AgNet News Hour

AgNet News Hour: Citrus Expo Preview, USDA Snap Crackdown, and Chad Bianco’s Bold Vision for California Ag

In today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill kick off a fabulous Friday with a spotlight on the upcoming Citrus and Specialty Crop Expo—an event that promises to bring the industry together with top-notch seminars, networking, and farm-focused innovation. Scheduled for August 20–21 in Tampa, Florida, this year’s expo offers something for every specialty crop producer, from tree fruit and cucurbits to tomatoes, melons, and sweet corn. With CEU credits, a “specialty crop power panel,” and free grower meals—including a Thursday brunch that’s already building buzz—it’s a can’t-miss opportunity for the ag community.
Nick and Josh also break down urgent developments from the USDA. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins is taking firm action to shut down border ports due to renewed screw worm threats just 370 miles south of the U.S. in Mexico. The pair discuss the rapid response from USDA, why trust and cooperation with Mexico is on shaky ground, and how this outbreak could ripple through the already strained cattle market.
In addition, the show takes a closer look at Secretary Rollins’ push to restrict illegal immigrants from accessing SNAP and other federal benefits. This move—backed by several federal agencies—aims to ensure only eligible U.S. residents receive taxpayer support. Nick applauds the move as a long-overdue step toward fiscal accountability, while Josh dives into the potential political pushback and what it could mean for California.
The episode rounds out with a longform interview with Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who’s running for Governor of California. Sheriff Bianco lays out his farmer-first agenda, takes on misguided solar development on farmland, and calls out environmental overreach. He promises to bring common sense back to California—starting with water access, labor reform, and restoring balance in Sacramento.
Whether you’re a grower, rancher, or simply ag-curious, today’s AgNet News Hour is packed with timely updates and bold ideas.

Common Sense and Crisis Mode: July 10 AgNet News Hour with Steve Hilton

Common Sense and Crisis Mode: July 10 AgNet News Hour with Steve Hilton
In today’s AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill are joined by one of the most vocal candidates in California’s upcoming gubernatorial race, Steve Hilton. It’s a high-energy episode packed with policy critiques, hard-hitting interviews, and a call to action for California’s farming communities.
Hilton, a businessman and longtime supporter of agriculture, lays out his vision to revitalize California by reducing regulation, restoring water infrastructure, and protecting farmland from being converted into subsidized solar developments. In his words, “We’re not just in a bad place, we’re in crisis mode.” And he doesn’t shy away from bold ideas.
A focal point of the discussion is AB 1156, which allows pauses on the Williamson Act and enables the conversion of ag land to solar farms. Hilton calls it “heartbreaking,” emphasizing that farmland in California, especially the Central Valley, should be used to grow the healthy produce that feeds the nation. He blasts what he terms “climatism” and the “scam” of imported solar infrastructure subsidized by taxpayers and backed by hedge funds.
The conversation also tackles practical impacts on everyday farmers: from high diesel costs and unrealistic electric equipment mandates to farm equipment theft linked to cross-border crime. Hilton even proposes legal actions and agency appointments to roll back overreach from agencies like CARB and the State Water Resources Control Board.
Nick and Josh push Hilton on what ag needs from its next leader. He responds with a promise: “I will be the biggest champion California farmers have ever had.” Whether it's preserving organic dairies in the north, ensuring water storage projects like Sites Reservoir are completed, or stopping environmental overregulation, Hilton says it’s time to lead with common sense.

AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 07-09-25-National Security, Innovation, and Tariff Tension

