California Ag Network

Category: Non-Video

  • California State Fair Announces 2026 Wine Industry Honorees

    Each year, the California State Fair Wine Competition not only showcases the state’s top wines, but also honors individuals and vineyards whose contributions have left an enduring impact on California’s wine industry.

    The California State Fair and the Wine Advisory Task Force recognizes accomplishments and services through a series of awards in the wine industry: Lifetime Achievement, Vineyard of the Year, and California All Stars. These prestigious honors reflect the spirit, history and continued evolution of California winemaking, as recognized by the very experts shaping the industry’s future.

    The Vineyard of the Year recognizes the California vineyard that consistently, over several growing seasons, produced grapes which have contributed directly to wine of superior quality and marketability within commercial sales systems and the fine wine market.

    The Wine Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes a person, family or institution whose lifetime contributions have helped pioneer and advance the California wine industry.

    The California All Stars is a posthumous award recognizing innovators, educators and leaders in the world of wine for their exemplary service and contributions to the California wine industry.

    “This year’s honorees reflect the heart and soul of California’s wine industry,” said Tom Martinez, CEO of California Exposition & State Fair. “From visionary vintners to multigenerational vineyard stewards, each has made a lasting impact on our industry, and we are honored to recognize and celebrate their remarkable contributions.”

    2026 Wine Industry Honorees

    Lifetime Achievement Awards

    Ted Bennett and Deborah Cahn — Navarro Vineyards

    Ted Bennett and Deborah Cahn accepted the award for Navarro Vineyards. Their family-owned winery in California’s Anderson Valley has been crafting estate-grown wines since 1974. Navarro is celebrated for its cool-climate varietals including Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Pinot Gris, as well as its longstanding commitment to sustainable farming and small-lot winemaking.

    Vineyard of the Year
    S.L.V. (Stag’s Leap Vineyard)

    The Vineyard of the Year honor was awarded to the historic S.L.V. (Stag’s Leap Vineyard), the original estate vineyard of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars in Napa Valley. Planted by Warren Winiarski in 1970, S.L.V. was the source of the winery’s legendary 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon, which famously won the 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting.

    In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars released 1,973 magnums of its signature S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon this May, sourced from the last remaining block of original vines planted in 1972. This spring also marks the release of the 2023 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon, a highly anticipated vintage from the historic vineyard that produced the celebrated 1973 wine.

    California Wine All-Stars

    Samuel Joseph Sebastiani — Sebastiani Vineyards

    Samuel Joseph Sebastiani’s life was an extraordinary testament to unwavering passion, deep-rooted heritage and groundbreaking innovation in winemaking. His exceptional vision and steadfast commitment elevated California’s premium wine industry, honoring the Sebastiani family’s enduring contributions to the California wine industry and multi-generational legacy in winemaking.

    Christian Michel Jean Roguenant — Lightpost Winery
    Christian Michel Jean Roguenant was a Burgundy-born winemaker who shaped California’s Central Coast wine industry for nearly four decades. As the winemaker for Lightpost Winery, he leveraged his global expertise to craft award-winning sparkling and cool-climate still wines.

    Jed Steele — Steele Wines / Shannon Ridge
    Jed Steele was a legendary California winemaker widely known as “Mr. Lake County” and the man who put California Chardonnay on the consumer map. He left a mark on the American wine industry through a career spanning over five decades.

    Dr. Anita Oberholster (2025 Honoree)
    Dr. Anita Oberholster was a globally respected wine chemist and Cooperative Extension specialist in enology at the University of California, Davis. She was widely recognized for her groundbreaking research and leadership in the wine industry. Revered as an industry “rock star,” she dedicated her career to protecting vineyards and winemaking communities around the world from climate-driven agricultural challenges.

    The 2026 honorees were celebrated during the annual Judges Dinner hosted by Grindstone Wines in Esparto, California, with support from Tierney Bates and the Yolo County Vineyard & Winery Association. Participating Yolo County wineries poured wines during the evening reception, showcasing the region’s diverse and growing wine industry.

