…at the innovation table. They also tackle major challenges like labor shortages, automation bans, and California’s regulatory hurdles, with Bernstein emphasizing the need for inclusive, scalable solutions. Spider mites and…
Fixing Ag Labor: Cunha Pushes for Legal Guest Worker Program
Guest Worker Program Could Ease Labor and Border Strains As California agriculture continues to grapple with persistent labor shortages and mounting immigration challenges, Manuel Cunha, president of the Nisei Farmers…
Farming Isn’t Easy—But It’s a Story Worth Telling
…the farm and think food comes from shelves. If they could see the hardship and labor we put in, they’d understand.” Through programs like AgNet West and platforms like YouTube,…
Immigration Plan Proposed to Keep Undocumented Farm Workers
…the future of farm labor and rural economies. With labor shortages persisting and food supply chains under pressure, this shift may signal a broader policy evolution heading into 2025. Sponsored…
Cal/OSHA Staggered Schedules, Mask Rules Proposal Opposed
…labor. “Employers would be forced to pay for labor they cannot fully use,” the coalition argued, “while scrambling to cover gaps in essential operations in a strained labor market.” Mask…
USDA Rolls Out New Round of Blueberry Grower Support
…production costs continue to climb and market volatility challenges grower profitability. The funding is aimed at helping producers stay afloat and reinvest in vital on-farm infrastructure, labor, and crop quality…
Southern Border Action Could Protect Farms
Manuel Cunha, President of the Nisei Farmers League, is calling for immediate action at the southern border to address the growing crisis of human smuggling and labor exploitation in agriculture….
Assemblyman Slams Hollywood Tax Breaks, Defends Farmers
…industry preference. He pointed out the contradiction in lawmakers admitting that overregulation and labor laws were pushing the film industry out—while continuing to burden agriculture with the same issues. “If…
Solar Push Sparks Water, Ethics Concerns in California
…lithium-ion batteries, which require materials like lithium and cobalt—resources often tied to intensive water use and unethical labor practices abroad. “They want to paint this warm, fuzzy picture of solar,”…
David Tangipa: Defending California Farmers from Costly Policies
…Labor Reform Tangipa also discussed immigration reform, advocating for accountability and legal pathways that reward contribution—not unlawful entry. He previously introduced a bill to allow tax deductions for those sponsoring…
Agricultural Prices Rise 1.7% in May Amid Climbing Farm Costs
…commodity prices, farmers faced a 4% increase in production-related costs, including expenses tied to equipment, fuel, fertilizers, labor, and maintenance. As a result, many producers saw profit margins remain tight,…
AgNet News Hour Friday, 07-04-25
…which kept U.S. ag production strong during labor shortages. From history to fireworks, civic pride, and a powerful reminder to thank a farmer—this episode is both inspiring and timely. Whether…
USDA Launches Support Program for Specialty Crop Growers
…growers are contending with rising labor costs, global supply chain disruptions, unpredictable market conditions, and persistent threats from pests and diseases. In response, the USDA program offers flexible funding to…
H-2A Guestworker Program Burdening California Farmers
Manuel Cunha Calls H-2A Labor System “Unworkable” for Local Growers AgNet West’s Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter”, recently sat down with Manuel Cunha, president of the Nisei Farmers League, to…