Commentary – My WordPress

September 16, 2026

Everyone wins when farms invest in their employees

An employee of Knights Landing-based River Garden Farms, left, engages with English instructor Cece Drissia during an AgHiRE workshop at the Center for Land-Based Learning in Woodland. Photo/Joan Cusick

By Trevor Tauzer

It’s hard to overstate the importance of crew leaders in making an agricultural operation run smoothly, or even run at all.

At Tauzer Apiaries in Woodland, our team of 45 beekeepers travels across the state pollinating more than 30 different crops. They include almonds, apples, cherries, melons, onions, cucumbers and sunflowers.

As with most agricultural operations, there’s no way the owners or managers can have their eyes on everything at all times. Even if we could, it’s probably not the healthiest way to run a business. We need partners in the field, and for many farms, they are our crew leaders. For us, they’re the key to the whole operation.

Our crew leaders each supervise a team of four beekeepers. While we do our best to train and equip them, it really is up to these employees to ensure things go well—for our bees, our clients and our employees—while they are out traveling across the state, sometimes on multiday trips.

We are blessed to have some of the most skilled and experienced beekeepers in the business leading our crews. Most started with us as beekeepers and were later chosen as crew leaders because of their practical knowledge of beekeeping, maturity and leadership qualities. They know all the tricks of the trade.

However, there can still be gaps in their understanding when it comes to people management, digital literacy, regulatory compliance and English.

Fortunately, several of our crew leaders have benefited from a career development program called AgHiRE, which is offered by the Center for Land-Based Learning in Woodland. The program provides training in each of those areas, bringing in experts to work with participating farmworkers on communication, computer skills, regulatory requirements and basic English.

I have appreciated how this program, which is designed for Spanish speakers, met our crew leaders where they were—recognizing their experience and abilities as well as their capacity to take more initiative and adopt a greater sense of ownership over their work.

In my experience, an employee’s limitations may in many cases stem less from a lack of knowledge or ability than from not having had the confidence or permission to step out of their comfort zone.

Programs such as AgHiRE provide a space for seasoned farmworkers to break down mental or technical barriers and try new things.

The progress our employees made in certain areas was truly remarkable.

I have seen a big shift in their effectiveness and professionalism when it comes to handling the kinds of interpersonal conflicts that can arise in any workplace. This can make all the difference in fostering a positive work environment.

The digital literacy training was also helpful. While everyone now has a smartphone in their pocket, being able to send a WhatsApp message may not mean a person knows their way around some of the apps that have become commonplace in agriculture. Some of our crew leaders really turned a corner in their technological skills after participating in the program.

Any opportunity for our employees to increase their comfort level with English is also valuable. While Spanish may suffice on many farms, including ours, our beekeepers spend lots of work time off the farm. This includes hours on the road, where they may need to speak with mechanics, landowners or anyone else. It’s a real asset to have more employees who are comfortable in English.

The AgHiRE program’s training on regulatory compliance has been hugely beneficial. As an employer, we can offer all the required trainings on heat safety and everything else. But it’s one thing for a crew leader to be able to recite the requirements and another for them to have an appreciation for the purpose behind some of these safety rules and be able to communicate them and get buy-in from their crews.

Even if we think we know the message we want to send, the employer is not always the right messenger. It takes a lot of weight off my shoulders to know I have a group of people I trust who are respected by the rest of the employees and capable of delivering important messages about workplace safety or other aspects of the job.

Whether it’s through AgHiRE or another program, I would encourage any farm employer to take advantage of career development opportunities for their employees, and especially for crew leaders who play such a vital role in many operations.

While it is an investment and a time commitment, in our experience it has been more than worthwhile. The AgHiRE program opened new doors for our employees while providing an opportunity to build trust and demonstrate that we value them.

I believe it also benefits us as a company when employees—and prospective employees—know they can learn skills here that will help them advance in their careers and build a better life.

AgHiRE is enrolling participants in its next cohort, which will run from Dec. 1 through March 11. For more information, visit www.landbasedlearning.org/program/aghire/.

Trevor Tauzer is a second-generation beekeeper and chief operating officer of Tauzer Apiaries in Woodland. He can be reached at trevor@tauzerbees.com.

Reprint with credit to California Farm Bureau. For image use, email agalert@cfbf.com.

In this edition…

• View full issue

• Vineyard workers feel wine industry pain

• El Niño increases chances of winter storms and floods

• Everyone wins when farms invest in their employees

• New DWR director discusses water resiliency plans

• Irrigation can’t shield tomatoes from extreme heat

• Owl study assesses rat management in nut orchards

• What is the best strategy to manage Botryosphaeria?

• Wage-and-hour questions from the field

• Vineyard adaptation to heat an economic balancing act

• Advocacy in Action: Dairy, water, wolves and trade

• Are irrigation jets right for your orchard or vineyard?

• Training aims at preventing heat illness in farmworkers

September 2, 2026

Influence starts with engaged Farm Bureau members

Dan Durheim meets with Farm Bureau members and officials from Plumas and Sierra counties during his visit to the region. Photo/Jane Roberti

By Dan Durheim

Farm Bureau’s influence is often measured by the policies we help shape in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. But during a recent tour through Northern California, I was reminded that our influence begins much closer to home. It begins with volunteers, relationships and members willing to engage on behalf of something larger than themselves.

The experiences and conversations I encountered reinforced an important lesson: Engagement transforms membership into influence.

Throughout my visit, I saw that Farm Bureau’s greatest strength comes from relationships—among neighbors, businesses, educators and community leaders. Most importantly, it comes from volunteers who invest their time because they care about the future of agriculture.

Those relationships create understanding. Farm Bureau’s competitive advantage begins with listening to farmers and ranchers and understanding their needs. Whether the issue is forest management, workforce development, regulatory challenges or the cost of doing business, meaningful solutions start with firsthand knowledge. Strong relationships help Farm Bureau deliver value, advocate effectively and create opportunities for agriculture.

In Shasta County, I attended a county Farm Bureau board meeting and spent time in the forest with county Farm Bureau President Joe Puentes, gaining a firsthand look at the connection between agriculture, forestry and responsible land stewardship. At dinner with Farm Bureau leaders, the county agricultural commissioner, University of California Cooperative Extension professionals and members of Young Farmers & Ranchers from Shasta College, conversations quickly turned to the opportunities and challenges facing local farmers and ranchers.

The evening demonstrated one of Farm Bureau’s greatest strengths: bringing members, educators and public officials together to turn individual concerns into collective understanding and action.

I saw that same strength in Plumas-Sierra County, where a county board dinner brought Farm Bureau leaders together with elected county supervisors, the agricultural commissioner and county planning officials. These conversations help build the relationships and understanding necessary to address local challenges.

The value of those relationships was also evident in the work of Dave and Jane Roberti. By partnering with their local NAPA store, they helped secure best-in-class pricing on equipment filters for Farm Bureau members. On the surface, it may seem like a simple member benefit. In reality, it demonstrates the power of collective action. An individual farmer or rancher has limited purchasing leverage. A community of producers working together through Farm Bureau can create a different conversation and deliver tangible value.

In Modoc County, Sean Curtis shared another example of influence in practice. Recognizing the need for skilled workers to support forestry projects and stewardship activities on the region’s extensive federal lands, the county Farm Bureau has helped bring partners together to address a challenge affecting the local economy and the long-term health of the landscape.

This effort reflects Farm Bureau’s role as a convener—connecting industry needs, educational resources and community partners around a common purpose. Rather than waiting for others to solve the problem, local leaders identified a need and worked collaboratively to create a path forward. That strengthens the region’s ability to carry out important forestry and land management projects while reinforcing Farm Bureau’s role as a trusted community partner.

I saw a similar connection between agriculture and community in Lassen County while visiting Sierra Cascade Nursery. What stood out was not only the sophistication of the operation but also the reminder that agriculture remains foundational to rural communities. The nursery demonstrated the growing role technology, innovation and specialized labor play in modern agriculture while highlighting the planning and investment required to remain competitive.

The visit also reinforced how interconnected agriculture has become. Labor availability, technology and regulatory requirements increasingly call on producers to share knowledge, work together and advocate for practical solutions. These challenges are exactly why Farm Bureau’s collective voice matters.

Local farms and ranches create economic activity far beyond the farm gate. Equipment dealers, trucking companies, suppliers, financial institutions, schools and service providers all benefit from a healthy agricultural economy. The success of agriculture contributes directly to the vitality of the communities that surround it.

Each of these experiences reinforced the same lesson: Farm Bureau’s ability to create value and influence outcomes begins with understanding member needs, and that understanding comes from engagement. It comes from board meetings, county dinners, field tours and everyday conversations.

Influence is not always measured by legislation passed or regulations changed. Sometimes it means bringing people around the same table to better understand agriculture’s needs. Sometimes it means creating value through a local business partnership. Sometimes it means addressing regional challenges through collaboration or strengthening rural communities.

Farm Bureau’s influence is rooted in volunteers who are willing to show up, invest their time and build relationships. Those efforts may begin locally, but their impact extends far beyond county lines. They strengthen our communities, organization and ability to advocate for California agriculture.

Whether it is improving forest stewardship, supporting the workforce needed for land management projects, building partnerships with local businesses or strengthening rural economies, Farm Bureau members accomplish more together than any of us could alone.

Engagement is what turns membership into influence. Attend a county meeting. Participate in a policy discussion. Respond to a Farm Team Alert. Share the challenges and opportunities facing your operation. The future of Farm Bureau is shaped by members who are willing to engage—and the stronger our engagement, the stronger our influence.

Dan Durheim is chief operating officer of California Farm Bureau. He can be reached at ddurheim@cfbf.com.

Reprint with credit to California Farm Bureau. For image use, email agalert@cfbf.com.

In this edition…

• Regenerative label payoff remains murky

• Paintballs among new tools allowed for hazing wolves

• Influence starts with engaged Farm Bureau members

• USDA seeks to ease organic certification process, costs

• From the Fields: Chris Jergenson, Merced and Stanislaus counties organic farmer

• From the Fields: Ben Lyons, Solano County farmer

• From the Fields: Domenic Carinalli, Sonoma County organic dairy farmer and conventional winegrape grower

• From the Fields: Katie Herzog, Monterey County agave grower

• New ‘smart’ farm tech targets vegetable production

• Growth in organic milk presents market challenges

• Advocacy in Action: Packaging requirements, labor, beef cattle, trade, compost, Roadless Rule and disaster relief

• How you can make the switch to regenerative farming

• Summit seeks to strengthen agritourism

• Leopold award finalists for 2026 selected

August 19, 2026

Memory loss on the farm is more than a health issue

By Marc Loupé

On a California farm or ranch, memory is not an abstract thing. It is knowing when to irrigate, which field floods first, which employee can run which machine, where records are stored and how to read the land after years of experience.

When Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia enters that setting, the impact reaches far beyond one diagnosis. It can affect safety, business continuity, family relationships and the future of the operation itself.

The far-reaching impact of dementia on the daily operation of a farm is one reason farm families can experience the disease differently than many other households.

In office-based industries, duties may be shifted, teams may absorb responsibilities and supervisors may notice changes quickly.

On a farm, an owner or key operator may still be making decisions about equipment, livestock, irrigation, payroll, pesticide handling, contracts and succession planning long after subtle cognitive changes begin.

Research has found that people whose longest-held jobs were in agriculture, forestry and fishing had higher odds of dementia than workers in many other occupations, and researchers have pointed to factors such as pesticide exposure, hearing loss, depression, isolation and delayed diagnosis as possible contributors.

The French TRACTOR study adds another important insight: Dementia risk is not the same across agriculture. The study found higher Alzheimer’s risk in pesticide-intensive crop production, vineyards and orchards than in several livestock sectors.