    For more information and a complete list of winners, visit the California State Fair website.

    The California State Fair runs from July 17 through August 2 at the Cal Expo fairgrounds. Gates open at 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 10 a.m. Friday through Sunday.  — Story contributed by the California State Fair

  • Milk Production Shows Growth at Slowed Rate

    Milk production grew 2.3% on a liquid basis in March, marking the fourth consecutive month of positive but slowing milk production. Despite decelerating production, milkfat supplies remain ample, and CME butter prices have eased over the last month as a result.

    Skim solids tell a different story: Nonfat dry milk (NFDM) prices set records throughout April and into May as new cheese capacity and insatiable demand for high-protein dairy products competed with dryers for milk. Yogurt and cottage cheese production and retail sales continue to gain momentum, and whey protein concentrate use rose almost 20% in March despite steep prices.

    However, even as protein demand remains high, warning signs of economic pressures on consumers are beginning to flash. Inflation in April accelerated to 3.8%, and consumer sentiment dropped to a record low. Economic pressures have translated to softer foodservice volumes, highlighted by cheese and butter domestic use easing. Overall, the Class IV rally driven by NFDM has helped buoy the All Milk Price, resulting in a March DMC Margin of $9.57/cwt, yet that improved margin disguises significant regional variation.

    Graph of the Month

    Milk production is still growing but has recently showed signs of deceleration. While component growth contributed heavily to increases in milk production in 2025, recent year-over-year increases were almost entirely due to growth in the milking herd. Beef-on-dairy is contributing significantly to farm income as dairy commodity prices ease; producers are producing additional black calves in response but are not pushing for additional component growth due to the cost of the additional feed input relative to the marginal gain in production. Still, genetic advancements continue, meaning that some growth in liquid milk per cow and higher component production are built into today’s herd.

    Click here to read more on the May Dairy Market Report. — Story by National Milk Producers Federation

  • Jersey Cheese Contest Being Held in Missouri

    The American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) and National All-Jersey Inc. (NAJ) invite cheesemakers from across the country to participate in the Second Annual People’s Choice Jersey Cheese Contest, to be held during the 2026 AJCA-NAJ Annual Meetings in Springfield, Missouri, June 17-20, 2026.

    The contest will once again showcase the exceptional quality, flavor and versatility of cheeses made with Jersey milk while highlighting the innovation and craftsmanship of Jersey dairy producers and artisan cheesemakers nationwide.

    The inaugural contest, held during the 2025 Annual Meetings, featured outstanding entries from across the country. Cinnamon Ridge Dairy of Iowa earned top honors as the first-ever People’s Choice Jersey Cheese Contest champion, while Marcoot Jersey Creamery of Illinois was named runner-up.

    Contest entries will be featured throughout the annual meetings during several social events, including the Welcome Reception and Wine & Cheese Social, the National Heifer Sale social and the AJCA Breeders’ Banquet. Attendees from across the Jersey industry will have the opportunity to sample cheeses and vote for their favorites throughout the week, with winners announced following the AJCA Breeders’ Banquet on Saturday evening.

    “All entries must use Jersey milk, allowing us to showcase the rich quality and exceptional components Jersey milk brings to dairy products,” said Kim Billman Director of Communications for AJCA. “This contest is a fun and engaging way to promote Jersey products while giving attendees the opportunity to experience cheeses from Jersey producers across the country.”

    There is no cost to enter the contest, and participating cheesemakers will be recognized as sponsors of the social events during the annual meetings. Participants are encouraged to provide promotional materials to accompany their entries.

    Contest Guidelines Include:

    • Entries must use Jersey milk.
    • A minimum of 10 pounds of each cheese entry must be submitted.
    • Full wheels or cuts are accepted.
    • Entries should arrive at the meeting headquarters hotel no later than Monday, June 15, 2026.
    • Each cheese variety requires a completed entry form.

