California Ag Network

Category: News

  • UC ANR Hires Experts in Disaster Resilience, Food Systems, Economics & More

    To help Californians meet a variety of challenges in their lives and livelihoods, the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources has placed more UC Cooperative Extension experts with a wide range of skills and experience across the state.

    As California faces increasingly extreme weather and wildfires, UCCE has added two new positions to focus on disaster resilience. Other new UCCE specialists, advisors, coordinators and educators around the state are bringing to their communities a range of experience and expertise in environmental horticulture, agricultural economics, Indigenous food, youth development, forestry, food preservation, livestock and natural resources to their communities.

    Since 1914, UC Cooperative Extension researchers have been working directly with community members to develop science-based solutions on many pressing issues.

    Tymon brings environmental horticulture to UCCE in Inland Empire

    Lydia Tymon has joined UC Cooperative Extension as an environmental horticulture advisor serving San Bernardino and Riverside counties. She will be developing and extending horticultural knowledge in areas including climate-adapted landscape trees and integrated pest management to nursery, landscape and urban forestry professionals and community organizations.

    Tymon brings extensive experience in applied pathology and nursery production. She previously held research and leadership roles at Washington State University where her work focused on the management of fungal and bacterial pathogens and pests affecting vegetable and small fruit growers in the state.

    Most recently, she was the senior director of Bio R&D at Mast Reforestation, where she worked with nursery growers and foresters on projects focused on seedling survival, drought tolerance, and disease and pest management.

    She holds a Ph.D. in plant pathology from Washington State University, as well as a master’s degree in forestry and bachelor’s degree in botany, both from the University of Washington.

    Throughout her career, she has emphasized translating science into practical solutions and she is looking forward to applying that approach to her work in California.

    Tymon is based at the UCCE office in Riverside and can be reached at ltymon@ucanr.edu.

    Woodke joins UCCE Central Sierra as Indigenous disaster resilience advisor

    Robert “Bob” Woodke completed his Ph.D. in geography from UC Davis this summer and is now serving as the Indigenous disaster resilience advisor for UC ANR in the Central Sierra.

    Woodke conducted his doctoral research in Northern Senegal, where he helped pastoral women build forages to combat animal death in the face of drought. He also completed a master’s degree in community development at UC Davis and spent two and a half years in the Peace Corps in the West African countries of Mali and Benin.

    Woodke is interested in grassroots development, working with communities to meet their needs. According to Woodke, highlighting local ingenuity and rural/Indigenous voices is vital in countering ineffective development and is central to his extension strategy. He is excited to understand and improve disaster resilience while building community-serving projects.

    Originally from Humboldt County, Woodke is now based in Sonora and says he is “stoked to be in the beautiful Central Sierra and ready to engage with the community.”

    Woodke can be contacted at rlwoodke@ucanr.edu.

    Schmidt joins UCCE as food systems advisor for Los Angeles, Ventura counties

    Li Schmidt has joined UC Cooperative Extension as a food systems advisor serving Ventura and Los Angeles counties.

    Schmidt brings a diverse range of experiences to the position, including being a small-scale grower and founder of Cultural Roots Nursery, a plant nursery that produces culturally relevant foods for Asian diaspora communities.

    Prior to joining UC ANR, Schmidt worked as a research-based podcaster and storyteller, covering food and agriculture issues in California. As a farmer and community educator, she created culturally responsive garden and farm workshops and curriculum geared towards young and beginning growers.

    Schmidt also served on the farmer governance board at the California Farmer Justice Collaborative, where she organized and advocated for underserved farmers and ranchers on a statewide level.   

    As a graduate student, Schmidt worked with the UC Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program (SAREP) and is excited to return to UC ANR to support growers and food justice efforts in the counties she serves.

    She holds a master’s degree in community development with a focus on sustainable food systems from UC Davis.

    Li is based at the UCCE office in Ventura County and can be reached at lschmidt@ucanr.edu.

