AgNet News Hour

AgNet News Hour, Friday, 12-20-24

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer discuss the case of Cory Garrett, a fifth-generation farmer in Virginia facing the seizure of his land through eminent domain for a water intake plant project. They highlight the lack of fair compensation, inadequate communication from local officials, and the broader implications for farmers. They also touch upon similar issues in Colorado, emphasizing the need to protect multi-generational farms from being taken for commercial interests. The hosts encourage listeners to voice their concerns to the relevant authorities to help safeguard farmland.
Lorrie talks with National Sunflower Association Executive Director, John Sandbakken talks about 2024 harvest and they seed varieties that are developed in California.
Sabrina interviews James Walker, CEO of Nanonuclear Energy, about the emerging role of nuclear energy in agriculture. Walker discusses how micro nuclear reactors are being implemented to provide consistent and efficient power for vertical farming, particularly in remote and underserved communities around the world. These reactors offer a transformative solution for areas with limited access to traditional farming conditions and resources. The potential to decentralize populations and foster economic growth in isolated regions is also explored. The episode touches on the benefits of micro reactors over traditional diesel generators and their broader applications for military bases, disaster relief, and industrial projects.

AgNet News Hour, Thursday, 12-19-24

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer discuss the recent mysterious drone sightings primarily on the East Coast and their potential implications for privacy and the agriculture industry. They delve into the unrest these sightings are causing among residents, the inquiries being made by the FBI, and the calls for stricter regulations. The discussion also touches on the impact drones have on airports, Air Force bases, and air traffic. Despite these concerns, the hosts acknowledge the beneficial applications of drones in agriculture, such as crop monitoring and livestock management. They consider the potential future need for airspace rights above private properties and the risks associated with unregulated drone usage.
 
Lorrie talks with Renata Brillinger, Executive Director of the California Climate and Agriculture Network (CalCAN), who discussed the Cows Act, a marker bill aimed at replicating a successful California program that reduces methane emissions from dairy farms by converting manure into compost. The program, which provides grants for equipment like augers and compost turners, has seen three times more demand than funding. Brillinger emphasized the economic benefits, including water and labor savings, but noted the high capital costs (up to $700,000) that hinder smaller producers. She also highlighted other underfunded programs like the Healthy Soils Program and On-Farm Water Conservation Program, which reduce greenhouse gases and water use, respectively.
Sabrina has this week’s Almond Update.  Gabriele Ludwig, Director for Environmental Affairs with the Almond Board of California, discusses insights from a session on post-harvest pest control for almonds. Key highlights include integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, monitoring tools for pest detection in stockpiles, and the importance of fumigation. Experts such as Eric Myers, Dr. Zhongli Pan, and Dr. Spencer Walse contribute their knowledge on minimizing pests in storage facilities and ensuring phytosanitary requirements are met. The discussion also emphasizes the role of growers in managing pests in the field to reduce infestations in post-harvest scenarios.

AgNet News Hour, Wednesday, 12-18-24

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer discuss the proposed updates to the USDA Dietary Guidelines for 2025-2030. The guidelines, still in the proposal stage, recommend a shift towards more plant-based proteins like beans and lentils, while suggesting a reduction in red meat consumption. This has sparked controversy, particularly within the cattle industry. The episode also touches on the implications of these changes for consumer buying trends, school meal plans, and institutions, as well as the debate over the removal of flavored milk options from the dairy category. The discussion highlights the balance between scientific evidence and industry concerns, as well as the broader impact on national health and dietary habits.
Lorrie Boyer talks with Bryan Little, chief operating officer with Farm Employers Labor Services, a California Farm Bureau Affiliated Company, about creating Bird Flu Management plans for agriculture operations.
Sabrina Halvorson speaks with Mark Cady, Senior Environmental Scientist at the California Department of Food and Agriculture and President of the California Chapter of the American Society of Agronomy. They discuss the upcoming 2025 California Plant and Soil Health Conference scheduled for early February in Visalia. The conference will focus on delivering agronomic agricultural science information to a diverse audience including professionals, academics, and students. Key topics include water quality and quantity, regenerative agriculture, soil health, data usage on farms, and sustainable pest management. The event also features educational sessions, student programs, and networking opportunities.

