California Ag Network

Category: Non-Video

  • Legislation Heads to Governor’s Desk

    State legislators closed out the legislative session and adjourned on September 1, 2026. The end-of-session actions brought new gut and amend bills to the foreground relating to warehouses and non-residential properties that could affect agriculture. Legislators also passed bills regarding wages, water and ultraprocessed food, among others.

    On a positive note, modest funding was included in the budget for a few Ag Council priorities and those are detailed below.   

    Governor Newsom has until September 30, 2026, to decide whether he will sign or veto the bills.

    Bills include: AB 2646, which would raise hourly wages to $19.75 for H2-A workers and corresponding employees; AB 1881, requiring tribal “informed consent” for certain projects that result in a physical change to state land and waterways, while also creating a private right of action that could be used by tribes to challenge state agency decisions relating to land and water; and AB 817, which requires cold storage warehouse owners or operators to establish a contingency fund for emergencies if the facility is 20,000 square feet or greater. — Story contributed by the Ag Council of California 

  • Funding Committed to Fight Pierce’s Disease

    The Consolidated Central Valley Table Grape Pest and Disease Control District Board of Directors authorized the use of up to $1.7 million in district reactionary funds, generated through the California table grape industry, to support CDFA activities related to the prevention and control of Pierce’s Disease (PD) and the Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter (GWSS).

    The action was taken during the district’s board of directors meeting on Friday, August 21, 2026, in response to an approximately $1.7 million funding shortfall associated with current PD/GWSS program activities.

    The district recognizes continued GWSS surveillance, treatment, and suppression as critical to limiting the spread of Pierce’s Disease and protecting California’s table grape, wine grape and raisin industries. Since there is currently no cure for Pierce’s disease, preventing the movement of the disease and controlling populations of GWSS remain essential to protecting California vineyards.

    Background

    The Consolidated Central Valley Table Grape Pest and Disease Control District was formed pursuant to Article 8.7 of Chapter 9 of Division 4 of the California Food and Agricultural Code.

    Under California Food and Agricultural Code Section 6047.87, the district is authorized to take actions necessary to control, eradicate, remove, or prevent the spread of GWSS, Pierce’s Disease and other designated pests and diseases injurious to table grapes. GWSS presents a significant threat because it can spread the bacterium that causes Pierce’s disease as it feeds on grapevines.

    Historically, USDA and CDFA have provided funding for the GWSS Area-Wide Treatment Program. Due to federal and state funding shortfalls, the funding toward the GWSS program has been cut year-over-year. The district’s board of directors is providing emergency industry funding to prevent disruption of the program while longer-term state and federal funding solutions are pursued.

    Protecting Kern and Tulare Counties

    GWSS and Pierce’s Disease do not recognize county, crop, or district boundaries. A

    coordinated, area-wide approach to surveillance and treatment is critical to reducing GWSS populations and limiting the potential movement of the pest into vineyards and other agricultural areas.

    Citrus plays a particularly important role in GWSS management because citrus trees serve as a primary year-round host for the pest. Area-wide programs use trapping and monitoring to identify areas with elevated GWSS populations and coordinate treatments in citrus and other host areas when necessary.

    The funding commitment from the district will help support continued CDFA-coordinated PD/GWSS activities, including area-wide efforts that provide resources for eligible citrus growers to conduct approved treatments designed to suppress GWSS populations. These activities complement trapping, monitoring, and other preventative measures intended to reduce the movement of GWSS and protect nearby vineyards.

    By committing up to $1.7 million from accumulated district reactionary funds, the board is

    investing industry-generated funds directly into efforts intended to protect table grape

    growers. For growers in Kern and Tulare counties, there will be no assessment change.

    The district remains committed to working collaboratively with CDFA, county agricultural

    commissioners, growers and other agricultural partners to protect California’s grape industry from Pierce’s Disease and Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter.

    For additional information, please contact the Consolidated Central Valley Table Grape Pest and Disease Control District at 559-210-0118. — Story contributed by the Consolidated Central Valley Table Grape Pest and Disease Control District

  • Meat Institute Weighs in on “Authorization” for Farmer and Rancher Meat Processing

    The Meat Institute issued the following statement regarding President Trump’s announcement that he is authorizing farmers and ranchers to process their own meat:

    “America’s farmers and ranchers already have multiple pathways to process and market the livestock they raise that can be leveraged to achieve the goals stated by the President today. Allowing uninspected meat to be sold to unwitting consumers is the wrong approach, and risks undermining this country’s reputation for producing the safest meat products in the world.

