California Ag Network

Category: Video News

  • September Orchard Tasks – Pistachios

    Pistachio harvest ended earlier than usual this year, but growers should not stop irrigating their orchards just yet. The early finish creates a longer post-harvest period before trees enter dormancy, making proper irrigation especially important.

    Research by Daniele Zaccaria, Mae Culumber and Anderson Safre of the University of California Cooperative Extension indicates that pistachio trees continue using water after the nuts have been removed. Although harvest is complete, evapotranspiration—the loss of water from the soil and through the trees’ leaves—continues until the trees become dormant.

    Because the post-harvest season will be longer this year, growers should continue monitoring their orchards’ water needs. Stopping irrigation too soon could place unnecessary stress on trees as they prepare for next season.

    However, the researchers suggest growers may be able to conserve water through carefully timed deficit irrigation. This practice involves applying less water than the orchard would normally use during selected periods. When managed properly, deficit irrigation may reduce water use by about 20% with little to no effect on the following year’s harvest.

    The key is timing. Growers should consider orchard conditions, soil moisture and the trees’ water needs before reducing irrigation. An early harvest does not mean water use has ended, and post-harvest management can play an important role in supporting the next crop.

    Read more about the research in the September issue of Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.

  • September Orchard Tasks – Almonds

    Although almond harvest may be wrapping up, the work needed to prepare orchards for next season has already begun. Post-harvest priorities include monitoring for disease, irrigating trees, pruning and managing pests.

    Brent Holtz with the University of California Cooperative Extension advises growers to watch for red leaf blotch and rust. Bright orange spots on leaves may indicate red leaf blotch, while orange and black spores can be signs of rust. This year’s warm March appears to have increased the severity of rust, making it important to avoid irrigation practices that keep orchards humid for extended periods.

    However, growers should not stop irrigating altogether. Water should be applied as soon as the harvested nuts are removed from the orchard floor. Dr. David Goldhamer, emeritus irrigation specialist with UC Davis, says almond trees can use up to 11 acre-inches of water after harvest if their leaves remain active. Proper post-harvest irrigation can also help move salt below the trees’ root zone.

    Growers can also begin pruning mature orchards immediately after harvest instead of waiting until dormancy. Pruning early gives wounds time to heal before rainfall, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. While studies indicate pruning does not significantly improve almond yields, it remains necessary to provide enough space for orchard equipment to pass between trees.

    Fall is also a good time to manage gophers, ground squirrels and mice. Baiting or fumigation can help control ground squirrels before they enter hibernation. Growers should also look for pieces of almond shells left in tree crotches, which may indicate mouse activity.

    For more information about post-harvest almond orchard management, read the full article in the September issue of Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.

  • This Week in Ag – September 16

    California agriculture is seeing developments across several major commodities this week, from strong almond exports and an expanding citrus quarantine to concerns surrounding avocado production in Mexico.

    Here are five stories to know in this week’s edition of This Week in Ag.

    Almond Market Looks Strong Heading Into 2027

    The California almond industry is beginning the new crop year with strong global demand and a tighter supply outlook, according to a recent market update from Blue Diamond Growers.

    August almond shipments totaled 190 million pounds, with exports accounting for 143.2 million pounds. That represents a 31% increase in exports compared with last year.

    India was the standout market, receiving 44.3 million pounds of California almonds in August, up approximately 170% from 16.4 million pounds during the same month last year. Blue Diamond attributed the increase in part to stronger replenishment ahead of India’s festival season and unusually low shipments during August 2025.

    Domestic shipments totaled 46.8 million pounds, down 3.3% year over year.

    On the production side, the 2026 harvest began approximately two weeks earlier than last year. Nonpareil and Independence varieties are largely harvested, with pollinizer varieties following behind.

    Early receipts are also pointing toward lower yields for Nonpareil and Independence compared with 2025. Combined with tighter supplies and continued export demand, Blue Diamond says current fundamentals are supporting a stable-to-firm market outlook.

