California Ag Network

Category: Ag Legislation

  • NMPF, NCFC Lead Coalition Call for Climate-Smart Ag Investments

    The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC) today led a coalition of 12 agricultural and conservation organizations on a letter advocating for significant new funding for climate-smart agricultural practices that can help farmers to build on their environmental stewardship leadership.

    Congressional efforts toward infrastructure legislation provide opportunities for substantial new investments in conservation support, with more emphasis on climate-smart agricultural practices. USDA conservation financial incentives provide farmers with voluntary technical assistance to carry out numerous stewardship practices. But more can be done to enhance practices that can yield meaningful environmental benefits, such as climate-smart manure and feed management on dairy farms.

    “Dairy farmers are proactive stewards of their land and water resources, but they are always seeking to innovate further. Dairy farmers in 2020 committed to become carbon-neutral or better by 2050 and maximize water quality around the country. Bolstering conservation investment and focusing on climate-smart practices better positions dairy farmers to fulfill the dairy sector’s 2050 environmental stewardship goals as envisioned in the Net Zero Initiative,” said Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF.

    “America’s farmer co-ops and their producer-owners stand ready to help address the global challenge posed by climate change. Increasing conservation funding for climate-friendly farming practices is essential to giving them the tools they need to do that and to continue their stewardship of our shared natural resources,” said Chuck Conner, president and CEO of NCFC.

    NMPF, NCFC, and their colleagues call in the letter for increased spending on conservation incentives, including strong technical and financial assistance, with a greater focus on climate-smart practices. The organizations also support new rural broadband resources in pending infrastructure legislation. The letter also reiterates the major concerns that many of its signers have already voiced regarding several proposed changes to tax policy that would undermine the transfer of family farms from one generation to the next.

    Organizations joining NMPF and NCFC on the letter include the Agricultural Retailers Association, American Seed Trade Association, CropLife America, National Association of Conservation Districts, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Farmers Union, National Potato Council, Produce Marketing Association, and U.S. Apple Association.

    About the National Milk Producers Federation

    The National Milk Producers Federation, based in Arlington, VA, develops and carries out policies that advance dairy producers and the cooperatives they own. NMPF’s member cooperatives produce more than two-thirds of U.S. milk, making NMPF dairy’s voice on Capitol Hill and with government agencies. For more, visit www.nmpf.org.

    About the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives

    Since 1929, the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives has been the voice of America’s farmer cooperatives. Our members are regional and national farmer cooperatives, which are in turn composed of nearly 2,000 local farmer cooperatives across the country. NCFC members also include 26 state and regional councils of cooperatives. Farmer cooperatives allow individual farmers the ability to own and lead organizations that are essential for continued competitiveness in both the domestic and international markets.

  • CADairy2Go Competition Celebrates Three Winning Chefs for Innovative Uses of CA Cheese & Dairy

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) today announced the three innovative chefs who took home the ultimate to-go prize of $5,000 each in the inaugural CADairy2GO competition cook-off in Napa. Chefs Carrie Baird of Denver, Colo., Mary Grace Viado of Birmingham, Al., and Brian Mullins of Miami, Fla. took home the top prizes in their category during the first of its kind event at the Culinary Institute of America’s Copia facility.

    Inspired by chefs and foodservice operators who made creative adjustments to menus for the takeout and delivery model during the pandemic, the Real California Milk Foodservice Team invited six culinary professionals, selected from 12 semi-finalists, to compete in the cook-off final on July 28th that streamed live on the Real California Milk Foodservice Facebook channel. Two chefs faced off in each of three categories: Cheese+Mac, Cal-Mex and Innovate To-Go with the winners taking home $5,000 each and runners up winning $1,500 each.

    A renowned panel of judges – Barbara Alexander, Certified Executive Chef and Certified Culinary Educator from the American Culinary Association; Neil Doherty, Corporate Executive Chef and Sr. Director of Culinary Development at Sysco; and Duskie Estes, Culinary Personality, Chef and Co-owner of Black Pig Meat Co. and MacBryde Farm – presided over the contest and evaluated dishes based on a variety of factors including taste, innovation, and creative use of cheeses and dairy products made with Real California Milk.

    The full list of finalists and dishes for the 2021 CADairy2GO Contest is as follows:

    Cheese + Mac Winner: Skipjack & Cheesy Mac

    Chef Carrie Baird is the owner of Rose’s Classic Americana in Boulder, Colo. She competed on Season 15 of Bravo’s Top Chef, as well as Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay.” Most recently she was an “All Star” judge on Top Chef Season 18.

    Carrie’s winning Skipjack & Cheesy Mac dish is inspired by what she cooks for herself with a variety of tastes and textures including four California cheeses, skipjack tuna, charred broccoli, peas and corn along with togarashi, sriracha and furikake seasoning.