    Today, producers may choose to process animals under a custom exemption, establish their own state or federally inspected facility to sell meat commercially, or work with one of the thousands of small and very small federally and state-inspected establishments. The Food Safety and Inspection Service provides extensive support to small and very small establishments through plain-language guidance, technical assistance, educational resources, and dedicated outreach programs designed to help plants meet regulatory requirements and produce safe food.

    “We are waiting to see more details from the Administration; however, it is critical that expanding processing opportunities does not come at the expense of food safety. Federal and state inspection requirements exist for a reason: to help ensure that meat sold to American families is safe, wholesome and properly labeled. Allowing uninspected or inadequately inspected meat into the marketplace would put consumers at risk and undermine the food safety system that protects millions of Americans every day.

    “If the goal is to lower beef prices for American families, lowering food safety standards is the wrong response: America needs more cattle. Expanding the nation’s herd and increasing the beef supply will lower beef prices, preserve consumers’ and trading partners’ trust in the safety of the meat supply, and strengthen the entire beef supply chain, from producers to consumers.  Jeopardizing food safety jeopardizes public health and the entire meat industry.

    To consumers: “The meat supply is safe thanks to the companies that prioritize food safety every single day, overlaid by USDA’s inspection system. The Meat Institute will not waver in its efforts to continuously improve food safety and quality for Americans.”

  • CAWG Launches California Wine Merchandise for California Wine Month

    California wine represents more than what’s in the bottle. It reflects the thousands of growers, workers, families, and communities who have shaped our state’s wine industry — and a wine growing culture that is distinctly Californian.

    Since 2004, California has marked September as Wine Month, a legislatively recognized tribute to the state’s wines, winegrowing regions, and the people who make them possible.

    While California is home to countless wineries and wine regions with their own identities, there are fewer products built around California wine as a whole.

    To celebrate, the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) has launched a small line of merchandise, giving consumers and those who work in the industry a new way to show their support. Proceeds from the collection will support CAWG’s ongoing advocacy for growers throughout the state.

    “At a time when California’s winegrape growers are facing significant challenges, we need more people talking about California wine, choosing California wine, and recognizing the growers behind every bottle,” said CAWG President Natalie Collins. “This is one small, fun way to help do that.”

    The collection features simple designs created for anyone who loves California wine.

    “California wine is part of a lifestyle and culture that extends well beyond the vineyard,” Collins said. “You don’t have to work in wine to support it. We hope people wear it, share it, and maybe even get others thinking about what’s in their glass and where it comes from.”

    — Story contributed by the California Association of Winegrape Growers

  • Mike Forbes Named CEO of American Pistachio Growers

    American Pistachio Growers (APG) announced the appointment of Mike Forbes as its new President and CEO, assuming the role on Sept. 1. Forbes brings more than two decades of leadership experience across the food, consumer products and wellness industries. Throughout his career, he has helped build purpose-driven brands, accelerate growth and lead organizations through periods of transformation while maintaining a strong focus on consumers, innovation and sustainability.

    “We are excited to welcome Mike Forbes as the next President and CEO of American Pistachio Growers,” said APG Board Chairman Justin Wylie. “Mike brings exceptional leadership experience, strong strategic judgment, and a genuine appreciation for the growers and industry he will represent. The Board believes he is the right person to build on APG’s strong foundation, expand opportunities for American pistachios, and lead the organization into its next chapter of growth.”

    A Wisconsin native with agricultural roots, Forbes grew up in 4-H and comes from a family of farmers. After beginning his career with McKinsey & Company, he held leadership roles at Jim Beam, Procter & Gamble and General Mills before a personal health journey inspired him to focus his career on food and wellness.

    That passion led him to California Olive Ranch, where he spent nearly a decade helping grow the business from less than $10 million to more than $100 million in annual revenue while advancing to Executive Vice President of the Consumer Business.

