California Ag Network

Category: Ag Economics

  • California Raisins Featured on Business Insider Podcast

    California raisin growers are always asking, “When will the Dancing Raisins come back, or will they ever?” Although not currently part of the raisin market promotions, the Dancing Raisins have returned to the spotlight of mainstream media in a recent Business Insider podcast.  The 45-minute podcast known as Brought to You Byhighlights powerful brands and marketing strategies through the years and how they came to be.  East Coast Showrunner Sarah Wyman recently visited California and several raisin industry members to learn and share the following story of the Dancing Raisins and the raisin industry that created them.

    Wyman shares, “The 1980’s TV commercials for California raisins have been called some of the best ads ever made. The claymation raisins singing and dancing to Marvin Gaye’s “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” became a kids TV show, recorded an album that went platinum, launched a range of toys and costumes, and starred in an Emmy-winning Christmas special. But were they a success for the raisin industry? Or did the dancing California raisins cause more trouble than they were worth?” Listen to the podcast HERE.

  • FSA Adjusts Farm Loan, Disaster, Conservation and Safety Net Programs

    FSA Services Available by Phone Appointment Only: USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) county offices are open by phone appointment only until further notice, and FSA staff are available to continue helping agricultural producers with program signups, loan servicing and other important actions. Additionally, FSA is relaxing the loan-making process and adding flexibilities for servicing direct and guaranteed loans to provide credit to producers in need. FSA Service Centers are open for business by phone appointment only. While our program delivery staff will continue to come into to the office, they will be working with our agricultural producers by phone and using email and online tools whenever possible.

    “FSA programs and loans are critical to America’s farmers and ranchers, and we want to continue our work with customers while taking precautionary measures to help prevent the spread of coronavirus,” FSA Administrator Richard Fordyce said. “We recognize that farm loans are critical for annual operating and family living expenses, emergency needs and cash flow through times like this. FSA is working to find and use every option and flexibility to provide producers with credit options and other program benefits.”

    FSA is delivering programs and services, including:

    • Farm loans;
    • Commodity loans;
    • Farm Storage Facility Loan program;
    • Disaster assistance programs, including signup for the Wildfire and Hurricane Indemnity Program Plus (this includes producers now eligible because of losses due to drought and excess moisture in 2018 and 2019);
    • Safety net programs, including 2020 signup for the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs;
    • Conservation programs; and
    • Acreage reports.

    Relaxing the Farm Loan-Making Process

    FSA is relaxing the loan-making process, including:

    • Extending the deadline for applicants to complete farm loan applications;
    • Preparing Direct Loans documents even if FSA is unable to complete lien and record searches because of closed government buildings. Once those searches are complete, FSA would close the loan; and
    • Closing loans if the required lien position on the primary security is perfected, even for loans that require additional security and those lien searches, filings and recordings cannot be obtained because of closed government buildings.

    Servicing Direct Loans

    FSA is extending deadlines for producers to respond to loan servicing actions, including loan deferral consideration for financially distressed and delinquent borrowers.

    FSA will temporarily suspend loan accelerations, non-judicial foreclosures, and referring foreclosures to the Department of Justice. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will make the determination whether to stop foreclosures and evictions on accounts under its jurisdiction.

    Servicing Guaranteed Loans

    Guarantee lenders can self-certify, providing their borrowers with:

    • Subsequent-year operating loan advances on lines of credit;
    • Emergency advances on lines of credit.

    FSA will consider guaranteed lender requests for:

    • Temporary payment deferral consideration when borrowers do not have a feasible plan reflecting that family living expenses, operating expenses and debt can be repaid; and
    • Temporary forbearance consideration for borrowers on loan liquidation and foreclosure actions.

    Contacting FSA

    FSA will be accepting additional forms and applications by facsimile or electronic signature. Some services are also available online to customers with an eAuth account, which provides access to the farmers.gov portal where producers can view USDA farm loan information and payments and view and track certain USDA program applications and payments. Customers can track payments, report completed practices, request conservation assistance and electronically sign documents. Customers who do not already have an eAuth account can enroll at farmers.gov/sign-in.

    FSA encourages producers to contact their county office to discuss these programs and temporary changes to farm loan deadlines and the loan servicing options available. For Service Center contact information, visit farmers.gov/coronavirus.

