West

New UC studies estimate production costs for coastal lettuce, broccoli

Help for estimating costs and potential returns for growing lettuce and broccoli is now available for California Central Coast growers and others. Four new cost studies for lettuce and broccoli grown in Santa Cruz, San... more »

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 »