California Ag Network

Category: Non-Video

  • CAWG Elects New Leadership and Board Directors

    The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) has announced the election of new officers and directors to its board of directors. CAWG is governed by a 29-member board, including 27 growers representing diverse winegrape regions across the state and two directors-at-large.

    John Chandler of Chandler Farms in Selma has been elected chair of the board, succeeding outgoing chairman Gregg Hibbits of Grapevine Capital Partners. Aaron Lange of LangeTwins, Inc. in Acampo and Molly Scott of JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery in Paso Robles were elected as vice chairs, along with Craig Ledbetter of Vino Farms, LLC in Lodi, who will serve as treasurer, and Duff Bevill of Bevill Vineyard Management in Healdsburg, continuing in the role of secretary. The new officers begin their term on Dec 1.

    “John brings deep federal and state policy experience, from his years working in Washington, D.C., and in California state government, and a practical understanding of agriculture as a diversified farmer,” said Natalie Collins, president of CAWG. “With this officer team, CAWG is ready to be an even stronger, louder voice for winegrape growers and to drive real results at a pivotal time for the industry.”

    “I’m honored to serve as chair and to work alongside such a dedicated board,” said John Chandler. “We know how tough this moment is for growers, and we’re coming into the year determined to get things done – speaking plainly about conditions on the ground, pushing hard for policies that support long-term economic sustainability, and making sure growers’ voices are heard.”

    CAWG also announced the election of several new directors joining the board, including John Azevedo of Jackson Family Wines in Santa Rosa, Dirk Heuvel of McManis Family Vineyards in Ripon, and Davindar Mahil of Creekside Farming Co. in Madera. In addition, Stuart Spencer of the Lodi Winegrape Commission and Caleb Mosley of Napa Valley Grapegrowers have been elected to serve as directors-at-large.

    The association extends its deepest appreciation to the outgoing directors who have completed their terms of service: Joel Maring of J Maring Farms in Westley, Chris Lynch of Napa, and Jeff Bitter of Madera, along with directors-at-large Amy Blagg of the Lodi District Grape Growers Association and Joel Peterson of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. Their leadership, commitment, and contributions have been instrumental in strengthening CAWG’s work on behalf of growers throughout California.

  • Referendum to Terminate Dairy Quota Implementation Plan Fails

    The California Department of Food and Agriculture (Department) recently conducted a referendum vote among California Market Milk Producers within the State of California to determine whether the Quota Implementation Plan (QIP) which became effective November 1, 2018, should be terminated effective immediately.

    On August 6, 2024, the Department received a petition titled “Petition to Terminate the QIP #5” by Stop QIP. The petition asked that the Secretary call a referendum to immediately terminate the QIP. The Department performed a review of the petition signatures and their respective reported volume and determined that the twenty-five percent (25%) thresholds had been achieved. The petition was then referred to the Producer Review Board (PRB) for consideration. At a Board meeting held on December 17, 2024, the PRB reviewed the petition and passed a motion recommending that the Secretary issue an industry referendum to vote on the petition. The Secretary reviewed the PRB’s recommendation and approved it.

    The referendum to consider termination started on June 12, 2025. On September 9, 2025, one day prior to the end of the voting period for the referendum, over 501 ballots were hand-delivered to the Department by a third party. Visual inspection upon receipt confirmed that the ballots had been removed from their sealed envelopes. Due to these unusual circumstances, the Department decided to reissue the ballots in question and grant a special extension to vote to the producers whose ballots were received open. The voting period for the special extension for the affected producers was October 8, 2025, to October 24, 2025.

