California Ag Network

Category: News

  • Are Consumers Leaving Wine Behind in the Slew of Alternative Beverages and Social Trends?

    It’s no secret that the wine industry is struggling, but it’s been difficult for some to wrap their heads around the many forces driving the decline in wine sales, and knowing how to prosper in today’s market. Alcohol beverage analyst Danny Brager shared some insights on the social and marketing trends impacting today’s wine consumers at Unified Wine & Grape Symposium. Watch this brief interview with Danny and read more about current wine market trends in American Vineyard Magazine.

    Please thank this video’s sponsor SIPCAM AGRO USA for their industry support.

  • Almond Market Concerns Loom, and Not Just Retaliatory Tariffs

    Just as the market for California almonds was beginning to look brighter, concerns for the impact of retaliatory tariffs under President Trump 2.0 have brought a lot of uncertainty to growers that rely so heavily on a healthy export market. Roland Fumasi, the North American Head of RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness met with Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network to share Rabobank’s almond market forecast and an additional concern just as threatening to the near-term success of the industry as the looming retaliatory tariffs. Watch this brief interview and learn more in Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.

  • What Growers Should Know about the “New” National Raisin Company, After Chilean Purchase

    Many have heard rumors of a farming company out of Chile purchasing National Raisin Company, a dried fruit packer that has been serving the California raisin industry since 1969, founded by the Bedrosian brothers. To set the facts straight and introduce themselves to the industry, the Sutil family, new owners of National Raisin, recently gathered with growers in Fresno and shared their new vision for the long-established company. Watch this interview as Juan Sutil Jr. from Empresas Sutil S.A. meets with Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network to discuss this vision and the future of National Raisin Company.

    Please thank this video’s sponsor SIPCAM AGRO USA for their industry support.

  • Why this Grape Grower Urges a Yes Vote on the Pierce’s Disease Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter Referendum

    California wine grape growers have the opportunity to vote on whether to continue assessments to support the Pierce’s Disease Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter (PD/GWSS) Board. Ballots are being sent in the mail this month. Administered by CDFA and led by the wine grape industry for the last 25 years, this program funds research and activities to lessen the impact of threatening vineyard pests & diseases. Watch this brief interview with Lodi wine grape grower Aaron Lange as he shares with Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network why he is voting “yes” on the referendum and explains what the Board has been working on that he finds so critical to the future of the industry.

    Please thank this video’s sponsor SIPCAM AGRO USA for their industry support.

  • California Citrus Growers Deliver Quality Crop, Imports & Costs Remain a Challenge

    It’s been a great harvest season for California citrus growers; however, increased production costs and market challenges are a growing concern. California Citrus Mutual President/CEO Casey Creamer met with Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network at their annual Citrus Showcase to highlight the bright spots of the State of the California citrus industry, but also to address the challenges. Watch this brief interview and read more in California Fruit & Vegetable Magazine.

  • Bird Flu Causes Massive Impact on California & National Milk Production

    To date, H5N1 avian influenza virus type A (bird flu) has been confirmed in dairy cattle across 17 states, and has infiltrated the epicenter of the nation’s milk production — the Central Valley of California. As of April 7, it has been detected on 758 California herds. While new cases and the spread of the virus has slowed with the onset of springtime (and conditions have improved since the time of the interview), the virus’ impact on lower milk production in the Central Valley was felt by the nation. California Dairy Editor Matthew Malcolm met with Senior Dairy Analyst at Rabobank Lucas Fuess at the World Ag Expo to discuss the impact the virus has had on cows, national production and prices. Watch this brief interview and read more about the economic impact of H5N1 in the latest issue of California Dairy Magazine.

  • Cornell to Help Pinpoint Cause of Massive Honeybee Die-Offs

    Cornell University bee experts are analyzing samples of bees and related material to help identify the cause of unprecedented managed honeybee losses this winter. The colony die-offs became apparent as U.S. commercial beekeepers geared up to transport colonies to California, where approximately 70% of the nation’s managed honeybees are trucked to pollinate almonds each year.

