…transportation, and food. California’s $16.50 state minimum wage sets a high baseline, which significantly increases the total cost of compliance. “It’s a very costly program,” Cunha noted. “It’s not workable…
Imperial Valley Sugar Plant Closure Raises Crop Market Concerns
…a major gap. Leimgruber noted the possibility of reviving the plant or returning to cotton production, a crop not widely grown in the region for two decades. “Sugar beets are…
Water, Land, and Policy: Farmer Andrew Leimgruber Speaks Out
…and food. “If you solve a water shortage and create a food shortage, I’m not sure if you’ve really bettered the state.” He fears that state officials are quietly advancing…
Cunha: Immigration Failure Hurts America’s Farmworkers
…for comprehensive guest worker reform—one that protects American food production while honoring the commitment and dignity of longtime immigrant workers. Read more, and listen to Manuel Cunha’s full interview. Reporter:…
Wine Grape Growers Back Pierce’s Disease Program
California Growers Approve Continued Funding to Fight Vineyard Pests The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has certified the results of the Wine Grape Grower Continuation Referendum for the…
Pierce’s Disease Program Extended to 2031
California Wine Growers Back Program to Combat Vineyard Threats The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has reauthorized the Pierce’s Disease Control Program, a vital effort aimed at protecting…
AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 07-02-25
…sensitive military sites—calling it both a food security and national security issue. The show also explores the ripple effects of the closing Spreckels Sugar factory, which could impact 28,000 acres…
Three Sisters: America’s Oldest Crop Collaboration
…most enduring and ingenious agricultural systems brought to the New World—the Three Sisters. Early settlers adopted this ancient Native American farming method, where corn, beans, and squash were grown together…
Technology Transforms California Cherry Industry
…with Morada Produce Company, Jameson recently shared how advancements in technology and global markets have reshaped the way cherries are grown, packed, and sold. Technology Transforms California Cherry Industry: Jameson…
California Walnut Comeback: Norene’s Outlook
…in the baking aisle, walnuts are now being repositioned as a superfood. “We’re targeting younger generations,” said Norene. “They’re more health-conscious, and walnuts are the right commodity at the right…
CDFA Promotes Water Rule Compliance for California Tree Nut Growers
CDFA Promotes Water Rule Compliance for California Tree Nut Growers The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Produce Safety Program (CDFA-PSP) hit the road this spring to support farmers and…
California Farm Bureau Responds to Immigration Enforcement Concerns
…that support farming and ranching operations across the state. He noted that continued aggressive enforcement could jeopardize the food supply chain—from harvest to grocery shelves. “Without these employees, crops would…
AgNet News Hour Monday, 06-30-25
…They also challenge claims that solar fields benefit pollinators and push back on what they see as a dangerous trend of sidelining food production for feel-good energy policy. With input…
Fixing Farm Labor: Manuel Cunha Calls for Urgent Immigration Reform
…hospitality, construction, and food service. “We are stronger in numbers,” Cunha said, urging policymakers to consider the overlapping workforce across multiple industries. He argues that targeting agriculture alone is shortsighted…