    Criteria for Passage:

    In order for the termination to be approved, California Food and Agricultural Code Section 62717 specifies that:

    Not less than fifty-one percent (51%) of the total number of eligible producers in the state shall have voted in the referendum AND one of the following criteria must be satisfied:

    a) Sixty-five percent (65%) or more of the total number of eligible producers who voted in the referendum who produced fifty-one percent (51%) or more of the total amount of fluid milk produced in the state during the calendar month next preceding the month commencement of the referendum period (April 2025) by all producers who voted in the referendum approve the plan, OR,

    b) Fifty-one percent (51%) or more of the total number of eligible producers who voted in the referendum who produced sixty-five percent (65%) or more of the total amount of fluid milk produced in the state during the calendar month next preceding the month commencement of the referendum period (April 2025) by all producers who voted in the referendum, approve the plan.

    Summary of the Results of the Referendum Vote:

    Proportion of Eligible Producers that Participated: 63.76%

    Proportion of those Eligible Producers Voting in Favor: 40.46%

    Proportion of those Eligible Producers Voting in Opposition: 59.54%

    Proportion of the Voted Volume Represented by Eligible Producers in Favor: 47.55%

    Proportion of the Voted Volume Represented by Eligible Producers in Opposition: 52.45%

    In summary, 63.76% of the total number of eligible producers voted in the referendum, and 40.46% voted in favor, having produced 47.55% of the total amount of fluid milk in the state, among participating producers, in April 2025. Conversely, 59.54% voted in opposition, and produced 52.45% of the total amount of fluid milk in the state, among participating producers, in April 2025.

    Explanation of Results:

    63.76% of the total number of eligible market milk producers in the state voted, therefore the participation criteria was satisfied.

    a. Additionally, both elements of EITHER criterion in (a) OR (b) above must also be satisfied: The producers who accounted for 47.55% of the fluid milk produced by participants in the referendum, in April 2025 voted IN FAVOR, falling short of the threshold of 51% for the first element by 3.45%; AND 40.46% of the number of eligible producers voted IN FAVOR, falling short of satisfying the threshold of 65% for the second element by 24.54%. Therefore, because neither of the two elements were satisfied, the referendum is not approved through this criterion.

    b. 40.46% of eligible producers voted IN FAVOR, falling short of satisfying the 51% threshold by 10.54%; AND producers who accounted for 47.55% of the total number of fluid milk, produced by participants in the referendum, in April 2025 voted IN FAVOR, falling short of satisfying the threshold of 65% by 17.45%. Therefore, because neither of the two elements were satisfied, the referendum is not approved through this criterion.

    Since the outcome of this referendum does not meet the criteria set forth in Section 62717 of the California Food and Agricultural code, the Quota Implementation Plan will not be terminated. A further summary of the tally results and details on invalidated ballots are included with this notice.

    Anyone with questions regarding the referendum, should contact the Quota Administration Program at (916) 900-5012.

  • Organic Foods Market Growth Outlook: CAGR of 11.6% by 2032

    The Global Organic Foods Marketis estimated to be valued at USD 186.77 Bn in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 402.67 Bn by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.6% from 2025 to 2032. A key market trend is the growing demand for clean-label and non-GMO organic foods, driven by advancements in organic farming technologies and streamlined certification processes. Moreover, increased investments by major industry players in product innovation and digital retail channels have enhanced accessibility and convenience, further propelling market growth.

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    Global Organic Foods Market Key Takeaways

    Global demand for organic foods is slated to increase at a CAGR of 11.6% from 2025 to 2032.

    Fruits and vegetables segment is set to dominate the industry, accounting for 29.4% of the global organic foods market share in 2025.

    By product type, processed segment is projected to account for 53.4% of the revenue share in 2025.

    Based on distribution channel, supermarkets/hypermarkets segment is forecast to hold a market share of 36.5% in 2025.

    Europe, with an estimated share of 45.2% in 2025, is expected to dominate the global organic foods industry.

    Asia Pacific is poised to emerge as the fastest-growing organic foods market, capturing a 13.5% market share in 2025.

    Growing Health Awareness Spurring Market Growth

    Coherent Market Insights’ latest organic foods market report outlines major factors driving the industry’s growth. One such prominent growth factor is the increasing awareness of health and nutrition.

