California Ag Network

Category: Ag Economics

  • Nominate Local California Teachers for Top Ag Educator Award

    Agricultural educators play a crucial role within their communities by investing countless hours to prepare and empower students for successful careers in the industry. In recognition of their invaluable contributions and to offer additional resources for their programs, Nationwide introduced the Golden Owl Award in 2018.

    Since its inception, the Golden Owl Award has awarded nearly half a million dollars to support teachers, students, and FFA programs. Last year, there were over 3,500 nominations across 11 participating states. Due to its positive impact and popularity, the award is expanding this year to include Kentucky and Maryland.

    “Agricultural educators are so much more than teachers; they’re community servants who are shaping the leaders of tomorrow,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Together with our partners, we encourage students, parents, fellow teachers and other community members to nominate their agricultural teachers to acknowledge their hard work.”

    The California FFA Foundation, in partnership with Nationwide and the California Farm Bureau, is now accepting nominations for California’s top agricultural teachers for a chance to be named as the Ag Educator of the Year. Nominate any California agricultural educator for the 2024-2025 Golden Owl Award from September 1, 2024, through January 17, 2025.

    After the nomination period closes on January 17, a selection committee will evaluate nominations and select six finalists in California. These finalists will be recognized in front of their peers and students, receiving a personalized plaque and $500 award. One finalist will then be chosen as the grand prize winner, earning the 2024-2025 Agricultural Educator of the Year title for California, along with the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy and an additional $3,000 to help fund future educational efforts.

    Highlighting the profound influence of the FFA, California Farm Bureau President and FFA alumna Shannon Douglass emphasized the significant impact it has on shaping leaders in agriculture. “Farm Bureau sees first hand the tremendous impact that FFA makes, as many of our current leaders across agriculture have roots in FFA,” reflected Douglass. “We are so appreciative of the hard-working ag teachers who provide a great foundation for FFA members that in turn benefits all of agriculture.”

    The 2023-2024 Golden Owl Award recognized 79 exceptional agricultural teachers, including 11 Ag Educators of the Year. This year, the award program will recognize leading agricultural teachers across 13 states: California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota.

    Nationwide is committed to supporting the future of agriculture through meaningful sponsorships of national and local organizations. In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is donating $5,000 to the California FFA Foundation, to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers and advisors alike.

    The owl, a symbol of knowledge and wisdom, is one of the five symbols in the FFA emblem. It inspired the name of the Golden Owl Award program, reflecting the dedication and investment agriculture teachers make to empower their students.

    To learn more about the Golden Owl Award, visit GoldenOwlAward.com.

    About the California FFA Foundation

    The California FFA Foundation serves more than 104,000 California students and strives to make a difference in their lives by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. To learn more about the California FFA, visit calaged.org.

    About Nationwide

    Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified financial services and insurance organizations in the United States. Nationwide is rated A+ by Standard & Poor’s. An industry leader in driving customer-focused innovation, Nationwide provides a full range of insurance and financial services products including auto, business, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; excess & surplus, specialty and surety; and pet, motorcycle and boat insurance. For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.

  • Rodale Institute Partners with California Farmers to Transition to Regenerative Organic Farming

    Rodale Institute, the global leader in regenerative organic agriculture, has received $1M from Holdfast Collective, Patagonia’s non profit shareholder. The grant will serve as a catalyst in funding the Institute’s work providing technical assistance, business planning services, and equipment stipends to historically underserved farmers and ranchers in Ventura County. The California Department of Food and Agriculture will provide an additional $1.5M to total a $2.5M investment as the organization continues to raise funds for these and other critical projects across the country.“These grants allow Rodale Institute to work alongside some of the most innovative and community-minded farmers in America today,” said Rodale Institute CEO Jeff Tkach, “We look forward to collaborating with local growers, nonprofits, institutions, and individuals to build a more healthy and just food system.”The California Organic Center in Camarillo will serve as the hub for demonstrations of regenerative organic practices in Ventura County. Rodale Institute agronomists will be consulting directly with farmers to help with crop selection, marketing coordination, as well as Organic and Regenerative Organic Certifications.

    “Rodale Institute is filling a unique void that universities and agricultural extension offices are not currently providing for farmers who seek to transition to organic and Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) production,” Tkach continued. “Farmers are demanding practical science that improves regenerative organic methods in Ventura County, and Rodale’s campus in Camarillo is a trusted resource. With financial support from the Holdfast Collective and CDFA—coupled with Rodale Institute’s expert guidance and technical assistance—Ventura’s producers will be empowered to successfully adopt organic practices and receive ROC certification.”

