California Ag Network

Category: Non-Video

  • Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing Achieves Highest Level Equivalence in Global Sustainable Ag Benchmark

    Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing — a third-party vineyard, winery and wine certification program administered by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) — is the first sustainable winegrowing certification to achieve Gold Level equivalence against the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI) Platform’s Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA) version 3.0. FSA provides a globally recognized framework for sustainable agriculture certification and a consistent approach to demonstrate and validate alignment.

    CSWA joins over 100 sustainability programs that have been benchmarked against the FSA. Only 20%, now including CSWA, have achieved Gold Level equivalence.

    “Congratulations to the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance for achieving FSA Gold Level equivalence for Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing,” said Joe Iveson, FSA Manager at SAI Platform. “This is a great achievement that reflects a strong commitment to promoting sustainable winegrape growing and ensuring alignment with global best practices.”

    The FSA was developed with experts from inside and outside of agriculture, including leading NGOs, universities, farmers and their representative groups. The benchmark was carried out by SureHarvest, an FSA-approved consultant that determined the Gold Level Equivalence based on rigorous analysis. Vineyards certified to Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing can also be recognized at FSA Gold Level Equivalent, and count towards any other FSA users’ sustainable sourcing targets.

    The FSA includes a set of over 100 questions covering 11 sustainability topic areas: Farm Management and Community, Plant Material Selection and Propagation, Soil Management, Nutrient Management, Crop Protection, Waste Management, Water Management, Biodiversity, Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Labor Conditions and Integrated Pest Management. To achieve Gold Level equivalence, a program must address 100% of essential criteria, 100% of intermediate criteria and 75% or more of advanced criteria.

    “CSWA uses internationally recognized best practices for sustainability certification and verification programs — such as the FSA — to develop and maintain a credible and meaningful program,” said Allison Jordan, CSWA executive director. “We’re proud to be the first winegrowing certification to achieve Gold Level Equivalence.”

    Introduced in 2010, Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing provides annual third-party verification that a winery or vineyard has adopted and implemented stringent sustainable winegrowing practices based on the California Code of Sustainable Winegrowing and has committed to continuous improvement in those areas. In addition to implementing required practices that address the environmental and social responsibility aspects of sustainability, companies must determine the areas in which they need to improve and focus their resources to help meet their sustainability goals year after year. Currently, 80% of California wine is made in a Certified California Sustainable Winery and more than 2,500 vineyards, totaling 38% of the state’s winegrape acres, are certified sustainable.

    CSWA is committed to alignment with international standards for sustainability certification programs. In 2017, Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing underwent an extensive oversight evaluation by SCS Global Services, a leader in third-party sustainability certification standards development. SCS Global Services confirmed that the program adheres to international best practices in certification including ISO/IEC Guide 59:1994, ISO/IEC 17065:2012 and ISEAL Credibility Principles. Benchmarking to FSA is another opportunity to demonstrate adherence to a global framework for sustainable agriculture.

    • Visit the Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing website or email CSWA to learn more about Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing.
    • To learn more about the FSA benchmarking and to access scoring for benchmarked schemes, see the FSA Benchmark Overview and FSA Benchmarking Results.About California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance  

      CSWA is a leader in promoting sustainable winegrowing practices within the California wine industry. Created by Wine Institute and the California Association of Winegrape Growers in 2003, CSWA is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that implements the educational California Sustainable Winegrowing Program and administers Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing. CSWA provides the industry with a robust collection of sustainability resources that include the California Code of Sustainable Winegrowing, a workbook that enables growers and vintners to evaluate over 200 sustainable practices from grapes to glass against industry best practices and provides a clear path to integrating sustainable practices into their operations.

  • Updates to Bulk Citrus HLB Quarantine Requirements

    Effective Nov. 22, 2023, the Citrus Pest and Disease Prevention Division (CPDPD) has officially updated the requirements for moving bulk citrus fruit within and from a Huanglongbing (HLB) quarantine area to a packer/processor.