It also found that French farm managers over 60 developed Alzheimer’s at a higher rate than regular people. In that age group, about 18 out of 1,000 farmers developed the disease each year compared to 11 out of 1,000 people in the general population.

These findings support concerns in the U.S. that older farmers may face a higher risk of memory loss and mental decline.

The findings also suggest that specific occupational exposures tied to commodity type, pesticide intensity, noise and work structure—not agriculture alone—may drive much of the increased risk.

California’s agricultural communities face added challenges because many farms are family-run, rural and time-constrained. Distance from specialists, stigma around asking for help and the seasonal intensity of farm work can all delay recognition and support.

Rural caregivers also face barriers that urban families may not, including fewer nearby services, longer travel times and less respite support.

For farmers and ranchers, the practical risks can be immediate. A person experiencing early dementia may miss a gate, forget a medication, repeat a tractor route, mishandle livestock instructions or lose track of financial obligations.

In a business where one mistake can injure a worker, disrupt harvest timing or threaten water management, those lapses can carry unusually high consequences.

The burden also falls on spouses, adult children, employees and neighbors.

California has more than 715,000 people living with Alzheimer’s and more than 1.37 million caregivers providing unpaid care, much of it while juggling jobs, household duties and financial pressure. In farm families, that caregiving load is often layered on top of production responsibilities.

The good news is that California farmers and rural residents do not have to navigate dementia alone. The Alzheimer’s Association offers several free services that are especially relevant for agricultural communities.

The first and simplest entry point is the association’s 24/7 Helpline, which provides confidential support, crisis assistance, local referrals and information in more than 200 languages.

The association also offers services such as caregiver and early-stage support groups, including phone, video and in-person options.

This flexibility matters for rural families that may be hours from a major medical center or unable to leave the ranch during busy periods. Support groups are led by trained facilitators and designed to provide practical guidance and emotional support for people living with dementia and those caring for them.

Education is another critical service. The association provides online, in-person and virtual education programs on topics such as warning signs, diagnosis, communication, caregiving across stages of disease and planning for future care costs. It also offers online education and tools such as ALZ Navigator to help families identify next steps on their own schedule.

Other California programs can complement the association’s support. The state’s CAlz Connect program offers a free six-month intervention for people living with dementia and their caregivers in certain counties, using trained community health workers to provide education, care planning, service connections and transition support by phone or Zoom.

For California agriculture, the message is not simply that dementia is a health issue. It is a farm viability issue, rural caregiving issue and community issue. Early conversations can help protect the person, the family and the operation through medical evaluation, safety planning, financial controls, legal documents, transportation decisions and gradual delegation of key farm tasks.

Farm leaders, county Farm Bureaus, rural clinics, churches and community organizations all have a role to play. The most effective response will come from trusted local voices encouraging families to seek help early, reduce stigma and use the support systems that already exist.

California agriculture has always depended on resilience, practical problem-solving and strong communities. Dementia should be approached the same way: honestly, early and together.

Marc Loupé chairs the Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California Board of Directors. He is a partner of the 2Go Advisory Group, a management consulting firm in Walnut Creek, and leads the firm’s Agriculture Practice Group.

Alzheimer’s support

• Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline: 800-272-3900

• Alzheimer’s Association support services: www.alz.org/help-support/resources/alznavigator

• CAlz Connect: https://aging.ca.gov/Programs_and_Services/Alzheimers_Dementia_Support/

In this edition…

• Expected almond crop yield slightly smaller this year

• Cyclospora fallout hits California farmers

• Memory loss on the farm is more than a health issue

• State regulator: ‘We should fight to keep our farms’

• California startup advances in Ag Innovation Challenge

• Almond hulls being tested for use as food ingredient

• Wolf reports show continued livestock losses, more packs

• Nonprofit program aims to bring more rice to delta

• Mothballing offers middle ground in wine downturn

• Dial 811 first to protect your land, workers and neighbors

• Could coastal citrus mites destroy your crop in weeks?

• Zinc, boron, manganese and their role in nut production

• More funds devoted to stop sharpshooter

• Advocacy in Action: Labor, fire equipment, climate funds, Gualala River, endangered species, dairy order, lily bulbs

• Meeting to address risk in uncertain times

August 5, 2026

Young farmer reflects on her agricultural leadership

Attendees of the 2026 California Young Farmers & Ranchers Summer Leaders meeting tour The Mission Farm at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Napa. Photo/Destiny Reyes

By August D’Amato

Being a first-generation farmer in California comes with many challenges. As a Delaware transplant, I struggled to navigate the California wine industry. It is a tight-knit industry that relies heavily on who you know—and I did not know anyone.

In 2019, a friend invited me to the first Napa Young Farmers & Ranchers meeting in more than two years. Some 30 young professionals in the wine industry gathered at Groth Vineyards & Winery in Napa for dinner, drinks and networking. I was immediately hooked. Not only did I make lifelong friends at the event, but it was also the day I met my husband.

During our first year of reviving the Napa YF&R committee, we held monthly meetings at different vineyards and wineries, and brought back Barn Dance, the annual fundraiser.

By December 2019, we had enough money to fully fund our chapter and began planning big for the future. I wrote our bylaws and created subcommittees for members to get more involved. We had elected our first officers in February 2020, and I was elected secretary.

A month later, everything stopped due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All our big plans for the year were canceled. When farmers and ranchers were deemed essential workers, we knew we had an opportunity to give back to our community in a big way.

In April 2020, we came across The Mission Farm, a 2.5-acre volunteer-run organic farm at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Napa that donates fresh fruits and vegetables to the local food bank.

Napa YF&R Chair Julian Clymer and I looked at each other and immediately knew we had found what we were looking for. The farm needed us, and we needed them. It was the beginning of a life-changing partnership.

Napa YF&R began volunteering weekly at the farm—and continues to do so to this day. It allowed us to maintain our momentum and gather as a group while giving back to our Napa community in need. That year, the farm donated more than 23,000 pounds of produce to the Napa County Food Bank and continues to average about 20,000 pounds annually.

I was elected chair of the Napa YF&R committee in 2021. We returned to monthly meetings and incorporated guest speakers and annual activities, including cornhole and softball tournaments against Sonoma-Marin YF&R.

Along with volunteering at The Mission Farm, we incorporated interactive Agriculture in the Classroom days such as “Make Your Own Ice Cream.” We also planted a pumpkin patch and hosted two U-pick pumpkin days for students in the local community.

That December, I attended my first California Farm Bureau Annual Meeting and YF&R Conference in Anaheim, where we were awarded for community involvement. During Annual Meeting, I was elected to the state YF&R committee to represent District 17, overseeing the Napa and Sonoma-Marin YF&R committees.

During the next four years, I helped my district committees win Committee of the Year—Napa in 2022 and Sonoma-Marin in 2025, along with several other awards for their involvement. Our district remains active in community agriculture and education.

In December 2025, I was elected chair of the California YF&R committee after serving as the secretary in 2023, second vice chair in 2024 and first vice chair in 2025. During my time on the executive committee, I helped grow our social media activity and participated in the Open Discussion Meet.

As the FarmPAC chair last year, I planned our first state YF&R FarmPAC dinner and took over Napa County’s Barn Dance, netting more than $23,000 in a single evening and contributing toward our final total of $131,000 for California Farm Bureau’s FarmPAC.

It is hard to believe half the year is over. Last month, we hosted the 2026 YF&R Summer Leaders meeting in my new hometown of Napa, which had been a dream of mine since joining the executive team. I could not be prouder to have had more than 70 YF&R members from around the state join us to grow, learn and network with each other. We even toured Groth Vineyards & Winery, where my YF&R and Farm Bureau story began.

For me, the highlight of the Summer Leaders meeting was bringing 60 YF&R members to The Mission Farm to harvest tomatoes, squash, corn, peppers and cucumbers for donation. In just one hour of work, our group harvested 600 pounds of produce, and we were able to showcase a Harvest for All program that can be replicated around the state.

With about four months left as the California YF&R chair, I am excited for everything that is still to come, including a regional tour and mixer in Stanislaus County, open and collegiate Discussion Meets and wrapping up my tenure at the 2026 California Farm Bureau Annual Meeting and YF&R Conference. I hope to see you in Reno in December to celebrate all that YF&R has accomplished. Cheers!

August D’Amato is a first-generation farmer in Napa County. She works as a Carneros vineyard manager and pest control adviser for Beckstoffer Vineyards in Napa and serves as the 2026 chair of the California Young Farmers & Ranchers. She can be reached at augustd@beckstoffervineyards.com.

In this edition…

July 22, 2026

California’s pest prevention system needs an update

A working dog with the Orange County Office of the Agricultural Commissioner inspects boxes as part of the county’s efforts to keep harmful pests and plant materials from entering California. Photo/Courtesy of the California Agricultural Commissioners and Sealers Association

By Lindsey Carter

Recent glassy-winged sharpshooter incidents aren’t significant simply because of the pest involved. They’re a reminder that California’s first line of defense against invasive pests is under increasing pressure.

As global trade, travel and e-commerce continue to increase, California’s pest prevention system is being asked to stop more threats than ever before—using a system that has not kept pace with the growing challenge.

California has comprehensive plans to prepare for wildfires, protect water supplies and respond to public health emergencies. Yet when it comes to safeguarding the farms, ranches and natural resources that make California the nation’s agricultural leader, California’s pest prevention system has not been prioritized in more than 30 years.

California has spent decades investing in building one of the most productive agricultural economies in the world. We’ve invested in research, irrigation, food safety, infrastructure and market development. But we’re not making a comparable investment in shoring up a long-term strategy for protecting agriculture from the growing threat of invasive pests.

Recognizing this need, the California Agricultural Commissioners and Sealers Association initiated a comprehensive assessment of California’s pest prevention system. The purpose was simple: Determine whether the system designed to protect California agriculture is prepared for the threats of today and tomorrow.

The findings were both encouraging and concerning.

California’s pest prevention system has an impressive record of success. County agricultural commissioners, Border Protection Stations, detector dog teams, trapping networks, sterile insect production facilities and countless other programs quietly protect California agriculture every day.

But the assessment also found that while pest pressures have increased dramatically during the past three decades, many parts of California’s pest prevention infrastructure have remained largely stagnant. Staffing shortages, aging technology, limited facilities and fragmented funding have made it increasingly difficult for the system to keep pace with today’s risks.

The stakes could not be higher. For growers, invasive pests don’t just threaten yields—they jeopardize export markets, increase production costs and create uncertainty that can last for decades.

California agriculture is a $60 billion industry that supplies food to consumers across the country and around the world. Beyond the farm gate, invasive pests also threaten urban landscapes, forests, natural ecosystems and international market access for California commodities.

Strong pest prevention also advances another goal shared by agriculture and the public alike: reducing pesticide use.

When invasive pests become established, growers often have little choice but to increase pesticide applications to protect crops. When eradication efforts succeed, those additional treatments are no longer needed. The most effective way to reduce pesticide use is to prevent new invasive pests from becoming established in the first place.

Additional dollars are needed to shore up the aging system. But the answer is not simply more funding. The answer is a better plan.

Over the coming year, CACASA will bring together growers, commodity organizations, environmental interests, university researchers, state and federal agencies, and other stakeholders to develop a comprehensive Statewide Pest Prevention Plan. Much like California’s long-range planning for wildfire prevention and water management, this effort will identify priorities, improve coordination among agencies, modernize pest prevention programs and create a roadmap for future investment.

Just as importantly, it will help answer difficult questions about where resources are needed most, how success should be measured and how responsibility for funding should be shared among agriculture, environmental interests, local government, the state and federal partners.

This effort cannot succeed without agriculture’s voice.

No one understands the consequences of invasive pests better than the growers whose livelihoods depend on healthy crops and reliable access to domestic and international markets. As this plan takes shape, your experience and perspective will be essential to ensuring it reflects the realities facing California agriculture.

