California agriculture sits at a critical crossroads—and few voices capture that reality better than pistachio expert and crop advisor Rich Kreps. In a powerful conversation with The Ag Meter’s Nick Papagni, Kreps delivers an unfiltered look at the policies, pressures, and possibilities shaping the future of farming in the Golden State.
Politics Meets the Field
Kreps begins by highlighting a reality many farmers face: navigating a deeply political environment. While attending an event featuring Eric Swalwell, he emphasizes the importance of engaging across political lines—not for debate, but for solutions.
His message is simple: if policymakers don’t understand farming, someone has to show up and explain it.
That disconnect is at the heart of many of California’s issues. Kreps argues that too many decisions are made without real-world agricultural insight, leaving farmers to deal with the consequences.
Water: The Issue That Changes Everything
No topic dominates the conversation more than water. Kreps makes a compelling case that California’s challenges aren’t due to lack of resources—but lack of management.
Despite farmers paying for full water allocations, many receive only a fraction—sometimes as low as 20%. That means growers are operating with 80% less water than they’ve contracted for, severely limiting production.
Kreps believes the solution is clear:
- Expand water storage
- Improve infrastructure
- Deliver water efficiently across the state
According to him, these steps would benefit not just farmers, but fish populations, consumers, and the environment alike.
The Rising Cost of Farming
Beyond water, economic pressures continue to mount. Fuel prices, fertilizer costs, and global instability are squeezing margins for California growers.
Kreps explains that fertilizer markets are heavily influenced by international players, with key inputs sourced from regions like Ukraine, China, and the Middle East. While companies like Nutrien and Mosaic help stabilize supply, volatility remains a concern.
Even modest increases—like nitrogen rising from $400 to $600 per ton—add up quickly when combined with soaring diesel prices.
Pistachios and the Global Market
As “Mr. Pistachio,” Kreps offers valuable insight into one of California’s most important specialty crops. With Iran serving as the world’s second-largest pistachio producer, global conflicts can significantly impact supply and pricing.
While disruptions abroad may benefit U.S. growers, Kreps is quick to acknowledge the broader human impact. Still, California remains in a strong position—especially with newer varieties like Golden Hills providing more consistent yields compared to traditional Kerman trees.
With favorable bloom conditions and improved farming practices, Kreps expects another strong crop—provided extreme heat doesn’t interfere.
Innovation in the Orchard
Technology and science are playing an increasing role in crop success. Kreps discusses emerging solutions designed to help plants withstand heat stress, including:
- Reflective coatings
- Seaweed-based bio-stimulants
- Advanced nutrient systems
At companies like Ultra Gro, these innovations are being combined with organic acids and biological inputs to improve plant health and efficiency.
A Call for Common Sense—and Appreciation
Throughout the interview, Kreps returns to one central theme: common sense.
From water policy to energy production, he believes many of California’s problems have straightforward solutions—but require leadership willing to act.
He also delivers a powerful reminder to consumers: farming is not easy, and it’s not optional.
With long hours, rising costs, and unpredictable conditions, farmers continue to produce the food that feeds the world. Kreps encourages everyone to take a moment—especially at the dinner table—to recognize that effort.
Contact Rich Kreps
Want to connect directly with Rich Kreps or learn more about his work?
- Phone: 559-706-6903
- Website: UltraGro.com
Kreps welcomes questions, conversations, and even respectful debate—because progress starts with dialogue.
Listen to the Full Interview
This article only scratches the surface. The full conversation between The Ag Meter, Nick Papagni, and Rich Kreps dives even deeper into California agriculture, politics, and pistachio production.
👉 Don’t miss it—this is one of the most insightful ag interviews you’ll hear this year.