    Listed below is an overview of the newly updated requirements, per the CPDPD’s Citrus Grower/Grove Manager Information page:

    • If you are moving bulk citrus within a contiguous HLB quarantine zone, there is now no mitigation required.
      • If you are moving bulk citrus within a contiguous HLB quarantine area, but out of the original ACP regional quarantine zone (i.e., Orange County to Riverside County), one HLB mitigation is required.
    • If you are moving bulk citrus between two non-contiguous HLB quarantine zones (i.e., Riverside County to Ventura County), there is now one HLB mitigation required.
    • If you are moving bulk citrus outside of an HLB quarantine area, but within the same county (i.e., San Diego HLB quarantine zone to San Diego ACP regional quarantine zone), there is one HLB mitigation required.
    • If you are moving bulk citrus fruit to an area outside of the HLB quarantine zone and outside of the origin county (i.e., Ventura HLB quarantine Zone to Kern County), two HLB mitigations or a wet wash are required.All fruit, no matter of its origin or destination, must be completely safeguarded with a tarp or enclosed vehicle while in transit per requirements listed in the compliance agreement. The CPDPD will be signing revised compliance agreements with growers within an HLB quarantine, as well as packers/processors receiving fruit from a quarantined area.For complete information and details regarding the mitigations required for fruit movement, please visit the CPDPD’s Citrus Grower/Grove Manager Information page.

      For questions regarding citrus fruit movement requirements, please contact your local agricultural commissioner, email Keith Okasaki at Keith.Okasaki@cdfa.ca.gov or call 916-274-6300. — By the California Citrus Pest & Disease Prevention Program

  • Real California Milk Brings Back Cheese Wreath Kit, Giving Back To Communities In Need

    In celebration of the holidays, today the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) released its second collaboration with cheese shop Lady & Larder – the California Cheese Wreath Kit, a collection of Real California cheeses, dried fruit, nuts, crackers, and other items used to create an edible arrangement for seasonal gatherings and gift giving. In the spirit of giving, for each kit ordered a donation of $20* will be made to provide fluid milk to Feeding America food banks in California in support of families in need.

    The California Cheese Wreath kit features three cow’s milk specialty cheeses made with Real California Milk from the state’s farm families, candied pecans, dried citrus wheels, raisins, honey, crackers, and herbs along with a round bamboo cheese board as well as instructions for assembling a festive cheese wreath. The wreath sells for $175 and is available for pickup at Lady & Larder in Santa Monica or online (https://www.ladyandlarder.com/collections/the-gift-shop/products/real-california-cheese-wreath-2023) for shipping throughout the U.S.

    “Cheese is an essential part of the holidays and the California cheese wreath brings all of the elements together for the ultimate holiday centerpiece. And the best part is the whole family can take part in assembling this beautiful arrangement that also supports families in need,” said Jennifer Giambroni, VP of Communications for the CMAB.

    The initiative is part of the CMAB’s ongoing #CADAIRY4GOOD initiative, which focuses on increasing access to nutritious dairy foods made with Real California Milk for California individuals and families in need and identifying sustainable partnerships to expand the reach and resources available to feeding programs throughout the state.

    California is the number one dairy state with 1,100 family dairy farms focused on delivering the wholesome goodness of California milk while creating a greener, more sustainable future. California products can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which means they are made with milk from the state’s dairy farm families.

    * $20 will be donated to Feeding America for each California Cheese Wreath Kit purchased with a guaranteed donation of $10,000 to Feeding America. Only California Cheese Wreath Kit purchases at Lady & Larder between November 20, 2023 and January 30, 2024 qualify.

    About Real California Milk/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. For more information and to connect with the CMAB, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com, Facebook, YouTube,Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

    Lady & Larder

    Twin sisters Sarah and Boo Simms are the culinary and creative duo behind Lady & Larder – the Los Angeles based cheese and wine shop credited with starting a global grazing board movement. Founded in 2016, Lady & Larder proudly supports 100% domestic, American-made seasonal products and specializes in custom edible displays, carefully sourcing only the best for their crudités, fruit, cheese, and charcuterie. For those unable to visit their shop in person, the duo also offers online classes and workshops, as well as ships beautifully curated cheese boards, charcuterie kits, and seasonal culinary gifts nationwide. To Learn more, please visit ladyandlarder.com.

