CDFA’s Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP) provides financial assistance for the implementation of non-digester manure management practices on California dairy and livestock operations, which will result in reduced emissions of methane, a greenhouse gas (GHG) 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide in its potential to warm the atmosphere. Eligible practices for funding through AMMP include: pasture-based management; alternative manure treatment and …

“We had exactly 100 entries – 32 more than last year – in the second annual Sealpro® Forage Contest. Lab results of three categories were placed by an independent nutrition consultant: Alfalfa Haylage, Winter Forage, and Corn Silage. Complete contest results were based 60% on the Rock River Laboratory, Inc. complete lab analysis, 30% on actual sample inspection, and 10% …

A bit of seaweed in cattle feed could reduce methane emissions from beef cattle as much as 82 percent, according to new findings from researchers at the University of California, Davis. The results, published today (March 17) in the journal PLOS ONE, could pave the way for the sustainable production of livestock throughout the world. “We now have sound evidence …

California’s $86 million date industry produces more than half of the nation’s dates. Most of the fruit is grown in the arid Coachella Valley. Despite efforts by growers to conserve water, data was lacking on date palms’ actual water use to refine the best irrigation management for the crop until a recent research project led by Ali Montazar, UC Cooperative …

Tony P. Lopes is a 4th generation dairyman and farmer, following in his family’s footsteps of producing food while caring for their land and cattle. In addition to raising sustainiBeef’s Angus Crossbred steers, the Lopes family farm also produces Real California Milk, Corn, Oats, and Alfalfa. Ever since the family’s patriarch Manuel immigrated from the Azores Islands in search of work, …

In 2019, California’s farms and ranches received more than $50 billion in cash receipts for their output. This represents a slight increase over reported cash receipts compared to the previous year. California agricultural exports totaled $21.7 billion, an increase of 3 percent from 2018.  Top commodities for export included almonds, pistachios, dairy and dairy products, wine and walnuts. California’s agricultural …

Each year, a special group of young women are selected to represent the state’s dairy farm families who contribute to making California number one for milk production in the U.S. These Dairy Princess ambassadors and alternates are selected during events at Districts throughout the state, where they showcase speaking skills, knowledge of dairy and desire to represent the industry during …

The National Dairy FARM Program (FARM) has published its 2020 Year in Review. Serving as the annual summary of the achievements and program developments of the FARM Program, the Year in Review showcases successes and challenges during a year of change and uncertainty. “As the industry shifted with the pandemic, we adapted the program to fit farmer’s and program participant’s …

Despite significant disruptions in trade throughout 2020, the United States exported nearly 2.4 million metric tons of dairy goods last year–a record-setting mark, according to data released today by USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). Michael Dykes, D.V.M., President and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) issued the following statement: “Last year was yet another banner year for U.S. …

The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Office of Environmental Farming and Innovation (OEFI) is seeking public comments on recommendations for proposed new manure management practices to be potentially included in its Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP). Proposals for new practices were accepted through a Request for Proposals (RFP) between July 6, 2020 and September 4, 2020. There were several important requirements needed to submit a …