On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Roger Isom, president and CEO of the Western Tree Nut Association and California Cotton Ginners and Growers Association, returned for Part 2 of his conversation with Nick Papagni. The discussion focused on widespread rodent damage in California orchards, rising insurance costs, new packaging regulations and uncertainty surrounding the state’s agricultural policies heading into 2027.
One of the most alarming issues discussed was the growing rodent problem affecting California’s agricultural operations.
Isom described extensive damage to irrigation systems, including one 160-acre orchard where virtually every row had suffered damage. In another case, a grower replaced damaged irrigation lines only to discover the rodents had destroyed the new system within days.
The damage extends beyond irrigation infrastructure. Isom explained that rodents are stripping bark from trees, consuming crops and damaging agricultural equipment. He described one Fresno County grower who abandoned harvesting an 80-acre block because rodents had consumed so much of the crop.
Isom also expressed concern about proposed restrictions on rodenticides, arguing that limiting available control methods could make an already expensive problem even worse.
Another major topic was California’s packaging regulations under Senate Bill 54.
Isom explained that agricultural businesses are already facing reporting requirements and fees associated with the state’s recycling initiatives. He warned that differences between California’s requirements and emerging European Union regulations could create additional complications for growers and processors selling into multiple markets.
The conversation also examined California’s increasingly difficult insurance market.
According to Isom, some agricultural businesses have experienced insurance cost increases exceeding 100%, while others are struggling to obtain enough coverage for stored commodities. He said wildfire-related insurance challenges are affecting agricultural operations even in areas with relatively limited wildfire exposure.
Looking back at 2026, Isom offered a somewhat more encouraging assessment of the legislative session. He noted that several proposals opposed by agricultural organizations failed to advance, although regulatory challenges involving labor, pesticides and workplace safety remain.
Looking toward 2027, Isom said uncertainty surrounding California’s incoming administration, regulatory appointments and the federal farm bill makes it difficult to predict what growers should expect.
Despite those concerns, he encouraged farmers to become more involved with agricultural organizations and participate in policy discussions affecting their operations.
Hear Part 2 of the full conversation with Roger Isom in the player above or on your favorite podcast app.
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