  • USDA-APHIS Impact Report: Protecting 900 Million Acres of Farmland

    The USDA seal includes the inscription “Agriculture is the foundation of manufacturing and commerce.” It’s fair to say that it is also the foundation of a stable and caring society because agriculture feeds and clothes the people. For nearly 50 years, it’s been the job of APHIS to protect American agriculture’s ability to feed and clothe the world by keeping it healthy. Every American and untold millions of people around the world benefit from healthy and profitable U.S. farms and ranches. It is my honor on behalf of over 8,400 employees, working in all 50 States, 4 territories, and 35 countries to report to you on APHIS’ accomplishments in 2019. Some of the highlights include:

    • 100 percent of the United States is now free of the plum pox virus, thanks to the work of Plant Protection and Quarantine, ending a 20-year battle with the most devastating viral disease of stone fruit worldwide.
    • Unlike those in many countries, Americans don’t have to face African swine fever and foot-and-mouth disease, because Veterinary Services ensured there were no incursions of these most devastating of foreign animal diseases.
    •  More than 700 million air passengers flew more safely because Wildlife Services protected them from wildlife strikes at more than 870 U.S. airports and military bases around the globe.
    •  Dogs in breeding operations, primates in research projects, and zoo animals all were safer and healthier because 99 percent of Animal Welfare Act (AWA) licensees and registrants are in substantial compliance thanks to inspections, guidance, and outreach by Animal Care.
    •  All Americans have a more abundant and more affordable food supply, and many others overcame devastating hardships, because more than 1,300 APHIS employees took time away from their families, homes, and regular duties to fight 38 emergency incidents like pest and disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and other threats to U.S. agriculture and health and safety.

    And that’s just a small representation of the things reflected in our 2019 Impact Report. Please consider these numbers:

    • APHIS protected 900 million acres of U.S. farmland.
    • APHIS made it possible for $137 billion in U.S. agricultural exports to move around the world.
    • APHIS helped keep 21.6 million Americans employed in U.S. agriculture, food, and related industries.

    I hope you’ll take some time to review the APHIS 2019 Impact Report to find out more about the impact of

    our work across the nation and worldwide.

     

    You can also find more information about the impact of APHIS’ work by viewing the short videos linked below. Our Deputy Administrators tell the story of an agency with many missions, but one common purpose: keeping the American people fed, clothed, and safe.

    Kevin Shea

    Administrator

     

     

    Deputy Administrator Video Messages:

     

    Animal Health 

    Deputy Administrator Burke Healey

     

    Animal Welfare

    Deputy Administrator Betty Goldentyer

     

    Biotechnology

    Deputy Administrator Bernadette Juarez

     

    Global Trade

    Deputy Administrator Cheryle Blakely

     

    Plant Health

    Deputy Administrator Osama El-Lissy

     

    Wildlife Damage Management

    Deputy Administrator Janet Bucknall

     

  • American Flower Industry Suffering Staggering Losses

    The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has American consumers focused on purchasing necessities like toilet paper, hand soap and food. What they’re not purchasing is flowers on their way to check out, and that’s a problem.

    In a conference call on Friday, March 20, over 50 California flower farmers discussed the devastation their farming industry is experiencing due to lack of demand from consumers,  canceled orders from industry outlets and transportation line shutdowns. The bottom line, according to American flower farmers: If the general public doesn’t start buying American Grown Flowers immediately, the American flower industry, its farmers, wholesale distributors, retail designers and all the people who work in those businesses cannot survive.

    In fact, several flower farmers on the call said they’re less than a week away from complete ruin. “America’s flower farmers, the floral industry and all of their employees are teetering on economic devastation” said Dave Pruitt, CEO for The California Cut Flower Commission and administrator of Certified American Grown Flowers. “These people literally cannot hold on without support from consumers. We urge our fellow Americans to please consider purchasing fresh American Grown Flowers and Greens the next time you’re in the store, and ask for our flowers to be added back into the distribution pipeline as a valued agricultural commodity.”

    While a handful of retailers nationwide continue to carry flowers, many grocery brands and distributors are canceling orders or turning deliveries away. Farmers also express difficulty with getting their blooms and greens transported due to confusion around agricultural products and their exemption from the restrictions. “Our Certified American Grown farmers are out in their local communities now assisting the overworked people in the best ways we know – delivering flowers and greens to help alleviate stress and bring moments of joy. We encourage you all to BUY FLOWERS where you can, SHARE THEM and let’s make sure that all farmers are still in business when this crisis is over. Once gone, a farm may be gone forever,” said Rita Jo Shoultz, owner of Alaska Perfect Peony and chair of the Certified American Grown Council.

    “A Rutger’s University Study indicated that flowers bring happiness. In the home, they support self care, provide joy, hope and healing,” Shoultz added. “Flowers help counteract negative messages and darkness prevalent at this very moment. Flowers will assuage troubled minds and bring peace to hearts and souls in this time of anxiety and fear.”

    Today, flower farmers are asking consumers to purchase a bunch of flowers next time they’re in stores to buy essentials. That purchase could make the difference in an entire industry – one we count on to add beauty to life’s celebrations, express love and decorate our homes.