    The 2026 AJCA-NAJ Annual Meetings will be held at the DoubleTree Hotel in Springfield, Missouri, and will feature educational sessions, tours, youth activities, the National Heifer Sale and celebrations recognizing 50 years of Young Jersey Breeders and 50 years of the Equity Program with National All-Jersey Inc.

    For contest information or entry submissions, contact Kim Billman, kbillman@usjersey.com at  614-322-4451

    Entry link can be downloaded from: https://usjersey.com/wp-content/uploads/AJCA_Awards/Cheese_Contest/EntryForm_Cheese26.pdf

    Information sheet also available at: https://usjersey.com/wp-content/uploads/AJCA_Awards/Cheese_Contest/InformationSheet_Cheese-Contest.pdf

    Additional information and registration details for the Annual Meetings are available at:
    www.usjerseyannualmeeting.com

    — Story contributed by the American Jersey Cattle Association

  • UC Davis Opens Resnick Center for Agricultural Innovation

    The University of California, Davis, celebrated the grand opening of the Resnick Center for Agricultural Innovation.

    Made possible by philanthropic support, including a lead transformative gift from Lynda and Stewart Resnick, through their foundation in 2022, the new center is housed within the UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. The center builds on the university’s longstanding global leadership in agriculture with a focus on translating research into real-world impact.

    “This center represents the best of UC Davis, uniting our strengths in agriculture, engineering and environmental sciences to address challenges facing communities across California and around the world,” said Chancellor Gary S. May. “We are deeply grateful to Lynda and Stewart for their partnership and support, which expand research opportunities and drive solutions that will shape the future of agriculture.”

    Students, faculty, staff, donors and industry partners joined university leaders May 19 to celebrate the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, open house and tours.

    “Lynda and I have always believed that growing more food with fewer resources is one of the most important things we can do,” said Stewart Resnick, chairman of The Wonderful Company. “UC Davis is the leading ag university in the country, and we all have a stake in giving them everything they need to continue leading on this important work. This center will train the next generation, drive practical solutions, and get this urgently needed progress to growers and communities around the world.”

    The Resnick Center reflects a broader commitment from the couple and their foundation, whose $50 million gift to UC Davis in 2022 included $40 million for the facility and $10 million to establish the Resnick Agricultural Innovation Research Fund, advancing research into sustainable uses for agricultural byproducts. Stewart Resnick also serves on the Chancellor’s Board of Advisors, underscoring the Resnicks’ longstanding commitment to the university and its mission.

    The 34,000-square-foot facility includes hands-on learning in an innovative and immersive environment that connects education to research and discovery. Experts across disciplines will work in labs equipped with robotics, sensors, data science and artificial intelligence — technologies transforming how agriculture is managed and scaled. Research efforts will focus on making agricultural systems more resilient, developing advanced technologies, maximizing sustainability through water and energy efficiencies, and expanding access to nutritious food.

    “The new Resnick Center strengthens our ability to integrate research, teaching and extension in ways that directly serve California and beyond,” said Ashley M. Stokes, dean of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. “It creates a dynamic environment where discovery, learning and community engagement come together — accelerating innovation, deepening partnerships with industry, and translating knowledge into real-world solutions. The design and flexibility of the space allow us to reimagine ideas and respond with agility to the evolving needs of our communities.”

    The center will incorporate specialized labs and equipment that bolster efforts to transform agricultural byproducts into useable materials. This work is supported by the annual competitive research grants funded by the Resnicks, through their foundation.

    Over the past three years, UC Davis researchers have explored how agricultural waste — including discarded hulls and shells from California’s iconic specialty crops like almonds, pistachios and pomegranates — can be repurposed as soil amendments, sustainable food products and low-cost industrial materials. The new facility will allow for widespread exploration of even more agricultural crops and potential uses.