The recent glassy-winged sharpshooter incidents should not simply be viewed as isolated events. They should remind us that protecting California agriculture requires the same long-term planning and commitment we devote to every other form of critical infrastructure.

The state has invested generations of work building the world’s greatest agricultural economy.

California agriculture has always led the nation in innovation. We should also lead the nation in how we protect what we’ve built. Developing a comprehensive Statewide Pest Prevention Plan is the first step.

Lindsey Carter is the executive director of the California Agricultural Commissioners and Sealers Association. She can be reached at lindseyl@cacasa.org.

In this edition…

• Researchers study potential of agave crop

• Investigadores estudian el potencial del cultivo de agave

• California grazing sector threatened as goat herder wage soars to $240K

• California’s pest prevention system needs an update

• Mechanical harvest research bolsters table olive prospects

• Overnight guests add key revenue stream for farms

• Advocacy in Action: Grazing, wild horses and the Endangered Species Act

• Smart sprayers slash farm labor and herbicide costs

• How will early blooms and light crop affect navel orangeworms?

• Finding her second act: Former dancer builds new life with U-pick raspberry farm

• Bountiful Finds: A curated collection of goods made by Farm Bureau members

• Now in season: You can grill just about anything

• The scenic route: Pit stops at California farms and ranches

• Grape expectations: Sweet flavor with healthy twist

• A life in motion: Avocado farmer helped revolutionize the modern skateboard

• Imagine this: Students tell stories about agriculture

• AI in agriculture: Balancing innovation and new risk

• Workforce training program seeks input from employers

July 8, 2026

To protect groundwater, policies need reality check

Photo/Christine Souza

By Ron Peterson

As a dairy farmer in the Central Valley, I understand the importance of protecting groundwater. My family lives here. Our employees live here. We drink the same water and raise our children in the same communities that rely on clean and safe drinking water. We share the goal of protecting groundwater quality and ensuring a sustainable future for agriculture and our rural communities.

It is with this shared commitment to the future that dairy farmers are closely reviewing the California State Water Resources Control Board’s 2026 revised draft dairy order. While we wholeheartedly agree that we need to protect our vital groundwater resources, the reality is that many of the measures being proposed are extraordinarily complex, costly and difficult to implement at a time when California dairy farmers already face immense economic pressure and are doing more than we ever have to ensure the longevity of the land for generations to come.

The state water board’s proposal represents a dramatic shift in how dairies would be regulated, imposing new requirements that could fundamentally change how dairy farms operate. To build a successful regulatory path, we need to balance our shared environmental goals with the demands of keeping family farms viable.

For many California dairy farms, profit margins are virtually nonexistent due to rising labor costs, higher feed prices, increasing energy expenses, volatile milk markets and a growing list of regulatory requirements that have already stretched many dairy families to their limits. Every year, more California dairies close their doors.

The new dairy order, which calls for extensive, complicated whole-farm nitrogen accounting, increased reporting metrics and stricter groundwater monitoring, will add significant new compliance costs and operational burdens that many farms simply cannot absorb. Specifically, the order restricts how much manure dairies can apply to their own forage crops, requiring many dairies to export their calculated surplus manure off-site. (See related news.)

As someone who has operated an anaerobic digester for the past three years, I know firsthand that digesters have been an excellent tool to help the industry reduce greenhouse gas emissions while also producing renewable energy. But digesters are not a practical or economical option for every dairy. California’s dairy industry is incredibly diverse, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution for manure management.

Today, some dairies can export excess manure to neighboring farms or other users who can beneficially use those nutrients. But under the proposed order, many more dairies could be looking for places to send excess manure. That raises an important question: Will there be enough available land, infrastructure and demand to handle it? A system that works for some dairies today could become much more difficult when more dairies compete for the same outlets.

Dairy farmers understand the need to improve nutrient management. The challenge is that the infrastructure and markets needed to accomplish what the order envisions do not yet exist at the scale being contemplated.

One of the biggest concerns is that while the proposal recognizes that readily available solutions for managing excess dairy manure remain limited, the burden remains largely on dairy farmers to figure out how to comply. There is currently no large-scale, economically viable system capable of handling the potential excess manure produced by California dairy farms. Compost markets face severe constraints. Transportation costs are substantial. Processing technologies remain expensive. Alternative end uses are still developing.

The practicality of implementation also deserves careful consideration. The timelines the state water board has established for compliance are ambitious, and many of us question whether they are realistically achievable. Even if dairy farmers are ready to move forward, will there be enough qualified engineers, consultants and technical professionals available to design, permit and construct the projects needed to meet the deadlines?

Another important point is that although the revised proposal now recognizes that land application of manure is the primary source of dairy-related nitrate loading to groundwater, additional lagoon requirements are also being proposed. These future requirements apply to existing lagoons without groundwater connection and those that may have hydraulic continuity with groundwater, as well as new or reconstructed manure retention ponds. As a result, dairies may face significant new requirements for land application and manure storage infrastructure.

California dairy families have a long history of working constructively with the state. During the past two decades, we have adapted to some of the strictest environmental standards in the world.

In addition to installing digesters, many dairy farmers have adopted improved nutrient management practices, irrigation efficiency measures, cover cropping, soil health programs and conservation practices designed to improve water quality and reduce environmental impacts. The dairy industry has partnered with regulators, researchers and environmental organizations to develop innovative solutions and continually improve stewardship practices.

These efforts have required significant financial commitments from dairy families and demonstrate the industry’s willingness to be part of the solution.

As the state finalizes the dairy order, success should ultimately be measured not only by the goals it sets but by whether those goals can realistically be achieved. California dairy farmers want to continue improving groundwater protection, but the regulatory framework must reflect the practical realities on the ground, including available technology, infrastructure, engineering capacity and achievable implementation timelines.

California dairy farmers want to remain partners in protecting groundwater. We ask policymakers to recognize the progress that has already been made, understand the challenges that remain and work with us to develop solutions that are environmentally effective and practical for the family farms that produce California’s milk.

Ron Peterson, a dairy farmer who also grows silage crops and almonds and raises beef cattle in Stanislaus County, is second vice president of the California Farm Bureau. He can be reached at rpeterson@cfbf.com.

In this edition…

• Mussels plague farms and water districts

• California awards $2 million to curb attacks by wolves

• To protect groundwater, policies need reality check

• Early crop boosts prospects for California pear growers

• From the Fields: Jim Durst, Yolo County farmer

• From the Fields: By Jim Rickert, Shasta County rancher and farmer

• From the Fields: Mark Hall, Kern County table grape grower

• From the Fields: Ian Garrone, Monterey County mushroom farmer

• Growers look to grafted watermelons to battle pests

• It’s not too soon to prepare for screwworm response

• Advocacy in Action: New dairy order, grizzly bear reintroduction, H-2A reform and a Supreme Court victory

• Supplies of dairy heifers expected to recover in 2027

June 17, 2026

Regulatory costs put Napa County wine future at risk

Napa County winegrape grower Johnnie White says the regulatory costs of farming in the region have pushed individual farms to a breaking point, threatening the future of agriculture in California. Photo/Fred Greaves

By Johnnie White

Our family has farmed in Napa County for six generations. Through droughts, recessions, changing markets and evolving technologies, we have adapted time and again to keep our land productive and business viable. We have never expected farming to be easy. But we have always believed it would remain possible.

Today, that assumption is no longer safe. The mounting weight of regulations continues to push many of us to a breaking point, threatening not just individual farms but the future of agriculture in California.

The state’s long-standing commitment to agriculture has helped make it the nation’s leading agricultural producer. This success did not happen by accident. It was built over generations by farmers willing to invest, innovate and endure uncertainty. But today, that legacy is at risk. A growing regulatory burden—layered, complex and often duplicative—is steadily eroding the economic foundation that has sustained farming communities for decades.

A recent study from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, quantifies what many winegrape growers have known intuitively for years: Regulatory compliance is no longer a manageable cost of doing business. It has become an existential threat. According to the study, a large Napa County vineyard faces compliance costs of $1,744 per acre. Smaller vineyards face costs of $1,131 per acre.

At first glance, these numbers might not seem catastrophic when expressed as a percentage—roughly 8% to 12% of total production costs. But percentages obscure reality. Napa Valley winegrape growers are already operating within increasingly narrow margins. Wine consumption has declined, inventories remain high, prices are under pressure, and contracts are harder to secure. In that context, an additional 8% to 12% in fixed costs can determine whether a vineyard survives another season.

Winegrapes appear to carry some of the highest regulatory costs relative to production of any crop in California. At the same time, growers face intensifying competition from imported bulk wine, which is often blended and sold under American labels. This practice depresses prices and puts local growers at a distinct disadvantage. We are competing with global supply chains operating under minimal regulatory frameworks.

No one is asking for a free pass. Farmers understand the importance of environmental stewardship, water conservation and worker safety. The land is our livelihood, and protecting it is in our direct interest.

What we ask for is balance. Regulations should achieve their intended goals without making farming economically unworkable. Right now, that balance is off. Compliance often requires navigating overlapping rules from multiple agencies, each with its own reporting requirements, timelines and enforcement mechanisms. The administrative burden alone can require dedicated staff or expensive consultants—resources smaller farms simply do not have and few farms can afford.

These regulatory costs are not inevitable; they are the result of policy decisions. That means they can also be addressed through thoughtful reform. The Cal Poly study highlights a striking comparison: Similar farming operations in Oregon face roughly half the regulatory costs of those in California. This disparity should raise serious questions. Are California’s environmental and labor outcomes twice as effective? Or are we imposing unnecessary complexity and cost without proportional benefit?

The situation is poised to become even more challenging. The study’s findings do not yet account for new regulations on the horizon, including groundwater management fees under the state’s Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, which are expected to add about $98 per acre this year. For some growers, that additional cost will be the tipping point.

Napa Valley winegrape growers have always been resilient. We have adapted to changing climates, evolving consumer preferences and economic volatility. But resilience has limits. It is not a sustainable business model to continuously shoulder rising costs without corresponding increases in revenue. At some point, the math simply stops working.

When farms go out of business, the consequences extend far beyond the families that work the land. Productive agricultural acreage may be sold, converted to other uses or left idle. Local economies suffer job losses, reduced business activity and declining tax revenue, while rural communities face diminishing economic vitality. Once farmland is removed from agricultural production, it is rarely restored. The long-term risks to California’s food system and environmental landscape are significant.

Policymakers must take these realities seriously. If California wants to maintain its leadership in agriculture, it must ensure that farming remains economically viable. That does not mean abandoning important protections. It means designing them in ways that are efficient, coordinated and grounded in real-world conditions.

My family hopes to farm this land for many more generations. That aspiration reflects a broader truth shared by farmers across the state. We are not looking for short-term relief; we are looking for a path forward that allows agriculture to endure. The sustainability of Napa County—and of California agriculture as a whole—hangs in the balance. The numbers are on paper. What happens next will depend on whether policymakers are willing to act with urgency, pragmatism and an understanding of what is truly at risk.

Johnnie White is a winegrape grower in St. Helena and serves on the board of directors of Napa County Farm Bureau, California Farm Bureau and the California Association of Winegrape Growers.

In this edition…

• Labor expenses push farmers to automate

• Policymakers, ag leaders gather to discuss key issues

• Regulatory costs put Napa County wine future at risk

• CCA Today: Managing soil health using biostimulants

• Counties struggle with new abandoned orchard law

• On the Record: How farmers can help fight wildfires

• Virtual workshop on disaster relief funding is July 9

• Local farmers grow malting barley for brewing beer

• How can growers monitor and control citrus scale pests?

