A Constant in Agricultural History Farmland values have always played a central role in the story of American agriculture. From the earliest days of settlement to today’s highly productive farming …
From Farming to Fast-Growing Trees: Darren Schmall’s Vision for California Agriculture
In the heart of Madera County, California, “The Ag Meter” Nick Papagni recently sat down with fourth-generation farmer and entrepreneur Darren Schmall at the popular ApCal Rock and Ranch. What …
Madera Grower Darren Schmall Expands Agriculture into Agritourism, Innovation, and Sustainability
The AgNet News Hour featured a conversation with Madera grower Darren Schmall, highlighting how one Central Valley farmer is blending traditional agriculture with innovation, agritourism, and sustainability to stay competitive …
One-Room Schoolhouses: The Backbone of Early Rural Education
A Foundation Built by Farmers In the earliest days of American settlement, education was not seen as a luxury—it was a necessity. As communities spread across vast rural landscapes, access …
Potter Valley Water Battle: Farmers Fight to Save Lifeline
California’s rural communities are once again at the center of a high-stakes water battle—and this time, the spotlight is on Potter Valley. In a powerful interview with “The Ag Meter” …
Potter Valley Fight Intensifies as Community Pushes Back Against Dam Removal and Water Loss
The AgNet News Hour highlighted a growing battle in Northern California, where residents and agricultural leaders are pushing back against efforts to remove key dams in Potter Valley, an issue …
Jefferson’s Vision: Agriculture and the American Frontier
A President Rooted in Agriculture Thomas Jefferson firmly believed that agriculture would shape the future of the young United States. For Jefferson, farming was more than an economic activity—it was …
Farm Dog of the Year 2027: Nominations Now Open
Farmers and ranchers across the country have a new opportunity to spotlight their most loyal partners—their farm dogs. The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) has officially opened nominations for the …
California Insurance Crisis: Can Experience Fix What’s Broken?
California’s insurance system is at a breaking point—and few conversations capture the urgency better than the recent interview between “The Ag Meter” host Nick Papagni and Insurance Commissioner candidate Stacy …
Insurance Crisis Deepens in California as Ag Industry Faces Rising Costs and Limited Coverage
The AgNet News Hour tackled one of the most pressing issues impacting agriculture and rural businesses, California’s worsening insurance crisis, and what it means for farmers already navigating high costs …
From Barren to Breadbasket: Lewis & Clark’s Agricultural Reality
A Historic Mission Beyond Exploration In this edition of American Agriculture History Minute, Mark Oppold revisits the journey of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark—a mission that extended far beyond simple …
Monterey County Agriculture at a Crossroads: Water, Labor, and the Future of America’s Salad Bowl
In a compelling interview with “the Ag Meter” host Nick Papagni, sits down with Norm Groot of the Monterey County Farm Bureau to unpack the realities facing one of the …
California Table Grapes 2026: Early Season, Global Demand, Strong Future
The 2026 California table grape season is officially underway—and it’s arriving earlier than expected. In a recent interview on The Ag Meter, host Nick Papagni sat down with Ian LeMay, …
Farm Bill Advances as Food Security, Fertilizer Costs, and California Policy Pressures Dominate Ag Conversation
One of the biggest headlines from the episode was movement on the federal Farm Bill, which officially passed the U.S. House for the first time since 2018. The legislation marks …