A Conversation with Colleen Cecil, Executive Director of the Butte County Farm Bureau
A Morning at the Agribee
Executive Director of the Butte County Farm Bureau
The conversation opens with Ag Meter welcoming guest Colleen Cecil, Executive Director of the Butte County Farm Bureau, who had just wrapped up one of the county’s most beloved youth agricultural events—the 21st Annual Agribee.
The Agribee is an agricultural spelling bee held for 4th and 5th graders across a five-county region in Northern California. Local schools hold their own qualifying competitions, then send their finalists to the countywide contest.
This year, after several challenging rounds requiring both spelling and definitions of agriculture-related terms, the winning word—appropriately—was “pollinate.”
The champion, Jason Blake from Rosedale Elementary School in Chico, took home:
- A brand-new Chromebook
- An Agribee t-shirt
- A medal
- And a bee-shaped sugar cookie
The event, Colleen shared, is not only fun—it’s a strategic way to educate children and their families about agriculture as they study these specialized words at home.
Why Agricultural Education Matters
Colleen emphasized just how essential youth agricultural education is—especially in California, the nation’s largest agricultural state and a major global food supplier.
Children in the region regularly drive past almond orchards, rice fields, walnut groves, citrus, and grazing cattle. The Agribee and similar outreach programs help them connect those sights—and their own food—to the industry all around them.
In Butte County, one in seven jobs is tied to agriculture, making it a central part of both the economy and local identity.
Colleen’s California Roots
Although she now represents Butte County, Colleen didn’t grow up there. She was raised in Merced County, graduated from Livingston High School, earned her associate’s degree at Modesto Junior College, and became a proud Fresno State Bulldog.
She moved north two decades ago, where she and her husband now raise two teenage sons and farm walnuts, connecting her even more closely to the growers she represents.
Agriculture in Butte County: Crops and Key Industries
Colleen highlighted several of the region’s major commodities:
- Walnuts
- Almonds
- Rice
- Olives for olive oil
- Citrus and mandarins
- Cattle and calves
She also noted a major but often under-recognized agricultural sector in Northern California:
Bees, pollination services, and queen production
Beekeeping is a significant industry in the region, with local producers playing a vital role in pollinating crops across the state.
Bee Health and Pollination Concerns
Last year’s bee shortages raised concerns statewide, but while Colleen doesn’t claim to be a bee expert, she assured listeners that beekeepers are working hard to meet pollination demands. The industry’s health remains critical to many of the crops that define Northern California agriculture.
Wolves and Ranching Challenges
Shifting to another major issue, Ag Meter asked about wolves—an increasingly urgent concern for ranchers in the Sierra region.
While Butte County itself has had few wolf sightings, many local ranchers run cattle in the Plumas-Sierra region, where wolves have devastated herds. Colleen described a collaborative effort now underway involving ranchers, state wildlife officials, scientists, and a dedicated working group.
Though difficult, recent decisions to reduce the size of a particularly destructive wolf pack have helped protect livestock. Colleen stressed that ranchers appreciate having a seat at the table and being part of these complex policy decisions.
California’s Regulatory and Economic Pressures
When asked about whether Butte County is in “crisis mode,” Colleen didn’t hesitate to broaden the picture:
The reality is that farmers statewide face enormous challenges simply because they operate in California.
The cost of regulation, she emphasized, is the greatest financial burden on farmers and ranchers. Other major challenges include:
- High labor costs
- Rising input and equipment costs
- Water uncertainty
- Freight and supply chain pressures
Farmers want to pay fair wages, she said, but the cost of living in California makes the economics difficult. These pressures contribute to the high prices families now see in grocery stores, especially for meat.
The cattle industry in particular is still recovering from drought-driven herd reductions—an ongoing multiyear challenge.
Proposition 50 and Political Frustrations
Colleen also spoke candidly about the disappointment surrounding Proposition 50, which she and many agricultural groups opposed.
She expressed frustration with what she described as manipulative political messaging during the campaign, especially claims tying the measure to national political figures—despite the proposition itself having nothing to do with them.
