West

Newsom advisor warns of climate threats to farming

California is preparing for a drier future. Climate impacts affecting the state, such as drought, a shrinking snowpack, higher temperatures and wildfires, were central to a discussion last week by California Department of Food and... more »

Data a key factor in addressing the West’s water shortage

Like many other researchers, University of California-Merced environmental engineering professors Erin Hestir and Joshua Viers are trying to quantify water use in California’s Central Valley. The difference is, they are doing it from the sky. Through NASA's applied sciences program, their... more »

Sustainability key to Terranova’s success

At Terranova Ranch, sustainability and concern for the environment fuel efficient growth of numerous vegetables, winegrapes and nuts. The San Joaquin Valley operation of 9,000 acres, in Helm, California, employs technology and new growing practices... more »

Western Growers refutes characterization of California labor law

When California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation designed to expand union rights for farm workers, AB 2183, he referred to the “heroic activism of farmworkers, championed by Americans” including Cesar Chavez. Western Growers President and... more »

California farm labor group sponsors forum

The California Farm Labor Contractor Association (CFLCA) is hosting its 12th Annual Ag Labor Forum, with more than 30 educational classes. The event is Nov. 10-11 at the Visalia Marriott and Convention Center in Visalia,... more »

California accepting pollinator grant applications

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is accepting grant applications for the Pollinator Habitat Program (PHP), administered by its Office of Environmental Farming and Innovation. The 12-week application period opened Aug. 31 and... more »

Ag groups seek quick availability of water project funding

A coalition of agriculture groups in the western U.S. is asking federal officials to immediately implement drought funding in the Inflation Reduction Act. Western Growers, the Agribusiness and Water Council of Arizona, Family Farm Alliance... more »

UC study breaks down costs of growing organic strawberries

Thinking about commercially growing organic strawberries on California’s Central Coast? To help prospective and current growers evaluate financial feasibility, the University of California has estimated costs to produce and harvest organic strawberries for fresh market... more »