  • Streamlining Requirements for USDA Livestock Disaster Assistance Programs

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has waived certain notice of loss requirements for 2023 for the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish (ELAP) and Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP). In an effort to streamline assistance to support access to critical 2023 natural disaster recovery assistance, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is waiving the requirement to submit ELAP or LIP notices of loss within a pre-determined number of days for 2023. Instead, producers have the flexibility to submit 2023 notices of loss as soon as possible, once losses are realized, following a natural disaster event or no later than the established annual program application for payment deadlines for each program. FSA county committees are also being asked to re-evaluate 2023 ELAP and LIP late-filed notices of loss to determine if the waiver applies.

    “Our goal is to get producers into these disaster programs, and they are always encouraged to turn in an application if they believe they are eligible,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Program improvements are only effective if we ensure producers have sufficient time and information needed to submit their application. The ELAP and LIP waivers we are announcing today, in response to historic disasters in 2023, improve efficiencies for producers and our staff, are responsive to feedback about confusion regarding program timelines and are intended to give our staff the time needed to deliver the right support to producers when they need it most.  These waivers are also reflective of FSA’s efforts to integrate improvements and accessibility into our policy decisions. It’s critical that we increase awareness of these program flexibilities so all producers can participate.”

    Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish

    ELAP provides recovery assistance to eligible producers of livestock, honeybee, and farm-raised fish losses due to an eligible adverse weather or loss condition, including blizzards, disease, water shortages and wildfires. ELAP covers grazing and feed losses, transportation of water and feed to livestock and hauling livestock to grazing acres. ELAP also covers certain mortality losses for livestock including honeybees and farm-raised fish as well as honeybee hive losses. ELAP is designed to address losses not covered by other FSA disaster assistance programs.

    For 2023, FSA is waiving the regulatory requirement for producers who are eligible for ELAP to file a notice of loss with FSA within 30 calendar days from when the loss first became apparent for livestock and farm-raised fish and 15 calendar days for honeybees. Under this waiver, notices of loss are to be completed by the eligible producer and submitted to FSA no later than the annual program application deadline of January 30 following the program year in which the loss occurred. Therefore, producers who incurred ELAP-eligible losses in 2023, will need to submit a notice of loss by Jan. 30, 2024.

    Livestock Indemnity Program

    LIP provides disaster recovery assistance to livestock owners and contract growers who experience livestock deaths, in excess of normal mortality caused by eligible loss conditions including adverse weather, disease and attacks by animals reintroduced into the wild by the federal government or protected by federal law, including wolves and avian predators. LIP also helps livestock owners who must sell livestock at a reduced price because of an injury from certain loss conditions.

    For 2023, FSA is waiving the regulatory requirement for producers who are eligible for LIP to file a notice of loss within 30 calendar days from when the loss first became apparent. Under this waiver, producers are still required to complete and submit the notice of loss to FSA no later than the annual program payment application date, which is 60 calendar days following the program year in which the loss occurred. The LIP payment application and notice of loss deadline is Feb. 29, 2024, for the 2023 program year.

    2023 Disapproved Applications

    FSA county committees will review all notices of loss for both ELAP and LIP that were previously disapproved for the 2023 program year due to late filing and re-evaluate them to determine if the waiver applies. To receive ELAP and LIP benefits, producers will still need to file an application for payment by the established program deadline for the 2023 program year. Producers who are unsure about the status of their notice of loss or application for payment, should contact their local FSA county office as soon as possible.

    Supporting Documentation

    Accurate records and loss documentation are critical following disaster events and are required when filing notices of loss with FSA. Acceptable loss documentation includes:

    • Documentation of the number, kind, type, and weight range of livestock that have died, supplemented, if possible, by photographs or video records of ownership and losses.
    • Rendering truck receipts by kind, type, and weight – important to document prior to disposal.
    • Beginning inventory supported by birth recordings or purchase receipts.
    • Documentation from Animal Plant Health Inspection Service, Department of Natural Resources, or other sources to substantiate eligible death losses due to an eligible loss condition.
    • Documentation that livestock were removed from grazing pastures due to an eligible adverse weather or loss condition.
    • Costs of transporting livestock feed to eligible livestock, such as receipts for equipment rental fees for hay lifts and snow removal.
    • Feed purchase receipts if feed supplies or grazing pastures are destroyed.
    • Number of gallons of water transported to livestock due to water shortages.