• Water uniformity tool helps farmers identify savings

• Fix poor infiltration with gypsum and water tests

• Dial 811 first to protect your land, workers and neighbors

• Advocacy in Action: Farm Bureau tackles New World screwworm, USDA support, fungicide strategy, Colorado River and employment technology

June 3, 2026

Feedback needed to assess state veterinary shortage

Maia Laabs, a veterinarian from Swinging Udders Veterinary Services in Galt, examines a cow at a Central Valley dairy. Photo/Steve German

California agriculture depends on a strong network of veterinarians who care for livestock and food animals, yet too many rural communities struggle to access these critical services. We continue to hear the same concern: It has become increasingly hard to find veterinarians willing and available to serve food-animal operations.

This is not simply an inconvenience for ranchers and farmers. Access to quality veterinary care affects animal welfare, food security, emergency response and the long-term future of livestock agriculture.

I experienced this challenge personally on our family ranch.

One of my son’s cows became seriously ill at a time when our regular veterinarian was unavailable for an extended period. We had no choice but to call another veterinarian who was newer to the profession and lacked the years of field experience our longtime veterinarian had developed.

Unfortunately, due to an initial misdiagnosis, we lost the cow while our trusted veterinarian was out of commission. The loss was a powerful reminder of how critical it is to maintain a steady supply of skilled food-animal veterinarians prepared to serve the future needs of agriculture.

It also reinforced what livestock producers already know well: Food-animal veterinarians are indispensable partners in agriculture. They are there for routine herd health, emergency calls in the middle of the night, difficult calving situations, disease diagnosis, vaccination protocols and animal welfare oversight. Their work protects not only the health of individual animals but also the health of entire herds and the safety of our food supply.

Veterinarians also serve as one of our nation’s first lines of defense against animal disease outbreaks. Whether monitoring for avian influenza, responding to foreign animal disease threats or identifying emerging livestock illnesses before they spread, food-animal veterinarians play a central role in protecting America’s food security and public health.

Despite the importance of this work, recruiting and retaining veterinarians in rural communities remains a major challenge.

Many young graduates face steep student loan debts and often gravitate toward more lucrative, less demanding practices in urbanized areas, choosing to care for household pets. Meanwhile, large-animal and food-animal veterinarians frequently cover vast geographic areas, spend long hours traveling to ranches and farms, and remain on call for emergencies.

As a result, our rural agricultural communities are left with fewer practitioners willing to make late-night ranch calls or handle the physical rigors of large animals.

For some producers, this means waiting days for nonemergency appointments. For others, it means hauling animals long distances for care or struggling to find anyone available to come to the farm. In emergency situations, delays can lead to devastating outcomes for animals and costly losses for producers. Veterinary shortages can impact animal welfare, producer operations and the long-term viability of livestock agriculture in rural communities.

To help document these challenges and identify solutions, California Farm Bureau is partnering with the California Department of Food and Agriculture to gather feedback from producers through a short survey on veterinary access and availability. The information collected may help support future veterinary shortage designations and strengthen participation in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program.

Through this program, veterinarians who commit to serving designated shortage areas for at least three years may qualify for up to $40,000 annually and up to $120,000 over three years in student loan repayment assistance. Expanding participation in the program could help attract and retain more food-animal veterinarians in underserved areas of California.

Our effort with CDFA reflects the kind of practical problem-solving that Farm Bureau strives to deliver for our members. Farm Bureau is not just focused on advocating for sound policy in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. We are also working creatively with partners such as CDFA to support real-world solutions that can strengthen rural communities and agriculture’s future.

We know that good data matters. By gathering direct feedback from producers, we can better demonstrate the extent of veterinary shortages across California and help ensure rural communities receive the attention and resources they need.

If you raise food animals, including youth livestock projects—regardless of your current access to veterinary care—we encourage you to take a few minutes to complete the survey and share your experiences at Livestock Veterinary Care Access Survey.

Whether you have experienced long wait times, difficulty scheduling emergency care or challenges finding veterinarians willing to make ranch calls, your input is important. Even if you currently have reliable veterinary access, your feedback still helps paint a complete picture of conditions across the state.

Your responses will help ensure the real-world impacts facing livestock producers are reflected in ongoing discussions around veterinary workforce shortages and rural animal care access.

The survey takes only a few minutes to complete, but the information gathered could play an important role in helping California attract the next generation of food-animal veterinarians.

For agriculture, this issue is about much more than convenience. It is about protecting animal health, safeguarding our food supply, and ensuring ranching and livestock production remains viable for generations to come. California’s farmers and ranchers are resilient, but they cannot do this work alone. Strong veterinary partnerships are essential, and together we must invest in building that pipeline for the future.

Shannon Douglass, who raises beef cattle, walnuts, sunflowers, pumpkins, corn and forage crops in Glenn County, is president of the California Farm Bureau. She can be reached at agalert@cfbf.com.

In this edition…

• New school sawmill spurs logging interest

• H-2A rule change puts spotlight on work visa program

• Feedback needed to assess state veterinary shortage

• Nutrition program benefits growers and inmates alike

• From the Fields: Josh Barton, San Joaquin County walnut, almond and olive farmer

• From the Fields: Matt Stayer, Shasta County beekeeper and queen breeder

• From the Fields: Jerry Maltby, Colusa County rancher, feedlot operator and rice farmer

• From the Fields: Tiffany Holbrook, Sonoma County egg and poultry producer

• Growers use pressure bombs to fine-tune irrigation

• State targets sharpshooters from Costco grapevines

• Moth damage rises as growers await new insecticide

• Advocacy in Action: California Farm Bureau tackles labor, immigration and forest management

• Four farm safety priorities this National Safety Month

May 20, 2026

Commentary: Agricultural ‘roadmap’ to guide research priorities

Students assist a research project and final harvest at California State University, Fresno, one of the Agricultural Research Institute’s four member campuses. Photo/Courtesy of California State University

By David Still

California farmers and ranchers are concerned about their ability to stay in business. The challenges—from a complex regulatory environment to rising costs of inputs, climate change and labor availability—are both persistent and intensifying.

While it can be hard to think about the years and decades ahead when entrenched in the issues of today, investment in research and innovation is the key to overcoming current challenges while building opportunity for tomorrow.

The recently released California Agricultural Research & Innovation Roadmap is a deliberate strategic framework designed to guide and accelerate scientific discovery, commercialization and the real-world adoption of next-generation solutions. It is more than a document; it is a blueprint for action.

For those of us in the academic community, it represents a commitment to improving research efficiency across our institutions. Through greater collaboration, we can more effectively bridge the critical gaps that stand between a lab discovery and a field solution. In addition, this roadmap ensures that resources are focused on the highest-priority challenges facing our producers.

The roadmap was developed by a handful of critical partners, including the California Department of Food and Agriculture, University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, California State University Agricultural Research Institute, California community colleges, Western Growers and California AgTech Alliance.

It provides both a long-term focus via 10-year research priorities identified in collaboration with all partners and near-term solutions through innovation priorities, spearheaded by the California AgTech Alliance and updated every two years.

Research priorities identified in the roadmap include: climate resilience and environmental sustainability; water management, use efficiency and quality; integrated pest and disease management; food safety and consumer health; technology, automation and data-driven farming; and economics, policy and adoption pathways.

Together, the research priorities represent critical areas to maintain productivity, resilience and economic viability across California’s diverse agricultural systems, from a family farm in the Central Valley to the largest agribusiness.

For the Agricultural Research Institute, this roadmap is an extension of our mission to drive research that doesn’t just sit on a library shelf but delivers real-world impact. To turn this mission into action, we are prioritizing our core funding for research that directly addresses high-priority gaps identified in the roadmap, such as water management, automation and climate resilience.

We are also launching a new “collaborative innovation grant” to fund multi-institutional teams. The grants will require partnerships between at least two systems (for example, CSU and UC ANR) and an industry partner, while ensuring a clear pathway to improving economic efficiency and productivity.

Furthermore, we are committed to continuously evaluating and adapting our curricula. While much of the necessary training is already in place, we must ensure our courses remain aligned with the rapidly evolving needs of the industry. This is where ongoing industry feedback is invaluable, helping us refine the discipline-specific skills and critical thinking necessary for the next generation to succeed.

A prime example of this is the $9.5 million Agricultural Research Institute-NextGen program, an initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture specifically designed to equip CSU students with the technical expertise and problem-solving abilities required to lead in a high-tech agricultural landscape.

Accountability is a core principle of the research institute, and accountability is built into the roadmap. Each participating institution has committed to turning this roadmap into action, with each entity doing its part to move from ideas to implementation and experimentation to adoption and widespread impact. Not only have partners committed to action, but they have also committed to measuring impact through key performance indicators. That said, this roadmap is a living document—one that requires constant refinement to stay relevant.

At the Agricultural Research Institute, we will continue to actively seek industry feedback and direction, ensuring that our work stays aligned with the everyday challenges of the agricultural community. At the end of the day, we want to do the research the industry both wants and needs. The only way to truly know what is wanted and needed is to maintain a constant dialogue with those working the land.

Bringing the roadmap to life requires an approach that extends far beyond academic institutions and the other partners in the plan. While participation is voluntary, our collective success depends on the broader agricultural community taking a seat at the table. Innovation reaches its full potential only when ideas move beyond the lab and into the field, becoming solutions you can adopt and trust.

By working together to support the full innovation pipeline—from initial concept to commercial adoption—we can ensure that California research translates into practical tools that strengthen the productivity, efficiency and resilience of California agriculture for decades to come.

For the roadmap, visit bit.ly/ag-roadmap.

David Still is executive director of the California State University Agricultural Research Institute. He can be reached at dwstill@cpp.edu.

In this issue…

May 6, 2026

Inside Farm Bureau: Cultivate the future through agricultural education

Shaun Crook, second from right, and California Farm Bureau Second Vice President Ron Peterson present award to “Imagine This…” writing contest winner Porter Machado, a sixth grader from Turlock. Photo/Sam Adams

By Shaun Crook

First Vice President

For four decades, the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom stood at the intersection of two of the state’s most vital pillars: agriculture and education. I am honored to serve as board chair as the foundation celebrates its 40th anniversary. It is humbling and inspiring to reflect on how far we have come connecting California classrooms with the people and practices that sustain our food system.

When this journey began in the early 1980s, the need was clear. Recognizing a growing disconnect between urban students and the sources of their food, farm groups organized what became known as Farm Day in San Francisco. Farmers and ranchers loaded trucks with animals, crops and equipment and brought them directly onto school grounds. That moment—when agriculture was brought into the classroom in the most tangible way—planted a seed that has continued to grow for 40 years.

My own involvement in Agriculture in the Classroom is driven by a deep respect for agriculture and education—and the natural connection between the two. Agriculture is science, history, economics, environmental stewardship and culture rolled into one. Education, at its best, prepares students to understand the world around them. When we bring agriculture into the classroom, we bridge that gap. We give students context for the food they eat, the resources they depend on and the communities that sustain them.

During the past 40 years, the foundation has served as a trusted resource for educators and a strong advocate for farmers and ranchers. Today, we reach more than 1.3 million California students and support some 39,000 educators each year.

But our role extends far beyond simply reaching students and teachers. We also equip volunteers, community organizations and agricultural professionals with the tools they need to tell agriculture’s story effectively. Through lesson plans, hands-on activities and a wide array of educational resources, we ensure that anyone who steps into a classroom or interacts with young people can present agriculture in a way that is accurate, engaging and meaningful. This multiplier effect is one of our greatest strengths.

Programs such as the “Imagine This…” writing contest exemplify how we can make agricultural education creative and accessible. Now in its 32nd year, the contest invites students in grades three through eight to explore agriculture through storytelling and imagination. By encouraging students to think creatively about agriculture, we help them form personal connections that can last a lifetime.