    About Certified American Grown

    Launched on July 1, 2014, Certified American Grown Flowers represents a unified and diverse coalition of U.S. flower farms, including small and large entities in multiple states across the country. Certified American grown flower farms participate in an independent, third-party supply-chain audit to verify both origin and assembly of the flowers they grow. When it appears on bouquets, bunches and other packaging or store signage, the Certified American Grown Flowers logo gives consumers confidence in the source of their flowers and assures them that the flowers they purchase come from a domestic American flower farm. For more information about Certified American Grown Flowers, visit americangrownflowers.com.

    About the California Cut Flower Commission

    The California Cut Flower Commission (CCFC) unites the state’s approximately 225 flower farmers to advance California’s $320 million flower industry. In addition to providing cooperative marketing opportunities and administering advocacy efforts, the commission has positioned the California Grown brand as a highly recognizable, consumer-facing brand to drive sales of the state’s fresh flowers and foliage. Learn more at ccfc.org.

     

     

  • House Approves, Trump Signs Coronavirus Stimulus into Law

    President Donald J. Trump today signed the “Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act” (CARES Act) into law with provisions to provide financially distressed consumers and small businesses greater access to business loans and bankruptcy relief. The legislative package, which quickly passed the House of Representatives on a voice vote earlier today and 96-0 in the Senate on Wednesday, provides a $2 trillion economic stimulus for U.S. industries and citizens faced with the challenges of the COVID-19 coronavirus.

    Upon passage of the stimulus package, Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) President and CEO Daren Coppock shared, “We recognize that the health and safety of all people is a priority at this time. ARA is grateful that Congress is taking swift action to remedy the current situation in our country through passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).  Ag retailers and their farmer customers, as always, are committed to continuing their businesses so that they can deliver the safe, healthy, and abundant food supply that is in demand now and required for the future.  We are pleased with the support that Congress has included for the agriculture industry in this bill, and encourage the president to sign it so that we can have certainty moving forward.”

    National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) President and CEO Jim Mulhern offered the following statement:

    “We thank President Trump for quickly signing this measure into law. It will provide much-needed help to dairy producers, who are experiencing steep drops in milk and dairy-product prices due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  With the CARES Act now law, we look forward to working with Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue on several important initiatives, including the need for a significant purchase of multiple dairy products. These efforts will be important to address sales lost because of COVID-19, lift farm milk prices and send a critical signal to disrupted dairy markets. Government dairy-product purchases will provide our food banks with an important, nutritious and popular staple item that will help feed families in need.”

    Michael Dykes, President and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) shared, “The International Dairy Foods Association commends Congress for acting swiftly and decisively to bring financial relief to American businesses, households and workers as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, which has delivered an historic blow to our nation’s economy and workforce. On behalf of America’s dairy industry, IDFA is grateful that this bipartisan bill has put a special emphasis on businesses large and small, farmers, and our rural communities who grow, process and distribute many of the foods and beverages that are so vital to Americans during this crisis. We urge Congress to continue to be mindful of the critical part the food industry plays in our national security, economic security and food security. The United States is the world’s most productive food and agricultural economy in the world, and our legislators and federal officials must do everything in their power to ensure continuity of operations throughout the food supply chain. Our food security is absolutely essential.”

    Dykes continued, “Now we are seeing record jobless claims for Americans, which presents hardships to families just trying to put nutritious, wholesome food on their tables. Our federal government must now turn its attention to those Americans most in need by ensuring our food banks, pantries and distributors have an abundant supply of food for families trying to make ends meet. The CARES Act includes billions of dollars to support federal nutrition and feeding programs, as well as $450 million for USDA to provide food banks with additional resources for food and distribution. With resources in place through replenishment of the Commodity Credit Corporation, billions for nutrition and feeding programs, and millions to support our food banks, it is incumbent on USDA to act without delay. We urge USDA to act today to make record purchases of fluid and powdered milk, cheese, and other dairy products, as well as other foods and commodities, to equip our food banks for a surge of food-insecure Americans and to bring certainty and balance to the marketplace due to whole sectors of the economy shutting down due to COVID-19. The closure of restaurants, cafes, bars and other food service operators as a result of COVID-19 has created a major market gap for our dairy producers and processors. While retail sales have climbed steadily, the loss of foodservice, which accounted for roughly 50% of all food sales, has presented a significant challenge to our industry. USDA should act now to direct those products to food banks to help people in need. This will prioritize those most in need, provide certainty to producers and agribusinesses, and restore needed balance in the marketplace.”

