California Ag Network

Category: News

  • UCCE Verifies Efficacy of Mating Disruption Technology for Navel Orangeworm Control

    Mating disruption technology for Navel Orangeworm Control has been around for a while now, but today there are a lot more products on the market available to tree nut growers. UCCE Entomology Farm Advisor in Kern County, David Haviland shared in an interview with California Ag Network that his research trials prove that not only is mating disruption technology a worthwhile investment for growers, but growers have several effective options to choose from. Watch this interview and read more about it in Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.

    Calagnet & YARA
    Special thanks to this video’s sponsor!

  • CA Citrus Mutual Works Aggressively to Protect Growers in the Industry

    With concerns over water rights and increasing regulations, growers’ voices need to be heard in Sacramento and Washington DC, and the California Citrus Mutual has an aggressive agenda this year to support the citrus industry. Watch this brief interview with Joel Nelsen to learn more and read about it in California Fresh Fruit Magazine.

    Calagnet & YARA
    Special thanks to this video’s sponsor!

  • Tulare County Reports on Current Crop Status

    Visalia, Calif., (December 29, 2017) – Tulare County Agricultural Commissioner released the current status today of Major crops in the most valued county in the California Ag portfolio. They report that Seed is being shipped in and planted to winter forage crops such as wheat, barley, other cereal grains and forage mixes. Irrigation has been necessary to maintain growth. Last week’s rain, while welcome, was insufficient.

    Stored table grapes are being distributed to foreign markets in China, Japan, Mexico, Thailand, and Vietnam. Persimmons are continuing to be harvested, with some exports going to Mexico. Kiwifruit shipments have slowed, with some exports to Mexico and Taiwan. Pistachio nuts are being exported to Austria, Hong Kong, India, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Turkey, and Vietnam. Almonds are being shipped to Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, Sweden, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Pruning continues in vineyards, stone fruit and nut orchards.

    The navel orange harvest continues, with exports headed to Australia, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, and New Zealand. Pomelos are being harvested and sold domestically, as well as exported to China and Japan. Melogold hybrid grapefruit are being exported to Japan. Lemons are being exported to China, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, and New Zealand. Finger limes are being exported to France, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. Overnight temperatures continue to be a concern for citrus growers. Olive growers continue to prune groves.

    Fields are being prepared and planted with winter vegetable crops. Lettuce continues to grow. Strawberries are growing at roadside stands.

    The lack of rainfall has left rangeland forage conditions poor. More rain is needed to help with germination and growth of rangeland forage. Supplemental feeding has been required. The fed cattle market price is holding at $120.00 per hundred weight this week.

    Bare-root roses are being received and processed for reshipment out-of-state, mostly to Texas. Nursery shipments have slowed due to the winter weather.

  • Local Ag Retailer To Deliver A Major Gift To Community Food Bank

    Reedley, Calif., (December 29, 2017) – Gar Tootelian, Inc. (GAR) is spreading the Christmas cheer in a major way this holiday season. GAR will present a $286,495.50 check to Community Food Bank as the beneficiary of this year’s Feeding Families Fund Drive. The event will take place on Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at 9:00am at the Butler Pentecostal Church of God Neighborhood Market in Fresno. The Fourth Annual event raised $190,000 and GAR matched all the donations with 50 cents on the dollar to reach the grand total of $286,495.50. The money will provide over two million meals to the hungry residents of Central California.

    “The Valley is the most bountiful growing region in California and it is also the most generous. Every year, people dig a little deeper to help give hope to families struggling with hunger. Our thanks to all the generous donors who participated in GAR’s Fourth Annual Feeding Families Fund drive. It is truly inspiring to be part of a community that is so generous,” Karen Musson, Managing Partner at Gar Tootelian, Inc.

    In September, GAR organized the daylong event with Community Food Bank, Farm Credit, KMJ Radio, KMPH Fox 26 and The Market to give hope for valley residents recovering from wildfire losses and families and children struggling with hunger. The day’s finish was highlighted with three unexpected and generous gifts of $10,000 each to break last year’s total. The Annual one-day Fundraiser has raised over $650,000 and provided nearly five million meals over its four years. In October, GAR was named the 2017 Community Food Bank Donor of the Year for its effort.

    Gar Tootelian, Inc. is a locally owned and operated family business established in 1949 and is an industry and community leader. Community activities and sponsorships include: the Fresno Grizzlies Farm Grown Community Fund, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo’s Valley Farm, Valley PBS Valley’s Gold and Education through Agriculture, the Center for Land Based Learning FARMS Advanced and California Ag in the Classroom. In 2011, GAR raised $1.65 million to expand the Clovis Medical Center Emergency Room in honor of Central Valley Farmers and their Families.