    Forbes went on to serve as CEO of Alter Eco, leading the organic chocolate company through a successful turnaround centered on regenerative agriculture. He later held executive leadership roles with Safely, MaryRuth Organics, and The Vitamin Shoppe, where he helped drive growth, expand retail partnerships, and strengthen consumer and digital businesses.

    “I am so excited to join APG and its family of growers and processors, and it’s an honor to work alongside such a world-class group of people who are deeply committed to this industry,” said Forbes. “Pistachios are an incredible crop, and nobody grows them better than American farmers. They’re one of nature’s perfect snacks, delivering outstanding flavor along with tremendous health benefits. APG has a long record of success, and I can’t wait to get started, meet our members, and help build on that momentum as we continue growing demand for American pistachios around the world.”

    Forbes holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with Honors from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and an MBA from Harvard Business School. As President and CEO, Forbes will lead APG’s efforts to advance the interests of American pistachio growers and processors, strengthen domestic and international demand, and continue promoting the nutritional, economic and environmental benefits of American-grown pistachios. — Story contributed by American Pistachio Growers

  • FDA Issues Emergency Use Authorization for Generic Drug to Prevent New World Screwworm in Cattle

    FDA’s 14th EUA against NWS

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Bimectin (ivermectin) injection for the prevention of New World screwworm (NWS) infestations in cattle when administered within 24 hours of birth, at the time of castration or at the appearance of a wound Bimectin injection is not authorized for use in lactating dairy cows or in calves that will be processed for veal.

    Based on the available evidence, the FDA has concluded it is reasonable to believe that Bimectin injection may be effective for the prevention of Screwworm infections in certain cattle when used as authorized, and the known and potential benefits of the product outweigh its known and potential risks.

    “This authorization reflects the FDA’s commitment to expanding generic drug options against New World screwworm,” said Timothy Schell, Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine. “By authorizing both generic and pioneer products, the Agency is ensuring producers aren’t dependent on a single manufacturer or product to protect their herds.”

    To maintain the continued safety of the food supply and avoid drug residues, it is critical that cattle producers carefully follow the 35-day slaughter withdrawal time and not administer this drug in lactating dairy cows and calves that will be processed for veal.

    Bimectin injection is a generic version of Ivomec, which was authorized in February 2026 for the prevention of NWS myiasis in cattle. The FDA previously approved Bimectin injection for the treatment and control of various parasites in cattle. This EUA is only for the Bimectin injection and does not authorize other dosage forms of Bimectin.

    Bimectin injection is available over the counter without a prescription. Cattle producers are responsible for using Bimectin injection in accordance with the product labeling and fact sheet.

    This EUA will be effective until it is revoked or the HHS Secretary terminates the declaration that the potential public health emergency presented by NWS justifies the emergency use authorization of animal drugs for NWS.

    Bimectin injection is sponsored by Bimeda Animal Health Ltd. based in Ireland.

  • WUD Pursues Funding for Tule Subbasin Farmers

    Western United Dairies has submitted two proposals to USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), seeking federal conservation funding for dairy farmers and agricultural lands in the Tule Subbasin.

    The proposals build on WUD’s work through LandFlex and other regional water and conservation efforts. The goal is to bring more resources directly to farmers to help address some of the biggest water and nutrient challenges facing the region.

    If funded, the two projects would provide different options for irrigation efficiency, groundwater recharge, dairy wastewater treatment and nutrient management.

    Building on What Farmers Are Already Doing

    Through LandFlex, WUD has worked directly with dairy and forage farmers in Lower Tule and Pixley, as well as selected Eastern Tule operations. That work has given our team a firsthand look at what farmers are dealing with as the region works toward groundwater sustainability. It has also shown us there is strong interest in voluntary conservation programs when they are practical, flexible and supported by people who understand farming.

    WUD submitted proposals through two RCPP funding pathways: RCPP Classic and an Alternative Funding Arrangement (AFA).

    The RCPP Classic proposal would use established NRCS conservation practices to help farmers make longer-term investments in high-efficiency irrigation, water and nutrient management, groundwater recharge and other eligible conservation projects.