National Security, Innovation, and Tariff Tension
In today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Nick Papagni and Josh McGill break down the latest headlines shaping agriculture in California and across the nation. From Washington D.C. to the fields of Salinas and the Central Valley, this episode covers some of the most urgent and transformative issues impacting farmers today.
Leading the show is the USDA’s unveiling of the National Farm Security Action Plan. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins rolled out a sweeping federal initiative designed to safeguard U.S. agriculture from foreign adversaries. The plan includes banning land purchases by foreign entities from countries of concern, cracking down on fraudulent nutrition programs, and protecting ag research and supply chains. Nick and Josh give their takes on what this means for California farmers and national ag resilience.
Also in today’s show: Tariff uncertainty continues to loom large as the Trump administration delays enforcement to August 1. The team breaks down the potential impacts of increased tariffs on 14 nations, including what the delay means for California growers trying to plan ahead in an already volatile global market. The hosts weigh the risks, opportunities, and why India’s absence from the list might signal a positive development.
In the spotlight interview, Nick and Josh sit down with Danny Bernstein, CEO of The Reservoir, a groundbreaking incubator for ag innovation. Bernstein discusses his team's work with major California growers like Taylor Farms and Driscoll’s to create real-world testing grounds for tech startups. From automated harvesters to precision irrigation, the Reservoir is helping bridge the gap between Silicon Valley and farm fields—and giving smaller producers a seat at the innovation table.
They also tackle major challenges like labor shortages, automation bans, and California’s regulatory hurdles, with Bernstein emphasizing the need for inclusive, scalable solutions.
Spider mites and hull rot? Todd Burkdoll from Valent USA closes the show with timely insights on how to protect your tree nuts with Quash and Zeal MVP.

AgNet News Hour Tuesday, 07-08-25

Tariffs, Trade, and a Turnaround for Walnuts
It’s a new week in California agriculture, and we’re starting strong with a packed episode of the AgNet News Hour. Join Nick Papagni and Josh McGill as they break down the headlines and bring you the stories that matter most to California farmers and ranchers.
The highlight of today’s show is a deep-dive conversation with Michael Jameson of Morada Nut Company, one of the industry’s leading voices on the global walnut trade. Jameson offers a masterclass in ag economics, trade barriers, and international marketing, walking us through the challenges—and bright spots—California walnut growers face heading into the 2024 harvest.
With insight into shifting international demand, tariffs, freight issues, and pricing pressures from global competitors like China, this interview is a must-listen for growers navigating a complicated ag export market. Jameson also discusses how quality and shelf life give California walnuts a global edge, and what changes in India’s tariff policy could mean for our state’s growers.
Also in the episode: the “Big Beautiful Bill”—a major piece of legislation with potentially transformative benefits for family farms—has passed. Find out what it means for tax reform, farm succession, and the long-term viability of American agriculture. Plus, a look at the decline of an American pantry staple: Del Monte Foods files for bankruptcy after 139 years. Nick and Josh examine what this signals for the future of processed food, and how innovation in packaging and marketing can make or break an ag business.
We also check in on California watermelon season, hear about the upcoming USDA trade mission to the Dominican Republic, and talk table grapes, seedless fruit trends, and more.

AgNet News Hour 07-07-25 – Keeping Water in Ag, and Politics in Check

AgNet News Hour – Keeping Water in Ag, and Politics in Check
Today’s AgNet News Hour is all about fighting for California farmers—where water, policy, and land use take center stage.
Nick Papagni and Josh McGill are joined by Assemblymember David Tangipa, who brings Central Valley grit and common sense back to Sacramento. A former Fresno State football player turned lawmaker, Tangipa is one of the few politicians pushing back on solar panel expansion into productive farmland.
The conversation dives into the ongoing frustration over California’s water management, with growing concern that ag is being sacrificed for political agendas. Tangipa shares his insider perspective on how the system really works, what needs to change, and why more legislators need real-world experience in agriculture.
Nick and Josh also highlight the balance between innovation and practicality—exploring how state-level decisions about solar development and energy policy are impacting rural communities and long-term food security.
This episode is a must-listen for growers, ranchers, and ag advocates who care about land use, leadership, and the future of farming in the Golden State.