    HLB Quarantine Expands in Riverside and San Diego Counties

    California is expanding another quarantine boundary for Huanglongbing, or HLB, as efforts continue to limit the spread of the deadly citrus disease.

    Effective Sept. 11, the California Department of Food and Agriculture expanded the HLB quarantine in the Murrieta area of Riverside County and into San Diego County. The expansion includes grids 484, 499 and 510.

    CDFA also expanded Asian Citrus Psyllid Bulk Citrus Regional Quarantine Zone 6 in those areas to reflect the new HLB quarantine boundary.

    HLB, also known as citrus greening disease, poses a significant threat to citrus production. The Asian citrus psyllid can spread the bacterium associated with the disease from infected citrus to healthy plants.

    The quarantine includes regulations governing the movement of certain citrus plants, fruit and other regulated materials in an effort to reduce the risk of further spread.

    California Avocado Commission Responds to Report on Mexico’s Avocado Region

    A Los Angeles Times report detailing violence and intimidation in a major avocado-producing region of Mexico is drawing attention from the California avocado industry.

    The report focuses on families in San Ángel Zurumucapio, Michoacán, where avocado production has provided economic opportunities but growers and residents have also faced extortion, kidnappings and violence.

    The California Avocado Commission cited the report while renewing its call for limits on Mexican avocado imports under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

    The commission argues that import limits would help protect U.S. avocado growers, the domestic industry and the food supply.

    The proposal represents the California Avocado Commission’s position on trade policy as it continues advocating for domestic avocado producers.

    Colin O’Neil Joins Organic Trade Association Leadership

    The Organic Trade Association has hired Colin O’Neil as senior vice president to lead the organization’s public affairs efforts.

    O’Neil will direct legislative and regulatory work, advocacy and stakeholder engagement for the trade association, which represents organic farmers and businesses throughout North America.

    His responsibilities will include initiatives aimed at reducing barriers to organic adoption, strengthening confidence in the USDA Organic seal and expanding opportunities for organic farmers and businesses.

    The Organic Trade Association says the organic sector is now valued at approximately $76 billion.

    O’Neil will also oversee the association’s political action committee.

    Sun World International Celebrates 50 Years

    Sun World International is celebrating five decades in the fresh produce industry.

    The company marked its 50th anniversary during its 2026 Symposium and Field Days. Founded in 1976 by Howard Marguleas, Carl Maggio and Domenick Bianco, Sun World began as a California produce marketing company.

    Over the following five decades, the company expanded into fruit genetics and licensing, with its work including the commercialization of seedless watermelon, seedless table grapes and lemons.

    Sun World also recognized Board Chairman David Marguleas for 40 years of leadership and contributions to the company.

    As part of the recognition, Sun World established the David Marguleas Endowed Research Fund in support of UC Davis Viticulture & Enology and dedicated the David Marguleas Tasting Room at the Sun World Center for Innovation.

    Stay Connected With California Ag Network

    From strong export demand for California almonds to new challenges and developments affecting citrus, avocados, organics and fresh produce, This Week in Ag brings together five stories shaping the industry each week.

    For more news impacting the California ag industry, follow California Ag Network.

  • Prune Board Looks to Seize on Good Harvest

    Prune growers enjoyed a more sizable harvest than last year, with excellent quality despite the early start. It now comes down to getting the word out about buying and consuming California prunes. Kiaran Locy from the California Prune Board spoke with Matthew Malcolm with California Ag Network to discuss efforts to promote and market their crop. Watch this quick video and learn more in California Fruit & Vegetable Magazine.

  • Good Harvest Helps California Pear Growers Compete

    Pear growers enjoyed an good crop this year, both in size and quantity. Demand for California pears remains strong, but imports from Argentina could pose challenges for growers. Chris Zanobini from the California Pear Advisory Board Spoke to Matthew Malcolm with California Ag Network to discuss the latest in the pear industry. Watch this quick video and learn more in California Fruit & Vegetable Magazine.

