California Ag Network

Tag: CDFA

  • California’s FREP/WPHA Conference Comes To Modesto On November 1-2, 2017

    Sacramento, Calif., (September 29, 2017) – The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA) Fertilizer Research and Education Program (FREP) and the Western Plant Health Association (WPHA) are hosting their 25th annual fertilizer research conference at the DoubleTree Hotel in Modesto, California, on November 1 and 2, 2017.

    This event brings together industry professionals and academic researchers to learn about the latest research and sound management of fertilizing materials.

    This year’s conference agenda includes information on nitrogen and irrigation management, as well as micronutrients, soil salinity, the role of nutrients in pest management, nitrogen reporting, nutrient education projects, and more. In the afternoon of the first day of the conference, a poster session will showcase a dozen ongoing research projects across California.

    Continuing education units (CEUs) for Certified Crop Advisers (CCAs), Pest Control Advisers (PCAs), and Central Valley growers are available for the conference. Registration is $110 per day or $180 for both days; currently enrolled students pay only $75 per day or $110 for both days.

    To view the agenda, register online, and see the approved CEUs, please visit the conference website: https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/IS/ffldrs/frep/FREPConference.html.

    For more information about the 2017 conference or FREP, please contact program staff at frep@cdfa.ca.gov or (916) 900-5022.

    Since 1990, the Fertilizer Research and Education Program has funded more than 200 research projects focusing on California’s vital and environmentally sensitive cropping systems. A database of completed and ongoing research is publically available at: www.cdfa.ca.gov/go/frep.

  • CDFA Announces Extension Of Grant Application Deadline For The 2017 Alternative Manure Management Program

    Sacramento, Calif., (September 28, 2017) – The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has extended the grant application deadline for the Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP), from October 2, 2017 to October 16, 2017 at 5 P.M. PDT.

    The AMMP is one of two programs designed by CDFA to reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions. The program will provide between nine and 16 million dollars in grants to California dairy and livestock operators to implement non-digester manure management practices that reduce their methane emissions.

    For detailed information on eligibility and program requirements, prospective applicants should visit the CDFA AMMP website at https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/ammp/. To streamline and expedite the application process, CDFA is partnering with the State Water Resources Control Board, which hosts an online application tool, the Financial Assistance Application Submittal Tool (FAAST). All prospective applicants must register for a FAAST account at https://faast.waterboards.ca.gov. Applications and all supporting information must be submitted electronically using FAAST by Monday, October 16, 2017 at 5:00 P.M. PDT.

    NOTE – THE AMMP is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide program that puts billions of cap-and-trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy and improving public health and the environment-particularly in disadvantaged communities. The cap-and-trade program also creates a financial incentive for industries to invest in clean technologies and develop innovative ways to reduce pollution. California Climate Investment projects include affordable housing, renewable energy, public transportation, zero-emission vehicles, environmental restoration, more sustainable agriculture, recycling and much more. At least 35 percent of these investments are made in disadvantaged and low-income communities. For more information, visit California Climate Investments.

    Contact:

    Steve Lyle

    Director of Public Affairs

    California Department of Food and Agriculture

    916-654-0462

  • Last PRB Meeting is Behind Us: Referendum Likely Coming to California Producers Next Month

    Modesto Calif., (September 19, 2017) – That’s it, folks – the Producer Review Board (PRB) finally completed their recent mission to develop a recommendation outlining the criteria for a stand-alone producer funded quota program. The fourth and last meeting occurred on September 12, where the group of 15 dedicated producers reviewed the draft language alongside a myriad of written comments submitted by industry. While the PRB may have given the approval to move along its recommended Quota Implementation Plan (QIP) to the Secretary, the PRB is still in existence and may be assigned another mission in the future.

    So, what does the QIP look like? For one, it is very similar to the revised draft the PRB submitted to CDFA after the August 2, 2017 meeting. Most importantly, it is very similar to the current quota program. Producer costs and payments remain virtually the same (along with regional quota adjusters). The main difference is that with the QIP, producers will see the quota program funding directly come out of their milk check. This means that all California Grade A milk producers will see a deduction on their milk check that should range between $0.37/cwt to $0.40/cwt. The amount is not different from what is currently happening with the quota program; the difference comes from the fact that right now the program’s funding comes out of the pool, which means that unless you work at CDFA, you don’t see that amount each month.