    Consumers in the contemporary world are increasingly avoiding chemically treated or processed foods to reduce risks of chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart conditions. This is boosting growth of the organic foods market.

    Modern consumers increasingly seek natural, pesticide-free, and GMO-free products amid escalating health consciousness. This trend is expected to fuel demand for organic foods during the forthcoming period.

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    High Cost of Organic Products Limiting Market Growth

    The prospective organic foods market outlook appears promising, considering the increasing consumer health awareness. However, high cost of organic foods poses a significant challenge to wider market growth.

    Organic foods are generally more expensive than conventional foods due to higher production costs as well as certification fees and lower yields. This price difference limits adoption among price-sensitive consumers, thereby reducing overall organic foods market demand.

    Rising Environmental Concerns Unlocking Growth Avenues

    Increasing environmental awareness is driving demand for organic food products. Organic farming supports sustainability by minimizing the use of synthetic chemicals as well as preserving soil and water quality.

    Consumers are increasingly opting for organic products due to their perceived environmental benefits. This growing preference is expected to open revenue streams for organic food manufacturers during the forecast period.

    Emerging Organic Foods Market Trends

    Growing trend of premiumization is slated to boost sales of organic foods during the forthcoming period. Consumers increasingly perceive organic products as healthier, more natural, and of higher quality compared to conventional alternatives. As a result, they are willing to pay premium prices for these products.

    Rising government support is creating a conducive environment for the growth of organic foods market. Many governments are promoting organic agriculture via subsidies, certification schemes, labeling rules, and targets for organic farming. For example, EU’s “Farm to Fork” strategy aims for 25% of agricultural land to be under organic by 2030.

    Increasing availability of organic foods through retail stores and e-commerce platforms is expected to support market expansion. These distribution channels are making organic products more accessible to consumers.

    Rising transparency and clean labeling trend is fostering market growth. Consumers increasingly seek openness regarding product sourcing, processing, and labeling. Clean labels emphasizing “organic,” “non-GMO,” “no preservatives,” and “locally sourced” claims are enhancing consumer trust as well as loyalty. In addition, companies are investing in digital traceability solutions and QR-based labeling to provide greater supply chain visibility.

    Ongoing product innovation is set to boost organic foods market growth during the forthcoming period. The market is seeing a surge in innovative organic products beyond fresh produce, including organic snacks, beverages, infant formulas, dairy alternatives, and ready-to-eat meals. For instance, Organic Valley recently (January 2025) launched its first-ever organic oat-based product range called Organic Valley Oat Creamers.

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    Analyst’s View

    “The global organic foods market is set to record strong growth, owing to growing health awareness, rising environmental concerns, supportive government policies, escalating premiumization trend, and expansion of e-commerce,” said a senior CMI analyst.

    Current Events and Their Impact on the Organic Foods Market

    Competitor Insights

    Key companies listed in the organic foods market report:

    • Danone
    • Hain Celestial Group
    • Organic Valley
    • United Natural Foods, Inc.
    • Annie’s Homegrown
    • Eden Foods
    • Nature’s Path Foods
    • Whole Foods Market
    • Bronner’s
    • Amy’s Kitchen
    • Boulder Canyon
    • Stonyfield Farm
    • Blue Diamond Growers
    • Walden Farms
    • Kraft Heinz Company (Organic Division)

    Key Developments

    In September 2025, Whole Foods Market debuted in Asia with the launch of private-label products in Asia. This new launch will help the company to meet growing demand for trusted organic, high quality grocery staples.

    In March 2025, Organic Valley introduced its new Organic American Cheese Blocks, available in two creamy varieties: Fiesta and Original. The launch caters to cheese lovers seeking the classic taste of American cheese made with simple, organic ingredients.

    In June 2025, Love Child Organics introduced Oaty Bites, a healthy and delicious snack made for toddlers aged four and above. The launch reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting children’s nutrition at every stage of growth.

