The Bureau of Reclamation has released the initial water allocations for Central Valley Project (CVP) contractors for 2021. Low CVP allocations reflect drier than average winter conditions combined with lower …
New AEWR from Department of Labor Brings California Up To $16.05
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has finally revealed what the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) will be for 2021. Employers of H-2A workers will now know what wage expectations …
State of Organic Produce 2020 Report Released by OPN
The Organic Produce Network (OPN) recently released its inaugural State of Organic Produce 2020 report. The comprehensive report provides insight into the overall performance of the organic sector in 2020. …
New Form Required for Certain NRCS Customers
Producers and landowners involved in certain programs from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) conservation being advised of changes in some paperwork requirements. The Farm Service …
On-Farm Readiness Reviews Still Available for Ag Operations
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is offering On-Farm Readiness Reviews (OFRRs) for small and very small farms. OFRRs are meant to help producers better understand the requirements …
California Avocado Commission Referendum Currently Underway
Avocado growers are once again being asked to weigh-in with their thoughts about the California Avocado Commission (CAC). The state-mandated referendum vote is held every five years by the California Department of …
Coachella Becomes First to Implement ‘Hero Pay’ Increase for Farmworkers
The Coachella City Council has voted to become the first in the nation to offer something called “hero pay” to farmworkers and other essential employees. The unanimous vote now requires …
Farm Mechanization Key to Addressing Labor Issues Moving Forward
With labor a constant concern for California producers, farm mechanization research and investment present a viable mitigation approach. Mechanized farming equipment cannot address all the issues related to the continually …
MSOB: Beneficial Fungi Showing More Benefits Than Pest Control
Beneficial fungi may do more than just help producers combat pests. Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are often thought of as arthropod control in the biologics world. However, the beneficial fungi may …
RENEW WIIN Act Introduced in Congress by Central Valley Lawmaker
Legislation introduced by Representative David Valadao seeks to enhance certain aspects of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act. The Responsible, No-Cost Extension of Western Water Infrastructure Improvements …
Latest Pandemic Relief Bill Continues to Advance
The latest pandemic relief bill is making its way through the legislative process. As part of the $1.9 trillion package, the House Agriculture Committee approved the Agriculture and Nutrition title …
Ag Lender Perspective on Water Futures and Groundwater Trading
Water futures and groundwater trading was the central focus of the most recent meeting of the California State Board of Food and Agriculture. Several panelists and speakers weighed in on …
Producers Encouraged to Apply for Risk and Price Loss Coverage
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reminds producers that the deadline to enroll in risk and price loss coverage programs is approaching. Farm Service Agency (FSA) is encouraging farmers to enroll …
USDA Projecting Net Farm Income to Decline in 2021
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is expecting overall net farm income to decline in 2021. In the 2021 Farm Sector Income Forecast USDA’s Economic Research Service is forecasting a …