    That said, despite the fundamental similarities there are a few details that are different between the current and the proposed program. On one hand, some of those details were deemed impossible to fix by the PRB according to CDFA due to a lack of legislative authority. On the other hand, other details could have been changed but the PRB made the decision not to. The mandated producer survey at least every five years is an example that comes to mind. This survey is not something that currently exists, but despite some voiced disagreement on the concept (notably by WUD in its comment letter) CDFA suggested it was added and the PRB did not remove it from the language. While this is not the same as a mandatory referendum, it does bring the quota program under the microscope more frequently than it currently is. When producers buy quota, they do so because they feel it is a safe asset – not something up for review every five years. That being said, the PRB ultimately has shown dedication to protecting quota, which should help with what they decide to do with the results of such a survey.

    Now that the PRB is done with their mission, we wait for the Secretary to review the proposed QIP. If all goes well, you should receive a ballot in your mailbox sometime in October (see timeline below). Keep an eye out for a large 9X12 envelope with an indication on the front that a ballot is enclosed. Inside will be the Plan language, a ballot (in a different color), a cover letter and a postage paid return envelope.

    By Annie AcMoody, Director of Economic Analiysis

     

  • Technical Review Committee Members Wanted For 2018 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

    Sacramento, Calif., (September 15, 2017) – California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Secretary Karen Ross is welcoming volunteers with knowledge and expertise regarding California’s specialty crop industry to serve as reviewers on the 2018 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Technical Review Committee. This committee reviews, evaluates, and makes recommendations to CDFA on proposals submitted for funding to California’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.

    The program is a competitive solicitation process designed to enhance the competitiveness of California specialty crops. Specialty crops include fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). Grant awards will range from $25,000 to $300,000 per project and projects may last for up to two years and six months.

    The Technical Review Committee includes representatives from government and non-government organizations. Technical Review Committee members will attend one webinar and one in-person meeting between November 2017 and March 2018 to make recommendations on concept and grant proposals.

    All individuals interested in serving on the Technical Review Committee must submit a completed application form and a copy of their résumé to grants@cdfa.ca.gov before 5 PM on October 12, 2017. Please reference page two of the application form for requirements and restrictions.

    Within the applicant form, applicants must identify at least one of the following grant funding categories related to their area of expertise:

    • Specialty Crop Access and Nutrition Education
    • Equipping Current and Next Generation Specialty Crop Farmers
    • Environmental Stewardship and Conservation
    • Plant Health and Pest Management

    For a description of each funding category and more details about the program, please reference the 2018 Request for Concept Proposals. The application form and the 2018 Request for Concept Proposals can be found on the program’s website at www.cdfa.ca.gov/grants. Prospective applicants may contact CDFA’s Office of Grants Administration at (916) 657-3231 or grants@cdfa.ca.gov for additional information.

  • California Department Of Food And Agriculture Now Accepting Proposals For 2018 Specialty Crop Grants

    Sacramento, Calif., (September 14, 2017) – The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is now accepting proposals for the 2018 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.

    Each year, CDFA conducts a two-phase competitive solicitation process to award funds to projects that solely enhance the competitiveness of California specialty crops. Specialty crops include fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). Review the 2018 Request for Concept Proposals for detailed application instructions.

    Phase I of the process begins with the submission of concept proposals, which undergo both an administrative review and a technical review. Successful applicants will be invited to submit a detailed grant proposal in Phase II of the process.

    Grant awards will range from $25,000 to $300,000 per project and projects may last for up to two years and six months. Non-profit and for-profit organizations; local, state, federal, and tribal government entities; and public and private colleges and universities are eligible to apply. All applicants must register online with the Financial Assistance Application Submittal Tool (FAAST), https://faast.waterboards.ca.gov to apply. Concept proposals must be submitted electronically using FAAST by Friday, October 13, 2017 at 5 PM PST.

    CDFA will conduct four workshops and two webinars, all featuring an overview of the program, a review of the concept proposal questions, a live demonstration of the online application system, and helpful grant writing tips. Visit the program’s website, www.cdfa.ca.gov/grants, for full details.

    Workshops and webinars will be held at these locations on the following dates:

    • Fresno County: Tuesday, September 19, 2017 from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
    • Monterey County: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
    • Webinar #1: Thursday, September 21, 2017 from 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
    • Riverside County: Tuesday, September 26, 2017 from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
    • Webinar #2: Wednesday, September 27, 2017 from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
    • Sacramento County: Thursday, September 28, 2017 from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

    All prospective grant applicants are encouraged to participate. There is no cost to attend; however, space is limited and CDFA requests that attendees register in advance. To register, email grants@cdfa.ca.gov with your name and contact information, the workshop/webinar you would like to attend, and the number of seats required. Further details will be provided with confirmation of registration.