    GAR’s Industry honors and recognitions include: 2017 Community Food Bank Donor of the Year; Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) 2016 National Agricultural Retailer of the Year; 2015 Environmental Respect Award (ERA) for North America by CropLife and DuPont; and the 2013 Baker Peterson & Franklin’s Fresno Chamber Agricultural Business of the Year. The all-female owned company provides water, nutrition, regulatory and crop care advice and products to more than 1,500 Central Valley growers.

  • Tests Show Low or No Pesticide Levels in Most Fruits and Vegetables in California

    Sacramento, Calif., (December 29, 2017) – Tests on produce collected by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) indicate that the vast majority of fruits and vegetables available for sale in California meet stringent pesticide safety standards. During its 2016 survey, DPR found 96 percent of tested California-grown produce had little or no pesticide residues.

    The findings are included in DPR’s just released 2016 Pesticide Residues in Fresh Produce report.

    “Once again this report shows that California consumers can have high confidence in the fresh fruits and vegetables available to them at stores.” said Brian Leahy, Director of DPR. “A strong regulatory program gives guidance to the proficient farmers and pesticide applicators that grow the fruits and vegetables that are part of a healthy diet.”

    The report is based on year-round collection of 3,585 samples of produce, from 27 different countries, including those labeled as “organic”. California grown produce accounted for 24 percent of the samples tested. DPR scientists and staff sampled produce from various grocery stores, farmers’ markets, food distribution centers, and other outlets throughout California.

    The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) sets levels for the maximum amounts of pesticide residue that can be present on fruits and vegetables, called a “tolerance”. It is a violation if any residue exceeds the tolerance for the specific fruit or vegetable, or if a pesticide is detected for which no tolerance has been established. However, a sample with an illegal pesticide residue does not necessarily indicate a potential health concern

    In 2016, after public concern arose about glyphosate DPR conducted a pilot project to screen fresh produce for glyphosate residues. This herbicide is widely used in agriculture. The testing found no illegal glyphosate residues on any of the produce tested.

    The produce is tested for nearly 400 types of pesticides using state of the art equipment operated by the California Department of Food and Agriculture.

    Highlights from the 2016 report include:

    • 39 percent of all produce samples had no detectable residues at all,
    • 57 percent had residues detected within the legal level.
    • 4 percent of the samples had pesticide residues in excess of the established tolerance or had illegal traces of pesticides that were not approved for that commodity.

    Produce that most frequently tested positive for illegal pesticide residues in 2016 include Snow Peas from Guatemala, Longan from Vietnam, Ginger and Lichti nuts fruit from China; Cactus pads from Mexico; and Bok Choy from the United States.

    If illegal residues are found DPR immediately removes the illegal produce to prevent it from reaching consumers and the department also attempts to trace it to its source. DPR then verifies that the produce is either destroyed or returned to its source.

    Businesses that violate California pesticide residue laws face loss of their product and fines. For example, in September 2016, DPR imposed a $10,000 fine against a California grower after an illegal pesticide was detected on his grapes in the marketplace and on the crop in his 43-acre vineyard.

    The new regulation:

    • The survey included 3585 produce samples representing 161 different fruits and vegetables
    • Each sample is approximately 2 pounds of produce
    • Produce sampled originated from 27 countries
    • Californian grown produce accounted of 24% of all samples tested
    • 96% of all samples had either no detected pesticide residues levels or levels at or below U.S. EPA tolerance levels

  • Chowchilla Water District and Fresno Irrigation District Rejoin Friant Water Authority

    Lindsay, Calif., (December 28, 2017) – During their December meetings the Board of Directors of the Chowchilla Water District (CWD) and Fresno Irrigation Districts (FID) voted unanimously to become full General Members of the Friant Water Authority (FWA). It is expected that the FWA Board will approve the requests during its first meeting in 2018.

    The actions of the two District Boards mark the end of the process to fully rejoin the Friant Water Authority. FID has been a Trial Member since March 2017 and CWD has been an Associate Member since July 2017.   By becoming General Members, both Districts will have a voting seat on the FWA Board of Directors.

    Kent Stephens, Chairman of FWA and President of Kern-Tulare Water District commented, “It is exciting to see past members of FWA deciding to return. It has been a priority of the FWA board to build a team that can effectively represent the member agencies and help ensure the Friant Division and surrounding areas has a reliable water supply now and in the future. Both CWD and FID have had the opportunity to see first-hand how the new FWA operates, its commitment to its customers, and its desire to become a leader in water issues in the San Joaquin Valley.”

    Kole Upton, current President of the Chowchilla WD, served as FWUA’s Chairman from 1998 to 2008, and has been CWD’s representative on the Board since July added, “Chowchilla Water District voted unanimously at its monthly meeting to rejoin Friant Water Authority as a regular General Member effective 1/1/2018. This action is a direct reflection of the vast improvement in the Friant staff, and Friant’s re-establishing itself at THE ORGANIZATION that represents the water interests of the East San Joaquin Valley.”