Her concern is clear:
If Prop 50 ultimately takes effect, she fears the rural voice in California could be diminished, particularly when it comes to representation in Congress.
As the conversation continued, she and Ag Meter agreed that California’s political leaders often fail to grasp the scale and importance of the state’s agriculture industry—a multibillion-dollar economic powerhouse.
The Need for Agricultural Literacy
As the discussion continued, both Ag Meter and Colleen underscored a core challenge facing California agriculture: many policymakers—and much of the general public—have never stepped foot on a farm.
Colleen emphasized that while everyone is connected to agriculture through the simple act of eating, that connection is often invisible. California’s diverse food supply, she said, is something residents take for granted. From dozens of lettuce varieties to citrus, nuts, rice, and specialty crops, the state’s food offerings are unmatched.
But diversity is not guaranteed.
If California producers are regulated out of competitiveness, that variety won’t disappear—it will simply be imported from somewhere else.
That’s why education and advocacy remain central missions of the Butte County Farm Bureau.
“We are the 1% feeding the other 99%,” Colleen said. “Anytime we get the opportunity to educate elected officials or the public, we look forward to it.”
Education in Action: Agribee, Farm Day, and the Agri-Business Bus Tour
The community engagement efforts in Butte County are extensive. Beyond the Agribee, Colleen described another key initiative: the Farm City Celebration Agri-Business Bus Tour, held every November.
Each year, 200 participants purchase tickets to spend four hours traveling to farms and ranches across the county. The tour stops at five agricultural operations, where attendees hear directly from growers, ranchers, and industry experts.
The event sells out every year.
Colleen explained that, unlike organizations with large marketing budgets, Farm Bureau relies on storytelling, tours, and social media outreach to communicate agriculture’s value. It’s grassroots education at its most effective.
Ag Meter, energized by Colleen’s passion, said he wants to attend future Farm Days to witness firsthand how these programs teach children where food comes from—beyond the grocery store aisle.
Standing Up for Farmers
Ag Meter praised Colleen for her relentless advocacy. Whether it’s meetings in Sacramento, letters to the editor, or mobilizing local producers to engage in county-level decisions, the Farm Bureau plays a critical role in shaping policy and public understanding.
Colleen agreed that none of this work happens alone.
In her 19 years at the Butte County Farm Bureau, she has depended on the dedication of local farmers and ranchers. When an issue arises—whether it’s water, zoning, or regulatory pressure—producers show up. They write letters, attend meetings, and speak up.
“These are salt of the earth people,” she said. “They’re willing to do the hard work and tell their stories.”
Water: A Key Advantage—and Responsibility
Turning to water, Ag Meter noted the severe challenges facing growers on the west side of Fresno County. Colleen explained that Butte County is in a comparatively strong position.
The region benefits from:
- Reliable water supplies
- Excellent soil
- A long growing season
- Active participation in groundwater planning
Farmers in the area are at the table as the county navigates SGMA (Sustainable Groundwater Management Act) requirements. While compliance isn’t easy, collaboration has helped ensure long-term access to water so food production can not only continue but grow.
Preparing for Grower Day
Colleen also previewed an important annual event: Grower Day, scheduled for Wednesday, December 3rd.
This one-day farm show includes:
- Presentations from the Department of Pesticide Regulation
- Updates from the Butte County Ag Commissioner
- Insights from CSU Chico’s Center for Regenerative Agriculture
- A free breakfast and hosted lunch
- A trade show featuring Farm Bureau member businesses
The event is free, open to the public, and especially valuable for tree nut growers. No registration is required—attendees can simply show up at Manzanita Place in Chico at 9 a.m.
Colleen’s Agriculture Story
Ag Meter then asked Colleen to share her personal journey—particularly for the many young people in FFA and 4-H who didn’t grow up on farms but feel drawn to agriculture.
Colleen, however, is one of those who did grow up in the industry.
- She was raised on a dairy.
- Both grandfathers were dairy producers.
- Her father spent his whole life working in dairies.
She immersed herself in youth agriculture programs:
- 10 years in 4-H
- FFA at Livingston High School
- American FFA Degree recipient
- Bachelor’s in Agricultural Education from Fresno State
Today, she and her husband have two teenage sons deeply involved in agriculture.