    Prospective applicants may contact CDFA’s Office of Grants Administration at (916) 657-3231 or grants@cdfa.ca.gov for additional information.

  • CDFA Announces Vacancy On The Citrus Pest And Disease Prevention Committee

    Sacramento, Calif., (September 12, 2017) – The California Department of Food and Agriculture is announcing one vacancy on the Citrus Pest and Disease Prevention Committee. The Committee advises the CDFA secretary on activities associated with a statewide work plan that includes outreach and education programs; and programs for surveying, detecting, analyzing, and treating pests and diseases specific to citrus.

    The members receive no compensation, but are entitled to payment of necessary travel expenses in accordance with the rules of the Department of Personnel Administration.

    A committee vacancy exists for a grower representative from the Coastal District and will expire on September 30, 2019. Individuals interested in being considered for a committee appointment should send a brief resume by September 11, 2017 to the California Department of Food and Agriculture, Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services, 1220 N Street, Room 221, Sacramento, California 95814, Attention: Leandro Ramos.

    For additional information, contact: Leandro Ramos, Program Manager at (916) 654-0317, or e-mail (leandro.ramos@cdfa.ca.gov).

    The California Department of Food and Agriculture protects and promotes California’s $47 billion agricultural industry. California’s farmers and ranchers produce a safe, secure supply of food, fiber and shelter; marketed fairly for all Californians; and produced with responsible environmental stewardship.

    For additional information on the California Department of Food and Agriculture please visit our website at www.cdfa.ca.gov.

  • CDFA Announces Vacancy On The Citrus Pest And Disease Prevention Committee

    Sacramento, Calif., (September 7, 2017) – The California Department of Food and Agriculture is announcing one vacancy on the Citrus Pest and Disease Prevention Committee. The Committee advises the CDFA secretary on activities associated with a statewide work plan that includes outreach and education programs; and programs for surveying, detecting, analyzing, and treating pests and diseases specific to citrus.

    The members receive no compensation, but are entitled to payment of necessary travel expenses in accordance with the rules of the Department of Personnel Administration.

    A committee vacancy exists for a grower representative from the Coastal District and will expire on September 30, 2019. Individuals interested in being considered for a committee appointment should send a brief resume by September 11, 2017 to the California Department of Food and Agriculture, Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services, 1220 N Street, Room 221, Sacramento, California 95814, Attention: Leandro Ramos.

    For additional information, contact: Leandro Ramos, Program Manager at (916) 654-0317, or e-mail (leandro.ramos@cdfa.ca.gov).

    The California Department of Food and Agriculture protects and promotes California’s $47 billion agricultural industry. California’s farmers and ranchers produce a safe, secure supply of food, fiber and shelter; marketed fairly for all Californians; and produced with responsible environmental stewardship.

    For additional information on the California Department of Food and Agriculture please visit our website atwww.cdfa.ca.gov.

  • CDFA Announces Grant Funding Available For The 2017 Alternative Manure Management Program

    Sacramento, Calif., (August 28, 2017) – The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is now accepting applications for the Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP). CDFA was appropriated $50 million dollars from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, authorized by the Budget Act of 2016, to provide financial assistance for methane emission reductions from dairy and livestock operations.

    The AMMP is one of two programs designed by CDFA to reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions. The program will provide $9-16 million dollars in grants to California dairy and livestock operators to implement non-digester manure management practices that reduce their methane emissions.

    For detailed information on eligibility and program requirements, prospective applicants should visit the CDFA AMMP website at https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/ammp/. To streamline and expedite the application process, CDFA is partnering with the State Water Resources Control Board, which hosts an online application tool, the Financial Assistance Application Submittal Tool (FAAST). All prospective applicants must register for a FAAST account at https://faast.waterboards.ca.gov. Applications and all supporting information must be submitted electronically using FAAST by Monday, October 2, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. PDT.

    CDFA will hold four workshops and one webinar to provide information on program requirements and the application process (see below). CDFA staff will provide guidance on the application process, provide several examples, and answer any questions. There is no cost to attend the workshops. Individuals planning to attend should email grants@cdfa.ca.gov  with his or her contact information, the number of seats requested, and the workshop location.