    More Information

    The improvements to ELAP and LIP build on others made since 2021. This includes ELAP benefits for above normal costs for hauling feed and water to livestock and transporting livestock to other grazing acres during a qualifying drought. FSA also expanded eligible livestock under ELAP, LIP, and the Livestock Forage Disaster Assistance Program, and increased the LIP payment rate for beef, beefalo, bison, and dairy animals less than 250 pounds and most recently beef calves over 800 pounds. Learn about USDA disaster assistance programs on farmers.gov.

    On farmers.gov, the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster-at-a-Glance fact sheet and Loan Assistance Tool can help producers and landowners determine disaster protection and recovery program or loan options. For more information about FSA programs, contact your local USDA Service Center.

  • Helene Dillard to Retire as Dean of the UC Davis College of Ag and Environmental Sciences

    Dean Helene Dillard is retiring in 2024 as leader of the University of California, Davis, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, or CA&ES, after 10 years of service. A national search for a new dean will begin in December, and Dillard will retire once her successor is in place.

    During her tenure as dean, Dillard established several key initiatives, engaged many internal and external partners, and led the college’s efforts to improve the lives of Californians and people around the world. Her legacy and commitment to the college, its mission and campus is expansive and transformative. Throughout her tenure, she has championed and embodied the spirit of interdisciplinary collaboration to address the most pressing issues facing agriculture, the environment, and human and social needs.

    Comfortable around students, industry players and stakeholders, and government and international leaders, Dillard is an adept listener who has a knack for finding common ground and bridging the gap between disparate communities and setting a path forward to success.

    “Dean Dillard is an Aggie through and through, and she exemplifies all that is best about our campus,” said Mary Croughan, provost and executive vice chancellor. “She is a two-time alumna, a brilliant researcher, an internationally recognized leader in her field, and as kind and compassionate a person as you could ever hope to meet. She is nearly synonymous with the campus, and it is hard to imagine UC Davis without her. Dean Dillard will be dearly and deeply missed.”

    Her departure from the college is bittersweet — while she has deeply treasured her role as dean, she is looking forward to spending more time with family and enjoying the outdoor spaces she helped steward.

    “It has been an incredible honor to lead such an amazing college — I am so proud of the faculty, staff and students who remain dedicated to our mission, working to serve California, the nation and the world. Every day they show up committed and engaged, and I feel privileged to have played such a pivotal role in advancing and growing the college and UC Davis these past 10 years,” says Dillard.

    A broad portfolio

    As leader of the agricultural school ranked No. 1 in the nation and No. 2 in the world, she has served as the chief academic and administrative officer of the college, which includes 14 departments, 29 centers and institutes, more than 7,600 undergraduate students, approximately 320 faculty and 585 staff. She also manages programmatic responsibilities for the college’s Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension.

    She supported leadership and staff through several renovation and infrastructure projects, such as six new greenhouses, including a 14,400-square-foot greenhouse to safeguard an important grapevine collection from red blotch disease and other pathogens; new irrigation and water management initiatives; major upgrades to the Center for Aquatic Biology and Aquaculture; the installation of a new indoor vertical farm to develop innovative solutions for food security and improved water use; and a new and innovative goat dairy and creamery.

    During the pandemic, Dillard navigated a reduction in federal funding and unavoidable budget cuts while still managing to overhaul teaching spaces to facilitate better online learning and remote work environments. She also oversaw the implementation of safety measures to support staff and faculty who attended to the immediate needs of several thousand animals and acres of research fields and orchards.

    A focus on student success

    Dillard has remained incredibly dedicated to student success throughout her tenure. In partnership with the associate dean of undergraduate academic programs, she improved academic advising services and increased the ratio of students to advisors within the college and embedded a mental health counselor in the program. She elevated experiential learning both in and outside the classroom and expanded dean’s circle funding to provide financial support for field trips, service learning and external research at the Bodega Marine Laboratory.

    Dillard’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is extensive. She led the campus pilot to incorporate diversity statements into faculty hirings; created and co-leads the college-level DEI committee; and supported the launch of Aggie Jumpstart, a program that promotes inclusive academic excellence and student success among first-generation, low-income and underserved students. She remains a tireless advocate for listening and amplifying the voices of all faculty, staff and students.

    Over the past decade, the college has received more than $442 million in private philanthropic support. This includes the largest gift ever from an individual donor to UC Davis, $50 million, which paved the way for the establishment of the Lynda and Stewart Resnick Center for Agricultural Innovation to help shape the future of sustainable food production.