AgNet News Hour – July 4: A Salute to American Agriculture and Our Founding Roots

AgNet News Hour – July 4: A Salute to American Agriculture and Our Founding Roots
On this special Independence Day edition of the AgNet News Hour, Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Josh McGill deliver a heartfelt, patriotic show that honors not just America’s 249th birthday—but also the agricultural roots that helped build it.
From the founding fathers to modern-day farmers, this episode reminds listeners how agriculture has always been at the heart of America’s freedom and prosperity. Did you know that 90% of Americans were involved in agriculture in 1776? Nick and Josh reflect on that transformation, emphasizing how fewer people grow food today—but the role of the American farmer is more critical than ever.
They also call out the disconnect between state leadership and modern agriculture, especially in California, where farmland continues to be threatened by energy policy and water restrictions. The hosts highlight the enduring wisdom of leaders like Thomas Jefferson, who once said, “Agriculture is our wisest pursuit.”
This episode also touches on wartime farming legacies, including World War II’s Victory Gardens and the Bracero program, which kept U.S. ag production strong during labor shortages. From history to fireworks, civic pride, and a powerful reminder to thank a farmer—this episode is both inspiring and timely.
Whether you're at a barbecue or in the field, take time to celebrate freedom—and the folks who keep us fed.

AgNet News Hour Thursday, 07-03-25

AgNet News Hour – Labor Solutions, Walnut Momentum, and Global Almond Growth
On today’s AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill deliver an insightful pre-Independence Day show that covers some of the biggest topics facing agriculture right now—from labor reform to market outlooks for California’s leading commodities.
The episode opens with a discussion of a major development from the U.S. Department of Labor: the creation of a new Office of Immigration Policy. This office aims to streamline legal work visa processing, particularly for industries like agriculture that rely heavily on seasonal and skilled immigrant labor. As delays in the H-2A program continue to cost farmers millions in lost crops, the potential for reform is welcome news. Nick and Josh explore what this could mean for fruit and vegetable growers, dairy operations, and the broader ag economy.
Then, listeners are treated to a candid and optimistic interview with walnut grower Devin Norene, who farms in the Southern Sacramento Valley and serves on the California Walnut Board. Norene discusses why 2024 could mark a major comeback year for the walnut industry. After years of logistical challenges and price pressure, this year’s weather and market alignment may finally deliver the quality and yield farmers need. He also highlights improved marketing efforts that are putting California walnuts on center stage alongside almonds and pistachios.
The team also looks ahead to the upcoming July 9 tariff decision, which could significantly impact export opportunities—especially for walnuts, where global competition from China remains strong.
Plus, there’s a preview of the UC ANR Walnut Field Day on July 18 in Rio Oso, and an almond trade update featuring leaders from the Almond Board of California and delegates from Kansas and New Mexico who recently joined a NASDA trade mission focused on Morocco—a fast-growing export market for U.S. tree nuts.
Before signing off, Nick and Josh share some Fourth of July grilling tips and favorite summer treats. From serious ag policy to barbecue talk, today’s episode is packed with value.

AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 07-02-25

AgNet News Hour: Water, Land, and a Fight for the Future of Farming in California
On today’s AgNet News Hour, Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Josh McGill deliver a critical and candid conversation with Imperial Valley farmer Andrew Leimgruber —shedding light on the daily battles California growers face just to stay in business. From water rights to foreign land ownership, today’s episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of American agriculture.
Leimgruber, a fourth-generation alfalfa and vegetable grower near El Centro, doesn’t hold back. He discusses how water cutbacks, state regulations, and rising costs are putting unprecedented strain on farmers. Despite receiving just two inches of rain per year, Leimgruber has reduced water usage by up to 30% while maintaining yields—proving that farmers, not lawmakers, are leading on sustainability.
But there’s only so much innovation can do without policy support. Leimgruber warns that state leadership continues to ignore ag’s economic role, while embracing short-sighted energy policies and approving solar development on prime farmland. He also raises alarms about the Chinese government buying U.S. farmland near sensitive military sites—calling it both a food security and national security issue.
The show also explores the ripple effects of the closing Spreckels Sugar factory, which could impact 28,000 acres of crops and hundreds of jobs in Imperial County. Leimgruber outlines how losing such crop diversity could weaken the region’s ag economy and make farmers more vulnerable to price volatility.
Nick and Josh underscore a recurring theme: food security is national security. As cities expand and water politics become more divisive, the need to protect and prioritize California farmland has never been greater.
Don’t miss this important episode—where real farmers speak hard truths about policy, production, and perseverance.