachios.

    “Pistachio Week celebrates the culinary versatility of American-grown pistachios by partnering with restaurants, cafés, ice cream shops and other food-service businesses across California to showcase unique pistachio-inspired menu offerings,” American Pistachio Growers (APG) wrote in its promotion.

    This is the fifth year that APG has hosted the event.

    “We’re seeing everything from pistachio-crusted fish to really innovative ice cream flavors at Ampersand,” said APG Marketing Manager Hannah Young. “And we are also tapping into some of the bakeries, coffeeshops, and people are getting really, really excited about playing with pistachios and creating some really great products and recipes from them.”

    Click here for a full list of participating restaurants.