Of course, Agriculture in the Classroom has not stood still. We have evolved significantly to meet the changing needs of educators and students. One of the most important shifts has been toward a more robust outreach model. With regional representatives positioned across the state, we are now able to deliver more resources directly to classrooms and tailor our efforts to the unique needs of different communities. This localized approach ensures that our programs remain relevant and effective.

Advancements in technology have also opened new doors. Digital tools, virtual field trips and interactive resources allow us to reach more students in ways that were unimaginable in the 1980s. These innovations give us an opportunity to engage students when their career interests and worldviews begin to take shape. By introducing agricultural concepts during their formative years, we can inspire curiosity, build understanding and potentially spark interest in agricultural careers.

The need for this work has never been greater. Each year, fewer people are directly involved in production agriculture. As that gap widens, the risk of misunderstanding and disconnect grows. Agricultural literacy is not a luxury but a necessity. An informed public is essential for sound decision-making, whether at the kitchen table or in the halls of government.

When we educate young people about agriculture, we invest in the future of our communities and state. Today’s students will become tomorrow’s voters, policymakers and leaders. Some will sit on city councils or boards of supervisors. When they do, we want them to remember their experiences with Agriculture in the Classroom and carry with them an appreciation for what it takes to put food on their plates.

That is why continued support of agricultural education is so critical. Every segment of agriculture has a role to play in sharing California’s story. By supporting Agriculture in the Classroom, you help ensure that the next generation understands not only the importance of agriculture but also the values and dedication of the people behind it.

As we celebrate this 40-year milestone, we are not simply looking back; we are looking ahead. The challenges and opportunities before us call for renewed commitment and collaboration. I urge all those who are part of California agriculture to remain engaged, support this work and help us expand our reach even further.

Together, we can ensure that Agriculture in the Classroom continues to thrive for another 40 years and beyond—cultivating knowledge, fostering understanding, and strengthening the connection between our farms and our future.

To support the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, visit learnaboutag.org/get-involved.

To learn more about the “Imagine This…” contest, visit learnaboutag.org/programs/contest.

Shaun Crook, who operates a family timber business in Tuolumne County, is first vice president of the California Farm Bureau. He can be reached at scrook@cfbf.com.

In this edition…

• View full issue

• Groundwater law begins reshaping valley

• Warm, dry start of spring sparks fire season concerns

• Cultivate the future through agricultural education

• Recognize signs of distress and when help is needed

• From the Fields: Jeff Colombini, San Joaquin County cherry and apple grower

• From the Fields: Stuart Mast, Calaveras County vintner

• From the Fields: Loren Poncia, Marin County rancher

• From the Fields: Ron Macedo, Stanislaus County agritourism operator

• Hot temps, new varieties boost strawberry volumes

• Young farmers talk policies during Capitol advocacy visit

• Drought, water restrictions drive innovation in tech

• USDA announces $9 million for cling peach tree removal

• Advocacy in Action: Farm Bureau tracks labor bills, applauds Farm Bill House passage

May 6, 2026

Commentary: Recognize signs of distress and when help is needed

Photo/Licensed image

By Debra Kawahara-Nagata

As a farmer’s wife living with the realities of sustaining a family farm, I understand the unique pressures that come with this way of life. Farming depends on many factors outside our control—weather, market prices, legal and regulatory policies, and financial uncertainty. At the same time, agriculture is built on deeply held values: independence, self sufficiency, responsibility and pride. For many farmers and ranchers, the farm is more than a business; it is a legacy and a core part of their personal identity.

When the future of the farm feels uncertain or threatened, the emotional toll can be significant. Stress can become overwhelming, and the sense of isolation can deepen, even when family or community members are nearby. In agriculture, there is often an unspoken expectation to persevere quietly and solve problems on one’s own. While this resilience is a strength, it can also become an obstacle to speaking up or asking for help during times of distress.

One of agriculture’s greatest assets, however, is its close-knit community. Farmers notice changes in one another. Neighbors step in when help is needed. Because of this, members of the community are often in a position to recognize when someone may be struggling.

Signs of emotional distress are not always obvious. Often, it is a collection of small changes rather than one clear signal. Trusting your instincts is important. If something feels “off,” it is worth paying attention.

Possible warning signs include:

• Noticeable changes in behavior or mood. The individual may seem different than usual—quieter, more withdrawn, irritable or disengaged. Conversations may feel strained, or their energy and focus may be diminished.

• Giving away belongings. This can include tools, equipment, animals, or personal possessions being given away without a clear reason or in a very abrupt manner.

• Major life stressors. Situations such as significant financial difficulty, crop or livestock losses, legal challenges, foreclosures, injuries or the death of a loved one can increase emotional strain and risk. In agriculture, these hardships may not be readily known or discussed because of the belief in handling challenges and personal matters privately, making it more difficult to identify or address when any of these challenges arise.

• Increased isolation. Pulling away or distancing themselves from family, friends, meetings or community activities they previously valued.

• Expressions of hopelessness or despair. Statements such as “What’s the point?” or “I don’t see a way out” should be taken seriously, especially if they reflect a change from their usual outlook.

You do not need to see every sign or be certain there is a problem before reaching out. Concern alone is enough to start a conversation. You do not need to have all the answers, and you do not need to “fix” the situation. Often, the most helpful actions are simple, human ones: noticing, listening and staying connected.

• Start the conversation. Choose a private and comfortable setting when possible. Be direct but compassionate. You might say: “I’ve noticed you don’t seem like yourself lately, and I wanted to check in.” “You’ve been dealing with a lot. How are you holding up?” “I wanted to see how you’re really doing. I care about you.”

• Avoid minimizing their experience or rushing to reassurance. Statements such as “It’ll work out” or “You’re strong. You’ll get through it” may unintentionally shut down conversation.

• Listen and be present. Allow the person to talk at their own pace. Silence can feel uncomfortable, but it gives space for reflection. Your role is to listen, not to make any conclusions or solve the problem for them.

• Helpful responses include: “That sounds overwhelming.” “I can see why this would weigh on you.”“I’m really glad you told me.” Listening without expressing judgment can reduce feelings of isolation and help someone feel seen and understood.

• Encourage support and stay connected. If distress appears ongoing or intense, gently encourage additional support. In agriculture, framing help as another tool or resource—no different from seeking expert advice for equipment or finances—can feel more acceptable. You might say: “You’ve been carrying a lot on your own. Talking with someone outside the situation could really help.” “Asking for help doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’re doing what’s needed to protect yourself and your family.”

Follow up when you can. A phone call, text message or stopping by can be powerful reminders that the person is not alone.

If someone talks about feeling trapped, wanting to die, or harming themselves or others, take it seriously. Stay with them, either in person or by phone. Encourage immediate help. Call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7 for confidential support. You can call for guidance even if you are unsure what to say or do. You can call 911 or take the person to the emergency room if he or she is in imminent danger of harm.

Seeking emergency help is an act of care and responsibility, not a betrayal of trust. Agriculture depends on resilience, hard work and perseverance. But no one can or should carry everything alone. Paying attention to one another, asking difficult questions and offering support can make a real difference, not just for individuals but for the entire agricultural community. Sometimes the most important thing you can say is simply, “I’m here, and you don’t have to go through this alone.”

Dr. Debra Kawahara-Nagata is the 2025 president of the American Psychological Association and interim academic dean at the California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University. She can be reached at dkawahara@alliant.edu.

In this edition…

• View full issue

• Groundwater law begins reshaping valley

• Warm, dry start of spring sparks fire season concerns

• Cultivate the future through agricultural education

• Recognize signs of distress and when help is needed

• From the Fields: Jeff Colombini, San Joaquin County cherry and apple grower

• From the Fields: Stuart Mast, Calaveras County vintner

• From the Fields: Loren Poncia, Marin County rancher

• From the Fields: Ron Macedo, Stanislaus County agritourism operator

• Hot temps, new varieties boost strawberry volumes

• Young farmers talk policies during Capitol advocacy visit

• Drought, water restrictions drive innovation in tech

• USDA announces $9 million for cling peach tree removal

• Advocacy in Action: Farm Bureau tracks labor bills, applauds Farm Bill House passage

April 22, 2026

Commentary: Water guides discussion at global agriculture forum

At the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture in Berlin earlier this year, Kern County farmer Jenny Holtermann participated in a panel that included officials from Senegal, India and the Netherlands. Photo/Courtesy of Global Forum for Food and Agriculture

By Jenny Holtermann

This past January, I had the opportunity to travel to Berlin to attend the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture, or GFFA. Attending the forum was an eye-opening and inspiring experience.

Held annually in Berlin, this international conference brings together policymakers, researchers, farmers and industry leaders to discuss the future of global food systems. It is considered one of the most important platforms for addressing challenges in agriculture and food security worldwide.

Many agriculture ministers and secretaries from countries across the globe attend the GFFA. The event prides itself as being the world’s largest informal conference for agriculture ministers, with 61 in attendance, as well as high-level representatives from international organizations from 14 countries.

I was nominated by the American Farm Bureau Federation to participate and was selected by the federal government of Germany to be part of the International Young Farmers Forum, a special portion of the GFFA open to nominations. After being selected for the forum, I was also invited to be part of a conference panel.

From the moment I arrived, I could feel the global importance of the event. Thousands of participants from different cultural, professional and academic backgrounds filled the conference halls. Participants from different countries gathered to exchange ideas and solutions for improving agriculture.

The diversity of people, ranging from government ministers to young farmers, created a unique environment where everyone contributed to different perspectives. It was fascinating to see how individuals from both developed and developing countries came together with a shared goal: to improve global food security and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

One of the most impactful parts of my experience was being a panelist during the opening event of the conference. The guiding theme for the conference was “Water. Harvests. Our Future.” This theme provided a high-level introduction and discussion on water sustainability. Other panelists included the minister of agriculture from India, minister of hydraulics and sanitation of Senegal, and the water envoy from Netherlands.

During the panel, we each shared our perspective on water sustainability in our regions. I was honored to address California water, our challenges and the role the government plays. Being on the stage with such individuals was awe-inspiring and provoked thoughtful discussion.

The forum highlighted the need for inclusive policies that ensure everyone benefits from agricultural advancements. As part of the Young Farmers Forum, we prepared a young farmers declaration on the future of agriculture.

Joined by 25 other young farmers from across the world, we contributed our valuable experiences on water issues from our own farms and national organizations to develop a statement on the major challenges farmers face. We covered water scarcity, requirements for a secure harvest, challenges due to climate change, innovation building resilience, bioeconomy as a source of income stability, wars, government conflicts and declining food security.

The forum also featured exhibitions and presentations showcasing innovative agricultural solutions, including new farming technologies, sustainable products and research projects aimed at improving food production. They demonstrated that while challenges are significant, there are also many creative solutions being developed around the world.

In the adjacent halls was Grune Woche, or Green Week. One of Germany’s most traditional trade fairs, Green Week was 121,000 square meters of halls representing more than 50 countries. Booths and stages cover the endless halls with food, agriculture and horticulture companies from all over the world. They received more than 350,000 visitors and had more than 1,600 exhibitors present.

I was mesmerized by the overwhelming selection of cultural food, drinks and shows. You could not see nearly half the halls in one day. It would take a week to make your rounds around the exhibits.

The entire experience provided opportunity to interact with participants from different backgrounds. From the Young Farmer Forum to GFFA panel opportunities and Green Week, it was an experience filled with culture, diversity and multiplicity of innovation.

The conversations helped me understand how agriculture varies across regions and how global collaboration can lead to innovative solutions. The forum was not just about listening but also about learning from others’ experiences.

Overall, my experience at the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture was educational and motivating. It made me realize the importance of agriculture in sustaining cultures and the urgent need for sustainable practices. The forum reinforced the idea that by working together globally, we can build a more secure and sustainable food future.

