…Reinvention Despite the challenges, DiBuduo remains optimistic. At 75, he’s seen multiple agricultural cycles come and go. “The table grape industry has seen its ups and downs, but it came…
Nat DiBuduo, the “Godfather of Grapes,” on the Future of California Wine and Farming
…behind every label.” He also encouraged innovation in packaging, including canned and low-alcohol wines, to meet new consumer preferences. DiBuduo spoke passionately about farming challenges — from water scarcity to…
Karen Ross on Water, Workforce, and the Future of California Agriculture
…College to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping California agriculture. The conversation, held on the east side of the San Joaquin Valley, covered everything from workforce development and ag tech…
Elaine Culotti: Fighting for California’s Farmers and Future
…Elaine didn’t hesitate: “That’s right. Vote red, turn the tide, get rid of them all.” Both agreed that California’s challenges—especially in water and agriculture—are not insurmountable. As Nick said, the…
Shannon Douglass Doubles Down on Prop 50 Opposition
…listeners that agriculture already faces enormous challenges: Regulatory costs have increased nearly 1,400% in the past 20 years. California has lost 20% of its family farms in the last decade….
Mando Perez: Innovation & Leadership in California Ag
…trends and challenges in the industry. “I’m looking forward to the roundtable discussion for the student network event,” Perez said. This session focuses on mentoring college students pursuing careers as…
California’s Water Puzzle: Insights from Avid Water’s Cory Broad
Finding Solutions in a State Defined by Water Challenges Cory Broad California’s agriculture industry is built on innovation, resilience, and adaptation—qualities that define experts like Cory Broad, Agronomic Sales Manager…
Alexandra Duarte’s Fight for California’s Future
…lose the ability to fight. We have to keep our federal representation here in the valley.” A Focus on Common-Sense Policies Duarte stressed that the challenges facing California’s rural communities…
California Raisin Leaders on Trade, Water & Future
…processors maintain profitability. Sustainability, Water, and Energy Challenges Water remains one of California agriculture’s most pressing challenges, and raisin processors are investing heavily in sustainability initiatives to adapt. Mark McCormick…
Raisin Industry Legends Warn of Challenges and Chart a Path Forward
…the world. Despite the challenges, all three guests emphasized opportunities. USDA programs, including crop insurance, market access funds, and school lunch purchases, remain crucial. They also highlighted the need for…
Kevin Kester on Ranching, Trade, and Ag’s Next Generation
…heavy taxes, and costly regulatory requirements place tremendous strain on ranchers and small businesses alike. Despite these challenges, California remains a significant cattle state. Out of roughly 100 million acres…
Kevin Kester on Cattle, Wolves, and the Fight to Keep Family Ranches Alive
…stay in business,” he said, pointing to California’s high costs and thousands of state-specific rules. Despite these challenges, the state still maintains 35 to 39 million acres of grazing land,…
Pistachios, Water & Trade: Kreps on Farming’s Future
…and healthier crops. However, the early rains that came in late summer did create some challenges. Moisture can slow down harvest operations, cause muddy fields, and make hauling nuts in…
John Duarte on Central Valley Agriculture: Water, Prop 50, and the Future of Avocados
…the innovations that have defined its growth, and the challenges and opportunities facing California growers today. John Duarte President of Duarte Nursery The nursery’s story begins with John’s father, Jim…