    The CARES Act provides:

    Relief for Farmers and Ranchers

    • $9.5 billion dedicated disaster fund to help farmers who are experiencing financial losses from the coronavirus crisis, including targeted support for fruit and vegetable growers, dairy and livestock farmers, and local food producers, who have been shorted from receiving emergency assistance in the past.
    • $14 billion to fund the Farm Bill’s farm safety net through the Commodity Credit Corporation.
    • Eligibility for farmers and agricultural and rural businesses to receive up to $10 million in small business interruption loans from eligible lenders, including Farm Credit institutions, through the Small Business Administration. Repayment forgiveness will be provided for funds used for payroll, rent or mortgage, and utility bills.
    • $3 million to increase capacity at the USDA Farm Service Agency to meet increased demand from farmers affected by the coronavirus crisis.

    Assistance for Small Towns and Rural Communities

    • $1 billion available in guaranteed loans to help rural businesses weather the economic downturn.
    • $100 billion to hospitals, health care providers, and facilities, including those in rural areas.
    • $25 million for telemedicine tools to help rural patients access medical care no matter where they live.
    • $100 million for high-speed internet expansion in small towns and rural communities.
    • Over $70 million to help the U.S. Forest Service serve rural communities and reduce the spread of coronavirus through personal protective equipment for first responders and cleaning of facilities.

    Protections for Consumers and the Food Supply

    • $55 million for inspection and quarantine at our borders to protect against invasive pests and animal disease.
    • $33 million for overtime and temporary food safety inspectors to protect America’s food supply at meat processing plants.
    • $45 million to ensure quality produce and meat reaches grocery stores through increased support for the Agricultural Marketing Service.
    • $1.5 million to expedite EPA approvals of disinfectants needed to control the spread of coronavirus.

    Food Access for Families

    • $15.8 billion to fund food assistance changes made in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Republicans and the Trump Administration blocked additional funding to expand benefits for children, families, and seniors.
    • $9 billion to fund child nutrition improvements made in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.
    • $450 million to provide food banks with additional resources for food and distribution.
    • $100 million for food distribution in Tribal communities to provide facility improvements, equipment upgrades, and food purchases

    The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) shared that two small business loan programs have been created as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. These may help small business operations (growers) that are dealing with the economic challenges of the pandemic. Small business is defined as a company with less than 501 employees and California small businesses are eligible for both programs.

    • The first program includes $1 billion to immediately assist small businesses hit hard by the current economic shutdown. Unlike traditional Small Business Administration (SBA) funding mechanisms, this program is being administered directly by the SBA and is live and accepting applications NOW.
    • The second program includes the Paycheck Protection Program and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. These will be administered more like traditional SBA programs, i.e. through third-party 7(a) lenders.

    Key Bankruptcy Provisions within the CARES Act Include:

    • Amending the Small Business Reorganization Act of 2019 (SBRA) to increase the eligibility threshold for businesses filing under new subchapter V of chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code from $2,725,625 of debt to $7,500,000. The eligibility threshold will return to $2,725,625 after one year. The increased debt limit for struggling small businesses to access subchapter V reflects recommendations of ABI’s Commission to Study the Reform of Chapter 11.
    • Amending the definition of “income” in the Bankruptcy Code for chapters 7 and 13 to exclude coronavirus-related payments from the federal government from being treated as “income” for purposes of filing bankruptcy.
    • Clarifying that the calculation of disposable income for purposes of confirming a chapter 13 plan shall not include coronavirus-related payments.
    • Explicitly permitting individuals and families currently in chapter 13 to seek payment plan modifications if they are experiencing a material financial hardship due to the coronavirus pandemic, including extending their payments for up to seven years after their initial plan payment was due.

    The American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) emphasized that the bankruptcy provisions of the CARES Act listed above sunset within a year. Additionally, the law provides temporary relief for federal student loan borrowers by requiring the Secretary of Education to defer student loan payments, principal, and interest for 6 months, through September 30, 2020, without penalty to the borrower for all federally owned loans. This provides relief for over 95 percent of student loan borrowers.

    “The American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) commends Congress and the President for their prompt action on this stimulus package to provide needed financial relief due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic,” said ABI Executive Director Amy Quackenboss. “Consumers and small businesses will have greater access to the financial fresh start of bankruptcy thanks to this important legislation. “Our members will be sure to utilize these tools to help consumers and small businesses struggling with overwhelming debts due to the economic fallout of the pandemic.”

    ABI will be holding a free abiLIVE webinar with experts examining the bankruptcy provisions of the CARES Act on April 3 at 1 p.m. EDT. To register, please click here.

  • Clover Sonoma Advances Social and Environmental Impact with New Fully Renewable Milk Carton

    Clover Sonoma, a third-generation family-owned and operated dairy, today announced its B Corporation recertification and the first fully renewable plant-based milk carton in the United States as part of its continued focus on sustainability. As a result of better employee and community engagement, environmental standards, and corporate governance, the company received an improved score of 100.5 during its B Corporation recertification. Clover Sonoma attained a 96.9 score during its original certification in 2016. During its three-year certification term, Clover Sonoma’s commitment to curating its relationships with farmers, employees, community, suppliers, and consumers across California has improved its social and environmental impact, and influence as a mission-driven business.