Her 13-year-old is active in 4-H in Glenn County, where she serves as a club leader.
Her 15-year-old is a member of the Hamilton High School FFA Chapter, recently returning from the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis.
Colleen spoke proudly about these youth programs.
4-H and FFA, she said, produce leaders—not just future farmers. In meetings with regulators or elected officials, she is always struck by how many raise their hands when asked if they participated in one of these programs growing up.
“There is nothing else at the elementary or high school level that builds leaders like 4-H and FFA,” she said.
The Value of FFA and 4-H Alumni
Ag Meter agreed wholeheartedly, noting that while many young people lose interpersonal skills in an age of constant texting, FFA and 4-H kids stand out. When he sees those organizations on a résumé, he said, it’s an immediate sign of character and professionalism.
Colleen echoed that sentiment.
In the Farm Bureau office, her team includes two Chico State College of Agriculture alumnae—both with 4-H or FFA backgrounds. These programs shape disciplined, capable, motivated individuals who are an asset in any profession.
A Community of Strong Representation
As the interview neared its next segment, Ag Meter joked about Colleen becoming famous after the show and praised the entire network of county Farm Bureaus across the state.
Colleen responded with appreciation, highlighting respected peers such as Fresno County Farm Bureau CEO Ryan Jacobsen and California Farm Bureau President Shannon Douglass. She also noted her early Farm Bureau career in Stanislaus County before moving to the Almond Board of California and eventually to Butte County.
She wrapped this portion of the conversation by reflecting on why she continues this work after nearly two decades:
The job isn’t always easy, but days like the Agribee—when young people are awarded for excelling in agricultural education—make it all worthwhile.
Her entire career has centered on agricultural education and advocacy, and she remains proud to represent the farmers and ranchers of California.
Farmers Leaving the Industry: A Growing Concern
As the conversation continued, both Ag Meter and Colleen highlighted one of the most urgent issues facing agriculture today: the increasing number of farmers leaving the industry. Rising costs, tightening regulations, and shrinking margins are pushing many out of business.
Colleen emphasized that this is one of the biggest challenges of the decade—and a primary focus for the Farm Bureau as they work to protect the viability of farming in Butte County and beyond.
Ag Meter added that as California’s population grows, more farmland is being converted to housing. While development is inevitable, he stressed the importance of preserving agricultural land and supporting local growers—especially the small farmers who form the backbone of the state’s food system.
Butte County’s Top Crops and Diverse Production
Ag Meter circled back to Butte County’s impressive agricultural output, listing walnuts, almonds, rice, prunes, nursery stock, field crops, honeybees, cattle and calves, rice seed, and even kiwi fruit.
Colleen confirmed that Butte County is home to more prune growers than anywhere else in California, and that the top three crops—walnuts, almonds, and rice—are the county’s economic drivers.
Pollination services also rank among the top commodities, underscoring the region’s strong beekeeping and pollination sector.
With rich soil, reliable water, and favorable weather, Butte County reflects the broader strength of California agriculture—an unmatched ability to grow a wide variety of crops with exceptional quality.
Farm Bureau Membership: Open to Everyone
Ag Meter then addressed a common misconception: that one must be a farmer to join the Farm Bureau.
Colleen clarified that anyone can become a member—farmers, ag businesses, local companies, restaurant owners, consumers, or anyone who wants to support the agricultural community.
Membership information is available at buttefarmbureau.com as well as on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. The office, located in the Durham–Chico area, welcomes visitors Monday through Friday.
With multiple membership tiers—including options for businesses and general consumers—the Farm Bureau offers networking opportunities, educational resources, and a strong platform for supporting local agriculture.
Supporting Local Food and Agricultural Literacy
Ag Meter expressed a personal goal: ensuring every policymaker in California takes agriculture seriously. He stressed that clean, reliable, domestic food supply is a cornerstone of a healthy society.
Colleen agreed, noting that Americans are spoiled by consistent, year-round access to fresh food. Yet much of that food is imported when it’s out of season domestically.