    Rodale Institute and Patagonia, owned by Holdfast Collective, share similar values to “Protect our home planet.” Patagonia aims to work to reduce its impact, share solutions, and embrace regenerative practices while partnering with grassroots organizations and frontline communities to restore lands, air, and waters to a state of health.

    “Rodale Institute is peerless,” said Greg Curtis, Holdfast Collective Executive Director. “They’ve just been around and they understand. They’ve got a reputation and a way of showing up that is important for us, because it’s incredibly important for whatever we’re funding to be effective.”

    This investment contributes to Rodale Institute’s mission to accelerate the regenerative organic movement through a unique, holistic approach that spans world-class scientific research, farmer education and training, and technical support for farmers and companies. The project began in June 2024 and will continue until May 2026. To learn more, contact california@rodaleinstitute.org.

    ABOUT RODALE INSTITUTE
    Rodale Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to growing the regenerative organic agriculture movement through rigorous research, farmer training, and education. The Institute’s groundbreaking science and direct farmer support programs serve as a catalyst for change in farming and food production worldwide. Over its 77-year history, Rodale Institute has proven that organic farming is not only viable but essential to humanity’s survival.

    ABOUT HOLDFAST COLLECTIVE
    The Holdfast Collective is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization that owns 100% of Patagonia’s non-voting stock. The organization is committed to combating the environmental crisis, protecting nature and biodiversity, and supporting thriving communities.

  • National Farmer’s Day Celebrated with Fourth Annual SuperTractors Competition

    As an important part of its ongoing commitment to honoring the hard work of North American farmers, Shell Rotella is pleased to announce the fourth annual SuperTractors competition, coinciding with National Farmer’s Day. Launched in 2021, this virtual event encourages farmers to showcase their impressive tractors, drawing inspiration from Shell Rotella SuperRigs®, which recently celebrated 42 years of recognizing the best-looking working trucks in North America.

    From September 16-26, farmers across North America can enter their unique farm equipment in the SuperTractors competition for a chance to win $250, 10,000 MyMilesMatter points, and a custom Shell Rotella-branded Carhartt jacket. To participate, farmers can submit a photo along with a brief explanation of why their tractor deserves to win at super-tractors.mymilesmatter.com/peopleschoice.

    MyMilesMatter members can cast their votes for their favorite tractor once a day from September 27 through October 9 atwww.mymilesmatter.com/supertractors/peopleschoice (US) or    www.mymilesmatter.ca/supertractors/peopleschoice (Canada). The contestant with the most fan votes will be contacted by an authorized representative. The winner will be announced by Farmer Grayce via Shell Rotella social media channels on October 12 in celebration of National Farmer’s Day.

    “These farmers embody dedication, putting in countless hours to help provide for their communities across North America,” said Julie Wright, North American Brand Manager at Shell Rotella. “As we approach National Farmer’s Day, our goal is to celebrate these agricultural champions by showcasing the deep pride they have in their work and equipment through our annual SuperTractors contest.”

    Key Dates:

    • Participants can enter the competition during the following time frame:
      • Start date: September 16 – 12:00 PM CT
      • End date: September 26 – 5:00 PM CT
    • Consumer voting will last for ten days:
      • Start date: September 27 – 10:00 AM CT
      • End Date: October 9 – 8:00 AM CT

    Shell Rotella is committed to supporting the agricultural community and recognizing the hardworking individuals who help keep North American farms moving forward.

    Contest is valid in the 50 US, DC, and Canada. Void in Quebec and where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. Terms apply. For full Official Rules and more details, visit www.mymilesmatter.com/supertractors/rules (US) or www.mymilesmatter.ca/supertractors/rules (Canada).

    For more information about Shell Rotella products, visit www.rotella.com. Be sure to follow Shell Rotella on Facebook, X and Instagram for additional updates and photos from the competition. Join the conversation using the hashtag #SuperTractors.

  • Raisin Bargaining Association Negotiates Early, High Price for 2024 Crop

    The Raisin Bargaining Association (RBA) recently announced the second highest ever minimum price for the 2024 California raisin crop, agreed to by most of their signatory packers. This is pretty historic for the early time of negotiations and in the timely manner in which RBA growers can expect to get paid for their crop. RBA Chairman Charles Salmon and board member Dwayne Cardoza met with American Vineyard Magazine Editor Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network to discuss the terms of the announced price and their strategy for incremental prices increases in the future to bring greater stability to the industry.  Watch this brief interview, and don’t miss the State of the California Raisin Industry address at Malcolm Media’s Grape, Nut & Tree Fruit Expo on Nov. 8th at the Fresno Fairgrounds.  Register to attend free at https://agexpo.biz/.