     

    “Owning more than fifty percent of the branded dairy market in Northern California means we have a responsibility to do what’s best for consumers,” said Clover Sonoma CEO Marcus Benedetti. “We’ve baked sustainability into our DNA and continue to look for ways to foster growth within our organization, and aim to set the bar high for our community and other brands across our industry. Packaging is a big part of our focus as we try to find innovative ways to decrease the use of fossil fuels, utilize less plastic, and encourage recycling. Our new fully renewable milk carton is a first for the U.S., and we hope to transition the carton across our fluid milk line within the next few years.”

    Fully Renewable Packaging

     

    Environmental pollution cannot be ignored; and plastic waste and fossil fuel-based packaging are main contributors to that pollution. In the past, Clover Sonoma made the conscious decision to reduce plastic waste by saying “no” to plastic caps on paper cartons. In doing so, the company prevented more than 227,000 pounds of plastic from entering landfills in 2019 alone. With its new Organic DHA Omega-3 + Choline Milk line, the company took its commitment a step further by partnering with 1% for the Planet to donate a portion of proceeds of the sale of the product to non-profit Plastic Pollution Coalition.

     

    Now, Clover Sonoma is the first dairy in the U.S. to switch to a fully renewable plant-based milk carton. The company will be converting more than 10 million cartons this year and additional milk cartons until the entire line of milk cartons is fully renewable. There are two main components to a milk carton — the paperboard and the lining. The paperboard for our new carton will be Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) certified, which means that consumers who purchase the renewable milk carton are supporting responsible forest management and helping to protect forests for future generations. FSC certification helps ensure that the soils, water quality, wildlife, threatened and endangered species, special areas, social rights, and biodiversity are all protected.

     

    The lining inside and outside of the carton will be made of fossil fuel free green plastic made from Non-GMO sugar cane. Bio-ethanol made from sugar cane is used for a low-density polyethylene (LDPE) coating inside and outside of the carton. The carbon footprint of Clover Sonoma’s renewable plant-based milk carton is less than fifty percent compared to conventional cartons (according to a European study by the Institute for Energy and Environmental Research). Both the paper board and liner materials are also traceable to their origins. Renewable resources can be replenished naturally over time; and more importantly, they enable a move away from fossil fuel-based materials, reducing the environmental impact, as well as improving resource efficiency.

     

    Clover Sonoma’s new packaging will be available on shelves this summer in our organic half gallon and quart milk cartons.

     

    About B Corporation Certification

    There are more than 3,200 Certified B Corporations from more than 150 industries and 71 countries with one unifying goal: to redefine success in business. B Corps are leaders of a global movement of people using business as a force for goodTM. The B Corp assessment process measures a company’s performance in five categories: governance, workers, customers, community, and the environment. Certified B Corporations also amend their governance structure so that, by law, they can make decisions and implement practices that consider not just shareholder value, but the impact on all stakeholders — employees, customers, society, and the environment.

     

    “We are proud to have Clover Sonoma recertify as a member of our B Corp community,” said Manager of Community Engagement at B Lab Rebecca Jewell. “As the B Corp movement grows, we’re appreciative of companies, like Clover Sonoma, who continue to honor their commitment to this community and use business as a force good. Clover Sonoma’s improvement upon their score in the recertification process – no small feat – demonstrates their dedication to strive to do the best for their workers, their community, their customers, and the environment.”

     

    Once certified, companies must document their positive impact to qualify and undergo verification every three years to maintain their certification.

     

    Community-Focused for Generations

     

    For generations, Clover Sonoma has committed to building relationships within the Northern California community, evidenced by long-standing partnerships with farmers, employees, suppliers, consumers, and charitable organizations. All 30 Clover Sonoma dairy farms are family-owned and American Humane Association Certified. They are required to adhere to the company’s rigorous quality standards, also known as the Clover Promise of Excellence, and are paid a premium to support those standards. Clover Sonoma’s commitment extends to employees as well. All workers are confirmed to be receiving not only the individual living wage for their respective areas, but rather the family living wage which is estimated based on a family of four. In addition, the company supports its employees through generous health and wellness benefits.

     

    As part of Clover Cares community giveback, the company gives at least five percent of profits every year to charitable organizations that fit within its mission of elevating dairy, empowering future generations, and supporting the community. The Clover Cares team selects and reviews each donation to make sure that every dollar is being maximized for the greatest social impact. Some of the programs supported through Clover Cares include a school garden project, a junior cooking challenge, education grants, and agricultural education. The giveback in 2019 alone came to more than $800,000 in cash and product donations.

