…remaining pear farms are operated by fifth- and sixth-generation farming families committed to preserving the industry for future generations. There is optimism surrounding the upcoming pear season, however. Because bloom…
California Pear Growers Push for Quality, Fair Market as Early Season Approaches
…California’s longtime specialty crop industries. Zanobini said the 2025 season was difficult for California pear growers, largely because of heavy competition from imported fruit on retail shelves. One of the…
Edward Ring Warns California Energy Policies Are Driving Up Gas Prices and Hurting Agriculture
…long-term economic impact on rural California communities. Ring warned that uncertainty surrounding California regulations is discouraging long-term investment in energy infrastructure, pipelines, and refining capacity. “You can’t demand companies lose…
Early Spider Mite Control Critical in Tree Fruit and Nut Crops
…with field scouting and consider combining pest and disease treatments, when possible, to improve efficiency and reduce application costs. For more information, visit Valent.com/ZealMVP Always read and follow label directions….
California Water Debate Intensifies as Edward Ring Pushes Major Reforms for Farmers and the Delta
…move water efficiently to farms and communities. He believes targeted dredging could improve conditions for both agriculture and the environment. “We can make everyone happy,” hosts noted during the discussion,…
Pest Pressure Builds Across California Specialty Crops – Part 2
Here is part 2 on key pests across multiple specialty crops in California. Todd Burkdoll, Field Market Development Manager with Valent U.S.A., says success this season will come down to…
California Farmers Push Back as NGOs Target Agricultural Land and Food Security Concerns Grow
…land battles are happening throughout California and across the country as farming communities face increasing legal and financial pressure. “We lost over 14,000 farms in 2024,” she said while discussing…
Rural Electrification: Powering America’s Farms and Future
…executive order establishing the Rural Electrification Administration (REA). This marked a decisive federal commitment to ensuring that farms and rural households could access reliable electric power. The REA’s mission was…
Dena Maldonado Talks Farming, Crime, and California’s Future in Congressional Run
…City, Sunol, and surrounding communities. A major focus of the interview centered on agriculture and California’s growing regulatory burden on farmers. Papagni pointed out that California produces hundreds of food…
Managing Hidden Nematode Threats in High-Value Crops
…nematodes. While effective, fumigants can come with higher costs and increasing regulatory challenges. Borges said newer options are now available that provide targeted control without the drawbacks of broad-spectrum fumigation….
California Governor Debate Leaves Agriculture Behind as Water, Taxes, and Policy Battles Intensify
…as warmer temperatures increase concerns for worms, mites, and mealybugs in vineyards, strawberries, and vegetable fields. Valent USA’s Todd Burkdahl encouraged growers to scout early and stay ahead of infestations…
Pest Pressure Builds Across California Specialty Crops – Part 1
As California specialty crops move deeper into the growing season, growers are facing pressure from a wide range of pests across multiple commodities. Todd Burkdoll, Field Market Development Manager with…
From Farming to Fast-Growing Trees: Darren Schmall’s Vision for California Agriculture
…per year while using remarkably little water once established. By comparison, many traditional shade trees grow only 18 to 24 inches annually. The tree’s large leaves create tremendous shade while…
Potter Valley Water Battle: Farmers Fight to Save Lifeline
Keely Covello 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…