by AgNet West Radio Network
Get the latest local, state, and national agriculture news in today’s AgNet News Hour by AgNet West.
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May 1, 2025
In today’s Ag Net News Hour, Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter,” and Lorrie Boyer started off talking about how the Bureau of Reclamation has increased water allocations for Central Valley Project contractors, with South of Delta irrigation, water service, and repayment contractors receiving an increase from 40% to 50%. However, concerns remain that this isn't sufficient to support farming needs, with frustration over water policy and environmental restrictions preventing farmers from receiving more. They also updated listeners on the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) working to control Mediterranean fruit fly populations using the sterile insect technique, which involves releasing sterilized male flies to disrupt reproduction. This method has been used before, including in Los Angeles County in 2023. The presence of Mediterranean fruit flies in Alameda and Santa Clara counties poses a significant threat to specialty crop growers, with potential economic losses of up to $1.8 billion per year. CDFA has established quarantines and monitoring programs to address the issue. Another topic on the show today was the Port of Los Angeles is facing a significant drop in shipping volume due to tariffs on Chinese goods. Shipments from China, which account for 45% of the port's business, are expected to decrease by 35% starting next week. Major American retailers have halted shipments from China, and transport companies are exploring alternatives in Southeast Asia to fill ships. This situation is part of a broader trade strategy aimed at addressing imbalances with China. In today’s Almond Board of California Almond Update segment, the almond industry is focusing on sustainability, stewardship, and nutrition to highlight its role in addressing climate goals and supporting local communities. Efforts include improving water efficiency, carbon capture, and promoting almonds as a nutritious protein alternative. Communication with legislators is key, as many are unfamiliar with farming challenges. Advocacy efforts, such as lobby days, aim to educate policymakers on the industry's contributions and regulatory impacts. Uncertainty around the 2025 almond crop due to weather and bloom challenges is being closely monitored, with potential impacts on supply and pricing. The almond industry continues to emphasize its importance in agriculture and the economy. Additionally, specialty crop growers are receiving support through the USDA's Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops program, addressing challenges like rising costs, labor shortages, and trade disruptions. An alliance of agricultural organizations is pushing for a bipartisan farm bill to enhance competitiveness.
April 30, 2025
Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter” and Lorrie Boyer, the Ag Net News Hour hosts discussed recent updates on water issues between the U.S. and Mexico, including a water pact violation leading to crop and livestock losses in southern Texas and Mexico's refusal to allow U.S. aircraft to release sterile insects to control the screw worm. Secretary Rollins is working to resolve these issues. Additionally, the show featured an interview with Todd Burkdoll from Valent USA, who provided insights on almond farming, emphasizing disease control, fungicide application, and weed management. He highlighted the importance of timely interventions to prevent diseases like Salton and Paramount, and controlling pests like leaf-footed plant bugs. Nick and Lorrie also shared an email from listener on a recent show topic where they talked about the impact of artificial food dyes on children's behavior. The listener shared a positive experience after removing red dyes from her child's diet. The show then shifted to vertical farming innovations, highlighting Nature's Miracle Holding Incorporated's plan to purchase up to 100 electric vehicles equipped with hydroponic systems to grow microgreens and herbs. These vehicles will operate in Los Angeles, aiming to reduce water usage by 90% and deliver fresh produce directly to consumers. The initiative is expected to start in Q2 2025 and may benefit from state and federal subsidies. The University of California, Davis, has introduced a new Viticulture and Enology minor to attract students to the wine industry, offering a blend of science and business education. The program aims to increase the number of graduates in the field, which has seen a decline in student enrollment. The hosts discuss the importance of innovation and business acumen in the wine industry, highlighting the need for students to network and gain practical experience. They also touch on the growing popularity of non-alcoholic and low-sugar wines, suggesting potential for traditional wineries to adapt. The segment concludes with a light-hearted discussion on farming facts and personal preferences for different types of poultry and meat.
April 29, 2025
The Ag Net News Hour hosts, Nick Papagni, the “Ag Meter” and Lorrie Boyer discussed the Yuba River Resilience Initiative, a joint project by NOAA, the state of California, and the Yuba Water Agency. This initiative fulfills a Presidential Memorandum by providing reliable irrigation water to central valley farmers while protecting fish habitat. The agreement guarantees 184,228 acre-feet of water across 43,000 acres, benefiting 16,000 acres of rice, 4,000 acres of walnuts, and 3,000 acres of prunes, with a total value of $417 million. Additionally, the hosts addressed the issue of Tijuana dumping sewage into the Pacific, affecting San Diego and causing environmental damage, with efforts led by Jim Desmond and Lee Zeldin to address this problem. The Ag Net News Hour hosts then discussed Mexico's dumping of raw sewage and toxic chemicals into the Pacific Ocean, affecting Navy SEALs, locals, and the environment, including fish and marine life. Toxic algae is causing the death of dolphins and seals. Jim Desmond and Zeldin are addressing the issue. The Tijuana sewage treatment plant malfunctions, leading to pollution. The New World screw worm, a significant threat to livestock, is spreading despite US-funded efforts. Mexico is restricting US flights to control the worm, risking a trade ban on cattle imports. The USDA and NCBA are urging Mexico to comply with the agreement to prevent the worm's spread. On the last segment, Nick and Lorrie covered the citrus and cherry markets, noting a strong demand for navels and lemons, with prices expected to rise. Rain in California could impact cherry yields, potentially leading to higher prices. The Trump administration's USDA reorganization plan is expected in mid-May. Finally, the hosts promoted the Citrus Specialty Crop Expo in Tampa, Florida, scheduled for August 20-21, aimed at uniting citrus growers from Florida, Georgia, and California to share best practices and address pest control challenges.
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