…1776? Nick and Josh reflect on that transformation, emphasizing how fewer people grow food today—but the role of the American farmer is more critical than ever. They also call out…
USDA Launches Support Program for Specialty Crop Growers
…the USDA’s broader commitment to strengthening the specialty crop sector—a vital component of the U.S. agricultural economy and a key contributor to national nutrition and food security. By helping farmers…
U.S.–Morocco Ag Ties Strengthened During California Almond Tour
…a working almond processing facility, offering firsthand exposure to food safety protocols, value-added processing, and product quality standards. These in-person exchanges help build lasting relationships while encouraging cooperation in areas…
H-2A Guestworker Program Burdening California Farmers
…transportation, and food. California’s $16.50 state minimum wage sets a high baseline, which significantly increases the total cost of compliance. “It’s a very costly program,” Cunha noted. “It’s not workable…
Imperial Valley Sugar Plant Closure Raises Crop Market Concerns
…they typically never come back,” Leimgruber warned. “We’re losing that much more ability to feed and grow food and fiber for our nation.” As Imperial Valley farmers adapt to another…
Water, Land, and Policy: Farmer Andrew Leimgruber Speaks Out
…and food. “If you solve a water shortage and create a food shortage, I’m not sure if you’ve really bettered the state.” He fears that state officials are quietly advancing…
Cunha: Immigration Failure Hurts America’s Farmworkers
…for comprehensive guest worker reform—one that protects American food production while honoring the commitment and dignity of longtime immigrant workers. Read more, and listen to Manuel Cunha’s full interview. Reporter:…
Wine Grape Growers Back Pierce’s Disease Program
California Growers Approve Continued Funding to Fight Vineyard Pests The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has certified the results of the Wine Grape Grower Continuation Referendum for the…
Pierce’s Disease Program Extended to 2031
California Wine Growers Back Program to Combat Vineyard Threats The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has reauthorized the Pierce’s Disease Control Program, a vital effort aimed at protecting…
AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 07-02-25
…sensitive military sites—calling it both a food security and national security issue. The show also explores the ripple effects of the closing Spreckels Sugar factory, which could impact 28,000 acres…
CDFA Promotes Water Rule Compliance for California Tree Nut Growers
…state, focusing on pre-harvest agricultural water requirements in the FSMA Produce Safety Rule (PSR). One major outreach effort included participation in the Western Food Safety Conference held in Salinas, where…
California Farm Bureau Responds to Immigration Enforcement Concerns
…that support farming and ranching operations across the state. He noted that continued aggressive enforcement could jeopardize the food supply chain—from harvest to grocery shelves. “Without these employees, crops would…
AgNet News Hour Monday, 06-30-25
…They also challenge claims that solar fields benefit pollinators and push back on what they see as a dangerous trend of sidelining food production for feel-good energy policy. With input…
Fixing Farm Labor: Manuel Cunha Calls for Urgent Immigration Reform
…hospitality, construction, and food service. “We are stronger in numbers,” Cunha said, urging policymakers to consider the overlapping workforce across multiple industries. He argues that targeting agriculture alone is shortsighted…