    Chávez hired as Indigenous food sovereignty advisor in San Diego, Riverside counties

    Marisela Chávez is a Chicana environmental social scientist with a passion for work centered on Native and Indigenous ancestral foodways, biocultural heritage stewardship and social justice.

    As a UCCE Indigenous food sovereignty advisor in San Diego and Riverside counties, Chávez is building an applied research and extension program in collaboration with Native American tribes, tribal communities and tribe-serving organizations across Southern California.

    Chávez has worked in conservation projects and conducted research across the Americas, from Mexico to Brazil, to deepen her understanding of how food connects people; the relationships that are ingrained in all of the ways that food is produced, acquired, eaten and shared; and community-centered food sovereignty initiatives.

    Most recently, her research in southern Mexico focused on understanding how two Indigenous communities navigated climate change impacts on the production and availability of native crops and wild foods.

    Chávez earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, an master’s degree in Latin American and Caribbean Studies from the University of Kansas, and a Ph.D. in forest and conservation science from the University of Montana.

    Chávez is based in San Diego and can be reached at mvez@ucanr.edu.

    Guillen becomes 4-H advisor for San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties

    Melissa Guillen has taken a new position with UC ANR as a 4-H youth development advisor serving San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

    In February, Guillen joined UC Cooperative Extension as the academic coordinator for the CalFresh Healthy Living, UCCE program, part of the federally funded SNAP-Ed program that is ending.

    Prior to joining UCCE, she served as chief operating officer at Backyard Bowls, where she led strategic growth, operations and team development. Previously, she managed youth and nutrition programs at the San Luis Obispo Food Bank, focusing on food literacy, food security initiatives and public health advocacy. Her expertise spans program development, business strategy and cross-sector collaboration.

    Beyond her professional work, Guillen is deeply involved in her community. She serves as chair of the board of directors for Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara and as president of the board for Standing Together to End Sexual Assault. She was also a Big Sister with Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Luis Obispo County, a foster parent and an exchange student host – roles that reflect her dedication to creating safe, supportive environments where young people can thrive.

    She holds a master’s degree in nutrition from Meredith College and a bachelor’s degree in animal science from North Carolina State University.

    Guillen is based at the UCCE office in San Luis Obispo and can be reached at mpguillen@ucanr.edu.

    Rocha joins UC ANR as agricultural economics specialist

    Adauto Rocha Jr. has joined UC ANR as an assistant professor of Cooperative Extension in the UC Santa Cruz Economics Department.

    Rocha is an agricultural economist specializing in production economics and policy evaluation for small and family farms.

    At UC ANR, Rocha’s program will focus on the impact evaluation of policies and social programs, cost studies, and the development of accessible digital tools to support profitability, resilience and equitable rural development across California’s small-farm sector. In his new role, he is most excited about strengthening small-farm community resilience and competitiveness and contributing to more sustainable food systems.

    “I look forward to contributing to this mission and collaborating with colleagues, producers and stakeholders across California,” Rocha said.

    Rocha’s research has focused on production economics and the evaluation of agricultural and environmental policies. He has published in journals such as The Review of Income and Wealth and The Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension, and contributed to major reports for the World Bank, the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, and Brazilian ministries.

    Much of his work centers on family farming and conservation, with an emphasis on understanding how policies and practices shape economic outcomes and resilience in rural communities.

    Before joining UC ANR, he was an assistant extension professor at the University of Missouri, Columbia, where he conducted research and outreach on livestock economics, conservation programs and risk-management tools.

    He holds two doctoral degrees – one in applied economics from the University of São Paulo, Brazil, and another in agricultural economics from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, where he received the J.B. Hassler Ph.D. Research Citation for outstanding research in agricultural economics.

    Rocha is based at UC Santa Cruz and can be reached at arochajr@ucsc.edu.

    Quintana joins the forestry team in Shasta, Trinity and Siskiyou counties

    Camila Quintana Del Carpio has joined UC Cooperative Extension as a forestry and natural resources advisor for Shasta, Trinity and Siskiyou counties. She serves as a resource for forestland owners, professional foresters and anyone else interested in the management of California’s forest resources.