  • 2024 California Walnut Harvest Begins With More Optimism

    California walnut growers are expecting a shorter crop this year, but high quality product. With a lower carry-in inventory, things are looking more positive in the market ahead. Watch this brief interview with Robert Verloop, CEO of the California Walnut Board & Commission, as he met with Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network to share highlights of this year’s walnut crop and a look at global market trends. Verloop will be sharing the State of the Walnut Industry report at Malcolm Media’s Grape, Nut & Tree Fruit Expo on Nov. 8th at the Fresno Fairgrounds and at the Tree & Vine Expo on Nov. 12th at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds, so be sure to register to attend free at https://agexpo.biz/.

  • California Navel Orange Forecast Up from Last Year

    The initial 2024-25 California Navel orange forecast is 78.0 million cartons, up 2% from the previous year. These forecasts are based on the results of the 2024-25 Navel Orange Objective Measurement (O.M.) Survey, which was conducted from June 8 to August 25, 2024. Estimated fruit set per tree, fruit diameter, trees per acre, bearing acreage, and oranges per box were used in the statistical models estimating production.

    This forecast includes production of conventional, organic, and specialty Navel oranges (including Cara Cara and Blood orange varieties).

    Survey data indicated a fruit set per tree of 414, up 24% from the previous year. The average September 1 diameter was 2.063 inches, down 5% from last year. Bearing acreage is estimated at 110,000, which results in a forecasted yield of 709 cartons per acre.

    CARA CARA PRODUCTION FORECAST

    Cara Cara variety production is forecast at 9.0 million cartons. Survey data indicated a fruit set per tree of 301, up 10% from the previous year and 15% above the five-year average of 262. The average diameter on September 1 was 2.142 inches, 2% below the previous year and 2% below the five-year average of 2.180 inches.

    SURVEY SAMPLE

    A sample of 804 Navel orange groves was randomly selected proportional to county and variety bearing acreage, and 749 of the groves were utilized in this survey. Once a grove was randomly chosen and grower permission was granted, two trees were randomly selected.

    For each randomly selected tree, the trunk was measured along with all connected branches. A random number table was then used to select a branch, and then all connected branches from the randomly selected branch were measured.

    This process was repeated until a branch was reached with no significant limbs beyond this point. This randomly selected branch, called the terminal branch, was then closely inspected to count all fruit connected to this branch, as well as all of the fruit along the path from the trunk to the terminal branch. Since each selected path has a probability of selection associated with the path, a probability-based method was then applied to estimate a fruit count for the entire tree.

    In the last week of the survey period, fruit diameter measurements were made on the right quadrant of four trees surrounding the two trees of every third grove. These measurements were used to estimate an average fruit diameter per tree. Of the 749 utilized groves, 126 were in Fresno County, 425 were in Tulare County, 171 were in Kern County, and 27 were in the remaining counties.

    SURVEY HISTORY

    A Navel Orange Objective Measurement Survey has been conducted in the Central Valley every year since the 1984-85 crop year, except for the 1991-92 season due to a lack of funding. The data from the first two years were used for research purposes in developing crop-estimating models. The Cara Cara forecast was undertaken at the request of the California Citrus Advisory Committee starting with the 2018-19 crop year.

    Beginning in the 2023-24 crop year, only state level forecasts will be published, and the Central Valley forecasts will be discontinued.

  • Ag Processing Labor Contractor Thoughts on New Indoor Heat Illness Rule

    California has experienced an unusually hot Summer this year, which may have had influence in Cal/OSHA’s recent approval of a new regulation “Heat Illness Prevention in Indoor Places of Employment” that went into effect immediately, which impacts indoor workplaces in ag such as nut hulling and processing facilities, wineries, dairies, packinghouses and more. Key indoor temperature/heat index thresholds of 82 & 87 degrees F will mandate certain procedures to ensure the health and safety of employees. Looking into the impact of the new regulation, Matthew Malcolm visited with labor contractor Robert Heredia of H&R Labor, who specializes in meeting the labor needs of food processing facilities in one of the hottest regions in the nation — the Central Valley of California. Watch this brief interview as Heredia shares his thoughts on the recent changes.

    Special thanks to American Pistachio Growers for sponsoring this video.