    Average recent losses have been upward of 60% of honeybee colonies, leading to combined financial losses of at least $139 million, according to an ongoing survey of 234 beekeepers from across the country. The survey is being conducted by Project Apis m., the American Beekeeping Federation, the American Honey Producers Association and extension programs and beekeepers.

    “Based on early numbers that are coming in, it’s suggestive that this will be the biggest loss of honeybee colonies in U.S. history,” said Scott McArt, Ph.D. ’12, associate professor of entomology and program director for the Dyce Lab for Honey Bee Studies, in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

    These devastating numbers only add to loss rates of 70% to 100% for many beekeepers over the last 12 months.

    Pollen samples ready for analysis in the McArt Lab in Comstock Hall. Photo by Jason Koski/Cornell University.

    The Bee Research Laboratory at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service in Beltsville, Maryland, has collected samples of honeybees, wax, pollen and honey from dead and living hives. The government facility is now testing samples for parasites (such as varroa mites) and viruses. But due to government staffing cuts and the high expense involved with testing samples for pesticides, USDA staff and commercial beekeepers approached McArt to see if the Cornell Chemical Ecology Core Facility (of which McArt is director) could handle pesticide analyses.

    “The USDA lab has had cuts, so they simply can’t do a quick turnaround for these pesticide results. And at the same time, it’s very expensive for them,” McArt said.

    McArt and colleagues are using mass spectrometry techniques to analyze 500 samples and identify chemical residues. The Cornell lab can process up to 50 samples a week. Each sample costs about $120 to test; an anonymous private donor came forward to fund the project. The lab currently has samples in queue to be processed for other clients, but McArt put those on hold and requested that clients wait a few extra months for their results.

    Findings from the USDA samples won’t be available for at least another month, McArt said.

    Two years ago, Florida beekeepers experienced similar losses of up to 90% of their colonies, and $4.28 million in revenue, though the damage was limited to a few very large commercial honeybee operations in Florida. At the time, the USDA bee lab had the capacity to run the samples, and their results will soon be published. Early indications are that neonicotinoid pesticides, possibly used to control Asian citrus psyllid pests on oranges, were to blame. — By Krishna Ramanujan, Cornell University

  • The California State Fair proudly announces the winners of the 2025 Commercial Cheese Competition, recognizing excellence in cheesemaking from across the state. This year’s competition showcased the finest cheeses crafted by both small artisan producers and large-scale cheese production companies. A distinguished panel of 12 judges, led by Head Judge Phillip Tong, evaluated 113 entries based on appearance, aroma, texture, and taste.

    Best of Show Winners

    Best of Show – Cow’s Milk:

    Marin French Cheese Co. – Golden Gate

    Marin French Cheese Co. took home the prestigious Best of Show award for cow’s milk cheese with their Golden Gate washed rind cheese. This triple crème cheese is a part of their new California Originals line, developed for the evolved tastes of the modern cheese lover. Inspired by the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, this cheese undergoes a 14-day aging process where it is hand-washed with brine, allowing coastal cultures to flourish.

    “We know how many wonderful cheeses are made here in California, so this is an accomplishment that makes us especially proud,” said Bonnie Kaufman, Brand Manager. “Golden Gate is a true taste of terroir, inspired by the iconic bridge that leads you to Marin County and reliant on our salty coastal air for its color and flavor. Winning this award for a cheese that celebrates California is a fitting and rewarding honor.”

    With a deep, savory flavor, pungent aroma, and gooey texture, Golden Gate is an ideal choice for cheese boards and pairing with bold flavors.

    Best of Show – Other Milk Type:

    Pennyroyal Farm – Boont Corners Reserve

    Pennyroyal Farm secured the Best of Show award for other milk types with Boont Corners Reserve, made from fresh, raw goat’s milk. Inspired by traditional French mountain cheeses, this cheese is crafted during the summer months when the milk is lower in fat, allowing it to age beautifully for up to 12 months. The result is a firm-textured cheese with a complex, sweet, and nutty flavor, ideal for grating. The cheese is named after “The Corners,” the historic site of Boonville, near Pennyroyal Farm. This is the third Best in Show win for Boont Corners Reserve at the CA State Fair over the last 10 years.

