…the first machine-powered grain elevator in America, famously known as Dart’s Elevator. This innovation allowed grain to be lifted, stored, and moved efficiently, replacing the slow, labor-intensive methods previously used….
California Farmers in Focus at Farm Bureau Convention
…stressed that California farmers are exceptionally resilient—adapting, innovating, and surviving under conditions few others face. That resilience is increasingly tested by high production standards that raise costs, while imported products…
Shannon Douglas on California’s Big Five: Water, Labor, Regulations, Wolves, and the Future of Farm Tech
…Anaheim and welcomed Shannon Douglas, President of the California Farm Bureau, for a deep look at the biggest issues facing California agriculture in 2026. From water storage and labor reform…
California Ag Spotlight: Farm Bureau & Almond Updates
…to the biggest challenges facing agriculture today. A key highlight of the episode is Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins’ speech, detailing significant initiatives for U.S. farmers. From H-2A labor reforms projected…
Inside the American Farm Bureau Convention in Anaheim
…row crops and Southern livestock—many issues remain the same. The convention creates a space where farmers and ranchers can openly discuss water, labor, markets, and policy, while learning how others…
Brooke Rollins in California, Potter Valley Dams, and Propane Tech: A Big Day for AgNet News Hour
…to California—especially when it comes to regulations, water, labor, and the future of farming in the state. Her visit alone sent a signal that Washington sees California ag as too…
Brooke Rollins Warns California Agriculture Faces an Existential Threat
…impact by lowering input costs and opening markets. She highlighted changes to the H-2A labor program that she said will reduce labor costs by nearly 23 percent overnight—critical relief in…
From Sheriff to Supervisor: Margaret Mims’ Vision for Fresno County’s Future
…cotton operations, Mims stresses that policymakers must understand how food actually gets from the field to the grocery store. Immigration, Labor, and Accountability Labor shortages and immigration reform were also…
AgNet News Hour: Health, Water, and California’s Crossroads
…in helping farmers manage labor, water, and soil challenges, while stressing the importance of making new technology practical and accessible. Events like the World Ag Expo are highlighted as key…
David Tangipa on Prop 50, High-Speed Rail, and the Fight for California’s Central Valley
…election integrity, and the growing disconnect between Sacramento leadership and rural communities. Honoring Doug LaMalfa and the Cost of Redistricting Chaos Tangipa opened by honoring the late Congressman Doug LaMalfa,…
How the Ohio and Erie Canal Helped Shape Ohio
…workers were employed at one time. Building the canal was a massive undertaking that required seven years of continuous labor. Completion and Lasting Impact By 1833, the Ohio and Erie…
Ohio: America’s First Agricultural Capital
…breakthrough that dramatically increased the efficiency of harvesting grain. Around the same time, Obed Hussey developed an early version of the mower, further reducing the labor required for fieldwork. These…
AgNet News Hour: Policy, Innovation & the Future of Agriculture
…and growing attention on agriculture policy. A major theme throughout the episode is farm labor and immigration reform. The hosts stress the urgent need for practical solutions that protect long-term…
George Zhuang on Raisins, Innovation, and Fresno Grapes
…with growers on research-based solutions. One of the biggest changes he sees ahead is in raisin production systems. Rising labor costs and shortages are accelerating interest in mechanization, especially through…



