    • Eureka – Thursday, September 7, 2017
      2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
      Humboldt County Agricultural Building
      5630 South Broadway Street
      Eureka, CA 95501Santa Rosa – Friday, September 8, 2017
      2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
      Sonoma County Agricultural Commissioner
      133 Aviation Boulevard, Suite 110
      Santa Rosa, CA 95403
    • Modesto – Thursday, September 14, 2017
      2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
      Stanislaus County Agricultural Building
      3800 Cornucopia Way, Suite B
      Modesto, CA 95358
    • This meeting will also be available as a webinar for remote attendees. To register for the webinar, please visit the program webpage athttps://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/ammp/.
    • Tulare – Friday, September 15, 2017
      10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
      Tulare County Agricultural Building
      4437 S Laspina Street
      Tulare, CA 93274

    Prospective applicants should refer to the AMMP webpage (https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/ammp/ ) for information regarding technical assistance workshops conducted by non-profit organizations, Resource Conservation Districts (RCDs), and California academic institutions. These workshops are intended to provide technical assistance with the application process and are free of charge. Technical assistance is made available through a $100,000 partnership grant between CDFA and the Strategic Growth Council.

    Prospective applicants may contact CDFA’s Grants Office at grants@cdfa.ca.gov with general program questions.

    NOTE – THE AMMP is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide program that puts billions of cap-and-trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy and improving public health and the environment—particularly in disadvantaged communities. The cap-and-trade program also creates a financial incentive for industries to invest in clean technologies and develop innovative ways to reduce pollution. California Climate Investment projects include affordable housing, renewable energy, public transportation, zero-emission vehicles, environmental restoration, more sustainable agriculture, recycling and much more. At least 35 percent of these investments are made in disadvantaged and low-income communities. For more information, visit California Climate Investments.

  • CDFA Utilizes California Climate Investment Funds To Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions On California Dairies

    Madera, Calif., (August 23, 2017) – Representatives from the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week at Philip Verwey Farms in Madera to celebrate the installation of an on-farm anaerobic dairy digester. It was made possible by a $2.3 million grant from CDFA’s Dairy Digester Research and Development Program (DDRDP), which receives funding from the state’s cap-and-trade program. The digester will use methane formed by decomposing manure to produce energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

    The facility will create an estimated 4.8 million kilowatt-hours of electricity — enough power to completely offset the dairy’s total electricity usage. The digester will also reduce 240,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas over the next 10 years– the equivalent of removing 50,696 passenger cars off the road.

    “Collaboration is critical in the fight against climate change,” said CDFA Deputy Secretary Jenny Lester Moffitt, who attended last week’s event. “Technologies like anaerobic digesters are an excellent example of how government and the private industry can work together to meet our greenhouse gas reduction goals and add value to dairy byproducts. It is a win for agricultural economies and a win for the environment.”
    The project, which is the third digester to go online using DDRDP funds, was developed in partnership with Maas Energy Works and 4 Creeks Engineering. Additional financial contributions came from USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program and matching funds from Philip Verwey Farms.

    The DDRDP is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide program that uses cap-and-trade funds to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen the economy, and improve public health and the environment.  The DDRDP will provide an estimated $29-36 million in competitive grant funding to aid in the installation of dairy digesters.
    For more information, please visit https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/ddrdp/.

  • CDFA Announces Request For Proposals For Phase 2 Of The California Nutrition Incentive Grant Program

    Sacramento, Calif., (August 23, 2017) – The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA) Office of Farm to Fork is currently accepting proposals for the 2018 California Nutrition Incentive Program (CNIP), which was established to encourage the purchase and consumption of healthy, California-grown fresh fruits and vegetables by CalFresh recipients.

    CDFA is seeking project proposals from qualified entities to distribute nutrition incentives at small businesses (retail outlets, Community Supported Agriculture (CSAs), and farm stands) throughout California. Eligible outlets must meet the definition of a California small business.

    Incentives should be available at the time of purchase to all CalFresh participants using their benefits for California-grown fresh fruits and vegetables. Projects that reach underserved populations will be prioritized, particularly in communities where a large proportion of the population is eligible for CalFresh and/or have high rates of diet-related disease. An estimated $1 million in funding is available through a competitive process.
    Grants are contingent upon receipt of federal funds by CDFA. Successful applicants will be included as project partners in CDFA’s proposal to the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) grant program.

    Applications must be submitted by email to cafarmtofork@cdfa.ca.gov, no later than Monday, October 16, 5:00 P.M. PDT. Further information on the grant program, including timeline and application criteria, are available at: http://cafarmtofork.com/CNIP_Phase2-RFP.htm

    CNIP was established by Assembly Bill 1321 (Chapter 442, Statutes of 2015). Phase 1 of the program currently operates at Certified Farmers’ Markets.