I am grateful for the opportunity to experience an international conference of this magnitude and hopeful about the agriculturalists that are leading our world into the next generation.

Jenny Holtermann farms in Kern County and serves as an advisory member on the California Farm Bureau Board of Directors. She can be reached at agalert@cfbf.com.

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• California weighs ‘truth in labeling’ wine industry law

• Water guides discussion at global agriculture forum

• Dry conditions push farms to new irrigation strategies

• Study measures regulatory costs for Napa vineyards

• Researchers study ways to control flatheaded borer

• New CDFW director addresses priorities, predators

• National survey shows most farmers can’t afford fertilizer

• What options are available to manage citrus thrips?

• Efficient irrigation through smart and informed irrigation purchases

• Going farm fresh: School districts look to growers as they ditch ultraprocessed foods

• Bountiful Finds: A curated collection of goods made by Farm Bureau members

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• The Scenic Route: Pit stops at California farms and ranches

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• Why calling 811 before you dig is essential for California farmers

• Study: Maximize winter cereal yields with less water

April 20, 2026

Commentary: Proposed law would strengthen American wine label

Assembly Bill 1585 would require that wines labeled “American” be made entirely from U.S.-grown grapes. Under federal law, that threshold is set at 75%, allowing wineries to blend in foreign wine. Photo/Caleb Hampton

By Chris Reardon

California’s wine industry remains a cornerstone of the state’s agricultural economy. It shapes the Golden State’s global image and cultural identity. Yet in recent years, a growing disconnect has emerged between what consumers believe they are purchasing and what is actually in the bottle.

Assembly Bill 1585, often referred to as the “truth in wine labeling” bill, seeks to close that gap. By strengthening labeling standards and increasing transparency, the legislation delivers clear benefits to both California’s winegrape growers and consumers while reinforcing the integrity of one of the state’s most iconic industries. For these reasons, California Farm Bureau strongly supports AB 1585.

At its core, AB 1585 addresses a simple but important issue: honesty in labeling. Under current regulations, wines labeled with an American appellation can contain a significant portion of grapes grown outside the country. This creates confusion for consumers who reasonably assume that a bottle labeled “American wine” is made from American-grown grapes.

AB 1585 raises the standard by requiring 100% of grapes to be sourced from within the country if the wine is marketed as American wine. This ensures that labels more accurately reflect the product’s origin. Because 85% of the nation’s winegrapes are grown in California, most wine consumers naturally associate the American label with California vineyards.

For consumers, this is a matter of trust. Today’s wine buyers are increasingly interested in where their products come from, how they are produced and the value behind them. Transparency is no longer a luxury; it is an expectation.

When consumers pick up a bottle labeled as American wine, they deserve confidence that they are supporting California agriculture. AB 1585 provides that assurance, empowering consumers to make informed purchasing decisions and strengthening their connection to the state’s wine industry.

For California’s winegrape growers, the benefits are even more direct. Growers invest significant time, labor and resources into cultivating high-quality grapes under some of the most rigorous environmental and labor standards in the world.

When wines made with out-of-state or imported grapes are labeled as California products, it undermines the value of that investment. It creates an uneven playing field where growers who adhere to California’s standards must compete with lower-cost inputs that do not meet the same requirements.

AB 1585 helps correct this imbalance by ensuring that wines labeled as domestic genuinely reflect California agriculture. This strengthens demand for locally grown grapes, supports fair pricing and reinforces the economic viability of farming operations across the state.

In an era marked by rising production costs, water challenges and global competition, policies that protect the integrity of California-grown products are essential to sustaining the industry.

The bill also supports the broader agricultural economy. Winegrapes are one of California’s most valuable crops, contributing billions of dollars annually and supporting thousands of jobs in farming, processing, distribution and tourism.

By promoting transparency and authenticity, AB 1585 enhances the overall brand of California wine, which in turn benefits rural communities that depend on the industry. A stronger, more trusted brand translates into increased demand, both domestically and internationally.

California Farm Bureau’s support of AB 1585 reflects its longstanding commitment to advocating for farmers and ranchers across the state. The organization recognizes that clear and honest labeling is not just a consumer protection issue; it is an agricultural fairness issue.

Policies that allow misleading labeling practices ultimately disadvantage local producers and erode confidence in the marketplace. By contrast, AB 1585 aligns with the Farm Bureau’s mission to promote a stable and prosperous agricultural sector.

Critics of the bill may argue that buying imported wine and blending it with California wine and then bottling it and calling it American is less expensive than buying local grapes. However, these concerns must be weighed against the long-term benefits of transparency and market integrity.

Clear labeling standards reduce ambiguity, build consumer trust and create a more level playing field. Moreover, many wineries already prioritize transparency and source most of their grapes from within California. For these producers, AB 1585 simply formalizes practices they already follow.

Importantly, AB 1585 does not stifle innovation or limit the ability of wineries to source grapes from other regions. Instead, it ensures that when wines are marketed as domestic products, they meet a clear and consistent standard.

Wineries remain free to create blends using grapes from multiple regions; they simply must label those products accurately. This distinction preserves flexibility while promoting honesty.

In a competitive global marketplace, authenticity is one of California wine industry’s greatest assets. Consumers around the world associate California with quality, sustainability and innovation. Maintaining that reputation requires policies that uphold these values at every level, including labeling. AB 1585 reinforces the credibility of the California wine brand by ensuring that it continues to stand for what consumers expect.

Ultimately, AB 1585 is about aligning labeling practices with consumer expectations and agricultural realities. It strengthens trust, supports local growers and enhances the value of California’s wine industry.

For these reasons, California Farm Bureau’s support is both logical and necessary. By advancing transparency and fairness, AB 1585 represents a meaningful step forward for everyone who depends on—and enjoys—California.

Chris Reardon is vice president of policy advocacy for California Farm Bureau. He can be reached at creardon@cfbf.com.

April 8, 2026

Inside Farm Bureau: Engaged members unleash Farm Bureau’s true force

California Farm Bureau Chief Operating Officer Dan Durheim with Siskiyou County Farm Bureau member Bruce Fiock. Photo/Saul Rios

By Dan Durheim

Chief Operating Officer

California Farm Bureau

Farm Bureau membership offers value, but engagement is what unlocks it. When members actively participate, Farm Bureau becomes more than an organization; it becomes a powerful, member-driven force that protects, promotes and advances agriculture.

Farm Bureau’s value proposition is rooted in grassroots advocacy. Policies and priorities are not set from the top down. They are shaped by farmers and ranchers who share their experiences, concerns and solutions.

That structure is not accidental. It is the foundation of Farm Bureau’s credibility. Lawmakers and regulators recognize that when Farm Bureau speaks, it reflects the collective voice of people working the land, managing risk and feeding communities.

Engagement is what keeps that foundation strong. It ensures that Farm Bureau’s advocacy reflects real-world agriculture and that decision-makers hear directly from those affected by legislation and regulation.

When members participate, their voices guide policies on everything from water and labor to land use and environmental regulation. In a state as complex and diverse as California, those firsthand perspectives are essential. No single policy fits every region or commodity, and without active participation, important nuances can be lost.

Active involvement also delivers timely, credible information. Engaged members are better informed about legislative proposals, regulatory changes and agency actions that impact their operations. In today’s fast-moving policy environment, information is not just helpful; it is a strategic advantage.

Through meetings, outreach and Farm Bureau communications, members gain clarity on complex issues and learn how to effectively engage with policymakers before decisions are final. That awareness can make the difference between reacting to change or shaping it.

Engagement further strengthens agriculture through leadership development and connection. Farm Bureau provides opportunities for members to build leadership skills, serve on committees and collaborate with peers across counties, commodities and generations.

These experiences cultivate confidence and capacity. A member who starts by attending meetings may go on to testify at hearings, serve on advisory boards or represent agriculture in broader civic discussions. At the same time, these connections reinforce agriculture’s united voice while preparing members to lead not only within Farm Bureau but also in their local communities and industry organizations.

Participation also opens doors beyond the farm gate. Engagement often leads to educational programs, travel opportunities and exposure to agriculture across California and the nation. Seeing how other regions and commodities navigate shared challenges helps members think strategically, build perspective and bring fresh ideas back to their own operations. It also fosters a deeper appreciation for the diversity of agriculture—how different crops, climates and communities are interconnected within a larger system.

Perhaps most importantly, engagement multiplies impact. A large, informed and involved membership gives Farm Bureau credibility and influence. Policymakers listen when agriculture shows up unified, informed and consistent. Numbers matter, but participation matters more. A membership list carries weight; an active membership drives outcomes.

Siskiyou County Farm Bureau member Bruce Fiock, who helped start the region’s Young Farmers & Ranchers program in the 1980s, told me recently that Farm Bureau involvement has opened doors for him, giving him experiences that he probably would not have had if he did not engage in Farm Bureau. His story reflects a broader truth: Engagement transforms membership from a passive benefit into an active opportunity.

He summed it up this way: “Being engaged has helped me see the bigger picture. Farm Bureau connects you to what’s happening beyond your fence line and gives you the tools to help shape it.”

That “bigger picture” is increasingly important. Agriculture today faces layered challenges—regulatory pressure, resource constraints, public perception and market volatility. Meeting those challenges requires more than individual effort; it requires coordinated action, informed voices and sustained advocacy. Farm Bureau provides the structure for that work, but members provide the momentum.

Farm Bureau’s strength lies in its members, but its effectiveness depends on their involvement. Engagement turns membership into influence, information into action and individual voices into lasting impact for California agriculture. It is how ideas move from conversation to policy, from concern to solution.

Whether attending a meeting, serving on a committee, responding to an action alert or stepping into a leadership role, every member has a part to play. Even small steps—showing up, asking questions, staying informed—contribute to a larger collective effort. Over time, those efforts add up, shaping not only Farm Bureau’s direction but the future of agriculture itself.

Farm Bureau works best when members show up, speak up and stay engaged.

Dan Durheim is chief operating officer of California Farm Bureau. He can be reached at ddurheim@cfbf.com.

In this issue:

March 25, 2026

Commentary: Mentorship program grows next-generation farmers

Sonoma County winegrape grower Andrew Forchini, left, a mentor for the Expanding Our Roots program, works with grower and mentee Bea Charles at her vineyard in Petaluma. Photo/Paige Green

By Margaret Honig

Agriculture has always been built on shared knowledge. For generations, farmers and ranchers have learned through experience, observation and conversations with friends and neighbors. Lessons shared between growers often carried more weight than anything found in a manual or classroom. Advice on crop management, soil conditions, water use, budgeting or marketing strategies traditionally came from someone who faced the same challenges. That exchange of knowledge helps agriculture remain resilient.

Today, beginning farmers face a much different landscape. Entering agriculture requires navigating rising costs, regulatory complexity and evolving markets. For many new producers, the early years can feel overwhelming. Yet California agriculture depends on their success. The future of the state’s food system rests on the next generation building viable businesses.

Ensuring farmers have the support they need is essential to maintain California’s leadership in agriculture. Recognizing this need, the California Bountiful Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and education arm of the California Farm Bureau, created the Expanding Our Roots mentorship program, designed to connect beginning farmers and ranchers with experienced producers who share practical, real-world knowledge.

The idea behind the program is simple: Farmers learn best from other farmers. The program pairs beginning farmers with experienced producers across California. Beginning farmers typically have one to 10 years of farming experience, while mentors have 10 or more years in production.

The goal is to strengthen California agriculture by facilitating peer learning and knowledge transfer across all farm commodities, including specialty crops and livestock. Through one-on-one mentorship, participants discuss real challenges growers face in their operations. These conversations often provide insights that cannot be learned through books or formal courses.

Why does mentorship matter? For beginning farmers, mentorship can make the difference between struggling through trial and error and gaining guidance that can help them succeed.