     

    More than half of Clover Sonoma’s supplier expenditure occurs with independent businesses within 50 miles of the main processing facility, and the majority of its charitable donations are directed to nonprofits in the surrounding communities. As a result, Clover Sonoma helps drive economic activity within a relatively concentrated area, and minimize the need for environmentally harmful transportation over greater distances. Even the majority of the company’s ownership and employees live locally to its operations, further ensuring that future commercial success will benefit Sonoma County.

     

    Building a Sustainable Future

     

    Clover Sonoma is on the path to tracking and formulating reduction targets for the company’s energy use, water use, GHG emissions, and waste. For most of these areas, the company is tracking the amounts on a yearly basis. With this baseline data in place, Clover Sonoma will set annual reduction targets and formalize programs to achieve these targets, performing internal or external audits to check the efficacy of the programs implemented. To date, the company has already made significant progress in reducing and preventing plastic waste by investing in a plastic baler to recycle more than 80,000 pounds of plastic wrap annually.

     

    B Corporation Certification helps consumers identify companies with a mission, and helps investors select investments that align with their values. Being a conscious company is at the heart of Clover Sonoma’s business, and recertifying as a B Corporation is a testament to the company’s heritage and mission-driven focus to building a sustainable future. As an early adopter of these best practices, Clover Sonoma looks forward to supporting this movement towards using its business as a power for good to benefit its community and industry.

     

    For more information on Clover Sonoma’s B Corporation Certification Score and Impact Reports, please visit:https://cloversonoma.com/clover-cares/b-corp-certified/.

  • California FSA Now Offers Assistance from Losses due to Grapevine Leafroll Disease

    The USDA California Farm Service Agency State Committee has approved Grapevine Leafroll Disease (GLD) under the Tree Assistance Program (TAP). Vineyard producers who incurred vineyard losses due to GLD will be able to sign-up under the Tree Assistance Program.

    Producers may sign up for Grapevine Leafroll Disease (GLD) at any time in their local county office. The deadline to apply for losses is 90 days after the loss became apparent to the producer. Producers applying for losses due to GLD must adhere to all TAP eligibility requirements.

    TAP was authorized by the Agricultural Act of 2014 as a permanent disaster program. TAP provides cost share financial assistance to qualifying orchardists and nursery tree growers to replant or rehabilitate eligible trees, bushes and vines damaged by natural disasters or plant disease which now includes Grapevine Leafroll Disease (GLD).

    Important: TAP requires preliminary inspections, including environmental compliance, prior to ground disturbance. Producers interested in the TAP program are advised to not conduct any ground disturbance (including, but not limited to, removal of vines, trellis and stakes) prior to obtaining permission from the FSA County Executive Director (CED) where the ground is located. Disturbing the ground prior to release by the CED will result in ineligibility for program benefits.

    To qualify for TAP:

    • The orchardists must suffer a qualifying tree loss in excess of 15 percent mortality from GLD, plus an adjustment for normal mortality (3%).
    • The eligible vineyards must have been owned when the GLD occurred; however, eligible growers are not required to own the land on which the eligible vineyards were planted.
    • The owner must provide evidence that trees existed and were lost due to GLD.
    • Receipts must be provided for actual expenses associated with removal, purchase and planting of vineyards.
    • An individual or entity’s average Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) cannot exceed $900,000
    • Other program and payment eligibility may apply

     

    If the TAP application is approved, the eligible vineyards must be replaced within 12 months from the date the application is approved.

    USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

  • California Agricultural Employers, Workers Approach Smoke Concerns Differently

    In 2018, California wildfires burned more than 1.8 million acres and caused smoke to drift hundreds of miles. As the frequency and intensity of wildfires increases with climate change, California agricultural workers are at greater risk of smoke exposure as they often have no option but to work outdoors.

    A new study from researchers at the University of California, Davis, finds that while wildfires and smoke exposure are recognized by farmworkers and employers as a growing threat and safety concern, the means to address these concerns differs between the two groups.

    “What stood out in this study is the substantial disparities between agricultural employers and farmworkers,” said Heather Riden with the Western Center for Agricultural Health and Safety at UC Davis.

    Riden, who led the research in partnership with the California Institute for Rural Studies, said that while growers and employers expressed concern about poor air quality at the time of the study in 2018, many had no clear plans or protocols for measuring air quality or managing workers in such conditions. While the public is advised to stay indoors due to poor air quality during a wildfire, agricultural work often continues.

    The study also found that when farmworkers were offered protective masks, many found them difficult to use while working due to heat-related discomfort and chafing. Others believed wearing two bandanas over mouth and nose would provide just as much protection.

    Farmworkers’ experience is compounded by economic need.