  • Coach Prime Turns to Almond Research to Help with Exercise Recovery

    Almond Board of California — Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders is using all his coaching tools to prepare for the college football season ahead. Those include his Prime Time swagger, electric motivational style, and his unique partnership with California Almonds, which opened his eyes to research showing almonds can help with recovery from workouts.

    One of the most singular motivators in college sports, Coach Prime works to prepare his players mentally and physically, both before and after practice and games. Sanders says recovering from workouts doesn’t have to be complicated — it can be as simple as fueling up on two servings of almonds (about 46) daily.

    “You gotta WANT it, then you gotta WORK it, which then places you in a position to WIN IT. And to WIN IT, you gotta take care of YOU and make sure your recovery is right,” says Coach Prime. “We are working day in and day out to DOMINATE both on the field and off, which is why I make sure almonds are a part of my life each day. You already know we WANT it, and almonds help us WORK IT, and then WIN IT. IT DON’T STOP, BABY!”

    Groundbreaking research shows that most study participants who ate two servings of almonds, (vs. a calorie matched cereal bar,) four weeks prior, reported reduced fatigue and tension, increased leg and lower back strength during recovery after completing 90-minutes of exercise, and decreased muscle damage during the first day of recovery after completing the exercise.

    This research, funded by the Almond Board of California, was conducted over four weeks among 64 U.S. adults ages 30 – 65 who are occasional exercisers.

    Coach Prime’s partnership with California Almonds became one of the most high-profile sponsorships in college sports in 2023 and is kicking off a second year. He says often that he learned how snacking on almonds can help with exercise and exercise recovery.

    Fans can catch Coach Prime and California Almonds at the start of the college football season with ads airing on national and cable TV networks like ABC, NBC, Fox, ESPN, and on social media. For more tips on how to own your prime from Coach Prime himself, visit almonds.com and follow California Almonds on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

  • California Association of Winegrape Growers 2025 Awards of Excellence Honorees

    The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) is excited to announce the selection of the Miller Family – The Thornhill Companies of Santa Barbara County as its 2025 Grower of the Year, and Randy Heinzen, President of Vineyard Professional Services as its 2025 Leader of the Year.

    “We applaud the outstanding leadership of the Miller Family and Randy Heinzen, whose contributions have helped elevate the winegrape industry while inspiring positive change,” said CAWG President Natalie Collins.

    “The Miller family’s enduring commitment to the California winegrape industry is truly remarkable. Their leadership in sustainable farming practices and active engagement in industry advocacy have greatly strengthened the entire winegrape community,” shared Collins. “Their dedication has made a lasting impact, benefiting not only their own vineyards but on shaping the future of California’s winegrape industry.”

    “Randy Heinzen exemplifies the kind of leadership that propels the entire winegrape industry forward. His commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community engagement has set a standard that inspires others,” Collins continued. “Randy’s contributions reflect his dedication to the success of our growers and the future of the industry. We are fortunate to have such a visionary and passionate leader within our community.”

    2025 CAWG GROWER OF THE YEAR

    The Grower of the Year Award, the highest honor bestowed by CAWG, recognizes individuals, families, or companies for exceptional excellence in viticulture, successful management, innovation, and leadership within the industry.

    The Miller family’s farming heritage on the Central Coast spans five generations. In 1969, brothers Bob and Steve Miller embarked on a mission to create a vineyard that would be recognized among the world’s elite. Their effort culminated in the planting of the Bien Nacido and French Camp Vineyards, a project that also honored their family’s 100th year of farming in California. Today, Bien Nacido is recognized as one of California’s finest vineyards and ranks among the top 25 vineyards in the world.

    The Miller Family led by Stephen Miller and his sons Marshall and Nicholas, have played a pivotal role in fostering the wine industry in Santa Barbara County and the Central Coast, collaborating with artisan winemakers to help the region flourish. Their commitment extended to launching two custom crush facilities on the Central Coast designed to support local wineries and bolster the industry. The family takes pride in their partnerships with winery customers, working closely to transform their grapes into premium wines enjoyed around the world.

    The Miller family not only holds a significant presence on the Central Coast but also stands as trailblazers in terms of industry leadership. The family is highly engaged in leadership at the local and state levels industry-wide and have been active CAWG members.

    “Part of what makes the winegrape business so special is the fraternity of those who are in it,” said Marshall Miller. “To be recognized by our peers feels like the highest form of compliment and we take this award with the greatest sense of appreciation.