    The AFA proposal would provide more flexibility to coordinate two targeted conservation strategies: managed aquifer recharge to help address groundwater overdraft and drought and vermifiltration to treat dairy wastewater, improve nutrient management and reduce the potential for nitrate movement to groundwater.

    Vermifiltration uses earthworms and microorganisms to treat liquid manure. The process can reduce nutrient and organic loading while producing treated water and recovered nutrients that can be reused on the farm.

    Why WUD Is Pursuing RCPP Funding

    Dairy farmers in the Tule Subbasin are facing increasing constraints on groundwater while also managing nutrients and working to protect groundwater quality. These issues are closely connected.

    Recharge can help replenish the groundwater system. More efficient irrigation and water management can help farmers make better use of the water they have. Improved nutrient management and wastewater treatment can help protect groundwater quality while making better use of nutrients already on the farm.

    RCPP is an opportunity to bring federal conservation dollars into the region, helping farmers make these investments voluntarily.

    WUD also has a strong starting point through LandFlex. Several potential projects are already taking shape, and additional farmers have expressed interest in conservation projects if funding becomes available.

    A Local Partnership

    WUD did not develop these applications alone. We are grateful to the local organizations and industry partners that provided information, input, and letters of support, including the Lower Tule River Irrigation District GSA, Pixley Irrigation District GSA, Tule Basin Land & Water Conservation Trust and Milk Producers Council.

    If the proposals are funded, these organizations and technical partners could bring local knowledge, farmer connections and additional expertise to the projects. Their input has helped us develop proposals grounded in what will actually work for farmers in the Tule Subbasin.

    What Happens Next

    Submission is only the first step. Both proposals are competitive and will go through NRCS review before funding decisions are made.

    If awarded, WUD will work with NRCS and project partners to finalize eligibility and ranking requirements and begin farmer outreach and enrollment.

    WUD also plans to develop a Farmer Dashboard if funding is awarded, giving participating farmers one place to apply, submit required documents and track their projects through the process.

    We will keep members updated as the proposals move through NRCS review and share enrollment information if funding is awarded. — Story contributed by Western United Dairies

  • Blueberry Industry Votes in Support of USHBC

    The USDA’s Ag Marketing Service (AMS) announced that a majority of eligible blueberry producers and importers voted in favor of continuing the work of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC). The industry created USHBC 26 years ago to give more U.S. consumers more reasons to buy more blueberries, to expand demand for U.S. blueberries in global markets and to provide services that equip all in the sector for success.

    “When the industry comes together, we make bigger opportunities possible for everyone to build the business, life and legacy they want and I’m thrilled the work of USHBC will continue,” said Ellie Norris, an Oregon blueberry grower and chair of the USHBC. “No other organization can do for the industry what USHBC can do, especially when it comes to driving category growth.”

    The USDA requires USHBC to hold a referendum every five years, and Norris said she and the rest of the board worked closely with staff to ensure eligible voters were well-informed about the past, current and planned efforts and progress made by the industry-led body.

    “We have momentum on our side. Thanks to decades of USHBC marketing informed by health research, U.S. consumers know blueberries are good for them and now they want and expect them year-round.” said Norris. “That said, I recognize not everyone voted ‘yes,’ and I hope those who have different perspectives or new ideas will become more involved in USHBC moving forward. Diverse perspectives are welcome and can make us stronger.”

    According to AMS, 58% of producers and importers representing 84% of the volume of blueberries grown, were in favor of continuing the program.

    “I’m excited about what’s next because the work of USHBC has never been more important than it is today,” said Brittany Lee, a Florida grower and USHBC vice chair. “The marketplace is certainly filled with pressures, including growing supply, but it’s also filled with promise and there is plenty of room to create more demand.”

    USHBC’s 2026 Blueberry Convention will take place in Monterey, California, Sept. 22-25, and registration remains open for all in the industry.

    “It’s a place to find helpful information, share and discuss future plans and make meaningful connections” said USHBC President Kasey Cronquist. “I hope growers, marketers, suppliers and everyone with an interest in the future success of the industry can join us, because we’ve got more work to do.”

    — Story contributed by the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

  • UC ANR Connect Seeks Ag Tech for California Crops

    Applications are now open for UC ANR Connect, a grower-informed commercialization program operated by UC ANR Innovate, the innovation arm of University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, in partnership with ag tech venture firm Farmhand Ventures. Applications will be accepted through Sept. 18.