    Market Segmentation

    Category Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 – 2032)

    • Fruits and Vegetables
    • Dairy
    • Meat, Fish and Poultry
    • Frozen and Processed Foods
    • Cereals and Grains
    • Beverages
    • Others

    Product Type Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 – 2032)

    • Processed
    • Unprocessed

    Distribution Channel Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 – 2032)

    • Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • Specialty Store
    • Convenient Stores
    • Online Retail Stores
    • Others

    Regional Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 – 2032)

    • North America
      • U.S.
      • Canada
    • Latin America
      • Brazil
      • Argentina
      • Mexico
      • Rest of Latin America
    • Europe
      • Germany
      • U.K.
      • Spain
      • France
      • Italy
      • Russia
      • Rest of Europe
    • Asia Pacific
      • China
      • India
      • Japan
      • Australia
      • South Korea
      • ASEAN
      • Rest of Asia Pacific
    • Middle East
      • GCC Countries
      • Israel
      • Rest of Middle East
    • Africa
      • South Africa
      • North Africa
      • Central Africa

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  • DWR Announces Initial State Water Project Allocation for 2026

    On December 1st, the Department of Water Resources (DWR) announced an initial State Water Project (SWP) allocation of 10 percent of requested supplies for the new water year (compared to last year’s initial allocation of 5%). This allocation represents the first water supply forecast of the season for the 29 public water agencies served by the SWP which provides water to 27 million Californians and 750,000 acres of farmland.

    The SWP is contractually required to make an initial allocation forecast by December 1 each year. Since it is so early in the season, the initial allocation typically reflects current hydrological conditions, existing reservoir storage, and an assumption of dry conditions through the rest of the year. So far, the wet season is off to a good start with beneficial rain falling in Northern California and Southern California already seeing significant rainfall following a dry year last year.

    “Recent history has shown us that anything can happen during a California winter, so it’s important that our early season allocation for the State Water Project is conservative,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “Traditionally our wettest months are yet to come. With improvements to forecasting and science, we are better prepared to capture water supply during wet periods if Mother Nature delivers.”

    Across the state, California’s water supply starts the season in good shape with statewide reservoir storage just above average at 114 percent. Lake Oroville, the SWP’s largest reservoir, is at 100 percent of average for this time of year, slightly above where it was at last December.

    Last year, the SWP’s initial allocation began at five percent and increased to 50 percent by the end of the season. As winter progresses, if the state sees an increase in rain and snowfall totals, the allocation forecast may increase as well.

    Each year, DWR provides the initial SWP allocation based on available water storage, projected water supply and water demands. Allocations are updated monthly as snowpack, rainfall and runoff data is analyzed, with a final allocation typically determined near the end of the season in May or June.

    Historical data on SWP allocations is available at https://water.ca.gov/programs/state-water-project/management/swp-water-contractors.

  • Can Large-Scale Solar Installations Coexist with Ag in Rural America?

    Local opposition to utility-scale solar installations in rural areas is growing following the rapid pace of new solar developments in recent years. Concerns about land use in areas largely dominated by agricultural production are fueling much of the community-level resistance. With crop production revenue currently under intense pressure and subject to annual volatility, some landowners are welcoming the more consistent revenue advantages of solar land-lease payments. But wider opposition could stymie additional solar developments in rural areas, slowing growth in the U.S. energy supply.

    According to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, solar expansion could deliver the fastest, most affordable means for increasing the nation’s razor-thin energy reserves while driving new revenue streams for rural communities. However, success will be dependent on regional policy and site planning guidelines that ensure the local communities’ needs and interests are prioritized. The report is the first in a series of upcoming research articles and part of The New Golden Age of Electricity digital hub about rising energy scarcity and securing future power supply for rural America.