    “I take it as a sign that we have been able to maintain a consistently high-quality cheese over the years, which is a reflection of and validation of not only of the recipe, but our staff, our animals, and our practices both on the dairy and in the creamery,” said Erika McKenzie-Chapter, Cheesemaker.  “My 7-year-old is going to ask if she can ‘keep this one’. She adores the two previous Golden Bears we have earned with this cheese. She even tells me she wants to create her own recipe so she can enter and win, so this award is already encouraging a future generation of cheesemakers.”

    2025 Best of California Award Winners

    Cow’s Milk Cheese

    •Cultured Cheese: Stepladder Creamery – Spicy Fromage Blanc

    •Soft Cheese: Sierra Nevada Cheese – Gina Marie Fresh Farmer Cheese

    •Semi-Soft Cheese: Marin French Cheese Co. – Golden Gate

    •Semi-Hard Cheese: Joseph Farms – Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar

    •Hard Cheese: Point Reyes Farmstead – Point Reyes Gouda

    Other Milk Type Cheese

    •Cultured Cheese: Stepladder Creamery – Chevre

    •Soft Cheese: Sierra Nevada Cheese – Bella Capra Goat Chevre

    •Semi-Soft Cheese: Pennyroyal Farms – Fratty Corners

    •Semi-Hard Cheese: Pennyroyal Farms – Boont Corners 2 Month

    •Hard Cheese: Pennyroyal Farms – Boont Corners Reserve

    The competition’s judges, composed of cheese merchants, writers, promoters, and educators, assessed entries across multiple divisions and classes, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation process.

    For a complete list of the award-winning cheeses, visit Calexpostatefair.com.

    The California State Fair will recognize Marin French Cheese Co. and Pennyroyal Farm at a special award presentation on Monday, July 21, 2025, during the California State Fair. Additionally, all Best of Show and Best of California winning cheeses will be displayed in the California Kitchen Exhibit Building B throughout the fair’s duration, July 11 through July 27, 2025. Gates open at 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 10 a.m. Friday through Sunday.

    About the California State Fair

    The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future.

  • CA Beef Council’s Registered Dietitian Recognized for Leadership in Nutrition Ed

    The California Beef Council is proud to celebrate registered dietitian Kori Dover, director of food and nutrition outreach, for receiving the Let’s Eat Healthy Leadership Award from Dairy Council of California. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who are making a significant impact in nutrition education and increasing access to nutritious foods, including dairy, to support healthier communities.

    Dover has been a driving force in educating health professionals, school nutrition leaders and chefs about the importance of healthy eating patterns that include beef and dairy. Through her role at California Beef Council, she has fostered collaboration between the beef and dairy industries, working to ensure evidence-based nutrition education reaches key decision-makers in school foodservice and dietetics.

    A Champion for Nutrition Education

    Since joining the California Beef Council, Dover has spearheaded professional education initiatives designed to bridge the gap between nutrition science and practical application. She has worked alongside Dairy Council of California to provide training sessions for dietetic interns, bringing together experts from both the beef and dairy industries to discuss sustainability, nutrition and the role of animal-sourced foods in healthy eating patterns.

    Outreach efforts extend to school nutrition professionals, helping them integrate science-backed nutrition strategies into school meal programs. In collaboration with Dairy Council of California, Dover helped co-create educational events, reinforcing the connection between dairy and beef in sustainable food systems.

    “Kori’s dedication to nutrition education has expanded access to science-based resources for health professionals and educators,” said Bill Dale, executive director at the California Beef Council. “Her collaboration with the Dairy Council of California has helped elevate the conversation around beef and dairy’s nutritional value. We are thrilled to see her recognized with this well-deserved award.”

    Strengthening the Connection Between Beef and Dairy

    Dover’s work highlights the natural synergy between beef and dairy production. Dairy cattle contribute significantly to the beef supply, and her approach to nutrition education reflects this connection. She has helped develop training programs that promote healthy eating patterns, incorporating beef, dairy, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. By championing science-based nutrition education, Dover has reinforced the role of beef and dairy in balanced diets, reaching key decision-makers in schools, hospitals and foodservice programs.