    Cal-Mex Winner: Mexi-Cali Shrimp Scampi

    Chef Mary Grace Viado is the Corporate Executive Chef for the Village Tavern in Birmingham, Al. She graduated cum laude from the University of the Philippines and is a graduate of the 2014 Culinary Enrichment & Innovation Program of the Culinary Institute of America and Hormel Foods. Mary Grace was the recipient of the 2015 James Beard Foundation’s Jean-Louis Palladin Professional Scholarship.

    Mary Grace took home the prize for her Mexi-Cali Shrimp Scampi, featuring cubes of blackened California panela and cotija cheeses and served with homemade arepas made with California milk.

    Innovate To-Go: Frico Pesto Melt

    Chef Brian Mullins is the owner of Ms. Cheezious® food truck in Miami, FL. He has over 25 years of culinary industry experience and has worked with prestigious brands on over 30 restaurant launches throughout North America, South America, Asia and Europe. Ms. Cheezious® is one of Miami’s most loved restaurant and food truck destinations and has been featured on several national television shows.

    Brian’s winning dish put a spin on traditional grilled cheese with fresh California mozzarella, cheesy pesto and a California Dry Jack cheese frico coating in his Frico Pesto Melt.

    “The entire group of chefs is really the best of the best and brought so many innovative ideas for takeout that consumers would really crave. The winning dishes not only showcased California dairy in creative applications but also how cheese and dairy products as ingredients help elevate everything from comfort to Cal-Mex dishes,” said Bob Carroll, VP of Business Development for the CMAB. “We’re thrilled to be able to amplify and celebrate the creativity of the foodservice community in this way.”

    As the nation’s largest dairy state, California boasts a long list of cheesemakers and dairy processors that are further driving to-go dining innovation. California leads the nation in milk production and is responsible for producing more butter, ice cream and nonfat dry milk than any other state. The state is the second-largest producer of cheese and yogurt. California milk and dairy foods can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which certifies they are made exclusively with sustainably sourced milk from the state’s dairy farm families.

    California is a reliable, consistent source of sustainable dairy products used by chefs throughout the world. Check out the CMAB’s REAL Makers chefs who rely on California dairy for their dishes.

    About Real California Milk/the California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world through advertising, public relations, research, and retail and foodservice promotional programs.

    The Foodservice Division of the CMAB supports foodservice operators and distributors that use Real California dairy products. The CMAB offers marketing and promotional support for foodservice operators that purchase dairy products with the Real California Milk seal, which means they are made with 100 percent milk from California’s more than 1,200 family dairy farms, using some of the most sustainable dairy practices in the nation.

    For more information on sourcing cheese from California, contact the foodservice team at 209.883.6455 (MILK), businessdevelopment@cmab.net or RealCaliforniaMilk.com/Foodservice, LinkedIn, Facebook,

  • State Warns Organic Farmers to Stop Using W.O.W. Whack Out Weeds! and EcoMight-Pro Pesticides

    The state is warning organic farmers against the use of pesticides labeled as W.O.W Whack Out Weeds! and EcoMight-Pro distributed by EcoMIGHT, as lab tests show that these products labeled as organic, natural and glyphosate-free do in fact contain potentially hazardous chemicals.

    Today, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) issued a notice to EcoMIGHT, LLC, a Florida-based company, that it may be in violation of state law by manufacturing, delivering or selling unregistered pesticide products in California. The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) issued a Stop Use Notice for organic growers about EcoMIGHT products. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) also notified EcoMIGHT that it may be in violation of federal law.

    EcoMIGHT currently markets its products as “organic,” “natural,” “glyphosate-free,” and “non-toxic and safe.” However, state laboratory analyses of W.O.W. Whack Out Weeds! and EcoMight-Pro products sold in California found that the products tested contain potentially hazardous chemicals including glyphosate, bifenthrin, permethrin, cypermethrin, and carbaryl. California registered pesticides that contain these chemicals go through scientific review and have specific requirements for use and personal protective equipment that protect workers, communities and the environment from harmful pesticide exposure. W.O.W Whack Out Weeds! and EcoMight-Pro do not contain these safety instructions.

    “It is critical that we notify California employers, workers and residents, who may be using EcoMIGHT products about these safety concerns to prevent potential injury,” said DPR acting director Julie Henderson. “This includes ensuring pesticides are properly registered and labeled so you know if you are handling benign ingredients or need to use protective equipment – like gloves, goggles or respirators.”

    The synthetic chemical compounds CDFA laboratory analysis found in W.O.W. Whack Out Weeds! and EcoMight-Pro products are prohibited for use in organic production by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program. Additionally, these products pose a public health risk because the products were found to contain hazardous chemicals not disclosed on their labels.