    “Concerns surrounding the pace of solar developments in rural areas and the implications for land use in agricultural regions are warranted,” said Teri Viswanath, lead power, energy and water economist with CoBank. “But there are guardrails to reduce the risk of land use tensions and other conflicts that would enable landowners and rural communities to capture the financial benefits of solar projects without displacing or disturbing agriculture farmland.”

    Growing resistance to solar installations in rural communities is likely in response to the speedy development that has already taken place and concerns about what future construction might look like. More than one-half of all U.S. solar installations have materialized since 2020, with 25% of that development occurring since the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022.

    Solar energy generation can be installed at a rate five times faster than all other new electricity sources combined and remains the lowest cost solution to expanding energy supplies, even without government subsidies. While federal policy has recently become much less supportive of renewable energy and tax credits are now limited, the costs of solar development remain favorable. The biggest headwind for expanding solar energy production is local opposition.

    A recent analysis by USA TODAY found that around 15% of counties in the U.S. have some form of restriction on building new utility-scale solar energy projects. This includes outright bans, zoning restrictions, specialized land-use rules or political stonewalls. At least 395 local restrictions across 41 states, in addition to 19 state-level restrictions, are so severe that they effectively block renewable development in these areas.

    In rural areas, solar development occurring on prime farmland has had an outsized negative influence from the community perspective. To rectify that trend, American Farmland Trust and the American Farm Bureau have recommended a set of guardrails that would prevent the solar industry from siting developments on prime agricultural land. Those recommendations include prioritizing solar power on shared agricultural land or marginal and brownfield sites, offering a more acceptable pathway for rural communities and landowners to capture the benefits of tax revenue and lease payments. The report also notes that economies of scale and high costs are major reasons why simply installing solar on existing rooftops is not a feasible answer.

    Successful efforts to balance local community interests with solar development have the potential to pay off handsomely. According to data collected by the American Clean Power Association, a recurring $739 million came back to communities last year in the form of state and local taxes and land-lease payments.

    “Regardless of the pace of solar development ahead, future installations will inevitably affect local communities so more engagement from the solar industry is needed,” said Viswanath. “Strengthening partnerships with agricultural stakeholders and implementing effective land management strategies will be critical to mitigating challenges and gaining acceptance. Solar power is essential for meeting near-term demand growth, and rural America can play a key role in this while diversifying farm income and benefiting local communities through additional tax revenue.”

    Read the report, Reassessing Solar Power’s Contribution.

    About CoBank

    CoBank is a cooperative bank serving vital industries across rural America. The bank provides loans, leases, export financing and other financial services to agribusinesses and rural power, water and communications providers in all 50 states. The bank also provides wholesale loans and other financial services to affiliated Farm Credit associations serving more than 78,000 farmers, ranchers and other rural borrowers in 23 states around the country. CoBank is a member of the Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of banks and retail lending associations chartered to support the borrowing needs of U.S. agriculture, rural infrastructure and rural communities. Headquartered outside Denver, Colorado, CoBank serves customers from regional banking centers across the U.S. and also maintains an international representative office in Singapore.

  • Lindcove Research & Extension Center Citrus Fruit Display & Tasting

    Citrus growers and those interested in planting new citrus varieties are invited to attend this one-of-a-kind Citrus Fruit Display & Tasting at the Lindcove Research & Extension Center on Friday, December 5th (8:30 a.m. – 2p.m.). Attendees are welcome to taste a wide variety of fruits at their leisure in an outdoor setting. Tours of the Lindcove Research & Extension Center facilities and fields will be offered. Engage in discussions on low seeded new varieties and pest/disease management issues and horticultural issues with the UC researchers. This year, UCANR VINE Connect will also feature live demonstrations from agricultural technology companies from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Please RSVP for VINE Connect tour here.

  • 36th Annual Fall Desert Crops Workshop, Dec. 3

    Join UCANR on December 3rd for the 36th Annual Fall Desert Crops Workshop. Get up to date on the key issues affecting desert crops in our Valley through expert-led discussions. This FREE workshop offers a valuable opportunity to stay informed, connect with others and better understand the challenges facing our agricultural community.