    Quintana brings a wide range of skills from seven years of working for private industry and forestry consulting companies. She began her career marking timber, flagging watercourses and cruising for carbon projects, and grew into managing the reforestation program on 168,000 acres of timberland for FWS Forestry. She is a licensed pest control adviser and a California Registered Professional Forester (RPF #3192).

    In May, she completed a master’s degree in forest resources, with an emphasis on forest business, at the University of Georgia. Her studies at the University of Georgia gave her the foundational business skills used by premier timber companies and insight into forestry practices from the leading lumber producing region of the United States. She holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry and environmental science from UC Berkeley.

    With a passion for reforestation, Quintana has participated in the Forest Vegetation Management Conference and the California Forest Pest Council, where she explored new opportunities for fundraising and chaired the committee for the annual woods tour.

    Quintana, who grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area, brings a fresh perspective to Northern California forestry as an immigrant from Peru. With her fluency in Spanish, she has fostered connections with migrant reforestation workers, enhancing inclusiveness in California forestry.

    “I am looking forward to working with forest landowners, registered professional foresters, agencies and others interested in forestry and natural resources,” she said.

    Quintana is based at the UC Cooperative Extension office in Redding and can be reached at caquintana@ucanr.edu

    Vigil joins UCCE as livestock and natural resources advisor for Shasta, Trinity counties

    Justin Vigil joined UC Cooperative Extension as the livestock and natural resources advisor for Shasta and Trinity counties.

    Vigil, who grew up on Dixie Valley Ranch in Lassen County, southeast of McArthur, succeeds Larry Forero, who retired.

    Vigil earned a bachelor’s degree in business economics from California State University, East Bay. Under the tutelage of Kasey DeAtley, Chico State University professor of animal science, Vigil conducted graduate research investigating bovine bone degradation in livestock mortality compost.

    After earning a master’s degree in regenerative agriculture, Vigil found work not behind a desk, but on the back of a horse.

    “For the last year, I worked for a horse trainer in Red Bluff and as a day worker on various ranches where I learned valuable lessons in horsemanship and forged connections with ranchers which will serve me in this new role,” Vigil said.

    “As I step into this position, I am excited to meet individuals of the livestock and natural resources community, listen to questions or concerns, and develop research projects that provide conclusions that will improve the stewardship of livestock and natural resources,” he added.

    Vigil is based at the UC Cooperative Extension office in Redding and can be reached at jusvigil@ucanr.edu and (530) 224-4900.

    Thaoxaochay becomes UCCE disaster resiliency, planning and policy advisor

    Lilian Thaoxaochay is now the UC Cooperative Extension disaster resiliency, planning and policy advisor for San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

    She joined UC ANR in 2021, working with the UCCE Small Farms team in Fresno County. For four years, she provided technical assistance for small-scale growers affected by COVID-19 and various extreme weather conditions including drought and flood. She also assisted with research on specialty crop production projects including long beans, moringa and jujubes.

    Thaoxaochay, whose family has a 20-acre farm in Fresno County, also provided program support and Hmong translation for irrigation efficiency, integrated pest management and soil health education.

    She holds a master’s degree in anthropology from UC Santa Cruz and bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Stanford University. She has a background in community organizing, policy, racial/ethnic health disparities and cultural competency in medical education, curriculum development, the history of agriculture in Southeast Asia, and refugee and immigrant farming in California.

    Thaoxaochay is based in San Luis Obispo and can be reached at lilthaox@ucanr.edu.

    Matteucci joins UC Master Food Preservers

    Kelsie Matteucci joined UC ANR as a community education supervisor for the UC Master Food Preserver Program. She supports the statewide program manager and county coordinators in training volunteers and implementing educational programs across California.

    Matteucci holds a master’s degree in climate science and policy from Scripps Institute of Oceanography and a bachelor’s degree in sustainability from San Diego State University.

