…environment for ranching families like the Kester’s. The Struggles of Ranching in California Kevin Kester Kester, who served as president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), openly acknowledges the…
Kevin Kester on Cattle, Wolves, and the Fight to Keep Family Ranches Alive
The October 1 edition of the AgNet News Hour featured a wide-ranging conversation with Kevin Kester, a fifth-generation rancher from Parkfield, California, and former president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef…
Ohio River: A Lifeline of American Agriculture
…14 states. This vast network ensures that the river remains a critical resource for agriculture, industry, and urban communities alike. In addition to its agricultural importance, the river serves as…
Iowa Farmer Unearths Rare Treasure from the 1850s
…into America’s agricultural and cultural past. Iowa Farmer Unearths Rare Treasure from the 1850s Coins with a Story The coins, remarkably well-preserved in near mint condition, are believed to have…
John Duarte on Central Valley Agriculture: Water, Prop 50, and the Future of Avocados
…water mismanagement, pointing out that despite political claims, restrictions have neither saved fish populations nor secured long-term agricultural productivity. Instead, water policy has created “a man-made dust bowl” that threatens…
John Duarte Shares Bold Nursery Innovations and Warns of Prop 50 Threat
…$32 billion agricultural trade deficit, he argued that relying on imports makes the U.S. vulnerable. “Working families are the ones paying the price,” Duarte said, noting that higher costs and…
Oregon Trail: How It Shaped American Agriculture
Photo by Dana Davis on Unsplash A Defining Route in Agricultural History The Oregon Trail remains one of the most significant routes in American history, playing a vital role in…
Shannon Douglas: Leading California Agriculture Through Opportunity and Challenge
Shannon Douglas California is one of the most diverse and productive agricultural states in the nation. From the vineyards of Napa to the citrus groves of the Central Valley, farms…
California Farm Bureau’s Shannon Douglas Tackles Prop 50, Farm Bill, and the Future of Farming
The September 26 edition of the AgNet News Hour closed out the week with one of the state’s most important agricultural voices. Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill welcomed Shannon…
Illinois River History: Gateway to Agriculture and Trade
A Vital Waterway in the Heart of the Midwest The Illinois River has long been an essential part of America’s agricultural history. Stretching 273 miles, the river begins at the…
California Trucking: Costs, Rules & Roadblocks
…tankers, and vans all consume fuel differently. Long-haul drivers must also run air conditioning or heating systems during overnight rest breaks, further increasing costs. Hours of Service and Safety Regulations…
Lorenzo Rios: Valley Strong Vision for California
…country, shared his background, values, and reasons for running. Though not born in the United States, Rios became a naturalized citizen and enlisted in the Marines. His service opened doors…
Mike Harvey: Farming, Faith & Leading California’s Youth
…Harvey grew up surrounded by farming. His family operated a packing house, cold storage, and shipping facilities—covering every part of the agricultural process. “I worked in every single department of…
Mike Harvey and Lorenzo Rios Share Powerful Stories on AgNet News Hour
…programs and youth outreach, urging the next generation to carry forward agriculture’s values. Harvey also recounted attending the memorial service for Charlie Kirk, calling it one of the most unifying…