  • This Week In Ag – September 9

    From new leadership in California wine to an expanding citrus quarantine, several developments are making news across California agriculture this week.

    Here are five stories to know in this week’s edition of This Week in Ag.

    The Wonderful Company Names Chris Avery President of Wine

    The Wonderful Company has named Chris Avery president of its wine business, effective Oct. 5.

    Avery currently serves as CEO of Shafer Vineyards and brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in the luxury wine industry. In his new position, he will oversee JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Landmark Vineyards and Lewis Cellars.

    Throughout his career, Avery has also held senior positions at Darioush, DAOU Family Estates, Patrimony Estate, Opus One and Jordan Vineyard & Winery.

    His experience includes operations, global sales and distribution, marketing, hospitality and direct-to-consumer business.

    CAWG Launches Merchandise for California Wine Month

    September is California Wine Month, and the California Association of Winegrape Growers is giving supporters a new way to celebrate.

    CAWG launched a collection of California wine merchandise designed to promote the state’s wine and recognize the growers and communities behind the industry.

    Proceeds from the collection will support CAWG’s ongoing advocacy efforts for California winegrape growers.

    California Wine Month has been celebrated since 2004 and recognizes the state’s wines, winegrowing regions and the people behind them.

    Almond Industry Award Nominations Open

    The Almond Board of California is accepting nominations for two awards recognizing contributions to the California almond industry.

    The Almond Achievement Award recognizes an industry member who has made a lasting impact through long-term service and commitment to California almonds.

    The Almond Technical Achievement Award focuses on contributions through research, innovation or helping the industry adopt practices that benefit growers and the broader almond sector.

    Nominations for the 2026 awards are due Oct. 9, with the recipients scheduled to be announced during The Almond Conference in December.

    In 2025, Ross Blackburn received the Almond Achievement Award, while Christine Gemperle received the Almond Technical Achievement Award.

    HLB Quarantine Expands in California

    Federal and state officials are expanding quarantined areas for Huanglongbing, or HLB, in parts of California.

    The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is adding one square mile to the Santa Paula quarantine area in Ventura County. The expansion impacts approximately 151.7 acres of commercial citrus.

    Another 10 square miles are being added to quarantined areas in Riverside and San Diego counties, impacting approximately 121.5 acres of commercial citrus.

    The expansion follows positive tests for the bacterium that causes HLB from plant tissue collected at residential properties.

    The quarantine and associated movement restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of HLB spreading into areas that are not currently infested.

    Western United Dairies Pursues Funding for Tule Subbasin Farmers

    Western United Dairies is pursuing additional federal conservation funding that could benefit farmers and agricultural land in the Tule Subbasin.

    The organization submitted two proposals to USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program.

    The proposals build on existing water conservation efforts and programs such as LandFlex, with the goal of bringing additional resources to dairy farmers and agricultural operations in the region.

    Water availability and groundwater sustainability remain significant issues for agricultural operations throughout the Central Valley, making programs that support conservation and water management increasingly important for producers.

    Stay Connected with California Ag Network

    From wine and almonds to citrus, dairy and water, This Week in Ag brings together five stories impacting California agriculture each week.

    For more news impacting the California ag industry, follow California Ag Network.

  • Cherry Growers Have Down Year in 2026

    It was a rough year for cherry growers. High temperatures in March caused bloom to occur weeks earlier than normal and in a shortened window, leading to inadequate pollination that slashed the crop to half its normal size. Chris Zanobini, executive director for the California Cherry Board, spoke to Matthew Malcolm with California Fruit & Vegetable about the harvest. Watch this quick video and learn more in California Fruit & Vegetable Magazine.

  • This Week In Ag – September 2

    Five stories are making headlines across California agriculture this week, from a familiar Central Valley face appearing on pistachio packaging to a new tool aimed at protecting cattle from New World screwworm. Here’s what you need to know in this week’s edition of This Week in Ag.