    She has dedicated her career to exploring sustainable food systems and sharing this knowledge with learners of all ages, emphasizing the benefits of local, seasonal eating.

    Her background includes work with small-scale agricultural operations and educational cooking programs, experiences that have sharpened her food preservation skills. She has led a variety of community classes and events focused on building kitchen confidence, increasing food literacy and preserving the seasonal harvest in diverse ways.

    Matteucci is committed to expanding and strengthening farm to fork and food preservation education across the state.

    Matteucci is based in Davis at the UC ANR building and can be reached at kmatteucci@ucanr.edu.

    Mashiri brings livestock and natural resources expertise to Central Coast

    Fadzayi Elizabeth Mashiri is now UC Cooperative Extension livestock and natural resources advisor for San Benito, Monterey and Santa Cruz counties.

    For the past 12 years, Mashiri has served as county director and UCCE livestock and natural resources advisor for Mariposa and Merced counties, where she helped land managers and ranchers increase their economic viability and ecological sustainability.

    Her work included projects on weed management, impacts of rangeland conversion, ecosystem services payment for working rangelands, fire risk-reduction using grazing and prescribed fire and integrated livestock grazing in orchard systems.

    Before joining UC ANR, Mashiri was a senior research specialist at the University of Arizona where she studied adaptive grazing and collaborative management strategies to promote rangeland resilience and productivity. She launched her career as a lecturer and senior agricultural extension officer in Zimbabwe, which sparked her passion for community-based extension work.

    Mashiri holds a Ph.D. in rangeland management from the University of Arizona, a master’s degree in management of natural resources and sustainable agriculture from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, and a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from University of Zimbabwe.

    “In the coming months, I am excited to meet with ranchers, land managers and partners across the region,” Mashiri said. “I look forward to learning about local needs and priorities and using that insight to develop relevant, practical, research-based programs that directly support land managers and ranchers in the region.”

    Mashiri is based at the San Benito County office in Hollister and can be contacted at fmashiri@ucanr.edu and (831) 637 5346, Ext. 103. You can follow her work on the Livestock & Range blog at https://ucanr.edu/blog/livestock-range.

    Diaz joins EFNEP team in Contra Costa County

    Mariana Diaz joined the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program in Contra Costa County as a youth nutrition educator.

    After graduating from UC Davis with a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and management and a minor in education, she spent several years in a variety of educator roles, such as a sixth grade outdoor school naturalist, an environmental science educator at Yosemite National Park and an after-school STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) teacher for K-6 girls.

    Diaz is based in Concord and can be reached at mxdiaz@ucanr.edu.

    Fatino joins UCCE as subtropical crop advisor

    Matthew Fatino joined UC Cooperative Extension as the subtropical crop advisor for San Diego and Riverside counties.

    Fatino, who grew up in Southern California, earned a bachelor’s degree in crop and fruit science at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he worked in the citrus and avocado groves on campus. After graduating from Cal Poly, he earned a master’s degree and Ph.D. at UC Davis in horticulture and agronomy with an emphasis in weed science.

    During the past six years at UC Davis, Fatino focused on branched broomrape management in California processing tomatoes, as well as evaluating weed management strategies in a variety of tree and vine crops in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys.

    Fatino looks forward to sharpening his horticultural, entomology and pathology skills to meet the needs and challenges faced by growers in San Diego and Riverside counties.

    Fatino is based at the UCCE San Diego office and can be contacted at mfatino@ucanr.edu or (949) 466-6288.

    Singh joins UCCE as agronomy advisor for Capitol Corridor

    Mandeep Singh joined UC Cooperative Extension as the agronomy advisor for Sacramento, Solano and Yolo counties.

    Singh completed a Ph.D. in agronomy and horticulture with a specialization in weed science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he focused on herbicide interactions, water use and the management of volunteer corn.

    He continued there as a postdoctoral researcher, working on integrated strategies for managing herbicide-resistant weeds and developing an open-access image database to support site-specific weed management technologies.