    In addition to experiential learning opportunities, the facility houses The Wonderful Scholar Center, a student success hub that offers academic and career advising for more than 50 students who are attending UC Davis on a Wonderful Scholarship. With a commitment to supporting first-generation students, the Resnicks, their foundations and The Wonderful Company have awarded over 3,500 scholarships of up to $40,000, providing mentorship and tutoring support with dedicated coaches, and equipping students with the tools to succeed in college and beyond.

    “As a first-generation college student who grew up around agriculture, I came to UC Davis with a deep appreciation of what farming families are up against. The Wonderful Scholarship brought me here, and this center has shown me how research, innovation, and policy all have to work together to change the future of agriculture,” said Jose Gomez, Wonderful Scholar and second-year political science major. “What the Resnicks have built isn’t just a building. It’s a bridge across disciplines — driving research, innovation, and people forward. I intend to spend my life serving others and advancing solutions that strengthen our communities.”

    “Today marks the beginning of a new era,” Chancellor May said. “The discoveries made inside this building will extend into farms, fields, and communities around the globe, shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for agriculture.” — Story by Courtney Tompkins, UC Davis

  • ‘Beyond the Bag’ Webinar Scheduled for May 28

    The May 28 Dairy Calf & Heifer Association (DCHA) webinar features “Beyond the Bag, Part II: Translating Trends into Real World Calf Nutrition Decisions.” This webinar starts at 2 p.m. Central time (U.S./Canada). Actus Animal Nutrition Senior Director of Innovation Tana Dennis will lead this free, one-hour educational offering. Elizabeth Douglass will moderate the webinar. To register for the webinar, go to: https://bit.ly/ActusNut052826.

    This webinar builds on the “Beyond the Bag” discussion from the 2026 DCHA Annual Conference by shifting the focus from trends and theory to execution and next steps. This presentation will highlight what levers can be pulled in milk replacer formulas to adapt to volatile ingredient markets and expected calf performance differences when adopting alternative ingredients to milk proteins. This presentation will also explore precision and phase feeding concepts and how to assess additives for optimal return on investment. Attendees will leave with practical takeaways they can apply immediately, regardless of whether they feed milk replacer or component-based programs when raising calves.

    Veterinarians and veterinary technicians may earn one Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) credit for attending this DCHA webinar. To learn more about this opportunity, contact JoDee Sattler at: jodee@calfandheifer.org.

    DCHA’s May 28 webinar is sponsored by Actus Animal Nutrition. DCHA does not support one product or company over another, and any mention is not an endorsement by DCHA.

    If you are a DCHA member and cannot attend the live program, you may access the webinar through DCHA’s online Member Center after June 11. To access the webinar recording, DCHA members need to visit https://calfandheifer.org/login and enter their username and password.

    For more information about DCHA’s webinars, e-mail Sue Schatz, DCHA member services director, at: sue@calfandheifer.org. Follow DCHA on social media or visit the DCHA website –www.calfandheifer.org – to learn about future webinars. — Story contributed by the Dairy Calf & Heifer Association

  • Walnut Commission Applauds House Passage of Farm Bill

    The California Walnut Commission applauded the House of Representatives’ passage of the Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2026 saying it was meaningful progress toward renewing federal farm policy.

    “California walnut growers, many of whom are multi-generational family farmers, face distinct production and market challenges that demand thoughtful, long‑term policy solutions, and the farm bill is an important step to that end,” the Commission wrote. “A comprehensive, five‑year farm bill plays a vital role in helping specialty crop producers remain resilient, competitive and able to deliver nutritious products that support the health of Americans and families around the globe.”

    The Farm Bill was passed April 30 and is awaiting signature by Pres. Trump. — Story contributed by the California Walnut Commission   

  • Almond Hulls Get Gras Status

    For decades, almond hulls have had a specific job — to be a low-cost animal feed ingredient. But a recent milestone could open the door to a different future for this familiar byproduct. Based on an extensive evaluation, almond hull powder (AHP) has been confirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use in human food, following a review by an independent expert panel.

