…fresh meat long distances was risky and expensive due to spoilage. Refrigerated railcars allowed processed meat to be shipped safely and efficiently across the country. This innovation dramatically expanded consumer…
From Fresno Legend to Propane Pioneer: Lance Shebelut on Farming Smarter
…went on to notable careers in sports. But his focus has long since shifted from baseball to growing high-quality tree fruit and citrus across the Valley, and his latest innovation?…
St. Louis: Gateway to America’s Agricultural Expansion
…helped support agricultural expansion across the region. Banks provided capital for land purchases, equipment, and business growth. Colleges helped lay the groundwork for innovation and education in a rapidly developing…
Robert Thomas and the Birth of the Farmer’s Almanac
…a trusted companion for generations. His story reminds us that American agriculture has always depended not only on hard work in the fields, but also on innovation, information, and the…
California Water, Energy, and Resource Policy: A Conversation with Edward Ring
…boost rural economies, and provide critical raw materials for the state’s energy transition. Energy Policy and Innovation Energy independence is another cornerstone of Ring’s vision. He points to practical strategies…
Carbon Robotics Brings Laser Weeding and Autonomous Tractors to Center Stage
The February 20 edition of the AgNet News Hour focused squarely on agricultural automation, return on investment, and whether California is ready to truly support innovation in the field. Hosts…
Almond Outlook, Propane Savings, and Ag Pride
…carbon sequestration, and moisture retention strategies—especially for Westside growers facing extreme water costs. With some farmers paying $1,000 to $1,500 per acre-foot in dry years, innovation is no longer optional….
Michigan’s Rise: Mining, Farming & Autos (1855–1908)
From 1855 to 1900, the state of Michigan experienced a remarkable period of growth and transformation. Natural resource discoveries, infrastructure development, and industrial innovation reshaped the state’s economy and positioned…
Edward Ring Says Energy Abundance Could Transform California’s Water and Agriculture Future
…the conversation turned to electricity. He predicted California is heading toward an era of energy abundance, driven not by mandates, but by innovation. He pointed to emerging technologies like small…
Luther Burbank and the Potato That Changed Agriculture
…more than 800 strains and varieties of plants over the course of his career. His achievements stand as a testament to innovation driven by practical experience rather than formal academic…
Leo Burnett and the Birth of the Jolly Green Giant
…American agriculture, demonstrating how storytelling and branding can influence food preferences and agricultural markets. That transformation remains a powerful example of how agriculture, innovation, and marketing intersect—making Leo Burnett an…
How 19th-Century Technology Transformed Corn and Wheat Farming
Labor, Land, and Innovation: How 19th-Century Farming Became More Efficient American agriculture in the 19th century underwent a profound transformation as new tools and techniques reshaped how crops were planted,…
World Ag Expo Week Begins as John Duarte Talks Almond Innovation, Water, and California’s Future
…World Ag Expo, often called the Super Bowl of farm shows. With rain in the forecast and growers preparing to head to Tulare, the show blended excitement, innovation, and serious…
Michigan Agriculture: A National Leader in Diversity, Cherries, and Innovation
…agriculture demonstrates how diversity, innovation, and tradition combine to create a resilient farming economy. Michigan farmers continue to shape the nation’s food system—often in ways consumers may not realize—while maintaining…