    “Many farmworkers will continue working, even in unsafe conditions, to support their families. They don’t have many other options,” said Riden.

    New regulations

    Last year, the state Division of Occupational Safety and Health, better known as Cal/OSHA, enacted an emergency regulation requiring employers to take measures to protect workers from wildfire smoke when the Air Quality Index reaches 151 or greater, which is considered unhealthy. Riden said as CAL/OSHA begins to craft permanent regulations, she hopes it takes the study’s findings into consideration.  

    “This highlights the need for better awareness for both agricultural employers and farmworkers about the health risks associated with wildfire smoke,” said Riden. “Employers also need training materials and concrete steps they can take to protect workers.”

    To assist agricultural employers with meeting the requirements outlined in the newly adopted regulation, the Western Center for Agricultural Health and Safety developed training materials and an employer checklist.

    The study was based on interviews and focus groups with California agricultural employers and workers in the Salinas, San Joaquin and Imperial valleys. Support for the study came from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health –By Amy Quinton, UC Davis

  • CDFA Releases CA 2019 Preliminary Grape Crush Report

    The 2019 crush totaled 4,085,772 tons, down 9.3 percent from the 2018 crush of 4,506,010 tons.  Red wine varieties accounted for the largest share of all grapes crushed, at 2,135,112 tons, down 12.8 percent from 2018.  The 2019 white wine variety crush totaled 1,755,141 tons, down 4.3 percent from 2018.  Tons crushed of raisin type varieties totaled 61,051, down 26.0 percent from 2018, and tons crushed of table type varieties totaled 134,468 down 5.6 percent from 2018. 
     
    The 2019 average price of all varieties was $790.43, down 5.0 percent from 2018. Average prices for the 2019 crop by type were as follows: red wine grapes, $990.07, down 2.9 percent from 2018; white wine grapes, $580.66, down 8.6 percent from 2018; table grapes, $262.60, up 36.8 percent; and raisin grapes, $244.88, down 19.0 percent.
     
    In 2019, Chardonnay continued to account for the largest percentage of the total crush volume with 15.6 percent.  Cabernet Sauvignon accounted for the second leading percentage of crush with 14.1 percent.  Thompson Seedless, the leading raisin grape variety crushed for 2019, held only 1.1 percent of the total crush.
     
    District 13, (Madera, Fresno, Alpine, Mono, Inyo Counties; and Kings and Tulare Counties north of Nevada Avenue (Avenue 192)), had the largest share of the State’s crush, at 1,307,233 tons.  The average price per ton in District 13 was $300.60.
     
    Grapes produced in District 4 (Napa County) received the highest average price of $5,797.07 per ton, up 3.9 percent from 2018.  District 3 (Sonoma and Marin counties) received the second highest return of $2,823.67, up 0.2 percent from 2018.  The 2019 Chardonnay price of $899.83 was down 7.3 percent from 2018, and the Cabernet Sauvignon price of $1,720.61 was up 2.2 percent from 2018.  The 2019 average price for Zinfandel was $564.74, down 5.8 percent from 2018, while the French Colombard average price was down 5.0 percent from 2018 at $275.89 per ton.

    See the tables below for more information and read the full report HERE.

  • US Jersey Youth Scholarship Winners Announced

    The American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) has awarded 13 Jersey youth over $30,000 worth of scholarships, the most money ever awarded, for the 2019-20 school year. Selection was based on scholastic achievement as well as participation in Jersey and other agricultural activities.

     

    Two Russell Memorial Scholarships were awarded in memory of the late William A. Russell. The first scholarship, the William A. Russell Memorial Scholarship, was established in his name in 1977 and is designated for students who have completed high school and are beginning their university studies. The second, the Russell-Malnati Scholarship for Advanced Studies, was established to honor the late J. J. “Doc” Malnati of Bush River Jerseys, Newberry, S.C. The recipients were Lydia Rose Chittenden, Schodack Landing, N.Y., and James Edward Holton, Dawsonville, Ga.

     

    Chittenden is a freshman at State University of New York College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill (SUNY-Cobleskill) majoring in dairy science. She received an award of $2,750. Holton received $5,000 to continue his education at the University of Georgia where he is enrolled in the university’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

     

    The Jack C. Nisbet Scholarship is awarded to a participant in the National Jersey Youth Achievement contest.  It was created in 1965 to honor the AJCA’s seventh Executive Secretary, who served the organization from 1943-1947. This year’s recipient was Samantha Josephine Schuessler of Antigo, Wis.

     

    Schuessler is a junior at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, with a dairy science major and agricultural communications minor. Her scholarship award was $2,750.

