California Agriculture Takes Center Stage at the American Farm Bureau Convention
California agriculture took the national spotlight at the American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, where Ag Meter sat down with Shannon Douglas, President of the California Farm Bureau, for a wide-ranging and candid conversation. The interview highlighted both the scale of California agriculture and the growing list of challenges facing farmers and ranchers across the state.
Douglas emphasized that many visitors were surprised to learn California agriculture is a $62 billion annual industry. While the state is often associated with beaches and entertainment, convention tours and discussions revealed how deeply agriculture drives California’s economy. For many attendees, it was their first opportunity to see the size and diversity of specialty crop production firsthand.
Regulations, Resilience, and National Concerns
Throughout the interview, Douglas addressed the perception that California is one of the most difficult places in the country to farm. Farmers from other states frequently express concern that California’s regulatory policies could spread nationwide. While acknowledging those concerns, Douglas stressed that California farmers are exceptionally resilient—adapting, innovating, and surviving under conditions few others face.
That resilience is increasingly tested by high production standards that raise costs, while imported products produced under lower standards compete in the same markets. Douglas described this imbalance as one of the most frustrating realities for California growers.
Federal Attention and Specialty Crop Advocacy
Douglas welcomed the strong federal presence at the convention, including USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and leadership from both the House and Senate Agriculture Committees. She said hearing direct recognition of California crops—especially specialty crops—was encouraging for producers who often feel overlooked.
During a specialty crops session Douglas moderated, USDA, RMA, and NRCS officials discussed practical improvements to insurance and conservation programs. She noted a strong interest in targeted rule fixes that could make federal programs more workable for specialty crop farmers.
Predators, Water, and Technology Barriers
Predator pressure remains a growing concern, particularly as wolf activity increases across parts of California. Douglas cited recent incidents involving livestock and horses near homes, underscoring the disconnect between public perception and on-the-ground agricultural realities.
Water challenges also remain unresolved. Despite multiple wet years and reports that California may be out of drought, Douglas stressed that long-term water reliability for farmers is still uncertain. She pointed to renewed interest in storage projects like Sites Reservoir and a rare window of opportunity with federal engagement.
Douglas also criticized regulations that prevent California farmers from using autonomous farm equipment already legal in most other states, warning that the state risks falling behind technologically.
Why the Full Interview Matters
This interview dives deeper into labor reform, market fairness, water storage, predator management, and how farmers can engage directly with the California Farm Bureau. Hearing these issues discussed in real time provides critical context for anyone invested in California agriculture.
🎧 Listen to the full Ag Meter audio interview with Shannon Douglas to hear the complete conversation and insights firsthand.