West
UF study: aphids deter pollinators such as monarch butterflies from tropical milkweed
Though aphids are the bane of many home gardeners’ existence, a new study University of Florida (UF) study shows the tiny pests also pose problems for the iconic monarch butterfly. Insect pollinators are essential for... more »
CDFA seeks members for shipping point program
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is seeking candidates for vacancies on the Shipping Point Inspection Advisory Committee. The committee advises the CDFA secretary on all matters pertaining to the Shipping Point Inspection... more »
Cal Pol Strawberry Center Field Day sets attendance record
Nearly 500 strawberry growers, shippers, processors, researchers and agricultural stakeholders gathered for the seventh annual Cal Poly Strawberry Center Field Day. The event, on Aug. 3, is the largest research and education event for the... more »
California melon growers applaud crop despite delay
California farmers say this season’s melon crop was delayed by about two weeks due to cool temperatures and wet fields, which affected early harvest of watermelons, cantaloupes and honeydews. It postponed melon deliveries to supermarkets... more »
California LGMA launches Romaine testing program
The California Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement (LGMA) has initiated a two-year food safety study on pathogens in Romaine lettuce, which has been the target of investigations of foodborne illness outbreaks in recent years. The initiative,... more »
Misionero celebrates 50th anniversary
Leafy greens grower Misionero, which markets organic and conventionally grown produce, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Founded in 1973 by Floyd Griffin, Misionero has a deep-rooted history and commitment to organic practices, offering organic products... more »
CDFA offers healthy soils program funding
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) announced the availability of approximately $4 million dollars of grant funding for its Healthy Soils Demonstration Program. Program information The program funds projects that showcase California farmers... more »
Tech event features a robot parade, drone pavilion
From weed control to fertilizer application, harvesting, picking and seeding, FIRA USA is showcasing more than two dozen ag robots with field demonstrations. Over the three-day event, Sept. 19-21, in Salinas, California, robots will be... more »