    A career of accolades and history of research

    A scientist and educator, Dillard is recognized widely for her contributions in plant pathology research, inclusive teaching and fostering diversity. She is a fellow of the American Phytopathological Society where she received the Excellence in Extension Award and was elected a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 2021. Dillard also received the Walter A. Robinson Community Champion award from the African Continuum at UC Davis in recognition of her commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion at UC Davis and received the New York Farmers Medal and the Outstanding Faculty Award from the Cornell College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.

    Prior to her appointment at UC Davis, Dillard was a professor of plant pathology, a Cooperative Extension specialist and associate dean of two colleges at Cornell University. Her research focused on the biology, ecology and management of fungal pathogens that cause diseases in vegetables. Her research interests included sustainable disease management strategies, integrated pest management, epidemiology, and host, pathogen and environmental actions.

    Working with industry, communities

    As a former CE specialist, she understands the deep value of listening to and working directly with communities and industry in the field. She was instrumental in securing the working title of Professor of Cooperative Extension, and she supported the creation of the Making Connections program, which provides opportunities for faculty and industry to foster a greater understanding of how research and applied work intersect and benefit each other.

    “Dean Dillard’s experience as a professor and researcher with an extension assignment made her uniquely qualified to serve as dean of this country’s top College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. She came to the position with a deep understanding of the importance of the public service mission of land grant universities and building relationships with stakeholders for real-time feedback to enhance the value of research to solve the most critical issues of our times,” said California Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross. “Since then, she has embraced a vision for research and education that leaves her organization in a better position to generate the talent and tools that California needs. As a colleague, as a friend, and as a leader, Helene has been engaged, thoughtful and committed, even through the most challenging of circumstances. She has distinguished herself and honored California’s agricultural community with her service.” – By Caren Weintraub, UC Davis

  • Arizona National Livestock Show Celebrates 76th Anniversary December 27-31, 2023

    The Arizona National Livestock Show, the largest livestock show in the Southwest, returns to Phoenix, welcoming everyone back to the Arizona State Fairgrounds December 27-31. Dedicated to youth and agriculture, this prestigious show offers an atmosphere of warm hospitality, a wide range of events, and a passion for the livestock and agriculture sectors. The show highlights the bygone days of the Western way of life, coming to life at the fairgrounds for five days.

    Executive Director Tyler Grandil notes, “The true success that the Arizona National Livestock Show achieves is not just its long history of celebrating the best traditions of animal husbandry in agriculture but that we provide invaluable experiences for families to share together.”

    Celebrating its 76th anniversary, the Arizona National Livestock Show began in Phoenix in 1948. Exhibitors travel from more than 40 states, bringing nearly 2,500 heads of the nation’s best cattle, horses, sheep, goats, and swine for competition, all competing for the coveted “Grand Champion” title. Premium awards are paid to junior and open exhibitors yearly, totaling more than $200,000.

    In addition to the livestock competition, youth compete in public speaking and creative speaking contests, livestock judging, and skill-a-thon competitions.

    Livestock Show Event Highlights

    The Farm Experience runs December 29-31. It is a series of events designed to educate people, especially children, about farm animals, their care, and their importance in agriculture. Bring the young buckaroos for an interactive glimpse into the agricultural lifestyle where they can enjoy the experience of riding a wooly sheep or roping at a Wrangler Round-Up, and enjoy a Pedal Tractor Pull, Li’l Buckaroo Rodeo, Goat Roping – Breakaway and Team Roping.

    Cattlemen’s Day is on December 30. Men and women from across the state gather for fellowship and spirited competition during the Arizona Working Ranch Horse Competition, Ranch Replacement Heifer Show and Sale and the Ranch Horse Sale.

    Ag Mechanics Show, held December 29-31, showcases agricultural mechanics projects created by students and participants, often in the context of agricultural education programs or 4-H clubs. This event provides a platform for individuals to display their skills and craftsmanship in various categories, including Ornamental Welding, Woodworking, Small Metal Projects, and more.

