…has changed since Pistoresi’s grandfather grew mushrooms in the Valley. “You can’t farm like grandpa did,” Pistoresi agreed. “There’s too much at stake now—water shortages, labor costs, environmental rules. Today’s…
Southern Agriculture: The Rise of Plantations and Cotton’s Global Impact
…backbone of the region’s economy, driving both domestic and international trade. The success of these crops depended heavily on labor-intensive production and fertile soil, both of which played key roles…
SOLIX Robotics: Solar-Powered Autonomy for Modern Farmers
…the Modern Labor Challenge Labor shortages remain one of the most significant issues facing farmers. Wetli notes that SOLIX isn’t designed to eliminate labor but to make labor smarter and…
Solinftec’s Taylor Wetli Talks Solar Robotics and the Future of Smart Farming
…fully autonomous.” Papagni noted that California farmers are constantly battling rising costs and labor shortages, and technology like this could be a game changer. Wetli agreed, explaining that the technology…
How Railroads Transformed American Agriculture in the 1860s
…increased access to markets, reduced costs, and spurred an era of agricultural prosperity across the Great Plains and Midwest. The Homestead Act: Land for a Growing Nation The federal government’s…
Inside the World of Agricultural Shipping: A Conversation with Jeff Cox of Best Drayage
…ranging from 30 to 45 days, sometimes up to 50 depending on route and carrier. Transit times can vary based on cost considerations: faster shipments typically cost more, while lower-cost…
Inside FIRA USA 2025: California’s AgTech Future
…Need for Ag-Tech-Fluent Professionals A major topic of discussion was the changing labor landscape. As older farmworkers retire and fewer young people pursue traditional farm labor roles, automation becomes increasingly…
California Table Grapes: A Strong, High-Quality Season
…Standards in a Challenging State Nick pointed out what many growers know well: California’s world-class quality comes with higher costs. Labor, freight, and regulatory compliance all exceed the standards of…
Ian LeMay Shares California Table Grape Success Story Amid Global Competition
…regulated environment. “Yes, the costs are higher — from labor to pesticide regulation — but that’s also our badge of honor,” he said. “When buyers purchase California grapes, they can…
Kings County Farm Bureau Takes on State Water Board Over Groundwater Rights
…difference. California-grown food may cost more, but it is safer, fresher, and produced with strict environmental and labor standards. Ference called for a level playing field and stronger support for…
Homestead Act and America’s Westward Expansion
…economic debate. Some wanted to sell land at higher prices to raise government revenue, while others pushed for low-cost or free land to empower ordinary families and stimulate agriculture. These…
The Rise of Plantation Agriculture in Early America
…to global trade networks. However, this growth came at a tremendous human cost—plantation labor systems grew increasingly dependent on enslaved people, shaping the region’s social and political dynamics leading up…
California Agriculture at a Crossroads: Insights from Fresno County Farm Bureau President Ryan Jacobsen
…trending more positively than in recent years. Labor and Freight: Persistent Challenges With Hope for Policy Progress Labor remains a constant concern for California agriculture. The Ag Meter raised the…
Ryan Jacobsen on Farming Through Storms, Labor, and the Future of California Agriculture
…issues—water, labor, and regulation—but the complexity of each has skyrocketed,” he said. “It’s more difficult to farm today than it’s ever been, but we keep finding ways to adapt.” Representing…