    A Well-Deserved Honor

    The Let’s Eat Healthy Leadership Award recognizes leaders who empower children, families and communities with the knowledge and resources to build lifelong healthy eating patterns.

    Dover’s recognition emphasizes the value of collaboration in advancing sustainable nutrition education.

    Her leadership at the California Beef Council ensures that beef remains central to conversations around nutrition, while also strengthening the connection between beef and dairy industries in California. Through her work, she continues to educate the next generation of nutrition professionals and industry stakeholders.

    For more information on the California Beef Council’s education and outreach efforts, visit www.calbeef.org.

    About the California Beef Council

    The California Beef Council (CBC) was established in 1954 to serve as the promotion, research, and education arm of the California beef industry, and is mandated by the California Food and Agricultural Code. The CBC’s mission is to position the California beef industry for sustained beef demand growth through promotion, research and education. For more information, visit www.calbeef.org.

    About the Beef Checkoff

    The Beef Checkoff Program was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle, in addition to a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States may retain up to 50 cents on the dollar and forward the other 50 cents per head to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national checkoff program, subject to USDA approval.

  • USDA Announces Four Ag Trade Promotion Programs for 2025

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is launching agricultural trade promotion programs for 2025 and accepting applications for four export market development programs. USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service has opened funding opportunities for the Market Access Program (MAP), Foreign Market Development Program (FMD), Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops Program (TASC), and Emerging Markets Program (EMP) that will help U.S. agricultural producers promote and sell their goods internationally. This action follows U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins’ Friday announcement detailing six international trade trips in the next six months to promote U.S. agricultural exports. The Secretary will visit Vietnam, Japan, India, Peru, Brazil, and the United Kingdom.

    “Our job at USDA is to open new markets for our farmers, ranchers, and producers. The previous administration left agriculture with a $50 billion trade deficit. President Trump and I will not sit idly by – we are actively working to open new markets and remove existing barriers,” said Secretary Rollins. “We are putting farmers first. These programs are a crucial step in sustaining long lasting economic growth in rural America.”

    Background:

    The application deadline for the four programs is June 6, 2025.

    The Market Access Program (MAP), at $200 million annually, allocates funds to ag industry organizations across the United States to promote U.S. fruits, vegetables, nuts, processed products, and bulk and intermediate commodities to global consumers. The average MAP participant provides more than $2.50 in contributions for every $1 in federal funding it receives through the program. More information about the program and the FY 2026 funding opportunity.

    The Foreign Market Development (FMD) program awards $34.5 million annually to benefit U.S. farmers, processors, and exporters by addressing long–term foreign market import constraints and by identifying new markets or new uses for U.S. agricultural commodities. FMD recipients, which contribute on average more than $2.50 for every $1 in federal funding they receive through the program, will conduct activities that help maintain or increase demand for U.S. agricultural commodities overseas. More information about the program and the FY 2026 funding opportunity.

    The Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops program (TASC) makes available $9 million annually to fund projects that address sanitary, phytosanitary, and technical barriers that prohibit or threaten the export of U.S. specialty crops. More information about the program and the FY 2026 funding opportunity.

    The Emerging Markets Program (EMP) uses $8 million annually to support assessment and technical assistance activities intended to develop, maintain, or expand opportunities for U.S. agricultural exports in emerging markets. More information about the program and the FY 2026 funding opportunity.

    Through MAP, FMD, TASC, and EMP, FAS establishes public-private partnerships with non-profit U.S. agricultural trade associations, farmer cooperatives, non-profit state-regional trade groups, state agencies, and small businesses to open markets and conduct overseas marketing and promotional activities on behalf of U.S. agricultural producers and processors.

    These programs are funded by mandatory statutory funding per the direction of Congress. USDA takes seriously the disbursement of taxpayer dollars and will closely follow the program to ensure good return on investment.