    Topics to be discussed:

    • Irrigation
    • Soil Salinity Mapping
    • Pest & Disease Management
    • Pesticide Use Regulations
    • Other Agricultural Issues

    To pre-register use this link or join us onsite starting at 7:30am.

    Continuing Education Units will be offered with the following agencies: (Pending Approval)

    • California Department of Pesticide and Regulation
    • Arizona Department of Agriculture
    • Certified Crop Advisor (CCA)

    If you have any questions or need additional information on workshop, contact the office at (442) 265-7700.

    Document

    See the full agenda at: 36th Annual Fall Desert Crops Workshop_Agenda

  • Blue Diamond Growers Details Actions to Maximize Grower Returns, Honors George Goshgarian Jr

    Blue Diamond Growers, the world’s leading almond cooperative, held its 115th annual meeting on Nov. 19 in Modesto, highlighting a year defined by bold operational decisions and strategic transformation.

    Kai Bockmann, president and CEO, Blue Diamond Growers, shared with growers in attendance that the cooperative navigated a challenging year by responding with urgency and clarity to strengthen long-term competitiveness and grower returns.

    “Our industry is facing real headwinds, from rising input costs and pest-related crop damage to persistent market volatility,” Bockmann said. “But we

    must stay focused on what matters most: maximizing returns for our growers while building a cooperative that will thrive for generations to come. The actions we are taking position us to do exactly that.”

    At the meeting, Blue Diamond’s leadership outlined concrete steps taken to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen the cooperative’s market position across three strategic pillars.

    Transforming Operations to Drive Efficiency

    Earlier this year the cooperative announced plans to close its Sacramento manufacturing plant and consolidate operations to the existing Turlock and Salida facilities. The move will maximize efficiencies while moving the manufacturing facilities even closer to the almond-growing regions that are at the heart of the cooperative. The transition strengthens both efficiency and sustainability while honoring Blue Diamond’s commitment to growers.

    “It comes down to one fundamental thing: build a stronger and more profitable Blue Diamond that provides the best return for our growers’ almonds,” Bockmann said. “We’ve made the tough calls this year with decisions that position us for long-term success.”

    Driving Brand Performance and Innovations

    Despite category softness, Blue Diamond maintained the No. 1 position in both Almondmilk and Snack Almonds. The cooperative executed its first brand refresh in more than two decades, laying critical groundwork for renewed consumer engagement. The year saw the successful launch of new product lines including Almonds and More mixed nuts and almond-fruit produce blends in partnership with Oppy® to help establish a presence and ignite growth in the produce section. Additionally, limited-time flavors – including Cherry Slurpee® and Mike’s Hot Honey® – drove consumer excitement and helped the brand remain top-of-mind in a competitive marketplace.

    Expanding within International Markets

    Blue Diamond continues to expand its international footprint across multiple regions and segments. In Canada, the cooperative grew distribution with major retailers at a pace faster than both category and private-label growth. Strategic beverage partnerships and pipeline opportunities took shape in Japan, while new flavor tests launched across Europe for broader retailer expansion. The cooperative also strengthened its core almond segment leadership with in-shell almonds showing impressive growth in key markets including India, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.

    Announcing the 2025 Chairman’s Grower Ambassador of the Year Award

    At the annual meeting, Blue Diamond’s Board Chairman Steve Van Duyn presented the 2025 Chairman’s Grower Ambassador Award to George Goshgarian Jr., a Blue Diamond grower whose family has farmed with the cooperative for nearly 50 years. Goshgarian Jr. is from Fresno and is completing his MBA at Fresno Pacific University School of Business.

