McCormick’s reaper meant that families could farm more land. USDA NRCS Texas, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Robert McCormick was a successful farmer in Virginia who owned a substantial 532-acre…
Cyrus McCormick and the Reaper Revolution
…American farmers remained unconvinced. Cyrus McCormick and the Reaper Revolution At the time, hand labor was abundant and relatively cheap. For many, the reaper seemed unnecessary or too complex. As…
AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 07-30-25
…at the heart of the conversation is Madera County farmer and water expert Matt Angell, who shares an eye-opening, data-rich analysis of groundwater, regulations, and the future of farming in…
USDA Pays Millions to California Dairies Amid Bird Flu Milk Losses
…for farmers impacted by wildfires, droughts, and floods, ELAP was opened to dairy producers in response to the bird flu crisis. Between November 2024 and June 2025, the USDA made…
California Avocado Commission Praises USDA Reorganization Efforts
Strengthening USDA Services to Support Farmers and Safeguard Food Supply The California Avocado Commission is applauding a recent move by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to restructure key components…
Evolution of Irrigation in American Agriculture
…the practice of irrigation dates back thousands of years. Evolution of Irrigation in American Agriculture Ancient farmers in Asia and Africa were among the first to manipulate water for agriculture,…
AgNet News Hour Monday, 07-28-25
…farmers aren’t better represented in water policy decisions and why experts like Angel are often left out of the conversation. “There’s only one farmer on all these boards,” says Papagni….
John Duarte on Water, Immigration, and Fixing California
…infrastructure, and the state’s political future. Duarte, known for his outspoken advocacy for farmers, didn’t hold back as he outlined both the challenges and the solutions he believes can revitalize…
AgNet News Hour Friday, 07-25-25
…innovator, farmer, and former congressman, Duarte brings unmatched insight and experience to the table. He joined Nick Papagni and Josh McGill for a candid, in-depth discussion about the future of…
AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 07-23-25
…who spearheaded a farmer-led groundwater recharge program, emphasized the need for collaboration and transparency among agencies, cities, and growers to ensure smarter water management without billion-dollar investments. With perfect Central…
New Tax Provision Eases Capital Gains Burden for Farmers
A recent reconciliation bill includes a provision that could offer meaningful relief to farmers facing large capital gains taxes. Kelly T. Wilfert, Extension Farm Management Specialist at the University of…
Homegrown Organic: Stephen Paul on Fruit, Figs, Farming Future
A Refreshing Harvest and a Bright Outlook In a rare moment of seasonal reprieve, California’s Central Valley is enjoying cooler weather—and so are its farmers. Stephen Paul of Homegrown Organic…
Wade Kirschenman on Grapes, Potatoes & Policy
Legacy and Innovation in Kern County Farming A Family Legacy Rooted in California Soil Kirschenman Enterprises has been farming in California since 1937. Now led by third-generation farmer Wade Kirschenman,…
Coastal Grandmother Talks Ag and Online Influence
…“It seriously took off like overnight,” she recalled. Ties to California Farming Beyond viral fame, Lex is immersed in California agriculture through her husband’s family business, Foglio Commodities. “Farmers are…