    “From an early age, I was involved in managing row crops like alfalfa, wheat, cotton, rice, sorghum and oats, as well as caring for livestock, on my family’s farm,” Singh said.

    “As someone new to the area, I am excited to make the most of every opportunity to learn, collaborate and work with all of you,” he added. “Over the next couple of months, I’ll be spending time learning about the area and connecting with growers, pest control advisers, farm managers and the broader community to better understand the needs of agronomic cropping systems in our region.”

    He encourages colleagues and stakeholders to reach out with ideas, insights, requests, suggestions or questions as he begins setting priorities for his new role.

    “I look forward to collaborating on a research and extension program that reflects local needs and addresses challenges in agronomic crops such as corn, safflower, alfalfa, dry beans, hybrid seed production, wheat and other small grains – while delivering practical, relevant, and impactful solutions,” Singh said.

    Singh is based at the UCCE Capitol Corridor office in Woodland and can be contacted at mdpsingh@ucanr.edu or (530) 666-8704. His social media handle is @uc_agron on X and Instagram.

    UC Agriculture and Natural Resources brings UC information and practices to all 58 California counties. Through research and Cooperative Extension in agriculture, natural resources, economic growth, nutrition and youth development, our mission is to improve the lives of all Californians. Learn more at ucanr.edu and support our work at donate.ucanr.edu.

  • USDA to Expand Crop Insurance Access for Farmers, Boosting Farm Safety Net

    U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced major updates to federal crop insurance, reducing red tape for farmers, modernizing long-standing policies, and expanding access to critical risk protection beginning with the 2026 crop year. The Expanding Access to Risk Protection (EARP) Final Rule streamlines requirements across multiple crops, responds to producer feedback, and strengthens USDA’s commitment to putting America’s farmers first.

    “President Trump is cutting burdensome regulations and strengthening the farm safety net to ensure the future viability of American agriculture. Across the Trump Administration, we are removing burdensome regulations that were strangling small businesses. For every new regulation, President Trump has eliminated a remarkable 48 – lifting a weighted blanket from the American economy,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “With this new rule, we are delivering real, meaningful relief by modernizing the system, expanding access to crop insurance, and making it easier, not harder, for farmers and ranchers to protect their operations and keep doing the work that keeps America fueled and fed. We are continuing to put Farmers First every step of the way.”

    Reducing Regulatory Burdens

    Improving Land Access Through Prevented Planting Relief

    •Removes the “insured” requirement from the “1 in 4” rule for prevented planting payments. Producers must still show the land was planted and harvested (or adjusted for an insurable cause of loss) in one of the previous four years.

    Streamlining Production Reporting

    •Allows policyholders switching Approved Insurance Providers (AIPs) to submit production reports directly to their new provider, reducing confusion and paperwork.

    Expanding Direct Marketing Options

    •Allows insurance under the Dollar Plan for direct-marketed fresh market tomatoes and peppers beginning with the 2027 crop year, reflecting specialty crop business practices in Northeastern states.

    Simplifying Dispute Resolution

    •In accordance with Executive Order 14192, Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation, removes the “automatic nullification” rule and shifts fact-finding authority to the courts, reducing administrative burdens on policyholders and AIPs.

    Deregulating Coverage Dates

    •Removes termination, cancellation, and end-of-insurance dates from federal regulations and places them in policy provisions, enabling more flexible, county-level updates.

    Additional Policy Updates

    One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) Implementation

    •Incorporates provisions from Manager’s Bulletin 25-006.

    •Extends beginning farmer and rancher eligibility from 5 to 10 crop years.

    •Updates additional premium subsidy rates: 15% (years 1–2), 13% (year 3), 11% (year 4), and 10% (years 5–10).

    Revenue Protection Clarifications

    •Establishes that harvest prices will equal projected prices when insufficient data prevents use of the approved methodology.

    •Creates a reimbursement process for policyholders who paid additional revenue protection premiums in such cases.

    Crop-Specific Improvements

    •Fresh Market Tomatoes: Extends end of insurance period by one month in TN and SC to better cover late-season hurricanes (2027 crop year).