    Held in conjunction with the livestock show, the Cowboy Classics Western Art Show and Gear Exhibit runs December 29-1. It showcases the rich, unique life of the American cowboy, presented in bronze sculptures, leather and silver works, oil paintings, and a variety of other art mediums. Another attraction of the Arizona National is the Cowboy Classics Gallery, an exhibit illustrating Arizona’s long ranching history, filled with memorabilia and displays provided by prestigious ranching families and other organizations with agricultural roots.

    Livestock Judging is held on December 31. The event is the first national Collegiate Livestock Judging competition of the year, in addition to a Junior Judging Contest for youth in 4-H and FFA. This contest utilizes the best animals from across the country.

    Speaking contests are held on December 31. They allow participants, often students or individuals involved in agricultural education programs like FFA (Future Farmers of America) or 4-H clubs, to deliver prepared speeches on topics related to agriculture and related fields. These contests allow participants to enhance their public speaking skills, demonstrate their knowledge, and advocate for agricultural issues.

    Cattledog trials are held December 27-28. Also known as cattle dog trials or stock dog trials, these competitive events are where herding dogs, often Border Collies or Australian Cattle Dogs, demonstrate their skills in working livestock, particularly cattle. These trials are not only a showcase of the dogs’ herding abilities but also a practical test of their usefulness in ranching and farming operations.

    “Farming Simulator”  runs December 29-31 and is a popular video game series that allows players to experience the life of a modern farmer, managing various aspects of farming, including planting and harvesting crops, raising livestock, and operating agricultural machinery.

    Skill-A-Thon is held on December 29 and is a specialized competition that tests participants’ knowledge and skills related to livestock, including various aspects of animal care, management, and agriculture.

    Horse Show Event Highlights

    The Arizona National Horse Show has long been part of the event’s annual competitions. It runs December 14-17 at Scottsdale’s WestWorld equine complex and features equine competitions for various interests, including an American Quarter Horse Association Show and Youth Horse Show.

    The Arizona National Livestock Show is free for spectators to attend. For a full schedule of events and more information, visit the website.

    About The Arizona National Livestock Show

    The Arizona National Livestock Show is the largest livestock show in the Southwest, an annual Phoenix tradition since 1948. It is dedicated to youth and agriculture; its goal is to support the industry’s youth and share a passion for the livestock and agriculture sectors with the population as a whole. Exhibitors and their families travel from more than 40 states, held on the Arizona State Fairgrounds between Christmas and New Year’s. Over 4,200 head of the nation’s best cattle, sheep, goats, swine, horses, and cattle dogs take part in the for competition. For more information visit the website.

  • Application Period Opens for USDA Regional Ag Promotion Program

    On November 29th, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the Notice of Funding Opportunity for the first tranche of funding under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP). USDA is providing up to $300 million in funding in its first year to support eligible projects that enable exporters to break into new markets and increase market share in growth markets.

    Secretary Vilsack announced the Notice of Funding Opportunity at the President’s Export Council, after announcing the establishment of RAPP in October as part of a bipartisan request from the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. In total, RAPP is a $1.2 billion program made possible through the Commodity Credit Corporation, which will be made available over five years.

    “It takes significant investment to open and develop new export markets and this new fund will be dedicated to helping provide that start-up capital so that American exporters can diversify their markets and create new opportunities,” said Secretary Vilsack. “There are many regions of the world – in South and Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa – where the middle class is growing and the desire for high quality products is increasing. In order to capture those markets from our competitors we need to have a presence, address barriers, and showcase America’s high-quality, agricultural products across the world.”

    RAPP funds are available to non-profit U.S. agricultural trade organizations, non-profit State Regional Trade Groups (SRTGs), U.S. agricultural cooperatives, and state agencies that conduct approved market development activities to foster expanded exports and market diversification by encouraging the development, maintenance, and expansion of diverse commercial export markets for U.S. agricultural commodities and products.

    Market diversification is an important tool for maximizing growth opportunities for U.S. agriculture, as well to hedge the risk of market contraction and general volatility in the global marketplace. USDA is committed to promoting export opportunities in diverse and non-traditional markets, ensuring that U.S. agricultural commodities and products are available to diverse consumer groups. Therefore, the current top export markets will be ineligible for first tranche of RAPP funding. Those top ineligible markets are: China (including Hong Kong and Macau), Canada, Mexico, and the European Union.