    The V.L. Peterson Scholarship is awarded to youth who have completed at least one year of college. It commemorates Vic” Peterson, the dean of Jersey area representatives, was established in 1972. The scholarship is available to students who have completed at least one year of college. Kathryn Marie Bosley, Malone, N.Y., was this year’s recipient.

     

    Bosley is a junior at SUNY-Cobleskill majoring in animal science. She received an award of $2,750.

     

    The Paul Jackson Memorial Scholarship is also awarded to youth who have completed at least one year of college. This award was created in 1965 to honor Paul Jackson’s service to the Jersey breed, which spanned more than half a century. The 2019 winner was Hayley Rose Fernandes, Tulare, Calif.

     

    Fernandes is a sophomore at California Polytechnic studying dairy science with a law and society minor. This year’s scholarship award was for $2,000.

     

    The Cedarcrest Farms Scholarship was established in 1999 and has been funded by the sale of a bull at two of the Cedarcrest sales. It is awarded to a student in large animal veterinary medicine, dairy production, dairy manufacturing or dairy product marketing. Undergraduate and graduate students are both eligible for the award. This year’s recipient was Marie Elizabeth Haase of Somerset, Wis.

    A sophomore at the UW-River Falls, Haase is majoring in dairy science with a minor focused on ag business. The scholarship award for this year is $2,250.

     

    In 2003, the Bob Toole Youth Award was established to honor the lifelong enthusiasm Bob Toole felt for the Jersey cow. The award is given to a young person who seeks formal education or practical experience related to the breeding, developing and showing of Jerseys. Seth Richard Carson, Newbury, Vt., was named this year’s award recipient.

     

    Carson, a freshman, is studying dairy science at Virginia Polytechnic and State University. He received $2,000 for his educational endeavors.

     

    In 2005, with special encouragement from the late Donnie Sherman in his role as president, the AJCA leadership established a long-range goal of increasing scholarship funds. A young bull bred by Sherman, D&E Rebel Scholar {6}-ET, was syndicated in The All American Jersey Sale, with all proceeds from his sale and future royalties earmarked for the AJCA Educational, Youth Activities and Special Awards Fund. This scholarship—called the AJCA Directors’ Scholarship—was awarded for the first time in 2016. Erin Faith Leach, Linwood, Kan., received this year’s scholarship.

     

    Majoring in animal science with a business option, Leach is a senior at Oklahoma State University. This year she received $2,500 from the fund.

     

    The Morris B. Ewing ABS Genetic Performance Scholarship is awarded annually to a junior or senior undergraduate student seeking a career in genetics, dairy production, large animal veterinary medicine or milk marketing. It honors the dedicated efforts of the long-time sire analyst to improving the productivity and profitability of Jersey cows and Jersey genetics. The award includes a copy of Ewing’s autobiography, A Time with Jerseys. The 2019 recipient was Allison Taylor Foster, Portage, Wis.

     

    Foster is majoring in dairy science at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville where she is currently a senior. Her award was $3,250.

     

    A generous contribution from Dr. Joe Lineweaver and his wife Beverly established The Lineweaver Scholarship for students who have completed at least one year at an accredited four-year college/university in a dairy science, animal sciences or dairy products department. Selection is based on financial need, leadership skills and academic performance. It may be automatically renewed twice or until completion of the recipient’s undergraduate degree (whichever comes first) provided eligibility requirements are met, continuing financial need exists, and academic performance is maintained. Catherine Tess Savage, Dickerson, Md., received this year’s scholarship award.

     

    Savage attends Virginia Tech where she is a junior studying dairy science with minors in ag businesses and animal and poultry science. Her award is $3,500.

     

    The Anne E. Perchard Challenge Award recognizes the accomplishments, abilities and leadership potential shown to date by the recipient and challenges them to achieve their potential through continued participation in Jersey activities. It was made possible by a bequest from the late Anne Perchard of St. Martin, Jersey, Channel Islands, an independent entrepreneur who built La Ferme, the largest dairy herd in Jersey, with her sons. This year’s recipient was Grace Elizabeth Howe, Waukon, Iowa.

     

    Howe is a freshman at Iowa State University with a major in agriculture and society. She received a cash award of $350.

     

    Scholarship winners were recognized at the Junior Banquet to be held in Louisville, Ky., November 9, 2019. The Junior Banquet is held in conjunction with All American Jersey activities in Louisville including the All American Open and Junior Jersey shows, the All American Sale, Pot O’ Gold Sale.

     

    The American Jersey Cattle Association, organized in 1868, compiles and maintains animal identification and performance data on Jersey cattle and provides services that support genetic improvement and greater profitability through increasing the value of and demand for Registered Jersey™ cattle and genetics, and Jersey milk and milk products. For more information on the association’s complete line of services for dairy business owners, visit the website at www.USJersey.com or connect at Facebook.com/USJersey.