    For more than 13 years, Goshgarian Jr. has served in various capacities at the Almond Board of California, including the Environmental Committee, Almond Quality and Food Safety Services Committee, and Strategic Ag Innovation Committee. He also served on the Board of Directors for eight years, including two terms as vice chair. He values being part of a team that creates solutions to challenging industry issues and serves as a voice for farmers.

    “Serving at the Almond Board gives even the smallest farming operation a seat at the table,” Goshgarian Jr. said. “I’ve been very proud to represent Blue Diamond at the Almond Board of California for more than a decade.”

    Bockmann concluded the annual meeting with remarks reflecting the cooperative’s readiness for the years ahead.

    “Our balance sheet is strong, our strategy is clear, and our team is energized to execute,” he said. “The coming year – and beyond – is about translating strategy into results. We do this in service to our growers, and we’re confident in the direction and path forward.”

    About Blue Diamond

    Blue Diamond Growers, a grower-owned cooperative representing approximately 3,000 of California’s almond growers, is the world’s leading almond marketer and processor. Established in 1910, it created the California almond industry and opened world markets for almonds. Blue Diamond is dedicated to delivering the benefits of almonds around the world and does so by providing high-quality almonds, almond ingredients, and branded products. Headquartered in Sacramento, the company employs more than 1,800 people throughout its processing plants, receiving stations and gift shops. To learn more about Blue Diamond Growers, visit www.bluediamond.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

  • California FFA Partners with Blue Diamond Growers to “Give the Gift of Blue” on Giving Tuesday

    This Giving Tuesday, the California FFA Foundation and Blue Diamond Growers are teaming up to make twice the impact through the “Give the Gift of Blue” campaign. On December 2, 2025, Blue Diamond Growers will match every donation, dollar for dollar, up to $25,000, providing FFA jackets to deserving members statewide.

    “For the last nine years, our partnership with Blue Diamond Growers has created a lasting tradition of giving back through the ‘Gift of Blue’ campaign,” said Emily Rooney, chair of the California FFA Foundation and president of the Agricultural Council of California. “With their support, we have collectively raised over $525,285, providing 5,717 FFA jackets to members throughout California—a remarkable effort and true testament to the generosity within the agriculture community.”

    With California’s record-breaking membership of more than 108,000 middle and high school students, the demand for blue jacketshas never been greater. The iconic blue jacket stands as more than just a part of the official FFA uniform; it also embodies the values of leadership and rich agricultural tradition instilled in FFA members for nearly 100 years.

    “Blue Diamond is, once again, pleased to match funds dollar for dollar up to $25,000 to support FFA students in receiving their iconic, blue jackets,” said Mel Machado, Blue Diamond Growers chief agricultural officer and California FFA Foundation board member. “As a century-old farmer-owned cooperative, our legacy depends on supporting the next generation of farmers. FFA students are bright, dedicated, hardworking, and learn valuable skills to ensure the future of farming. Blue Diamond Growers is honored to support the FFA mission.”

    Beyond Giving Tuesday, Blue Diamond Growers has been a steadfast ally to FFA and agricultural education, extending support through sponsorships of various proficiencies and awards. Last year, Blue Diamond Growers was awarded the Distinguished Service Citation from the National FFA Organization. This esteemed honor is given to a select group of organizations, agencies, businesses, or other groups that have made outstanding contributions to FFA.

    With 115 years of agricultural history in Northern California and the participation of approximately 3,000 family growers responsible for producing almonds for the world, Blue Diamond Growers is a premier example of a legacy of excellence.

    To discover more about the California FFA Foundation’s Giving Tuesday initiative or to contribute, please visit www.calaged.org/givingtuesday. Follow California FFA on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

    About the California FFA Foundation

    California FFA Foundation serves more than 108,000 California students and strives to make a difference in their lives by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through educational education. To learn more about the California FFA, visit calaged.org.