    George Porter, representing the Fresno Irrigation District, had this to say about becoming a General Member, “Fresno Irrigation District’s decision to return to the Friant Water Authority is a direct reflection of the major reorganization and new management changes made in the past two years. FID has been impressed with the new organization and the leadership under their new CEO, in addressing global issues impacting Friant water supplies and developing new opportunities for future water supplies. In addition, FID will benefit by being represented by a larger organization such as FWA on local, state, and federal issues.”

    The Chowchilla Water District serves approximately 85,000 acres situated in southern Merced County and northern Madera County on the eastside of the San Joaquin Valley. The District serves over 400 water users, with an average farm size of about 162 acres. The Fresno Irrigation District serves approximately 247,000 acres, and over 4,000 water users. Crops in both districts include, grapes, citrus, almonds, alfalfa, and wheat.

    Jason Phillips, CEO of the FWA, added his insight. “Having both Chowchilla and Fresno back as full General Members is an important step in strengthening and diversifying the voice of the Friant Water Authority. Both Districts have long played a critical role in water issues on the Eastside, and having them back as General Members will provide tremendous value both to the board and the entire Friant Division.”

    The membership of FWA is now comprised of 15 members, including: Arvin-Edison Water Storage District, Chowchilla Water District, City of Fresno, Fresno Irrigation District, Hills Valley Irrigation District, Kaweah Delta Water Conservation District, Kern-Tulare Water District, Lindmore Irrigation District, Lindsay-Strathmore Irrigation District, Madera Irrigation District, Orange Cove Irrigation District, Porterville Irrigation District, Saucelito Irrigation District, Terra Bella Irrigation District, and Tulare Irrigation District.

  • California State Fair Seeks Nominees for the 2018 Agriculturalist of the Year Award

    Sacramento, Calif., (December 28, 2017) – Since 1854, the California State Fair has showcased the progress and advancement of the State’s agricultural industry. In celebration of those individuals who have substantially contributed to that success, the California State Fair is seeking nominations for the 2018 Agriculturalist of the Year.

    The Agriculturalist of the Year award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated leadership and contributed extensively to the agricultural industry in a professional manner. Individuals nominated must have clearly represented the industry over a number of years in one or more of the following areas: finance, government, production agriculture, education, labor, research, communications, trade and public service, regardless of contributions to the California State Fair.

    The California State Fair first began presenting this award in 1980. Most recent awardees include Tom Nassif (2017), Sarbjit “Sarb” Johl (2016), Charles D. “Chuck” Ahlem (2015), Craig McNamara (2014), Edward H. Nishio (2013), A.G. Kawamura (2012), Robert “Bob” Gilbert (2011), Bill Lyons, Jr. (2010).

    The 2018 Agriculturalist of the Year nomination form can be found on the California State Fair website under Agricultural Advisory Council (http://www.castatefair.org/agricultural-advisory-council/). Nominations can be made from within the industry and the general public. Nomination forms must be emailed, faxed, postmarked or hand delivered by Friday, January 19, 2018 to:

    Jay Carlson
    Ag Program Manager
    California Exposition & State Fair
    P.O. Box 15649, Sacramento, CA 95852
    Phone: (916) 263-3109
    Fax (916) 263-7903
    Email: jcarlson@calexpo.com 

    The winner of the 2018 Agriculturalist of the Year will be presented at the Friends of the California State Fair Gala on June 21, 2018.

  • Kings County Farm Bureau Makes Donation To The Kings Fair

    Hanford, Calif., (December 28, 2017) – Christmas is coming early to the Kings Fair this year. Thanks to a generous donation from Kings County Farm Bureau and the June Dairy Month Committee, a new commercial freezer is being delivered to the Hanford fairgrounds tomorrow.

    Since state fair funding was eliminated during the recession, forcing fairs to become financially self-sufficient, local fairs like the Kings Fair have struggled to meet operational costs. Throughout the state, local fairs have come to rely more heavily on their fair foundations and community support to keep their gates open.

    When the Kings Fair’s commercial freezer stopped working and was determined to be beyond repair earlier this year, Kings County Farm Bureau’s board of directors wanted to help. They use the freezer during their annual Farm Day event, as do other organizations that utilize the fairground’s facilities throughout the year. With the help of the local June Dairy Month Committee, they are purchasing a new $3,000 refrigerator and delivering it to the fairgrounds on Friday morning.

    “Farm Bureau has long partnered with the Kings Fair in a number of ways that benefit the local ag community,” said Kings County Farm Bureau Executive Director Dusty Ference. “The fair and their foundation are committed to upgrading their facilities, and this is a way we can help contribute to the overall health of an organization that plays an important role in Kings County.”