    That may sound technical, but for almond growers, this decision has the potential to reshape the conversation around almond hull value.

    First, What Does ‘GRAS’ Actually Mean?

    In plain terms, GRAS status means that qualified experts agree that a food ingredient is safe for people to eat, based on scientific evidence and a long list of safety data. It’s a designation recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is a key factor for any ingredient that wants to enter the human food supply.

    In this case, an independent expert panel reviewed a comprehensive dossier, more than 180 pages, covering how Almond Hull Powder is made, safety for human consumption, how much people might eat and what happens when they do. The panel concluded that AHP is safe for its intended uses in food. The dossier and expert panel findings are finalized and submitted to the FDA.

    Why Almond Hulls?

    Almond hulls make up a significant share of the almond fruit by weight, yet historically they’ve delivered modest returns to growers. Most hulls end up in livestock rations, where they’re valued for fiber and energy, but prices can be volatile and demand is tied closely to dairy and feed markets.

    GRAS status changes the playing field by allowing almond hulls, when processed into Almond Hull Powder, to be used in human food products. According to the expert panel review, AHP can be used in a wide range of foods, including baked goods, cereals, beverages, bars and nutritional products. That doesn’t mean hulls suddenly replace almonds on the grocery shelf. But it does mean there is a pathway where hulls can move beyond feed and into higher-value food ingredient markets.

    What This Could Mean for the Hull Market

    GRAS status doesn’t instantly create new demand, but it removes a major barrier. The expert review means food companies can now seriously explore AHP as an ingredient without having to clear safety hurdles themselves. That opens the door to:

    • New markets beyond traditional feed channels
    • Higher-value applications tied to human nutrition and functional foods
    • More diversified demand, reducing reliance on any single end use

    The announcement also points to the next steps already underway, including finalizing processing parameters and external engagement with food manufacturers and partners.

    For growers, this matters because diversified demand is often the first step toward improved and more stable byproduct economics.

    The Bottom Line for Growers

    Almond Hull Powder earning GRAS status doesn’t change the hull market overnight. But it does something just as important; it expands what’s possible.

    By clearing the scientific and regulatory considerations for human food use, almond hulls move from being only a feed ingredient to becoming a potential food ingredient as well. Over time, that shift could translate into new demand streams, new partnerships, and a stronger value proposition for growers.

    For an industry always looking to make the most of every pound —Story contributed by the Almond Board of California

  • 42nd Carrot Conference Planned by UCANR

    UC Ag and Natural Resources will hold the 42nd International Carrot Conference, scheduled for June 2-3 at the Bakersfield Marriott Convention Center.

    The Carrot Conference is an opportunity to share and discuss research findings and a way for people to exchange ideas and concerns in all aspects of carrot production. Topics such as breeding, new products, production, and pest management are discussed in formal paper sessions, poster sessions, and a field tour, as well as other social gatherings.

    The conference also provides continuing education opportunities with 4.5 other DPR hours approved for June 2. More details and an agenda can be found here. For additional information please contact: Jaspreet Sidhu, Kern County Cooperative Extension, 661-868-6222, 661-304-8870. — Contributed by UC Ag and Natural Resources

  • Hass Avocado Board Elections Underway

    The Hass Avocado Board has proceeded with elections with voting taking place electronically. Those who previously registered to vote electronically and/or provided an email address on a past paper ballot should have received an email with voting instructions. For those associated with multiple entities, separate emails have been sent for each entity — each containing a unique username and password for voting. Emails were distributed on April 27 and will come from either noreply@eballot.com or noreply@votenet.com.

    Participants are encouraged to open each email individually and use the corresponding credentials to cast their votes.

