…in global dried fruit production, is undergoing dramatic changes. In a recent conversation hosted by Nick Papagni, three longtime leaders shared their perspectives on the state of the sector: Kalem…
Raisin Industry Legends Warn of Challenges and Chart a Path Forward
…gave a sweeping history lesson, recalling how raisins were once California’s pride crop, producing more than 400,000 tons a year. But today, production has slipped under 200,000 tons annually, dropping…
Kevin Kester on Ranching, Trade, and Ag’s Next Generation
…a complete solution, such support helps counterbalance state-level political challenges. He also praised Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, noting her personal ties to cattle production and FFA leadership. Rollins, whose daughters…
Pistachios, Water & Trade: Kreps on Farming’s Future
…basic for a career California politician. “We just need California politicians to get behind solving problems instead of fighting against President Trump,” he said. Expanding Pistachio Production Across the Southwest…
John Duarte on Central Valley Agriculture: Water, Prop 50, and the Future of Avocados
…luck to you and thank you for doing what you do.” Proven Results in Almonds and Pistachios Farmers listening in had one pressing question—what kind of production gains can they…
Shannon Douglas: Leading California Agriculture Through Opportunity and Challenge
…an Uneven Playing Field American farmers face strict environmental and labor standards. While these rules reflect important values, they also raise production costs. When foreign competitors operate under looser regulations,…
Lorenzo Rios: Valley Strong Vision for California
…he said. “Farmers are not the problem—they’re the solution. They’ve been stewarding this land for generations. Congress should reward conservation, not punish production.” Papagni agreed, pointing out that farmers treat…
California Farmers Face Policy, Energy, and Innovation Challenges
…to secure the water necessary to sustain their crops. Energy policies add to the strain. California’s restrictions on oil production have driven up fuel costs, impacting everything from machinery operation…
Jean Étienne de Boré: Pioneer of Granulated Sugar in Louisiana
…a reliable or profitable cash crop. De Boré’s successful production of granulated sugar changed that. His innovation encouraged growers across Louisiana to plant sugarcane in greater quantities, giving rise to…
Beef Supply Shortages and Meat Prices: Darren Hill of JD Food
…from specific states, such as Nebraska or Colorado, requiring flexible sourcing strategies. Proposition 12: Pork Industry Adjusts Proposition 12, California’s animal welfare regulation for pork production, initially caused disruption. But…
Edward Ring Brings Water Solutions to the AgNet News Hour
…projects aimed at improving rangelands and promoting more sustainable cattle production. While Josh and Nick joked about whether fast food could ever truly be “healthy,” they agreed that corporate investment…
Fighting for California Agriculture and Values: David Tangipa on Water, Farmers, and Policy
…advocacy. He noted the decline in California’s cotton industry as an example of legislative impact on agriculture: “In 2006, there were over 200 cotton ginners in the state…we are down…
California Almond Harvest 2025: Prices and Yields
…strong production regions. The sandy loam soils, with some areas containing over 20 feet of topsoil, have produced yields 30% higher than those on the Eastside for both row crops…
Freeman Vineyard: Organic Sonoma Wines with Global Reach
A Family Story Rooted in Sonoma County In the heart of West Sonoma’s Russian River Valley, Freeman Vineyard and Winery has become a leader in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay production….