AgNet News Hour

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.

AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 03-19-25

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni discussed the cancellation of $1 billion from the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program and the Local Foods for Schools program by the Trump administration, affecting 10,000 farmers, particularly in California. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins deemed these programs non-essential, noting they were post-COVID initiatives. The hosts debated the administration's focus on cutting government spending and potential corruption. They also highlighted the introduction of a new commodities program to replace some canceled initiatives. The conversation emphasized the need for transparency and efficiency in government spending, with concerns about the impact on farmers and consumers.
In this segment, Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni discussed the Trump administration's plan to close or consolidate 800 lease locations, including offices of the Environmental Protection Agency, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the US Forest Service, affecting over 10 million square feet and saving $500 million. The Los Angeles EPA office, with a $572,000 annual lease, was highlighted. The conversation also touched on the broader implications of federal office closures, the impact on various agencies, and the potential for cost savings.
Todd Burkdoll, a field market development specialist with Valent USA, discussed the impact of recent and expected wet weather on Central Valley crops, particularly almonds, cherries, plums, and nectarines. He emphasized the importance of preventative fungicide applications during petal fall to combat diseases like shot hole, Alternaria, and rust. Burkdoll recommended using systemic fungicides like Quash for better residual protection. He also highlighted the need for regular monitoring of weather predictions and planting densities to manage diseases effectively.
Resources for further information include the Valent USA website and the University of California's guidelines.
Happy National Ag Day from Ag Net West!

AgNet News Hour Tuesday, 03-18-25

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni discuss recent weather patterns in California, noting significant storms and the subsequent lack of rain for the next 10 days. They plan to interview experts on managing fungus after rains. They also express concern for those affected by severe storms in the Midwest and Northeast. Upcoming interviews include a discussion on citrus farming with Mondo Perez and a Citrus and Specialty Crop Expo in Tampa, Florida. They highlight the impact of tariffs on European wine, noting a proposed 200% tariff and the challenge of bulk wine imports on domestic wineries. They also discuss the potential benefits of promoting American-grown products.
In the second segment, Lorrie and Nick discuss the impact of tariffs on the agricultural industry, particularly the machinery sector, and the proposed fees on Chinese ships by the U.S. Trade Representative. They express concerns about the potential catastrophic effects on the U.S. maritime industry, including increased costs and potential job losses. The proposal aims to level the playing field by promoting U.S. ship use and preventing China's market power over global supply chains. They also discuss the broader implications for trade, labor costs, and the potential for increased inflation and food prices. The conversation highlights the complexities and uncertainties surrounding these trade policies.
In this segment, information and discussion regarding an Ohio school districts pilot program that aims to get milk to all kids by offering lactose free milk. The initiative aimed to address the nutritional needs of the 81% of students qualifying for free or reduced meals, particularly those with lactose intolerance. The pilot showed increased milk consumption and overall meal participation, which covered the additional cost of lactose-free milk. The program highlights the importance of adapting school meals to diverse dietary needs and effective marketing to boost participation.

AgNet News Hour Monday, 03-17-25

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni discuss the impact of tariffs and trade agreements on agriculture, particularly the USMCA. David Samuelson, Senior Director of Government Affairs at the American Farm Bureau Federation, explains the importance of the auto industry in the USMCA and the concerns about Chinese investment in Mexico's auto sector. He highlights the benefits of tariff-free treatment for agriculture, noting that US-Mexico-Canada trade has grown from $9-10 billion in the 90s to over $50 billion today.
The Ag Net News Hour discussed a federal judge's order to rehire thousands of probationary workers fired by the Trump administration, criticizing the administration's tactics. The order affects multiple agencies, including Veteran Affairs, Agriculture, and Defense. Nick Papagni argued that Trump's actions aim to clean up government waste, predicting Trump will win the lawsuit. The conversation also touched on the impact of the H5N1 avian influenza on California dairies, leading to a ban on dairy exhibitions.
The conversation also touched on the potential impact of vaccinations on organic dairy and poultry and the importance of transparency in food production. The segment concluded with a call for reducing regulations to allow common sense in farming practices.