AgNet News Hour

AgNet News Hour Monday, 03-31-25

The Ag Net News Hour’s Lorre Boyer and Nick Papagni, “The AgMeter” started out the show by discussing California's Assembly Bill 1264, which aims to ban ultra-processed foods from school meals by 2032. These foods are linked to 32 health conditions, including obesity and ADHD. The bill faces challenges in making healthy foods appealing to children and affordable for schools. Suggestions included using fresh, local produce and innovative packaging to make healthier options more appealing. The conversation also touched on the broader issue of food waste and the importance of addressing obesity, which is influenced by both diet and sedentary activities like video games.
In the second segment, hosts, Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni discussed the severe impact of record honey bee deaths on agriculture, with U.S. beekeepers reporting over 60% colony losses, costing $139 million and raising honey prices. Pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, are suspected, with multi-generational harm noted. The California almond industry, worth $11 billion, faces severe pollination shortages. Despite concerns, some argue that more bee companies indicate a future surplus. The University of California is studying long-term effects on pollinator populations. The hosts emphasized the importance of due diligence and ongoing research to address the issue.
Lastly, Nick brought up the impact of recent storms on California's water allocation, with the Department of Water Resources increasing water to state projects to 40%. Nick criticized the 40% allocation, noting that much water goes to the ocean, while farmers struggle. They also discussed the challenges of using ocean water for firefighting due to salinization. Additionally, Nick ad Lorrie addressed a controversial wind energy project in Shasta County, which could generate 205 megawatts but faces opposition due to environmental and safety concerns. The project would benefit 80,000 homes, but local opposition has spent significant funds fighting it. Lorrie cited some issues with wind farms and wind turbines based upon her prior coverage in other areas of the country.

AgNet News Hour Friday, 03-28-25

Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni, “The AgMeter” discuss the Waters of the US (WOTUS) rule under the Clean Water Act with Mary-Thomas Hart, Chief Counsel of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA). Thomas-Hart highlights that farmers and landowners have faced 14 iterations of WOTUS since 1972. Recent developments include EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin's announcements on enforcement and a 30-day Request for Information. The Supreme Court's 2023 decision declared the significant nexus test unconstitutional. NCBA aims to ensure EPA aligns with the Supreme Court's intent. Thomas-Hart emphasizes the importance of public comments and collaboration with agencies like the US Army Corps of Engineers and USDA to avoid unintended harm to cattle producers.
The discussion on the Ag Net News Hour continued on the Waters of the US under the Clean Water Act, emphasizing the need for clear definitions to avoid federal jurisdiction over agricultural land. California's water issues were highlighted, with concerns about water allocation and environmental policies favoring fish over human needs. The conversation also touched on the potential benefits and risks of genetically modified soybeans and corn, noting that 90% of soybeans and corn are genetically modified. The debate includes the impact of GMOs on human health and the role of the Food and Drug Administration in ensuring food safety.
In the last segment, Nick Papagni and Lorrie Boyer discussed the growing gray wolf population in California, which has led to cattle depredation, prompting a local emergency in one county. Between October and December 2024, wolves killed 19 cattle in rural counties. The issue mirrors that in Colorado, where wolves were reintroduced via a ballot measure. The conversation highlighted the challenges farmers face, including financial losses and the fear of reporting losses due to potential harassment from environmentalists. California has a $3 million compensation program for non-lethal deterrence measures.

AgNet News Hour Thursday, 03-27-25

Nick Papagni, the "AgMeter" starts the show off with a feature interview on cherries with Morada Produce Company's Michael Jameson.  Produce discussed the upcoming cherry season, noting that California produces over 2.2 million boxes of cherries. He highlighted the challenges in estimating crop volumes due to the bloom stage and the impact of weather on pollination. Jameson emphasized the importance of accurate timing for retailers and the use of advanced technology like optical sorters for quality control. He also addressed the impact of tariffs and exchange rates on export markets, noting that 71% of the crop goes to the domestic market, with 29% to international markets. Jameson stressed the need for a strong domestic foundation due to the volatility of international markets.
The AgNet News Hour hosts discussed the Trump administration's release of billions for rural energy projects, emphasizing the need for grant recipients to rewrite their funding purposes to align with the administration's energy goals. The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which supports rural energy projects, has been on hold due to litigation. The conversation also touched on the removal of DEIA and climate mandates from grant applications. Additionally, the hosts critiqued the Biden administration's Inflation Reduction Act, noting its bureaucratic complexity. The segment concluded with a discussion on the impact of California's gray wolf population on agriculture.
In this week's Almond Board of California feature, we talk about the importance of getting involved in the Almond Board of California. Their call for candidates deadline for the Board of Directors election is April 1, but Committees will be held in July. Justin Morehead is a current Board Member and is on committees.

AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 03-26-25

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni, "The AgMeter" discussed the hay market with Nick Folio from Folio Commodities. In the Central Valley, Supreme hay costs $280-$295 per ton, premium hay $255-$275, good hay $235, and dry cow hay $210-$220. Rain expected from March 28-30 may delay production. Horse hay retail prices range from $18-$20 per bale, while dairy hay remains competitive. The milk market is soft, with interest rates high, affecting dairy economics. The California Milk Advisory Board launched the seventh annual Real California Pizza Contest, offering $30,000 in prize money. The board also promotes dairy products through various initiatives.
The Ag Net News Hour discussed the Trump administration's proposal to impose substantial fees on Chinese-built vessels entering U.S. ports, potentially exceeding $1 million per ship. The proposal aims to revitalize the U.S. shipping industry, which has relied heavily on Chinese barges.
The discussion focused on the proposed $1 million fee on Chinese-built vessels entering U.S. ports, aimed at revitalizing the U.S. shipping industry. Currently, there are fewer than 14 U.S. bulk vessels for grain and oilseed commodities. Each $1 million increase in ocean freight costs adds 40-50 cents per bushel for Panamax-sized ships and $1.20 per bushel for smaller vessels. The Trump administration's Section 301 rule targets China's market share, with 48% of bulk vessels being Chinese-built. Additionally, the conversation touched on the consolidation of USDA offices to reduce costs and the administration's efforts to improve water infrastructure in California.