    Facebook: @CaliforniaFFA | LinkedIn: @California-FFA-Association | Instagram: @californiaffa | TikTok: @officialcaliforniaffa

    About Blue Diamond Growers®

    Blue Diamond Growers, a grower-owned cooperative representing approximately 3,000 of California’s almond growers, is the world’s leading almond marketer and processor. Established in 1910, it created the California almond industry and opened world markets for almonds. Blue Diamond is dedicated to delivering the benefits of almonds around the world and does so by providing high-quality almonds, almond ingredients, and branded products. Headquartered in Sacramento, the company employs about 1,300 people throughout its processing plants, receiving stations and gift shops. To learn more about Blue Diamond Growers, visit www.bluediamond.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

  • From California to Idaho: ASEV Brings the Science of Vineyard Nutrition to a New Frontier

    Bringing together vineyard researchers, enologists, and growers from across the nation, the American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV), in association with the National Grape Research Alliance (NGRA), will host the Vineyard Nutrition Symposium in Boise, Idaho, as part of the 2026 ASEV National Conference.

    The symposium will highlight the latest advances in monitoring vineyard nutrition considering variability—different soils, climates, and grape markets—that impact grape production in every region. By convening experts in the heart of Idaho’s emerging Snake River Valley, ASEV underscores its commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange that benefits both established and developing winegrowing communities.

    From emerging precision technologies to field-level applications, attendees will learn how to use advanced tools and methods to better understand, predict, and optimize vineyard performance. Presentations will bridge research and practice, offering actionable guidance for growers seeking to improve fruit quality, enhance resource efficiency, and strengthen vineyard resilience.

    “Growers are increasingly asking not just what to sample, but how to interpret that data, when to act, and why it matters for the finished wine,” said Patty Skinkis, Ph.D., Professor and Viticulture Extension Specialist at Oregon State University and symposium chair. “We’re moving from lab reports to integrated, vineyard-wide data—and ultimately, connecting that to fruit composition and sensory outcomes.”

    Donnell Brown, National Grape Research Alliance added, “The technology is catching up with growers’ need for real-time data. When you combine good science with practical, real-world applications, you can manage nutrition more efficiently and make a measurable difference in fruit and wine quality.”

    The symposium agenda will include presentations on:

    • Sensor Technology Integration: How tools for nutrient monitoring complement traditional sampling
    • Precision Agriculture in Practice: Field comparisons of nutrient sensors and mapping systems
    • Nitrogen and Beyond: New techniques for quantifying and managing nutrients critical to grapegrowing and winemaking
    • Physiology to Flavor: Linking vine nutrition, fruit chemistry, and wine sensory profiles
    • Panel Discussion: “Ask the Researchers—Exploring Vineyard Nutrition from Past to Future”

    The symposium will be held on June 16, 2026, at the Boise Centre in Boise, Idaho, and includes a networking lunch. For detailed information, visit the ASEV National Conference page. Registration will open in spring 2026.

    About ASEV

    The American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) is an international community of wine and grape professionals that promotes industry vitality through the exchange of information and support of research and education. ASEV publishes the American Journal of Enology and Viticulture and hosts a variety of platforms for the dissemination of basic and applied research as well as the examination of emerging issues shaping the industry. These include the annual National Conference in June and the Unified Wine and Grape Symposium that is co-hosted with the California Association of Winegrape Growers. The Society also operates the ASEV Foundation, which will provide scholarships and educational opportunities for students in enology and viticulture. The Foundation is currently in the fundraising stage. For more information, visit asev.org.

     About the National Grape Research Alliance

    The National Grape Research Alliance (NGRA) is an industry-led nonprofit membership organization that advances the research needs of all sectors and all regions of the American grape and wine industry, spanning wine, table grapes, juice and raisins, nationwide. We connect industry, academic scientists, and federal and state research agencies to initiate novel research projects and programs to solve industry challenges together. Since our founding in 2005, we’ve been instrumental in securing $65 million in funding for scientific solutions to grape and wine industry issues. Learn more at graperesearch.org.