    •Fresh Market Peppers: Adds insurance dates aligned with northern growing seasons to support Dollar Plan expansion into Northeastern states.

    •Safflower: Moves the contract change date from December 31 to November 30, aligning with other spring crops and simplifying enrollment.

    Effective Dates and Public Comment

    The EARP Final Rule became effective Nov. 30, 2025, for crops with a contract change date on or after that date (2026 crop year) and for the 2027 crop year as specified. USDA will accept public comments until January 27, 2026.

    Additional Information

    Producers should contact their local crop insurance agent or visit the RMA website for guidance on how these updates may affect coverage options.

    RMA supports American agriculture by providing world-class risk management tools through Federal crop insurance and education programs, offering coverage for more than 130 crops and continuously improving policies based on producer feedback.

  • US Biochar Initiative Training Program Launched for American Ag Professionals, Sessions this Week

    The first sessions of the Growing With Biochar program will take place December 8 and 10, in Sacramento and Parlier, California. This marks the start of a nationwide, on-the-ground, free training series designed by US Biochar Initiative (USBI), a not-for-profit focused on developing end-use markets for biochar in the United States, to equip agriculture professionals with the knowledge and tools to help farmers integrate biochar in their practices.

    With a rise in input costs, increase in sustainability demands from food brands, ongoing effects from climate change, and policy uncertainties, farmers are under pressure to do more with less. Across the sector, farmers now turn toward local, circular, self-reliant practices that reduce waste, lower input dependence, and build resilience against climate and market risks.

    Biochar is a carbon-rich soil amendment made from waste biomass — like crop residues or wood chips — that boosts soil health and stores carbon long-term. Regarding farmer concerns, it delivers on all fronts. Recent announcements like that of Cold Steppe’s upcoming $40 million Arkansas facility, built to turn local rice hulls into biochar, emphasize the rise of circular, regional soil solutions.

    During the free, full-day training sessions in California, attendees will learn how to source, ship, and apply biochar using the “4R” principles (right source, rate, time, place), and how to help producers navigate state and federal cost-share programs such as the Healthy Soils Program and EQIP 336 Implementation.

    Tera Lewandowski, the Director of Agricultural Markets at USBI, said, “This training is a first of its kind event, designed to close the critical gaps that have held back biochar adoption. Farmers and advisors often ask how and why to apply biochar, where to source it and how to handle it, and how to make use of cost-share programs. Our goal with this training is to provide clear, practical answers so that biochar can become a reliable tool for building healthier soils and more resilient farms.”

    The sessions will feature trainers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cornell University, and American Farmland Trust, and are designed to expand biochar applications across agriculture.

    Access the program’s informational sheet, agenda, and registration: https://files.constantcontact.com/be36d7fb501/11db2d2b-2f78-4d93-ae77-ae999608830f.pdf

  • World’s First On-Farm Robotics Hub for Viticulture Launches in Sonoma

    Sonoma County Winegrowers and Reservoir today announced the launch of Reservoir Farms, Sonoma – the world’s first on-farm robotics and automation hub for viticulture located in the heart of California wine country.

    As a flagship collaboration under the Sonoma County Winegrowers’ Farm of the Future initiative and building on the success of Reservoir’s inaugural “Olympic Village of AgTech” site in Salinas, Reservoir is extending its model to California’s Wine Country to drive the development and deployment of automation and advanced robotics for vineyards and premium permanent crops like wine grapes. Launched by Sonoma County Winegrowers in 2022, the Farm of the Future serves as an open invitation for innovators and growers to collaborate, pilot new technologies, and share impactful practices to advance sustainability and climate adaptation across Sonoma County’s certified winegrowing operations.

