West

California farmers oppose ‘ill-defined’ DPR spending proposal

California is losing farmland at an alarming rate of 50,000 acres a year. That's equivalent to 78 square miles, 12 Yosemite Valleys or 38,000 football fields. Not only does this have serious consequences for the... more »

There’s a danger in over-simplifying California water conservation

You hear it every time drought returns to California: "Turn off the faucet when you brush your teeth." "Collect shower water in a bucket before it warms up." While valuable, these tried and true drought... more »

The best strawberries to grow in hot locations identified by researchers

It's strawberry season in many parts of the U.S, and supermarkets are teeming with these fresh heart-shaped treats. Although the bright red, juicy fruit can grow almost anywhere with lots of sunlight, production in some... more »

Construction begins on drought barrier in Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta

In response to worsening drought conditions in California, on June 3 the Department of Water Resources began construction on a temporary emergency drought barrier on the West False River in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The... more »

Lodi Winegrape Commission marks 30 years, passes referendum

The California Department of Food & Agriculture announced in late May the Lodi Winegrape Commission referendum passed with 85% of the region’s growers voting in favor of continuation. This news comes at the 30th anniversary... more »

Organic Produce Summit schedules first education session

An examination and discussion of the burgeoning growth of indoor grown fresh produce, and its impact on organically grown fruits and vegetables will be the topic of the first of four educational sessions at Organic... more »

CFVGA: Colorado farm labor law to further stress ag labor market

According to U.S. agricultural Census data, over the last decade net farm income has declined by 13 percent, while farm production expenses have increased 26%. A new labor law, Agricultural Workers’ Rights, has passed the... more »

Exhibitor booth registration opens for Organic Grower Summit

Exhibitor booth registration is now open for the Organic Grower Summit Presented by Western Growers and OPN, slated for Dec. 1-2, in Monterey, California. Organic supply chain partners and service providers are encouraged to sign... more »