Farming requires a wide range of skills. Growers must understand crop production, soil health, water management, labor planning, financial management, marketing and regulatory compliance.

Through the program, mentors and mentees work through topics such as production planning, business management, market access, navigating regulations, managing risk, adopting climate-smart practices, and accessing resources and grants.

The impact shows in how mentee farmers apply what they learn. Nicholas Atchley of Ventura County said he gained a “much better understanding of water hydraulics and irrigation management,” which directly affects efficiency and crop health in the field. Carol Thong of Sonoma County said working with her mentor, Andrew Forchini, a winegrape grower in Sonoma County, helped her better understand vineyard operations and identify ways to reduce costs, helping her make more informed decisions on her operation.

Mentors see the impact as well. Solano County farmer Ben Lyons described the program as “a lifeline for those who may feel overwhelmed by this new endeavor.” Forchini worked with his mentee to develop strategies to reduce expenses during the current winegrape market downturn while maintaining vine health and improving overall farm efficiency.

For Michael O’Gorman of Humboldt County, a longtime leader in agriculture mentorship and former executive director of the Farmer Veteran Coalition, the connection between experienced farmers and new producers is essential.

“Working with California Farm Bureau and the Expanding Our Roots program has been a natural fit for me,” he said. “I met so many veterans eager to jump into farming and ranching from my years of managing the Farmer Veteran Coalition, and now I can help them get some real guidance in the state where I was able to launch my own farming career.”

In addition to one-on-one mentorship, the program hosts educational workshops where mentors and mentees can come together with other farmers for focused discussions on key topics facing agriculture. These workshops bring in experts from across the agriculture sector to share practical guidance and answers from participants.

The program continues to grow as more farmers participate across the state. Its impact includes: 246 total farmers and ranchers enrolled; 46 counties represented across coastal, central, northern and southern regions of the state; and four educational workshops held.

Additional participants include farmers from diverse backgrounds, with 69% based in rural communities and 31% in urban and suburban areas. The program also serves a diverse group of producers, including 62 participants who speak a language other than English, 82 producers from historically underserved communities and 29 veterans or active-duty service members.

Farmers and ranchers with more than 10 years of experience are encouraged to join as mentors, while beginning farmers with one to 10 years of experience are invited to apply as mentees. Agriculture has always relied on farmers helping farmers. When that knowledge is shared, the future of California agriculture grows stronger.

For more information, visit www.californiabountifulfoundation.com/programs-and-services/beginning-farmer-and-rancher-mentorship-program.

Margaret Honig is the administrative lead for the California Bountiful Foundation, an affiliate 501(c)(3) of the California Farm Bureau. She can be reached at mhonig@cfbf.com.

In this issue:

March 11, 2026

Inside Farm Bureau: President’s Message: Share your story where important policy is shaped

Farm Bureau leaders met with Assemblyman Damon Connolly last year as part of the Calling on the Capitol advocacy visits. Photo/Connor Duncan

By Shannon Douglass

President

California Farm Bureau

As a farmer or rancher, what are your biggest barriers to success?

Is it profitability? Access to technology? Burdensome regulations? Access to inputs? Most of us would answer: all of the above—and more.

At Farm Bureau, we work every day on practical business solutions and strong advocacy. But here’s the truth: The most effective voice for agriculture isn’t mine, and it isn’t our staff’s.

It’s yours.

That’s why I want to personally invite you to participate in our Calling on the Capitol Series. This is your opportunity to meet directly with key legislators and their staff members at a critical point in the legislative process. And new this year, you’ll also have the chance to engage with regulatory officials who shape the rules that affect your farm and business.

The Calling on the Capitol Series matters because it creates space for farmers and ranchers to speak for themselves.

Our advocacy team does an outstanding job representing agriculture. They bring expertise, policy analysis and relationships built over years of work—the kind of foundation that only a strong membership organization like ours can provide. But they are not the ones making payroll, managing water reductions or navigating ever-changing compliance requirements on your farm or ranch.

When you walk into a legislator’s or regulator’s office as both a voter and a business owner, it changes the conversation. Facts and statistics are important—and we share those. But what policymakers remember are your stories. They remember the farmer who had to idle productive ground because production costs exceeded the return. They remember the rancher who lost 20 calves to wolves. You tell the real stories that policymakers may never have fully considered—or can even comprehend. They remember the real-world consequences behind the bill number.

And those stories make a difference.

More often than not, elected officials genuinely want to do the right thing. But they can’t possibly be experts in every industry. Unless we take the time to explain how proposals affect agriculture, they simply won’t know.

If you’ve never participated before, I understand it can feel intimidating. That’s exactly why the Calling on the Capitol Series is structured the way it is. Whether this is your first visit or your 15th, our team prepares you. We review materials, provide handouts and organize visits so you’re never walking in alone. You’ll be part of a team, supported every step of the way.

We’ve also made the series more efficient based on your feedback. By consolidating into fewer, strategically timed days in April and May—just ahead of key bill deadlines—we ensure your time in Sacramento has maximum impact.

And if you’re able, consider bringing a friend, neighbor, or even a high school or college-aged son or daughter. This is a powerful way to introduce the next generation to the importance of engagement. The fewer elected officials we have with direct ties to agriculture, the greater the need for them to hear directly from those of us who live it every day.

Each year, that need grows. We are outnumbered. But when we show up—in person—we are heard. That’s the power of standing together as Farm Bureau.

Calling on the Capitol is not just another event. It is agriculture activating at the moment it matters most.

I hope you’ll join us.

Calling on the Capitol Series schedule

Join your fellow Farm Bureau members for legislative and regulatory visits during our Calling on the Capitol Series. These one-day trips are designed to maximize your voice while minimizing your time away from the farm. Your story can make a real difference.

Participants will receive issue briefings, materials and support from Farm Bureau staff to ensure productive meetings with legislators, staff and—new this year—regulatory agency officials.

• March 18: The California Farm Bureau Board of Directors will launch the series with a full day of meetings with legislators, regulators and senior administration officials, followed by presentation of the inaugural Champion of Agriculture Award.

• April 21: Young Farmers & Ranchers members from across the state will meet for a dedicated day of advocacy at the Capitol.

• May 5: Members from Alameda, Contra Costa, Fresno, Imperial, Inyo-Mono, Kern, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Monterey, Orange, Riverside, San Benito, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Tulare and Ventura counties will advocate.

• May 26: Members from Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Lassen, Marin, Mendocino, Modoc, Napa, Nevada, Placer, Plumas-Sierra, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Tehama, Trinity, Tuolumne, Yolo and Yuba-Sutter counties will advocate.

If you’re unable to attend on your county’s assigned date, you’re welcome to register for the other visit.

Make your voice heard. Register today at cfbf.com/capitol.

February 25, 2026

Commentary: FFA president shares what leadership has taught her

Lily Vaughan, who serves as the 2025-26 California FFA state president, poses with her market steer at the Silver Dollar Fair in Chico in 2024. Photo/Courtesy of Lily Vaughan

By Lily Vaughan

Before I ever wore the iconic blue jacket that’s become a key symbol of FFA, I paid attention to words. I noticed how the way something was said could make people feel seen, challenged or hopeful.

One of the first moments I realized the power of words was watching my older brother compete in a speech contest when I was still in elementary school. The speech was not written by him, but the way he delivered it made it his own. When he spoke, people leaned in. I remember looking around and realizing that everyone listening was walking away with something different, something personal.

I began to understand that influence is not just about how you got there but about how a message is carried and the way it connects with the people listening. That moment planted the seed of what influence could look like. But it was in FFA that the seed was challenged and allowed to grow.

I joined FFA my freshman year for a practical reason. While I didn’t grow up immersed in agriculture, my family began raising and showing market hogs for the county fair when I was in middle school. I wanted to continue showing market hogs, which meant enrolling in an agriculture biology class and officially joining the Las Plumas FFA chapter.

At first, FFA was about animals and the significance of the blue jacket. I knew it meant something to zip up the blue corduroy, even if I didn’t yet know what it would mean to me. That changed quickly as I began to compete in competitions from Livestock Judging to Creed Speaking.

One of the first lessons the blue jacket taught me was that growth lives just outside my comfort zone. Zipping it up gave me confidence to step into spaces that I might have otherwise avoided. Slowly, my willingness gave way to confidence to meet new people and take a few risks.

Everything changed the first time I attended the California State Leadership Conference. Standing in a room filled with 8,000 students was overwhelming in the best way. The energy was electric. I watched the state officers on stage speak vulnerably and celebrate the family they had created. They were not much older than me, yet they were brave enough to share their stories in front of thousands. Another seed was planted.

Running for state office was one of the boldest risks I have ever taken. I did not feel perfectly qualified, but I did feel called. With that calling came familiar fears: Do I have a story worth sharing? Is there someone more prepared for this role?

What made the difference was not the absence of doubt; it was the presence of belief. Teammates, advisers, mentors, family and friends believed in me. Their belief gave me the courage to turn my dream into action.

Serving as California FFA state president has taught me that leadership is deeply personal. It is not about having the fanciest resume or the most impressive title. On the hardest days, leadership means asking for help and admitting when I cannot give my best. It means leaning on my team, my adviser and the people who reminded me that I was never meant to do this alone.

Some of the most meaningful moments of this year did not happen on a stage. They happened in unassuming conversations at chapter visits. They happened through handwritten notes, kind messages and honest questions from members I had the privilege of meeting.

Over and over again, I was reminded how powerful belief can be. When someone feels seen, it can change the way they see themselves. Sometimes it even changes the direction they choose to go.

Agriculture is the No. 1 industry, and it needs leaders who are willing to learn, listen and lead with heart. It also needs informed consumers who are willing to ask where their food comes from and why it matters.

FFA creates space for both. It is a place where students from all backgrounds are welcomed and challenged to grow the seeds already planted within them.

As I prepare to step onto the stage for my retiring address, I think back to the dreamer I once was, sitting in the crowd and wondering who those people on stage were. My hope is that this year, there is a student sitting in the audience who realizes that it takes courage to risk boldly for their dream, but it is so worth it.

Before I wore the blue jacket, I paid attention to the power of words, but through FFA I learned how to use them to lead with purpose.

Lily Vaughan, who graduated from Las Plumas High School in Oroville in 2025, serves as the 2025-26 California FFA state president.

February 11, 2026

Commentary: Solving veterinary shortage is crucial for agriculture

UC Davis undergraduate student Kameko Sasaki, right, and Muyuan Li, a third-year Dairy Production Medicine resident, work with dairy cows at the school’s teaching and research center in Tulare. Photo/Sharif Aly/UC Davis

By Gary S. May

The future of agriculture depends on investing in bold advances in veterinary medicine and training the next generation of doctors to serve our communities. The University of California, Davis—the nation’s top-ranked veterinary school—is leading the way.

With a landmark $120 million gift from philanthropists Joan and Sanford I. Weill, the newly named UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine is set to expand its impact by training these future doctors, advancing large-animal care and strengthening California’s health and agricultural future at an unprecedented scale.

The timing of this investment couldn’t be better. The past few years have tested California’s livestock producers, with new obstacles at every step of the process, from emerging biological threats to regulations requiring adaptation amid market uncertainty.

In the face of these challenges, the resilience of California’s livestock industry has never been in doubt. Our farms—99% of which are family-owned—lead the nation in dairy production, contributing $57 billion in total economic impact and creating 180,000 jobs across the state. Across California, 11,000 ranchers manage 670,000 beef cattle, contributing another $4.98 billion to the economy.

At UC Davis, we are proud partners with the farmers and agricultural producers who feed our state. Our combination of partnerships, research and student training makes the Weill School of Veterinary Medicine an indispensable collaborator, helping keep our food healthy, safe and nutritious.