    The ballot includes the names and information of nominees running for open seats on the Board. HAB Chair Gwen Jackimek encourages all eligible voters to take the time to participate, emphasizing that every vote is important. — Story contributed by the Hass Avocado Board

  • Blue Diamond Releases May Market Update

    April shipments from Blue Diamond Growers totaled 219.8 million pounds, within industry expectations at an 8.8% decline year over year on the heels of the last two strong shipment reports. April exports reached 167.3 million pounds, down 10.9% from prior year but continue to surpass last year’s pace by 1.3% at 1.55 billion pounds. Domestic shipments for April were mostly flat at 1.3% behind prior year. Domestic year-to-date shipments remain behind at 444 million pounds, down 14.4%. Total industry shipments through April stand at 1.99 billion pounds, down 2.7% versus last year.

    Shipments

    India: For the month of April, India imported 31.6 million pounds, a reduction from last year’s 45.9 million pounds. Compared to last year, the gap has widened to 8%. The market has taken a step back as warmer temperatures have reduced local consumption. India remains a strong player for global inshell consumption and will need to re-engage to secure inventories ahead of new crop supply.

    China/Hong Kong/Vietnam: April 2026 shipments to China/Hong Kong totaled 3.7 million pounds, marking a 110% increase compared to prior year. Shipments to Vietnam reached 4.8 million pounds, down 34% for the month and up 46% year to date. Combined shipments to these regions increased 2.65% year to date.

    Europe: Europe took a slight step back this month, with its growth rate declining year over year from 7% to 4%. The market continues to be a solid performer and reliable outlet for California almonds. Buyer mentality has not changed all year. Calculated and cautious buying activity should be expected to continue through the end of the crop year, with many beginning to shop for new crop coverage. Spain (+17%), Italy (+9%) and Germany (+4%) continue to lead the region’s growth.

    Middle East: The region continues to be hampered by the conflict with Iran. Buyers in the Persian Gulf region continue to take a wait-and-see approach with little appetite for risk. Demand is still present across the region, but logistical challenges and increased transportation costs make it difficult to take positions. Trade flows continue to evolve with new destinations now serving as trade hubs with Dubai unable to participate. Turkey continues to show strength, up 35%, while Pakistan, now up 202%, has emerged as a new throughput option to service the region’s demand. Trade will always find a way if buyers want to engage, but until a resolution is reached, the industry will continue to define a new normal over the coming weeks and months.

    Domestic: The domestic market shipped 52.6 million pounds, resulting in a decrease of 1.3%. April was the second largest shipment month of this crop year, bringing the market year-over-year decrease to 14.4%. Softer monthly sales have led to forward commitments declining by 5.2%. After a long period of steep declines, it appears the domestic market is maintaining its new monthly shipping average just shy of 50 million pounds. With forward commitments of 199 million pounds, this market is well positioned to match prior year’s final quarter shipments of approximately 152 million pounds.

    Commitments

    Total commitments currently stand at 517 million pounds, trailing last year by 1.6%. New sales for the month were subdued in anticipation of the Subjective Estimate and totaled 160.7 million pounds, down from 192.5 million last year. The domestic market secured 39.9 million pounds, while exports added 120.8 million pounds of new coverage. Total commitments for the domestic market are now at 199.6 million pounds while exports have reached 317 million pounds. With softer sales for the month, uncommitted inventory is currently up 4.2% at 605.8 million pounds versus 581.5 million pounds prior year.

    Crop

    The 2025 crop receipts are trickling in with just 4 million pounds added in April, bringing the receipts to approximately 2.69 billion pounds.

    Blue Diamond’s May 9, 2026 Crop Estimate Report projects a California almond crop ranging between 2.675 and 2.72, with a center point of 2.69 billion pounds. The overall estimate reflects a balanced but cautious outlook acknowledging weather impacts, orchard abandonments and summer conditions which determine whether the crop reaches projected potential. The Blue Diamond crop estimate is closely aligned with similar estimates by the USDA Subjective Estimate (2.7 billion pounds) and others in the industry. We will continue to share crop updates in our June Market Report and our July Crop Forecast Report to provide a more precise forecast as we progress through harvest.