West

Farmers across California face new water cuts

With 60% of the state now in extreme drought conditions, state officials are warning water-right holders that they should expect more curtailments during peak irrigation season in June and July. In a statement last week,... more »

Washington wine industry launches sustainable certification program

The Washington wine industry launched the state’s first statewide certified sustainability program for wine grapes, signifying a commitment to quality fruit, environmental stewardship and healthy communities. Sustainable WA will begin certifying vineyards this summer. “From... more »

CA Farm Bureau Water Forum highlights local solutions

Facing a third year of drought, leadership from county Farm Bureaus, spanning all regions of California, gathered in Sacramento last week to engage with state water officials about all things water. A changing climate, shrinking... more »

Rare pest found in Mexican fruit at border

U.S. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists at the Pharr International Bridge discovered a rare pest, a first in the nation discovery, in a shipment of fresh fruit. “Our agriculture specialists help protect American agriculture... more »

Oregon OSHA adopts rules protecting against high heat, wildfire smoke

The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division announced on May 11 the adoption of rules to protect workers from the hazards of high heat and wildfire smoke. The rules encompass initial protective measures for workers... more »

Brighter Bites kicks off new program in Bakersfield, California

Brighter Bites, a national nonprofit that delivers fresh fruits and vegetables directly into families’ hands, has launched its ninth location in Bakersfield, California. The nonprofit will partner with Grimmway Farms and CAPK to help improve... more »

Nutrien Agricultural Sciences Building now open at CSU

For more than 150 years, the future of agriculture has been cultivated at Colorado State University. With the opening of the Nutrien Agricultural Sciences Building, that future now has more space and resources to grow... more »

Grapevine killer glassy-winged sharpshooter target of new technology

Scientists at UC Riverside have a shot at eradicating a deadly threat to vineyards posed by the glassy-winged sharpshooter, just as its resistance to insecticide has been growing. Withering grapes on a dying vine, which... more »