AgNet News Hour

AgNet News Hour, Thursday, 01-02-25

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer discuss the ongoing conflict between the Illinois Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). The AFBF voted to expel the Illinois Farm Bureau due to their insurance company, Country Financial, deciding to sell policies to non-farmers, sparking a lawsuit. The conversation covers the potential ramifications for Illinois farmers, their representation in national policy, membership impacts, and the broader implications for other state Farm Bureaus.
Lorrie talks with JR Smith, Vice President and co-founder of the Veterans Ranch, who discusses the organization's origins and mission. Founded in 2017, the nonprofit aims to support veterans and their families through equine therapy and other services. Initially conceptualized on napkins at a Chili's, the ranch provides free therapy and discounted riding lessons, with plans to expand to 10 locations across Texas and Florida.
This week’s Almond Update is with Franz Niederholzer and emphasizes the critical importance of accurate pesticide spraying techniques in agricultural practices, particularly in almond orchards. The discussion highlights the impact of variables such as wind, humidity, and tank contents on spray efficacy. It explores advancements in spray technology, stressing the need for a strong foundational understanding of traditional practices. Topics like nozzle selection, calibration, and the role of IPM (Integrated Pest Management) are elaborated, providing essential guidelines for improving application efficiency and safety.

AgNet News Hour, Wednesday, 01-01-25

Hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer share some of their favorite recent interviews on this New Year’s Day. 

AgNet News Hour, Tuesday, 12-31-24

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer discuss the growing issue of wolf populations in California and its impact on livestock producers. They compare this situation with similar challenges faced in Colorado. The California Farm Bureau has recently updated its policies on wolf management, although enforcing these policies remains complex due to the wolves' status under various endangered species protections. The conversation highlights the multifaceted nature of the problem, including issues around depredation definitions, compensation for ranchers, and the financial and logistical burdens of managing wolf populations. Both states are striving to balance ecological needs with the protection and support of livestock operations.
Lorrie talks with John Sandbakken, executive director of the National Sunflower Association, who discusses the successful 2023 sunflower harvest, noting minimal delays and high yields despite reduced acreage. He highlights the importance of the Pacific Northwest and California for hybrid seed production due to their dry climates and cross-pollination controls.
Sabrina wraps up the show with an excerpt from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Beltway Beef podcast, and other news of the day.

AgNet News Hour, Monday, 12-30-24

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer discuss the environmental impact of biofuels versus electric vehicles. The conversation pivots around several environmental groups suing California air regulators over the recent update of the climate program, arguing biofuels still pose pollution risks. Sabrina and Lorrie reflect on the shifting perceptions of biofuels, the challenges of building infrastructure for electric vehicles, and potential environmental costs associated with both. Personal stories and expert opinions highlight the complexity of transitioning to more sustainable energy sources, especially in agriculture.
Lorrie Boyer talks with Bryan Little, chief operating officer for farm employer labor service, which is an affiliated company of the California Farm Bureau. They discuss developing a plan to help small agricultural producers and dairy operators cope with the zoonotic disease standard and the requirements for protecting employees from H5N1 avian influenza. They working to put out information to dairy operators and Farm Bureau members to help them understand the basic requirements for protecting employees, both before and after experiencing an H5N1 infection in their herd.
In a featured guest interview, C. J. Miller talks with Ted McKinney, CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, discusses the recent dispute panel ruling that found Mexico violated commitments under the USMCA by attempting to ban genetically modified corn imports from the U.S. McKinney emphasizes the ruling's global significance and potential repercussions if Mexico does not comply. The conversation also covers the nominations of Brooke Rollins and Stephen Vaden for key USDA positions under President Elect Trump, highlighting their qualifications and expected contributions to the agriculture sector.

AgNet News Hour, Friday, 12-27-24

On today’s show, Lorrie Boyer interviews Dr. Wayne Ayers (starts at 15:25), a veterinarian technical consultant, who discussed bovine respiratory disease (BRD) with Lorrie Boyer. BRD is a complex syndrome involving four viruses and four bacteria, costing the U.S. cattle industry $1 billion annually. Symptoms include lethargy, increased respiratory rates, and high fevers. The disease is highly contagious, especially in high-stress situations like weaning and transport. Prevention strategies include reducing stress, proper nutrition, and vaccination. Antibiotics are used for treatment, with metaphylaxis for high-risk cattle. A new third-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic is expected to be available soon, offering potential benefits according to Dr. Ayers.
Sabrina talks with Erin DeLong (starts at 31:20), Marketing Manager for Durango Boots, who discusses the significance of the National Day of the Cowgirl and the scholarship initiative launched by Durango Boots. The scholarship, introduced in 2022, aims to support young women pursuing Western-affiliated degrees. Erin highlights last year's inaugural scholarship winner, Caitlin Collins, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and empowering women in the Western industry. The episode concludes with details on the application process for the upcoming scholarship and the impact it has had on the community.

AgNet News Hour, Thursday, 12-26-24

Sabrina Halvorson has this week's Almond Update from the Almond Board of California. Emily Fleshman, the Vice President for Global Market Development, discusses the board's global marketing efforts presented at the recent Almond Conference. Fleshman highlights key markets, such as India and the U.S., and describes collaborations with celebrities like Deon Sanders. She details the strategic process behind their campaigns and the importance of aligning with consumer trends, such as exercise recovery and beauty benefits. Additionally, she touches on the role of sustainability in their marketing approach.
Lorrie Boyer talks with Tracy Edgar, owner of the consulting firm Bright Changes. Today she talks about the importance of company culture within an ag operation. Of the key points today, Edgar discusses collaborating with leadership and employees to develop a plan to address the identified cultural issues.

AgNet News Hour, Wednesday, 12-25-24

Hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer share some of their favorite recent interviews on this Christmas day. 

AgNet News Hour, Tuesday, 12-24-24

In this episode of AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer explore the intriguing topic of autonomous vehicles on farms and the regulatory role of Cal OSHA. The discussion encompasses the safety, liability, and oversight concerns associated with autonomous machinery, and the societal implications of such technology in agriculture. They also delve into the history and current issues surrounding the reemergence of Tulare Lake in California, addressing the significant impact of recent weather events and flooding on farmland and infrastructure, and raising questions around water management and future flood risks.
Lorrie interviews Carl McDermott, chief operating officer for Delta Trak, who talks about who they are and what they do as a company in the cold chain logistics space. He analyzes the potential impact of tariffs on the cost of food, particularly produce imports from countries like Mexico, and talks further about food industry issues affecting the US food Supply chain. 
Sabrina talks with Gino DiCaro, Director of Communications for Wine Institute, who discusses delightful wine pairing options for the holidays and highlights festive experiences in California wine country. The conversation covers various holiday events and unique winery experiences across California, such as ATV rides, wine and dim sum pairings, e-bike tours, and personalized wine blending sessions. Gino also shares insights on California's promising wine harvest and vintage for the year. Listeners are encouraged to visit DiscoverCaliforniaWines.com for more information and access to a comprehensive wine pairing and recipe ebook.