…with Bryan Little – Supporting California Farmers Bryan Little, representing the California Farm Bureau, shared insights on his dual role: advocating for farm employers in legislation and regulation, and managing…
Kansas State: America’s First Land-Grant University
…landmark legislation. As a young state admitted to the Union in 1861, Kansas recognized the value of practical education that could strengthen its farms, communities, and workforce. Becoming a land-grant…
How Iowa State University Began: A Farming Legacy
…Assembly passed legislation to create the Iowa Agricultural College and Model Farm. This groundbreaking move signaled Iowa’s commitment to agricultural progress, education, and research at a time when farming practices…
Edward Ring on California’s Water Crisis: Fixing a Broken System
…“The veto power is a powerful tool. A good governor could use it to stop bad legislation and start pushing for real reform.” Ring also emphasized collaboration with Washington. “If…
Nanette Simonian: Championing California Agriculture & Women in Ag
…(CWA), she balances a dynamic career with advocacy and legislative involvement. On a recent episode of AgMeter, Nanette shared insights about her work, her perspective on key state legislation, and…
The Roots of 4-H: Jessie Shambaugh and the Birth of American Agricultural Youth
…Cooperative Extension Service. This initiative connected land-grant universities with local communities, enabling farmers and youth to receive research-based agricultural education. With this legislation, 4-H gained national recognition as part of…
Elaine Culotti: Fighting for California’s Farmers and Future
…no idea the impact of Democratic legislation on farming,” she said. “Those fresh little vegetables you love? Say goodbye. It’s going to be all NGO food. This type of government…
How the Smith-Lever Act Created 4-H and Transformed Rural America
…most visionary aspects of the Smith-Lever Act was its inclusion of programs for youth in rural America. The legislation encouraged local extension agents to work with young boys and girls…
How Rural Electrification Transformed U.S. Farms
…beginning of a new era for agriculture—one where innovation and efficiency could thrive. Lighting Up Rural America Although the legislation passed in the 1930s, electrifying rural America took time. By…
Fighting for California Agriculture and Values: David Tangipa on Water, Farmers, and Policy
…scarcity and driving farmers out, emphasizing the need for proactive political involvement. Protecting the Future of California Agriculture Tangipa also called attention to pending legislation that could further threaten farming…
California Ag Battles: Water, Solar, and Farmland Futures
…remain about how best to balance renewable energy with agriculture. AB1156 and the Williamson Act At the heart of the debate is Assembly Bill 1156, legislation that ties into the…
Immigration Reform and Ag Labor: Manuel Cunha on the Dignity Act
…background checks and contribute to agriculture, healthcare, and other sectors. “This legislation recognizes workers who pay taxes, raise families, and strengthen communities,” Cunha says. It also addresses Social Security benefits…
California Agriculture: Fires, Wolves & Farm Labor Reform
…Enhancing Safety for Animals Act of 2025. The legislation would delist the Mexican wolf from the Endangered Species Act, a move supported by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Arizona…