    “It is imperative that we alert California organic growers that these EcoMIGHT products contain substances that are prohibited in organic production, in order to preserve the integrity of the California organic label and to protect our growers,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross.

    DPR and CDFA investigations began in San Diego and Ventura Counties in June 2021, when local County Agricultural Commissioners alerted state agency partners of a potential concern with the EcoMIGHT products. CDFA’s Sacramento lab analyzed samples and DPR, CDFA and additional state and federal regulators are reviewing the lab analyses for potential state and federal violations.

    In addition to actions taken by California state agencies, U.S. EPA notified EcoMIGHT that it may be in violation of federal law by manufacturing, distributing or selling unregistered pesticide products. As part of its enforcement of the law, U.S. EPA registers pesticide products and approves label language before a pesticide can be sold or distributed. The agency’s goal is to provide clear directions for effective product performance while minimizing risks to human health and the environment.

    If you are aware of illegal pesticide use or concerned about potential illness from pesticide exposure, please report your concerns immediately to 1-87PestLine (1-877-378-5463), anonymously report using DPR’s mobile app CASPIR or reach out directly to your County Agricultural Commissioner.

    Read DPR’s Notice of Advisement to EcoMIGHT, PDF
    Read CDFA’s Stop Use Notice, PDF

  • US Pistachio Shipments Up Despite Logistical & Economic Challenges

    Despite continued pandemic, trade and logistical issues, American Pistachio Growers President Richard Matoian shared at their annual Summer Luncheon that pistachio shipments are up, which is critical for the success of this growing commodity. Watch this brief interview with Richard as he explains, and read more about it in Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.
    Please thank this video’s sponsor Suterra for their industry support.

  • Ag Goals & Progress of Voluntary Agreements for Bay-Delta Flows

    What is now being referred to as a 20 year drought in California has caused many problems for not only farmers, but all Californians and wildlife. In addition to the dire need for water infrastructure renovations, farming groups are also very focused on pursuing voluntary agreements for alternatives to the California State Water Resources Control Board plan for Bay-Delta flows.  Watch this brief interview with Merced County farmer, Randy Fiorini who shared some insights from the Delta Stewardship Council as the discussions on voluntary agreements have resumed.
    Please thank this video’s sponsor Suterra for their industry support.

  • Reclamation Launches Website with Real-time Data, Interactive Drought Resources

    The Bureau of Reclamation launched a new web portal today that provides real-time drought-related information and details of drought actions taken in collaboration with stakeholders and partners. The science-based web portal is designed to increase public and media understanding of drought conditions and the all-of-government efforts to mitigate these conditions by the Biden administration.

    The features of the interactive multi-page platform highlight Reclamation’s efforts and investments to mitigate drought impacts, increase drought resiliency, reduce reliance on declining water sources and increase the efficiency of water deliveries. The portal is user friendly and provides easy-to-understand features, explanations and current information on cutting-edge science, drought actions, current conditions and climate change visualizations that will help the public understand the complex drought conditions in the West.

    “Reclamation recognizes the 2021 water year is a historically difficult year for the 17 Western states and for Tribes, fisheries, wildlife, farmers and ranchers, and communities. We hope this tool will be a helpful resource for viewing real-time updates on drought conditions and learn more about what’s being done to combat this challenging drought situation,” said Deputy Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton. “Users of this web portal will be able to explore data-driven mapping visualizations and delve into the new science and forecasting tools used to conduct water supply planning and optimization of water reservoir operations.”

    The Department of the Interior is helping lead the Biden administration’s Drought Relief Interagency Working Group, which is marshaling existing resources and working in partnership with state, local and Tribal governments to address the needs of communities suffering from drought-related impacts. The Working Group is actively working to identify and disburse immediate financial and technical assistance for impacted irrigators and Tribes. It is also developing longer-term measures to respond to climate change, including building more resilient communities and protecting the natural environment.

    A series of online public briefings will be announced to introduce its major interactive features.

    Information on the web portal is available at www.usbr.gov/addressing-drought/.

  • 2021 California Grape Harvest & Market Update

    Wine grape harvest has begun in the Central Valley of California. After considerable challenges in both production and the wine grape market last year, how are things looking now and what can we expect for the 2021 vintage? Watch this brief interview with Jeff Bitter, President of Allied Grape Growers, as he shares his insights and read more about it in American Vineyard Magazine.
     
    Please thank this video’s sponsor Vmech for their industry support.

  • FARM Act Funding for Pilot Programs to Produce Biocarbon Products from Tree Nuts

    The Almond Alliance of California today commended Rep. Josh Harder (C-10) for including funding to support ten nationwide pilot programs to convert tree nut by-products into biocarbon products in the Future of Agricultural Resiliency and Modernization (FARM) Act.