    All other markets will therefore be eligible, with the exception of those countries for which sanctions or other legal barriers are in place. Further, the following three regions have been identified for special emphasis through the first tranche RAPP: 1) Africa, 2) Latin American/Caribbean, and 3) South/Southeast Asia. Out of the total funding available for the first tranche of RAPP, USDA will specifically set aside $25 million to fund activities in Africa.

    Future tranches of funds will be released in future years to ensure that the focus of funding can be adapted to changing trade environments and market conditions.

    RAPP awards will be generally granted for a period of performance of five years, with an expected period of performance starting June 1, 2024, and ending on September 30, 2029.

    Applications are due by 5 p.m. ET on Feb. 2, 2024. Additional information on RAPP is available at grants.gov.

    USDA also recently announced its planned agribusiness trade missions for 2024, which will include visits to the following markets: Seoul, Korea; New Delhi, India; Vancouver, Canada; Bogota, Colombia; Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (with buyers from Thailand), and Casablanca, Morocco (with buyers from Senegal and Francophone West Africa).

  • Ag Retailers Conference Addresses Challenges and Lessons Learned

    The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) recently held their 2023 ARA Conference & Expo with more than 600 ag retail industry professionals in attendance.

    The opening general session keynote speaker and generational expert Kim Lear with Inlay Insights offered a closer look into the next generation of ag retail’s workforce and how to lead multigenerational teams to thrive.

    “Agriculture, like any other industry, is experiencing a shift in the workplace as millennials transition from entry-level positions to management, Gen X steps into the c-suite, and Gen Z enters with a fresh perspective,” says ARA President and CEO Daren Coppock. “Kim shared new communication tactics to bridge the generational gap and build resilient teams.”

    Coppock then took the stage to deliver his annual President’s Report to share the top concerns he hears from ag retailers across the country, to celebrate our industry’s policy wins this year, and to peer into what the future of ag retail holds as it relates to artificial intelligence, people, regulatory overreach, risk management and more.

    Then, author and coach Jones Loflin delivered his keynote address with solutions to taking back control f your day instead of letting it control you.

    “As an ag retailer, I know what it’s like to feel as if there are never enough hours in a day to get everything done,” says ARA Board Chair Ian McGregor with The McGregor Company. “I look forward to getting back to work and implementing what I’ve learned today and sharing it with my team.”

    Later in the afternoon, attendees participated in two breakout sessions. The first was on disaster recovery, planning and prevention. Meherrin Fertilizer President Mike Carroll told his story of when the Winston Weaver fertilizer plant burned earlier this year and the comprehensive effort needed to manage the response. From cleanup to business continuity, Carroll shared lessons learned to help attendees refine their own crisis management plans.

    “Stop Letting Your Recruiting Challenges Create Retention Pain” was the second breakout session of the day led by Erin Mies and Kristen Ireland with People Spark Consulting. This interactive session dug deep into how to adjust work to both increase retention and engagement within your team while reducing recruitment headaches.

    The first day featured a tour of Winter Park and concluded with another networking reception in the Expo Hall to encourage relationship building across the industry and to showcase the leading products, services and programs.

    Learn more about the ARA Conference & Expo on the website or on ARA’s social media.

    About Agricultural Retailers Association
    The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) is a nonprofit trade association representing the interests of retailers across the United States on legislative and regulatory issues on Capitol Hill. As the political voice of agricultural retailers, ARA not only represents its membership but also educates members on the political process and important issues affecting the industry. For more information on current legislative and regulatory issues impacting agricultural retailers, visit www.aradc.org.

  • Cal Poly Welcomes New Director to Dairy Products Technology Center

    Carmen Licon-Cano, an experienced food engineer and dairy enthusiast, has joined Cal Poly’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences as the director of the Dairy Products Technology Center, overseeing the research and development of dairy products by Cal Poly students and faculty in partnership with industry professionals.

    The Cal Poly Dairy Products Technology Center, located at the university’s dairy unit, offers research opportunities and short courses on developing dairy-related products for industry professionals. The center has active programs in research, outreach and training. The research program currently emphasizes cheese science and technology, dairy foods quality, dairy ingredients technology and novel process technologies. Students assist with research trials and are hired as assistants for the professional courses offered at the center throughout the year.