    For more information, please call Dusty Ference at the Farm Bureau office, 584-3557, or on his cell, 303-1885.

  • Almond and Walnut Pest Management Guidelines Revised Just in Time for the Holidays

    Davis, Calif., (December 27, 2017) – ‘Tis the season for baking lots of tasty treats. Breads, cookies, cakes, and candy are just a few that come to mind. What makes many of these treats so tasty is the addition of almonds or walnuts to the list of ingredients.

    California is the top almond producer in the world, accounting for about 80% of all almonds grown. (Photo: Jack Kelly Clark)

    In California, we are lucky to be at the center of almond and walnut production. According to the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA’s) latest Agricultural Statistics Review, more than 99 percent of the almonds and walnuts produced in the United States are grown in California.

    Almond and walnut growers work tirelessly to supply enough nuts to not only satisfy domestic demand, but also for export. Worldwide, almonds rank as the largest specialty crop export. California is the top almond producer in the world, accounting for about 80 percent of all almonds grown. For walnuts, California ranks as the second largest producer in the world. To keep up with this demand, almond and walnut growers must be constantly aware of pests, diseases, and abiotic problems that can affect the tree and growing nuts.

    The University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program (UC IPM) has recently published revised Pest Management Guidelines for almonds and walnuts, helping growers prevent and manage pest problems with the most up-to-date information.

    Bacterial spot on almond, a new disease of almond in California. (Photo: Brent A. Holtz)

    Revisions in the Almond Pest Management Guidelines include:

    • A new section on bacterial spot, a new disease of almond in California found in the Sacramento and northern San Joaquin valleys
    • A renamed section on fruit russeting, revised from the old powdery mildew section
    • Significant revisions made to the management section of navel orangeworm, one of the major pests attacking California almonds
    • Improvements on how to do dormant spur sampling section with easier-to-understand information on monitoring and thresholds
    • Revisions in the Walnut Pest Management Guidelines include:
    • Updated information on the association between walnut twig beetle and thousand cankers disease
    • New sections for Botryosphaeria and Phomopsis cankers, branch wilt, and paradox canker
    • Significant changes to the walnut husk fly management section
    Male (left) and female walnut twig beetles. (Photo: Larry L. Strand)

    Both the almond and walnut revised Pest Management Guidelines also include updated information on fungicide efficacy, weed management, and vertebrate management.

    Authored by University of California specialists and advisors, the Pest Management Guidelines are UC’s official guidelines for monitoring and managing pests in California crops. For more information on pest management in these or other crops, visit the UC IPM website.

  • USDA California Crop/Weather Report

    Sacramento, Calif., (December 27, 2017) – The start of last week brought below normal temperatures as a system moved across the state. The northern coast received light precipitation in the form of rain and snow. In northeastern California, valley rain and mountain snow impacted the area. Precipitation was sparse in other areas due to the fast-moving front. By mid-week, a ridge of high pressure returned, causing much of the state to return to mostly dry and seasonal conditions. That allowed onshore winds to warm up much of the state back to average temperatures.

    Temperature highs ranged in the 40s to 50s in the mountains, 50s to 60s in the valley, 50s to 70s along the coast, and 60s to 70s in the desert. Temperature lows were 10s to 20s in the mountains, 10s to 30s in the desert, 20s to 40s along the coast, and 30s to 40s in the valley.

    Cotton fields were shredded. Growers continued to plant oats, triticale, and winter forage. Fields that were planted earlier in the season had signs of good growth. Planting was ongoing for wheat and other cereal grains and forage mixes. Irrigation had been necessary to maintain growth. Black-eyed beans were being exported to Malaysia.

    Table grapes from cold storage continued to be exported.  Pruning continued in stone fruit orchards and vineyards. Some older, poorly producing orchards and vineyards were removed and prepared for replanting. Some growers prepared to apply winter dormant sprays.  The Navel orange harvest gained momentum. Pomelos were harvested.  Growers protected their citrus orchards from frost due to the cold overnight temperatures.  Strawberry fields continued to thrive.

    Pistachios, almonds, walnuts, and pecans continued to be packed and shipped primarily to foreign markets.  Nut growers were busy applying winter weed sprays.  Some older orchards were pushed out and the ground was prepped for planting.

    Winter vegetable fieldwork continued. Some fields were being prepared and planted with winter vegetable crops.  In the already planted winter vegetable fields, the crops continued to develop.  Brussel sprouts were harvested in San Mateo County.

    The lack of rainfall had left rangeland forage in poor condition. More rain was needed to help with germination and growth of rangeland forage. Supplemental feeding of cattle was ongoing.