…that fire ants often nest in electrical components, irrigation systems, and machinery, creating operational challenges beyond the orchard itself. Effective fire ant management not only protects yield but also helps…
Early American Farmers and the Cycle of Moving West
…way. Many early settlers had limited knowledge about long-term soil management or sustainable cultivation practices. Because the land they encountered was “virgin soil,” it was initially extremely fertile and produced…
From Water Challenges to Agave Innovation: The Woolf Farming Story
…strong and sustainable market for it. Potential uses extend beyond spirits to include sweeteners and even biofuels. Family, Community, and the Future of Farming What truly sets Woolf Farming apart…
The Hard Lessons of the Great Plains: Early Settler Struggles
…safety net against unpredictable losses, while new conservation techniques improved soil health and water management. Large-scale federal aid further reduced risks, allowing the next generation of farmers to reestablish themselves…
Agave Innovation on the West Side; Stuart Wolf and Family Look Toward Farming’s Future
…Wiley Wolf focuses on sustainability projects across the operation, including water management, soil health, solar development, and pollinator habitats. The next generation of the family says modern farming requires constant…
The Homestead Act: How Free Land Transformed North American Agriculture
…expanding agriculture and bringing new communities to previously unsettled land. The Homestead Act of 1862 Passed during the Civil War, the Homestead Act allowed individuals and families to claim 160…
California Water, SGMA, and the Future of Farming
…of SGMA Another major shift came in 2014 when California passed the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). The law requires regions across the state to bring groundwater pumping into balance…
California Water Debate: Can Farming’s Future Be Secured?
…on water supply issues and the impacts of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). During the interview, Vanden Heuvel explained how SGMA and groundwater sustainability plans are reshaping agriculture across…
The Rise of Open Range Ranching on the Great Plains
…Texas Northward Cattle ranching began early in Texas, where Spanish and Mexican traditions of cattle management had already taken root. As demand for beef grew in eastern cities after the…
John Duarte Calls for Water Abundance in California
…these years.” A New Approach to Forecasting Water One of Duarte’s most intriguing ideas involves improving reservoir management through advanced rainfall forecasting. He highlighted a forecasting system developed by Rob…
Managing Fire Ants in Almond Orchards with Extinguish® Professional Fire Ant Bait
…targets the reproductive cycle of fire ants. Rather than killing ants on contact, the bait relies on natural ant behavior to distribute the active ingredient throughout the colony. “The foraging…
California Water, Energy, and Policy: Duarte, Vanden Heuvel Break It Down
…1970s and increased reliance on groundwater have significantly reshaped the state’s water system. Vanden Heuvel also discussed the impact of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) and how groundwater regulation…
Part 1: Almond Red Leaf Blotch Spreading in Central Valley Orchards
Almond growers across California’s Central Valley are being urged to stay alert for almond red leaf blotch, a disease that is becoming more common in orchards and can significantly impact…
Axios® 20 SC Fungicide Offers Flexible Disease Control for Almond Growers
As California almond growers navigate tight spray windows during the growing season, having flexible and easy-to-use fungicide options can help keep disease management programs on track. Cassie Rieser, Technical Sales…