AgNet News Hour Tuesday, 03-25-25

It is National Farmworker Safety Week with Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papgani "The AgMeter." A special feature on farmworker emergencies and a discussion on the importance of having an adequate farm labor workforce.
Nick gives a specialty crops growing and harvest updates. Nick and Lorrie then talk about exploring new agricultural technologies, such as autonomous vineyard equipment and robotics, to address labor challenges and improve efficiency.
The last segment goes over 'hot button' ag issues and headline news including water allocations, tariffs, ag weather, markets, and more.

AgNet News Hour Monday, 03-24-25

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni discuss recent weather impacts on agriculture, including blizzards and hail in the Midwest and warm temperatures in California. Nick Hagany interviewed Mando Perez, President of the California Association of Pest Control Advisors (CAPCA), about citrus farming challenges. Perez highlighted the year-round pest management needs of citrus, the importance of advanced technology for frost control, and the differences between Central Valley and Southern California citrus farming. They also mentioned an upcoming citrus specialty Expo in Tampa, Florida, on August 20-21, 2023, for expert insights and networking opportunities.
Nick Papagni and Lorrie Boyer discuss the fact that they Florida Legislature is considering a bill introduced by Sara Soto and Senator John Rutters to restrict the incorporation of vaccines into food products, aiming to modify the definition of a drug to include food. The bill's proponents argue it protects medical freedom and consumer transparency. The hosts debated the potential risks and benefits, with one speaker opposing the idea due to concerns about vaccine efficacy and consumer choice. Additionally, a study from the Journal of Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases highlighted the health benefits of strawberries, particularly for older adults, emphasizing their role in cognitive function and cardiovascular health.
In the final segment the hosts cover various agricultural and trade issues. They highlighted the ongoing trade war and its impact on export markets, noting the Trump administration's efforts to open new markets. They also discussed the reinstatement of USDA reports canceled due to budget cuts, which will provide crucial data for farmers and lenders. Additionally, they covered a $280 million grant from the USDA to Texas farmers affected by water delivery shortages due to Mexico's failure to meet its obligations under a 1944 treaty. The conversation also touched on the complexities of US-Mexico relations, including potential cooperation and the influence of cartels in Mexico.

AgNet News Hour Friday, 03-21-25

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni have a special guest, Kimberly Mercado Frausto, Vice President of the Woodlake FFA chapter, discussed her experiences at the National FFA Foundation's Next Gen Conference in Florida. She highlighted her passion for agriculture, her involvement in raising livestock, and her career aspirations to become an agriculture teacher. Kimberly shared insights from the conference, which focused on industry tours and career exploration, emphasizing the importance of personal skills and core values. She noted the conference's impact on her understanding of California's diverse agriculture beyond its stereotypical image. 
The Ag Net News Hour discussed the Trump administration's $350 million investment in California's water future, including an additional $134 million. The Sites Reservoir project near Maxwell, California, will store 1.5 million acre-feet of water, benefiting irrigation and wildlife. The project aims to address California's 76 billion dollar deficit and improve water management. The show also highlighted the peak citrus season in North America, with high volumes but low prices. Citrus imports from Mexico and Morocco are significant.
Lorrie Boyer and Nick Pagani discuss McDonald's $671,000 investment in the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) for "SMART broiler" technology. This technology uses sensors to monitor chicken welfare in real-time, enhancing traditional methods. The system tracks bird health, behavior, and environmental conditions, potentially reducing labor costs and improving efficiency. McDonald's emphasizes animal welfare in its sourcing, ensuring chickens are raised humanely. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of automation in agriculture and the challenges farmers face, including low-profit margins and regulatory burdens.

AgNet News Hour Thursday, 03-20-25

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni discuss the USDA's approval of permanent line speed increases for poultry and pork sectors, based on a successful pilot program since November 2021. The National Pork Producers Council and National Chicken Council support the decision, citing no increased risk to food safety or worker injuries.  However, the Retail, Wholesale, and Department Store Union opposes it, fearing higher injury rates. The USDA will update regulations to ensure safety, including ergonomic program guidelines. The segment also highlighted the increasing automation in agriculture and the importance of maintaining food supply as the population grows.
On the second segment, Lorrie and Nick discuss the Smoke Exposure Research Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by US Senators Alex Padilla and Jeff Merkley, and Representatives Mike Thompson and Doug LaMalfa. The bill aims to protect wine grape growers from wildfire smoke damage by allocating $32.5 million annually for five years to research smoke taint and develop risk management methods. es 4,800 wineries and nearly 6,000 growers.
Thew final segment of todays program is Brought to you by the Almond Board of California. Kiki Sandrini, Regional Sales Manager at Chandler Automation, discussed her positive experience in the Almond Leadership Program 2025, emphasizing the program's comprehensive orientation and industry networking. She co-chairs the annual golf tournament on May 15 at the Dragonfly Golf Club, which supports Future Farmers of America (FFA) and agriculture education. The event offers various sponsorship opportunities and encourages industry connections. Additionally, the segment highlighted the extension of the public comment period for the monarch butterfly's threatened species listing until May 19, 2024, with previous comments still under review. The discussion also touched on the butterfly's significance and the potential impact on agricultural practices.