    Selected companies receive commercialization support, direct feedback from California growers and agricultural professionals, industry connections and the opportunity to demonstrate their technology live at a field day.

    The current application cycle is focused on commercially available technologies for permanent crops, including fresh fruit, table grapes, pistachios, desert vegetables, berries, citrus and avocados.

    “Entering the California market requires more than a strong technology. Companies need to understand how farmers make decisions, how their products fit into agricultural operations and what it takes to earn trust,” said Helle Petersen, director of UC ANR Innovate. “UC ANR Connect gives companies a structured way to build that understanding while developing relationships across California agriculture.”

    The program begins with challenges identified by California growers and agricultural professionals. UC ANR Innovate’s advisory board and agricultural partners help define priority needs and evaluate whether applicants have commercially available solutions that are relevant to those needs.

    Participants engage directly with growers, UC Cooperative Extension advisors, researchers and industry partners through customer-discovery conversations and feedback sessions. That input helps companies refine their value proposition, strengthen their market positioning and communicate more effectively with the people who may use, recommend or support their products.

    “The unique thing about our program is that it starts with grower priorities based on their biggest operational constraints,” said Hannah Johnson, industry lead for UC ANR Connect. “We are looking for teams that have solutions to those problems and are ready to build lasting relationships in California agriculture.”

    The program culminates in a live field-day demonstration, where companies show their technology in an agricultural setting, explain how it works and answer questions from growers and other attendees. The demonstrations give companies immediate, practical feedback while allowing growers to evaluate emerging technologies before considering adoption.

    During its first two years, UC ANR Connect has worked with 55 companies through eight program cycles and brought more than 1,000 growers, researchers, agricultural professionals and industry representatives to its field days.

    Past participants have included Carbon Robotics, Verdant Robotics, Sami Robotics, Bonsai Robotics and Verdi Ag, with technologies spanning weed control, equipment automation, irrigation management, mechanical pollination, disease detection and harvest assistance.

    Applications must be submitted by Sept. 18, 2026. Learn more and apply at ucanr.edu/site/uc-anr-innovate/ucanr-connect.

    UC ANR Innovate will host a virtual information session for prospective applicants and other interested stakeholders on Sept. 10, 2026, at 8 a.m. PDT. The webinar will explain how the program works, who should apply, how companies are selected and what participating companies can expect.

    Register for the webinar at https://ucanr.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5x2lvlO-SjWcQjUIW3PFdQ#/registration.

  • USDA to Purchase $30M in California Walnuts

    The California Walnut Commission (CWC) voiced its support for the USDA’s intent to purchase $30 million of California walnuts through Section 32 authority.

    The announcement, made Aug. 24 by USDA, is part of Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935, which authorizes USDA to purchase agricultural commodities for domestic nutritional assistance programs such as the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program, and for food banks and soup kitchens.

    Combined with USDA’s $15 million walnut purchase announced earlier this year, the latest announcement brings total USDA Section 32 purchases of California walnuts in 2026 to $45 million.

    “We appreciate USDA and Sec. Brooke Rollins for their continued support of American agriculture and the California walnut industry,” said Robert Verloop, CEO of the California Walnut Commission. “This purchase provides a meaningful market opportunity for California walnuts, while helping ensure nutritious, American-grown food reaches people across the country.”

    The announcement comes as the California walnut industry enters a new harvest season following the second-largest crop in its history.

    “As our industry prepares to harvest the 2026 crop, reducing carry-in from the 2025 crop is an important step toward strengthening overall market conditions,” Verloop said. “This purchase provides an encouraging boost for the industry and supports a healthier market environment as growers and handlers begin the new selling season.”

    With this support from USDA, the CWC remains committed to advancing the industry’s long-term sustainability and providing nutritious food to American families in need.

    “This announcement reflects USDA’s commitment to our growers to assist them in dealing with the challenges associated with the record 2025 crop, global market disruptions and ongoing trade uncertainties that have suppressed export volumes and grower returns,” said Davin Norene, a third-generation walnut grower from Rio Oso, Calif. and CWC chairman of the Board. — Story contributed by the California Walnut Commission