    Randy Heinzen, owner and President of Vineyard Professional Services

    2025  CAWG LEADER OF THE YEAR

    The Leader of the Year Award recognizes an individual whose record of exceptional leadership has benefited California’s wine industry.

    Randy Heinzen, owner and President of Vineyard Professional Services (VPS) and first-generation winegrape grower in Paso Robles, exemplifies the intersection of innovation, community engagement, and environmental stewardship in viticulture. Randy’s dedication to both professional excellence and environmental responsibility ensures that growers are equipped with the knowledge and tools to produce exceptional winegrapes while minimizing their environmental footprint.

    Heinzen’s leadership in viticulture is fueled by his unwavering commitment to sustainability and excellence in every facet of the industry. His dedication to the winegrape community is evident through his active involvement in numerous organizations. Heinzen approaches these contributions with intention, striving to make a meaningful impact on his colleagues, clients, and the entire viticulture community.

    “It’s hard to consider receiving this award in light of the accomplishments and stature of those previously awarded,” comments Heinzen. “If anything, this acknowledgment serves as a challenge to me to justify it by advocating even more fiercely for winegrapes to be crowned as our State’s most water-efficient, locally distinct, soul-affirming, gathering-inducing, heart-healthy, and best-tasting agriculture product.”

    RECEPTION

    To honor and celebrate the awardees, CAWG will be hosting an Awards of Excellence Reception on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. The reception will be held during the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium, immediately following the welcome reception at the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Sacramento. All are invited to attend and help us celebrate the contributions of both the Miller Family and Randy Heinzen.

  • Whole Vine Festival, 2nd Edition, to be Dedicated to Jon Marthedal

    As grape growers and consumers prepare to gather and celebrate the San Joaquin Valley grape industry, Saturday, October 19 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) and Sunday, October 20 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) at the Whole Vine Festival on the Fresno State Campus, festival organizers are pleased to announce the dedication of the second year of the Festival to Central Valley grape grower Jon Marthedal.

    Marthedal’s family has been farming in the Valley for over a century, and he has valiantly carried on the legacy of feeding the world as a responsible steward of the land. It is very fitting for Marthedal to be receiving this special honor on the grounds of his alma mater, Fresno State, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Ag Business. In addition to farming grapes, blueberries and almonds, Marthedal provides custom farming services for many of his neighbors and serves on numerous boards and committees in the community, such as the Farm Credit Council and the Raisin Administrative Committee.

    “I met Jon Marthedal while he was serving as the Chairman of Sun-Maid Growers,” shared Whole Vine Festival President Vickie Goudreau.  “Jon, along with Nat DiBuduo who we dedicated our inaugural Whole Vine Festival to, has been a great mentor and rallying supporter of the Whole Vine Festival.  Jon and I have had countless conversations that have helped shape the Festival to what we enjoy today. I have often called him my ‘corner man’ as he has coached me through hard things. He shared the vision of a festival celebrating the rich heritage of grape-growing and its impact on our Valley communities. He is also a doer and has not hesitated to jump in and help out with the festival in many ways, getting the job done in the true form of a farmer.”

    Jon Marthedal in a California Ag Network interview with Matthew Malcolm, Editor of American Vineyard Magazine

    Matthew Malcolm, Whole Vine Festival Board Member and Editor-in-Chief of American Vineyard Magazine, added, “We are thrilled for the opportunity to honor Jon Marthedal and invite all to join us during the Opening Ceremony in doing so. His commitment to feeding the world, service in the community and ‘behind the scenes’ leadership is unmatched. We are excited to recognize him for that.”

    Marthedal will be honored at the Opening Ceremony, Day 1 of the 2nd Annual Whole Vine Festival at 10:00 a.m. at Fresno State near the Science II Buildings on Saturday, October 19.  All are invited to attend this momentous occasion. For more details on this FREE event, visit https://www.thewholevine.com.

    Jon Marthedal with friends from the California raisin industry in an experimental complete Dried-On-the-Vine raisin vineyard.

    About the Whole Vine Festival

    The mission of the Whole Vine Festival is to bring the community together in celebration of all things related to table grapes, raisins, and wine produced in the San Joaquin Valley, as well as to raise the worth of the Valley in the hearts and minds of its people. The inaugural festival will take place Saturday, October 19 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) and Sunday, October 20 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) at the Fresno State Campus near Barstow and Woodrow.  A festive opportunity for families and individuals of all ages, attendees can enjoy grapes in all forms, a kids fun and educational area, live music, and local food vendors with grape-inspired cuisine.  Admission and parking are free.  Visit www.thewholevine.com to learn more and get involved.