She emphasized the need to teach consumers about seasonality and sourcing—like why strawberries are available 11 months a year in California, or why grapes in December don’t taste the same (because they’re imported).
Understanding where food comes from, she said, strengthens support for local farmers and helps consumers make informed choices.
Can California Be Great Again?
Ag Meter posed a challenging question: with so many manmade pressures—water policy, regulations, political gridlock—can California return to its agricultural greatness?
Colleen said yes, but only with common sense and a renewed commitment to collaboration among policymakers.
Political polarization has made solutions more difficult, but education remains key. Getting decision-makers onto farms and ranches helps them understand the stakes—and the realities—of food production.
She highlighted a recent farm visit from U.S. Senator Adam Schiff, who toured an almond orchard and has expressed interest in agriculture by seeking a seat on the Senate Ag Committee. California has not had a senator on that committee in 30 years, and Colleen stressed the importance of maintaining strong relationships with any elected official willing to learn.
A new federal farm bill, she added, remains a top priority.
Concerns Over Prop 50 and Political Representation
Ag Meter voiced concerns about political leaders who talk without taking action, emphasizing the need to ask direct questions about candidates’ views on COVID policies, education, Prop 50, farming, and water.
Colleen expanded on the political topic by discussing the impact of Prop 50, which reshaped District 1 to include Sonoma County. While Sonoma is also agricultural, its population far exceeds that of Butte, Glenn, and Tehama combined.
She warned that the shift could dilute the voices of rural communities and place leadership in the hands of someone who may know little about the crops and challenges of northern inland counties.
For that reason, Farm Bureau continues to develop leaders from within agriculture—including those who may someday run for office—and provide a unified voice for farmers at the state and federal levels.
Why Agriculture Needs People in Positions of Influence
Ag Meter compared strong school leaders to strong political leaders—those who understand the community they serve. He advocated for elected officials who bring in experts, listen to stakeholders, and surround themselves with knowledgeable advisors.
Colleen echoed this, saying she doesn’t expect lawmakers to be experts in almonds, walnuts, or SGMA. But she does expect them to rely on Farm Bureau for accurate information.
Agriculture may be a large industry, but it remains a tight-knit community where relationships matter. Strengthening these connections ensures policymakers have trusted experts to call when decisions affecting agriculture arise.
Closing Thoughts from Butte County Farm Bureau
As the conversation wound down, Colleen expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to share updates from northern California—highlighting issues like wolves, land use, and the ongoing fight to ensure farmers can continue farming.
Ag Meter assured her she would be a regular guest on the show, praising her clarity, passion, and deep agricultural insight. Their next planned topics? Wolves and bees.
Before concluding, Colleen again shared how listeners can reach the Butte County Farm Bureau:
buttefarmbureau.com, as well as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, email, and phone—all easily found with a simple online search.
Ag Meter closed by reminding her to keep the show updated with upcoming events and opportunities, expressing his admiration for Butte County and the Chico area.
Continuing the Conversation
As the interview came to a close, Ag Meter thanked Colleen Cecil once again for joining the program and sharing her deep insights into the challenges and strengths of agriculture in Butte County and across California. Her expertise, openness, and dedication resonated throughout the conversation, offering listeners a clear picture of the vital work carried out by the Farm Bureau and the agricultural community it serves.
Colleen expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to discuss the issues that matter most to farmers, ranchers, and rural communities—from land use to water policy to advocacy efforts that protect the future of California agriculture.
Ag Meter promised that this would not be the last time she joined the show, looking forward to future conversations on topics like wolves, pollination, and emerging issues in the region.
Final Thanks
The segment closed with a warm exchange of gratitude:
“Thank you so much.”
“And we’ll do this again very soon.”
Colleen’s commitment to representing the agricultural community—combined with her readiness to return for future discussions—underscored her ongoing role as a key voice for Northern California’s farming families.
Ag Meter ended the interview by thanking Colleen Cecil, Executive Director of the Butte County Farm Bureau, for her time, leadership, and dedication to ensuring agriculture remains strong, viable, and respected throughout the state.