    Almond Alliance President Elaine Trevino explained that in California the funding will help accelerate efforts to develop new biofuels or other biocarbon products derived from almond harvest by-products.  For example, in a process called “pyrolysis” almond harvest by-products can produce biochar, a soil amendment with excellent carbon sequestration potential and syngas and bio-oils, which can be used directly to fire furnaces or more importantly as inputs to produce motor vehicle biofuels and other biochemicals.

    Trevino commented, “California’s almond growers are proud to be innovators who remain focused on sustainability and are constantly looking to put everything we grow to its highest and best use.  We expect that biofuels produced using California Grown almond by-products will become a major contributor towards meeting California’s carbon neutral goals.  We appreciate Congressman Harder’s ongoing support of almond growers and especially his inclusion of funding for pilot projects in the FARM Act that will catalyze development of climate-friendly biocarbon and biofuel products.”

    About the Almond Alliance

    The Almond Alliance of California (AAC) is a trusted non-profit organization dedicated to advocating on behalf of the California almond community. California almonds generate more than $21 billion in economic revenue and directly contribute more than $11 billion to the state’s total economy. California’s top agricultural export, almonds create approximately 104,000 jobs statewide, over 97,000 in the Central Valley, which suffers from chronic unemployment. The AAC is dedicated to educating state legislators, policy makers and regulatory officials about the California almond community. As a membership-based organization, our members include almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers and allied businesses. Through workshops, newsletters, conferences, social media and personal meetings, AAC works to raise awareness, knowledge and provide a better understanding about the scope, size, value and sustainability of the California almond community.

    For more information on the Almond Alliance, visit https://almondalliance.org/ or check out the Almond Alliance on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

  • Merced Grower Works with Farmland Trust to Protect Acreage from Urban Development

    Merced County almond, walnut and peach grower, Randy Fiorini is proud to be the first farmer to work with both the Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation and California Farmland Trust in a conservation fundraising campaign to protect agricultural land from urban expansion. Watch this brief video with Randy Fiorini as he explains the program and needed support to realize his goal.

    Please thank this video’s sponsor Suterra for their industry support.

  • IDFA Announces 2022 Dairy Forum in California

    The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is pleased to announce that registration for Dairy Forum 2022 opens today.

    Dairy Forum is back live and in person in 2022 in sunny Palm Desert, Calif. The event will challenge participants with the latest thinking on leadership, policy, technology, people and workforce, economics, and innovation. Dairy Forum is where industry leaders discover NEW ideas first and hear thought leaders share the latest thinking on innovative ways to view business in today’s dynamic marketplace. The event offers fresh perspective from C-suite leaders, thinkers, and influencers on issues that are important to the dairy industry NOW. Dairy Forum inspires industry leaders to focus on NEXT practices that deliver value and innovation in new ways.

    After a challenging year, Dairy Forum is where the dairy industry will come together to reconnect, retool and recharge for the important work ahead.

    “We are beyond excited to announce Dairy Forum 2022,” said Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of IDFA. “I know that IDFA members and the dairy community are looking for opportunities to connect in-person, and nothing beats Dairy Forum in the beautiful Coachella Valley for inspiring that spirit of unity and engagement. For decades, Dairy Forum has connected the right people to the right issues at the right time to move our industry forward. Today, demand for delicious, nutritious dairy products is surging all around the world. Dairy Forum 2022 will provide new tools and thinking for our industry to continue to grow, better anticipate the future, and drive positive change for our employees, customers and consumers.”

    Dairy Forum 2022 will take place January 23-26 at the J.W. Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Desert. Spread across three and a half days, the event includes main sessions, concurrent sessions, panel discussions, special presentations by sponsors and guests, receptions, meals, entertainment, and networking opportunities for leaders in the dairy industry.

    The IDFA Dairy Forum offers various levels of sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorship is one of the best ways for an organization to brand itself among the dairy industry’s top leaders and thinkers.

    To register for Dairy Forum 2022 and to learn more about sponsorships, visit www.dairyforum.org.

    The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), Washington, D.C., represents the nation’s dairy manufacturing and marketing industry, which supports more than 3.3 million jobs that generate $41.6 billion in direct wages and $753 billion in overall economic impact. IDFA’s diverse membership ranges from multinational organizations to single-plant companies, from dairy companies and cooperatives to food retailers and suppliers, all on the cutting edge of innovation and sustainable business practices. Together, they represent 90 percent of the milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt and cultured products, and dairy ingredients produced and marketed in the United States and sold throughout the world. Delicious, safe and nutritious, dairy foods offer unparalleled health and consumer benefits to people of all ages.