Sacramento, Calif., (January 29, 2018) – Every facet of the wine industry, from research and science to trends and markets, was examined, discussed and debated at the 24th Unified Wine & Grape Symposium (Unified), which wrapped up here today. The largest wine show of its kind in the Western Hemisphere, the Unified drew thousands of industry professionals from all over the …

Sacramento, Calif., (January 29, 2018) – The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Los Angeles County Agricultural Commissioner’s office have eradicated an Oriental fruit fly (OFF) infestation centered near the Hollywood area of Los Angeles County, ending a 75-square-mile quarantine that began August 18, 2017.  A total of 9 flies …

Davis, Calif., (January 29, 2018) – Oakleaf, Mizuna, Red Rib Chicory, Lollo Rosa, and Lamb’s Lettuce, are the names of a few of the leafy vegetables which graced my salad plate. The thinly sliced fresh red onion, juicy pomegranate kernels, and fresh citrus dressing added to the delectable ensemble. I, as well as so many other California diners, have grown …

Visalia, Calif., (January 26, 2018) – Tulare County Agricultural Commissioner released the current status today of Major crops in the most valued county in the California Ag portfolio. They report that winter forage crops, such as wheat, barley, other cereal grains and forage mixes, continue to be planted where the ground allows. As always more rain is needed to maintain …

Washington, D. C., (January 26, 2018) – In the United States, as in many prosperous nations, foreign workers play a critical role in the production of our nation’s food supply. As Congress struggles with the contentious issue of illegal immigration, it is important that legislators consider the disastrous consequence if no workers show up to grow, harvest and ship our nation’s fruits …

Fresno, Calif., (January 25, 2018) – Farm Employers Labor Service (FELS) has partnered with Safe Food Alliance (SFA) through a California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) contract to provide Food Safety Modernization (FSMA)-required Produce Safety Trainings for Central and Southern California growers for a low price of $35 per attendee. Most farms are required to have at least one …

Davis, Calif., (January 25, 2018) – MORNING, 2047: WORK IS WELL UNDER WAY as day breaks on this farm in California’s Central Valley. A robotic tractor drives along rows of tomato plants, with a snip-snip-snip as weeds are cut away. A drone hovers over a field, looking for signs of disease. In the feedlot, sensors show which cattle are thriving and …

UNITED STATES COURT OF FEDERAL CLAIMS No. 15-938 Bruce Ciapessoni, et al, Plaintiffs, v. The United States, Defendant   What event triggered the filing of this Class Action? On June 22, 2015, the Supreme Court of the United States held that the Marketing Order’s reserve-pool requirement effected “a clear physical taking” in violation of the Fifth Amendment’s Takings Clause for …