That partnership is evident in our response to H5N1 avian influenza. When the state confirmed its existence in California dairy cattle, UC Davis, the state and dairy farmers swung into action to protect the herds. The California Animal Health and Food Safety laboratory system rapidly expanded testing capacity at its Davis, Turlock and Tulare labs, while also providing real-time maps that help producers strengthen biosecurity to reduce the threat of outbreaks.

We continue to monitor these risks. With tools such as our new Disease BioPortal, UC Davis proactively tracks emerging health concerns and identifies disease trends early, aiming to prevent outbreaks such as the avian flu detected in Central Valley flocks last year.

UC Davis veterinarians and researchers are embedded in the heart of California’s dairy industry. They provide boots-on-the-ground care while training the next generation at the Veterinary Medicine Teaching & Research Center in Tulare County. The clinicians and residents in the Dairy Production Medicine program provide veterinary care to approximately 60,000 dairy cows, heifers and calves each year, while studying herd health, genetics, environmental sustainability and other topics.

As threats evolve, our teams are always looking ahead to the next challenge. We are leading efforts to prevent the spread of the New World screwworm, a flesh-burrowing blowfly larva that is slowly moving north to the United States. Recently spotted a mere 70 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, this parasite could inflict devastating losses on California’s cattle and threaten human health.

That commitment to the future extends to ensuring that there are enough veterinarians to serve animal producers in the state. We currently face a critical shortage of food-animal veterinarians nationwide. Last year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture identified 243 rural veterinary shortage areas in 46 states, the highest numbers ever recorded, including in counties across California.

That’s why UC Davis is expanding its capacity to train future generations of veterinarians who will return to their communities and serve the state. Nearly nine in 10 of our students come from California. With support from our donor endowment and student support, graduates from our school have some of the lowest debt of any school in the United States, allowing them to return home to practice.

These efforts are paying off in a more diverse class of veterinarians who come from every background. We’re increasing access to veterinary school, giving rural and first-generation students increased opportunity to make a difference in their communities. Recognizing this work, we received the Health Professions Higher Education Excellence in Diversity award, and 58% of the Class of 2028 will be first-generation college students.

UC Davis is proud of its history and our ongoing efforts to support agriculture. This commitment to the state’s producers has been woven into the identity of our school since we began as the University Farm School in 1909 and when we established our School of Veterinary Medicine in 1948.

We may have a new name, but our commitment to serving the people and animals who make California’s cattle and dairy industry the envy of the world remains the same.

But we can do more.

Our ongoing Veterinary Medical Complex Capital Project is a critical part of our vision for the future. This project will help us fill the rural workforce gap, enhancing our ability to treat animals and strengthen health surveillance, protecting animals and the public. The expansion of the Large Animal Hospital will enable us to treat more animals, conduct more research and protect the health of California’s vital agricultural industry.

With strong donor support, we are well on our way to achieving these goals, but private investment must now be matched with public commitment. A thriving California demands a flourishing agricultural industry. We invite state leaders and the public to champion the funding needed to complete this effort and ensure a resilient future for California’s veterinary and agricultural sectors.

Gary S. May is the seventh chancellor of the University of California, Davis, and oversees all aspects of the university’s teaching, research and public service mission. He can be reached at chancellor@ucdavis.edu.

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January 28, 2026

Commentary: Restored funding needed for rural crime prevention

In this 2024 photo, a stolen backhoe is being unloaded from a semitruck in Tulare after it was recovered by law enforcement. Rural crime can cripple farms, bankruptcies of which are also rising. Photo/Courtesy Tulare County Sheriff’s Office

By Steven Fenaroli

Farming is often thought of as a way of life and not just a job. Many California farm families have been living this life for generations—and they want to continue the legacy, growing crops, raising livestock and supporting the communities and people who keep California an agricultural powerhouse.

People often call farmers “resilient,” and there’s good reason. Whether they grow almonds or alfalfa, farmers rise before dawn, push through droughts and floods, and uphold a $60 billion industry that fuels our economy and feeds the nation and the world.

But as farmers and ranchers work to keep California running, they’re often looking over their shoulders—not only at the weather or the uncertainty of commodity prices but at thieves looking to make a quick buck. Rural property and agricultural crime are quietly devastating farm communities, jeopardizing livelihoods, and putting public health and safety at risk.

A single theft can cripple and close any farm. Tractors, irrigation pumps, copper wire, solar panels and harvesting equipment aren’t luxuries—they’re necessities. Replacing them can cost upward of six figures.

Last year, thieves in Kern County caused more than $30,000 in damages by stealing copper wire, one of many similar cases across the Central Valley. Additionally, in Monterey County, multiple tractors were stolen in a single week.

These crimes ripple outward: Delayed harvest can mean lost crops, higher insurance costs and ultimately higher food prices for families. For example, one Kern County farm family has had multiple quads stolen, damage to their shops and gates, and copper wire stolen, totaling more than $100,000 worth of stolen property and damage.

Too often, law enforcement and our communities are forced to clean up after those who willingly break the law with no regard for the destruction they leave behind. In Fresno County, for example, where criminals illegally dumped animal carcasses, local sheriffs should have every resource at their disposal to find those responsible.

What’s happening in Fresno, Kern and Monterey counties reflects a larger statewide crisis. And with an uncertain economy on the horizon, offenders are further pushed to more and more crime.

Farm bankruptcies are on the rise again. California currently leads the nation’s 216 cases, with a staggering 17 of our own. While 93% of California farms are family owned, with an industry that is already running on fumes, these impacts are very real, personal and unaffordable. Every dollar counts to a family farm that knows their books inside and out.

When it comes to the response to crime, rural sheriff’s departments are doing everything they can, but they are often stretched thin. Many counties face chronic staffing shortages, long patrol distances and rising calls for service. Officers often cover hundreds of miles, leading to response times being measured in hours, not minutes as they should be. Many rural counties have three to four deputies patrolling at some hours. With the size of some large rural areas, there just aren’t enough deputies to keep working lands safe.

It’s not for lack of effort. It’s lack of resources. Dedicated agricultural crime units and specialized investigators have proven successful when they exist. The California Rural Crime Prevention Program, active in the late 1990s, provided training, coordination and intelligence-sharing among counties. It worked. But when state funding ended in 2002, these task forces slowly faded, leaving a gap that rural communities still feel today.

The good news is we know what works. Crime prevention is not only more effective than reacting after the fact. It’s also far less expensive. Restoring funding to this program is a long-term win that protects farmers, strengthens public safety and rural communities, and safeguards the food system that feeds all Californians.

With state support, counties could reestablish dedicated rural crime teams, install modern crime prevention technology, expand property-marking and equipment registration systems, and improve coordination with utilities to reduce copper wire and infrastructure theft. Task forces could also map high-risk areas, conduct proactive patrols during harvest seasons and partner with farmers to implement prevention strategies that are proven effective.

In an era when organized theft rings are more sophisticated, a modernized program could connect rural investigations to broader criminal networks, improving deterrence. These efforts would protect farms, but they would also protect California consumers by reducing supply-chain disruptions, helping stabilize food prices and keeping essential infrastructure—from irrigation to energy—functioning safely.

Farmers and ranchers shouldn’t have to be resilient. They should have laws that work to protect them so they can spend their time farming and doing what they do best. And law enforcement should have funding to properly do their jobs.

Farmers and ranchers across the state may not see eye to eye on everything, but many tend to agree that agriculture is their legacy. They want future generations to have the opportunity to carry on the work they’ve done. But that farm must still be around for that to happen. By restoring and expanding funding for California’s Rural Crime Prevention Program, state leaders can safeguard farms, strengthen public safety and ensure that the families who feed us all can continue to do so for generations to come.

Steven Fenaroli is a director of policy advocacy for the California Farm Bureau. He can be reached at sfenaroli@cfbf.com.

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January 14, 2026

Commentary: English language program helps farms, employees

Instructor Cecelia Drissia delivers the English Advance training to a group of employees of agricultural businesses in Yolo County. Photo/Courtesy of National Immigration Forum

By Ana Negoescu and Bryan Little

For nearly a century, Spanish-speaking workers have been a critical part of American agriculture’s labor force. While the people coming to work on farms bring their talent, loyalty and leadership to the vital work they do, language barriers often create difficulty when it comes to elevating employees to supervisor or leadership roles.

The Pinery LLC, a California-based, family-owned tree grower and wholesale plant nursery, understands that struggle all too well. A member of Farm Employers Labor Service, a California Farm Bureau-affiliated company, The Pinery—like many employers—was looking for ways to improve its employees’ productivity and safety on the job while also retaining valuable talent.

This need is what brought The Pinery to English Advance, a project of the National Immigration Forum. It’s a project that can benefit all of us.

English Advance provides agriculture-tailored English instruction to farmworkers, giving them the communication tools they need to continue their path to success. With funding leveraged from the California Employment Training Panel Workforce Literacy Pilot, The Pinery was able to offer classes designed in partnership with FELS and taught by community college faculty during the workday.

Leaders at The Pinery see the program as a way to invest in employees, strengthen operations and prepare leaders, according to a manager who saw the success of the program through their employees’ growth. The business has decided to continue to invest in its workforce by offering another class next year.

It’s a sentiment shared across industries in which, over the past few years, English Advance has helped employees succeed thanks to their hard work and employers’ forethought. Now we’re excited to offer a special program tailored to the needs of farmworkers and their employers.

These English lessons are created with agriculture settings in mind. Students learn English language skills related to farm operations; employee safety; hygiene and food safety; team leadership and communication; interactions with human resources, landowners and upper management; and other sector best practices and regulations.

The agricultural industry is facing a nationwide labor shortage that we have seen coming for several years. The workforce is aging, and people whose families have been working in agriculture for centuries are now choosing different paths. Farms are facing these challenges head on, but every little bit of assistance and reinforcement helps.

Here in California, the need is great: California agriculture relies on the talents and skills of our workforce to produce the food that feeds America. That’s why the California Farm Bureau and FELS partner with the Forum to develop and deliver English Advance to member businesses.

It’s a true partnership, with the Farm Bureau and FELS sharing not only our workforce challenges but also our existing training materials to inform a tailored English Advance curriculum and real-life, relevant language practice scenarios.

English Advance is one way to solidify the foundations that make a strong labor force, retaining existing talent while giving new talent the tools they need to succeed.

According to the 2022 National Agricultural Workers Survey, 73% of agricultural workers in the United States are Hispanic, coming predominantly from Mexico or Central America. With Spanish speakers making up so much of the workforce, the services employers offer can help get and keep employees on the job and on a clear path up the leadership ladder.

The Center for Land Based Learning’s AgHire program, a leadership training for the Spanish-speaking farm workforce, addresses this part of the workforce and has incorporated English Advance. As a result, employers have extra help in providing training in leadership and communications, digital literacy, regulatory awareness and English.

English Advance’s contextualized curriculum helps workers improve on-the-job communication skills and enables them to advance into roles such as foreman, field supervisor and manager. After piloting this model with 12 employers in 2025, we anticipate new cohorts this year.

With the challenges currently facing the agricultural industry, it’s important to focus on finding the best ways to adapt and grow. Without good workers, farms cannot function. Americans depend on us.

English Advance is ready to partner and help meet these challenges.

Interested California agricultural businesses, local Farm Bureaus and other organizations supporting the workforce can offer and cover the cost of training any time—and through April 1, businesses can leverage existing funding through the Employment Training Panel to access the training program at no charge. If you are interested in offering English Advance to your employees or for more information, contact Ana Negoescu at anegoescu@forumtogether.org.

Ana Negoescu is assistant vice president of Workforce Advance at the National Immigration Forum. She can be reached at anegoescu@forumtogether.org. Bryan Little is senior director of policy advocacy for the California Farm Bureau and chief operating officer for the affiliated Farm Employers Labor Service. He can be reached at blittle@cfbf.com.