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
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
Five stories are making headlines across California agriculture this week, from a familiar Central Valley face appearing on pistachio packaging to a new tool aimed at protecting cattle from New World screwworm. Here’s what you need to know in this week’s edition of This Week in Ag.
Josh Allen Featured on Wonderful Pistachios Packaging
Firebaugh native and NFL MVP Josh Allen is bringing more attention to one of California’s biggest specialty crops.
Allen is featured on new limited-edition Wonderful Pistachios packaging rolling out at select retailers. The Buffalo Bills quarterback has a personal connection to the industry as a fourth-generation pistachio farmer.
This marks the second year of Allen’s partnership with Wonderful Pistachios and also brings back the Josh Allen Scholarship program. The program supports first-generation students from Firebaugh pursuing higher education, providing recipients with up to $12,000 over four years of college.
Nearly 40 high school seniors were accepted into the scholarship program during its first year.
Blueberry Industry Votes to Continue U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council
The U.S. blueberry industry has voted in favor of continuing the work of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council.
The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service announced that a majority of eligible blueberry producers and importers supported continuing the council.
Created by the industry 26 years ago, USHBC works to increase consumer demand for blueberries, expand opportunities in global markets and provide resources to support the blueberry industry.
FDA Authorizes Tool to Help Prevent New World Screwworm
Cattle producers have another tool available as concerns surrounding New World screwworm continue.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization for Bimectin, an ivermectin injection, to help prevent New World screwworm infestations in certain cattle.
Under the authorization, the product can be administered within 24 hours of birth, at the time of castration or when a wound appears.
Bimectin is not authorized for this use in lactating dairy cows or calves intended to be processed for veal.
The FDA said available evidence indicates it is reasonable to believe the product may be effective when used as authorized and that its known and potential benefits outweigh its known and potential risks.
UC ANR Connect Seeks New Technology for California Agriculture
UC Agriculture and Natural Resources is looking for agricultural technology that could benefit California growers.
Applications are open for UC ANR Connect, a grower-informed commercialization program operated by UC ANR Innovate in partnership with Farmhand Ventures.
Selected companies will receive commercialization support, feedback directly from California growers and agricultural professionals, industry connections and an opportunity to demonstrate their technology during a field day.
The current application cycle is focused on commercially available technology for permanent and specialty crops, including fresh fruit, table grapes, pistachios, desert vegetables, berries, citrus and avocados.
Applications will be accepted through Sept. 18.
Mike Forbes Named President and CEO of American Pistachio Growers
American Pistachio Growers has announced new leadership.
Mike Forbes officially takes over as the organization’s president and CEO on Sept. 1, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience across the food, consumer products and wellness industries.
Forbes also has agricultural roots. A Wisconsin native, he grew up participating in 4-H and comes from a family of farmers. His career has included positions with McKinsey & Company, Jim Beam, Procter & Gamble and General Mills.
As president and CEO, Forbes will lead American Pistachio Growers’ efforts to represent American pistachio growers and processors, strengthen domestic and international demand and promote the benefits of American-grown pistachios.
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That’s this week’s look at five stories impacting agriculture.
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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.
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
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
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.
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.
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
This Week in Ag: Five stories you need to know from across California agriculture.
This week, we’re covering new funding to stop the spread of glassy-winged sharpshooter, a potential new tool for fighting navel orangeworm, free business training for producers, a USDA trade mission to Singapore, and a $2 million investment aimed at helping the tree nut industry overcome trade barriers.
Stay informed on the issues and opportunities shaping California agriculture.
For more news impacting the California ag industry, follow California Ag Network.
The USDA Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) announced that it does not expect to purchase and sell sugar under the Feedstock Flexibility Program for crop year 2026, which runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30, 2027.
The CCC is required by law to quarterly announce estimates of sugar to be purchased and sold under the Feedstock Flexibility Program based on crop and consumption forecasts.
Federal law allows sugar processors to obtain loans from USDA with maturities of up to nine months when the sugarcane or sugar beet harvests begin. On loan maturity, the sugar processor may repay the loan in full or forfeit the collateral (sugar) to USDA to satisfy the loan.
The Feedstock Flexibility Program, initially authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill, was reauthorized by Congress in the Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act, 2025, as an option to avoid sugar forfeitures. Under the Feedstock Flexibility Program, if USDA is faced with the likelihood of loan forfeitures, it is required to purchase surplus sugar and sell it to bioenergy producers to reduce the surplus in the food use market and support sugar prices. USDA’s Aug. 12, 2026, World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report (www.usda.gov/oce/commodity/wasde) projects that crop year 2026 (fiscal year 2027) U.S. ending sugar stocks are unlikely to lead to forfeitures. Therefore, USDA does not currently expect to purchase and sell sugar under the Feedstock Flexibility Program for crop year 2026.
USDA will closely monitor domestic sugar stocks, consumption, imports and other sugar market variables on an ongoing basis and will continue to administer the sugar program as transparently as possible using the latest available data. The next quarterly estimate regarding the Feedstock Flexibility Program will occur on or before Jan. 1.