    “Sonoma County Winegrowers has long had a vision of being the “Silicon Valley” of Ag Innovation for winegrapes and today that vision becomes a reality. And most exciting is that these start-ups will have our farmers at the table solving the problems they have versus creating solutions and then looking for the problem,” said Karissa Kruse, president and CEO of Sonoma County Winegrowers, at the ribbon-cutting event hosted at its headquarters. “Winegrapes are one of the most labor-intensive specialty crops, and emerging technology has the potential to transform how we manage vineyards, upskill our workforce, and continue to deliver for our consumers.”

    By adding Reservoir Farms, Sonoma to Farm of the Future, a powerful living lab is being created where growers, startups, and industry partners work together to solve today’s toughest challenges and build resilience for the future. Amid rising labor costs, a shrinking workforce, and mounting production expenses, wine growers in Sonoma County and across California face complex challenges that threaten vineyard resilience. Reservoir Farms, Sonoma will feature fabrication facilities, an engineering workshop, and 14 acres of managed vineyard test blocks where robotics startups and AgTech leaders like John Deere can work side-by-side to develop, iterate, and validate field-ready technologies. This will bring economic development to Sonoma County, new jobs, new companies, and an opportunity to support workforce development and education.

    Reservoir’s expansion to Sonoma County is part of a broad, multi-regional strategy to build a network of on-farm innovation hubs anchored by top growers, R&D partners and regional institutions. Reservoir Farms, Sonoma functions as a real-world laboratory accelerating viticulture innovation, uniting multiple stakeholders and bridging the gap between engineering and agriculture.

    Reservoir is inviting six startups to join the incubator by the end of 2025. Cropmind, Inc. and Budbreak Innovations already committed to the program beginning in January 2026, while current Reservoir Farms resident Beagle Technology will extend its existing Reservoir membership to Sonoma to expand its vine pruning solution into Wine Country.

    “The next generation of breakthroughs in ag robotics happen if world-class engineers have direct access to real farm environments to develop technology,” said Danny Bernstein, founder and CEO of Reservoir. “The next leap—whether it’s advanced perception, precision agriculture, rugged humanoids, or foundational AI platforms—will require engineers and growers building and problem-solving together. We are honored to be part of Sonoma County Winegrowers’ Farm of the Future to help drive innovation for their members today and into the future.”

    For more information or to apply for the next cohort at Reservoir Farms, Sonoma, visit www.reservoir.co.

    ABOUT SONOMA COUNTY WINEGROWERS:

    Sonoma County Winegrowers is a marketing and educational organization committed to promoting and protecting Sonoma County as one of the world’s premier wine growing regions. With more than 1,800 grape growers across 19 distinct American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), Sonoma County is recognized globally for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation.

    ABOUT RESERVOIR:

    Reservoir enables deep-tech startups to make a significant impact on the future of specialty crop agriculture. Reservoir Farms is the world’s first on-farm robotics incubator, launching in the Salinas Valley and expanding to other key regions, including California’s Wine Country. Reservoir VC is an early-stage venture capital fund focused on helping AgTech startups succeed where agriculture happens—in the field. By combining R&D space, hands-on grower input, and early-stage capital, the Reservoir helps turn promising ideas into tools for the growers who feed the world. Learn more at https://reservoir.co.

  • Practical Training on Nitrogen Management in Organic Production of Annual Crops

    Join UCANR at Woodland Community College (or online via zoom) for the 2025 Organic Nitrogen Workshop — a hands-on training designed to help growers, PCAs, CCAs, and ag professionals improve nitrogen management in organic annual crop production. Attendees will have the opportunity to Earn 4 CCA & 4 INMTP CE credits and learn about: nitrogen dynamics & soil organic matter, predicting nitrogen availability, completing nitrogen budgets, and synchronizing N release with crop demand.

    📅 Tuesday, December 9, 2025
    ⏰ 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
    📍 Woodland Community College (2300 E Gibson Rd, Woodland)
    💻 In-person or via Zoom
    🥗 Lunch included for in-person participants
    💲 Cost: $20 (Free for farmers)

    🔗 Register here: https://surveys.ucanr.edu/survey.cfm?surveynumber=47211
    Limited space — reserve your spot today!

  • 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.