    “The Dairy Products Technology Center is a place where you can innovate and think outside the box,” Licon-Cano said, “so I think research has to follow that trend and address the needs of the industry.”

    Prior to joining Cal Poly, Licon-Cano was an assistant professor for six years in Fresno State University’s Food Science and Nutrition Department, teaching food product development. She earned a doctorate in agricultural sciences and engineering, specializing in dairy product development and aroma analysis, from the University of Castilla-La Mancha in Spain, and spent several years in in France for post-doctoral work.

    Licon-Cano specializes in cheese making and the use of locally sourced ingredients. While at the University of Castilla-La Mancha, she received a patent for the development of an artisan cheese made from ewe’s milk and saffron.

    Since relocating to California, she said, she’s discovered the magnitude of California’s dairy industry, which is the largest milk producer in the U.S. and leading producer of butter, ice cream and nonfat dry milk. The state is the second largest cheese producer, accounting for nearly 20 percent of the nation’s cheese production.

    “This was a surprise for me, because outside of the United States, California is not recognized as the dairy state — and that has to change,” she said.

    In 2019, Licon-Cano worked with the California Milk Advisory Board, Cal Poly, Fresno State and UC Davis to launch the California Dairy Innovation Center (CDIC) to stimulate innovation in the California dairy industry. The partnership, which united producers, processors and educators around a set of common goals, led to increased funding for student learning opportunities and product advancement, she said.

    At Cal Poly, Licon-Cano plans to continue to focus on increased opportunities for students and industry members.

    “I want to bring new energy and new opportunities for students and research — bringing continued innovation to the industry,” she said.

    About Cal Poly’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences

    Cal Poly is a nationally ranked, comprehensive polytechnic university. The College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences is comprised of expert faculty members who take pride in their ability to transform academically motivated students into innovative professionals ready to solve the complex challenges associated with feeding the world in sustainable ways. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, including ranch land, orchards, vineyards and forests, all of which provide the basis for Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing methodology. It is the fifth-largest college of agriculture in the country, with 4,000 undergraduate students.

  • California Dairyman Steve Maddox Receives National Honor

    The National Dairy Promotion and Research Board (NDB) honored Steve Maddox and Connie Seefeldt as the 2023 co-recipients of the Richard E. Lyng Award for their contributions and distinguished service to dairy promotion.

    Maddox is a California dairy farmer, former NDB board member and current Dairy Council of California board member.

    Seefeldt is a Wisconsin dairy farmer, former NDB board member and current Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW) board member.

    Wisconsin dairy farmer Connie Seefeldt was also honored with the Richard E. Lyng Award (Image courtesy of DMI).

    The pair was recognized at this week’s Joint NDB/National Milk Producers Federation/United Dairy Industry Association Annual Meeting in Orlando, Fla.

    The award is named for former U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Richard E. Lyng, who played a critical role in implementing policies that led to the establishment of NDB more than 35 years ago. It honors leaders who have made a significant contribution to dairy promotion that benefits the entire industry.

    Seefeldt, who has served on the DFW board since 1994, is the longest serving board member in the organization’s history. She is the fifth generation on her family’s dairy, which was founded in 1906.

    Maddox joined his family’s business in 1978 after graduating from California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo. In addition to dairy farming, the family grows grapes, almonds, alfalfa and silage. Maddox has a passion for dairy promotion and research, which led him to serve on the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy’s sustainability council from 2009-17. Additionally, he held roles on the NDB and Dairy Council of California boards and with the National Milk Producers Federation.

    “Steve’s passion for dairy has never wavered and his dedication to promotion and research has been significant in California and across the country,” said Darrin Monteiro, California Dairies Inc. vice president of sustainability and member relations.

    As part of the Richard E. Lyng Award, the NDB will contribute $2,500 in each winner’s name to an organization of their choice. Seefeldt has selected the Wisconsin Academy for Rural Medicine program at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Maddox has chosen the Dairy Shrine.

    For information about the dairy checkoff, visit www.usdairy.com/for-farmers.

    The 37-member National Dairy Board, formed in May 1984 under the authority of the Dairy Promotion Stabilization Act of 1983, carries out coordinated promotion and research program to help build demand, and expand domestic and international markets for dairy products and ingredients. NDB funds, in part, Dairy Management Inc., which manages the national dairy checkoff program.