    Josh Allen Featured on Wonderful Pistachios Packaging

    Firebaugh native and NFL MVP Josh Allen is bringing more attention to one of California’s biggest specialty crops.

    Allen is featured on new limited-edition Wonderful Pistachios packaging rolling out at select retailers. The Buffalo Bills quarterback has a personal connection to the industry as a fourth-generation pistachio farmer.

    This marks the second year of Allen’s partnership with Wonderful Pistachios and also brings back the Josh Allen Scholarship program. The program supports first-generation students from Firebaugh pursuing higher education, providing recipients with up to $12,000 over four years of college.

    Nearly 40 high school seniors were accepted into the scholarship program during its first year.

    Blueberry Industry Votes to Continue U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

    The U.S. blueberry industry has voted in favor of continuing the work of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council.

    The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service announced that a majority of eligible blueberry producers and importers supported continuing the council.

    Created by the industry 26 years ago, USHBC works to increase consumer demand for blueberries, expand opportunities in global markets and provide resources to support the blueberry industry.

    FDA Authorizes Tool to Help Prevent New World Screwworm

    Cattle producers have another tool available as concerns surrounding New World screwworm continue.

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization for Bimectin, an ivermectin injection, to help prevent New World screwworm infestations in certain cattle.

    Under the authorization, the product can be administered within 24 hours of birth, at the time of castration or when a wound appears.

    Bimectin is not authorized for this use in lactating dairy cows or calves intended to be processed for veal.

    The FDA said available evidence indicates it is reasonable to believe the product may be effective when used as authorized and that its known and potential benefits outweigh its known and potential risks.

    UC ANR Connect Seeks New Technology for California Agriculture

    UC Agriculture and Natural Resources is looking for agricultural technology that could benefit California growers.

    Applications are open for UC ANR Connect, a grower-informed commercialization program operated by UC ANR Innovate in partnership with Farmhand Ventures.

    Selected companies will receive commercialization support, feedback directly from California growers and agricultural professionals, industry connections and an opportunity to demonstrate their technology during a field day.

    The current application cycle is focused on commercially available technology for permanent and specialty crops, including fresh fruit, table grapes, pistachios, desert vegetables, berries, citrus and avocados.

    Applications will be accepted through Sept. 18.

    Mike Forbes Named President and CEO of American Pistachio Growers

    American Pistachio Growers has announced new leadership.

    Mike Forbes officially takes over as the organization’s president and CEO on Sept. 1, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience across the food, consumer products and wellness industries.

    Forbes also has agricultural roots. A Wisconsin native, he grew up participating in 4-H and comes from a family of farmers. His career has included positions with McKinsey & Company, Jim Beam, Procter & Gamble and General Mills.

    As president and CEO, Forbes will lead American Pistachio Growers’ efforts to represent American pistachio growers and processors, strengthen domestic and international demand and promote the benefits of American-grown pistachios.

    Stay Up to Date with California Ag Network

    That’s this week’s look at five stories impacting agriculture.

    Follow California Ag Network for more news, industry updates and stories from across California agriculture.

  • This Week In Ag

    This Week in Ag: Five stories you need to know from across California agriculture.

    This week, we’re covering new funding to stop the spread of glassy-winged sharpshooter, a potential new tool for fighting navel orangeworm, free business training for producers, a USDA trade mission to Singapore, and a $2 million investment aimed at helping the tree nut industry overcome trade barriers.

    Stay informed on the issues and opportunities shaping California agriculture.

    For more news impacting the California ag industry, follow California Ag Network.

  • California Blueberries Harvested at the Right Moment

    California blueberry growers had a good season, with the crop arriving at the right time to get a good price. Kasey Cronquist of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council and North American Blueberry Council spoke with Matthew Malcolm from California Fruit & Vegetable about some of the ways his organizations are promoting American blueberries and helping growers, including September’s Blueberry Convention in Monterey. Watch this quick video and learn more in California Fruit and Vegetable Magazine.