AgNet News Hour, Tuesday, 12-17-24

In this episode of AgNet News Hour, Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer discuss a significant lawsuit in Arizona involving a Saudi-owned company, Fondamonte Arizona LLC, accused of over-pumping groundwater for their alfalfa farm. The water-intensive crop is grown for export to Saudi Arabia, raising issues about the sustainability and ethics of using American water resources for foreign benefit. The conversation delves into the broader implications for local communities, U.S. agriculture policies, and potential changes in water regulation in Arizona.
California Farm Bureau President, Shannon Douglas talks with Lorrie Boyer about her background, why she is passionate about being a CFB leader and issues discussed at their recent annual meeting. 
Sabrina Halvorson interviews Justin Whitehill about the United States Christmas tree industry. They discuss the year-round efforts and dedication required by growers to produce Christmas trees, explaining the lengthy process from planting seeds to reaching the final harvest. Whitehill emphasizes the challenges faced by growers, including unpredictable events like hurricanes and pests, and underscores the environmental benefits of choosing real Christmas trees over artificial ones. He encourages consumers to appreciate and support local Christmas tree growers and to recycle their trees responsibly.

AgNet News Hour, Monday, 12-16-24

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer discuss the ongoing consideration of listing the monarch butterfly as an endangered species. They delve into the implications of such a designation for agriculture, including the challenges faced by farmers in balancing conservation efforts with their agricultural practices. The episode highlights the complex process of the Endangered Species Act and features insights from various agricultural and conservation groups, including commentary from Josette Lewis of the Almond Board of California. The hosts emphasize the importance of public participation in the comment period and explore the potential economic impact on both taxpayers and farmers.
Lorrie interviews Jeff Cardinale, the Director of Communications for the California Strawberry Commission. Jeff shares his background in agriculture communications, his family's history in farming, and his career transition from TV sports anchoring to public relations. They delve into the highlights of the latest '2024 State of the Strawberry Category Report,' discussing the vital role strawberries play in retail, their remarkable double-digit growth, and the surge in organic strawberry demand. Jeff also touches on the significant export markets for California strawberries and the industry's year-round farming practices. The conversation wraps up with insights on sustainability initiatives undertaken by the California Strawberry Commission.
We also have an excerpt from this week’s NCBA Beltway Beef followed by an update on national ag news with Sabrina. 

AgNet News Hour, Friday, 12-13-24

In this episode of AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer discuss the potential implications of President-elect Trump's proposed tariffs on California’s agricultural sector. With Sabrina reporting from the Almond Conference, they delve into insights from experts and an article highlighting research from UC Davis and North Dakota State University, which predicts significant economic losses for key California counties like Fresno and Tulare. Featuring commentary from California Secretary of Agriculture Karen Ross, the discussion covers the potential ripple effects on supply chains, labor markets, and local economies.
Lorrie interviews Tracy Edgar, owner of Bright Changes Consulting, where she specializes in agriculture consulting. Tracy talks about her passion for leadership development and her journey that combines her expertise in academics and the agriculture industry. She discusses the importance of company culture, shared beliefs, and values in creating a successful work environment. Tracy elaborates on the use and benefits of pulse surveys to gauge employee satisfaction and how she collaborates with companies to address issues and improve employee engagement. She emphasizes that prioritizing people over output leads to better business outcomes.
Sabrina reports that the US Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to list the monarch butterfly as a threatened species under Section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act, encouraging public input and voluntary conservation efforts. Mixed responses include support from the Western Landowners Alliance, which highlights conservation benefits, and criticism from Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, who views it as federal overreach. Josette Lewis from the Almond Board of California sees this as an opportunity for growers to contribute positively. The Monarch Joint Venture emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that encourages sustainable conservation actions.

AgNet News Hour, Thursday, 12-12-24

In this episode of AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer discuss the International Longshoremen's Association's resistance to the introduction of AI and automation on docks. They explore the pros and cons of using AI to semi-automate port cranes, highlighting employment issues and potential national security risks. The conversation touches on the future of labor unions, contract negotiations, and the impact of strikes on agricultural shipments. The benefits of continuous operation and the concerns about cyber security are discussed, alongside a broader discussion on the future of automation in various industries.
Lorrie Boyer talks with Garrett Edmonds, Director of Government Affairs with the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and the Public Lands Council, discussing legislative priorities and congressional hearings on grazing and ranching measures. They delve into specific bills aimed at reducing wildfire risks and increasing operational flexibility for ranchers. She also talks to Tony Headrick from CHS Hedging, who explores how geopolitical events influence agriculture, particularly energy and fertilizer sectors, and their implications for U.S. farmers. The discussion covers supply, demand, and market dynamics, emphasizing the importance of managing margins between commodity inputs and outputs.
Sabrina has this week’s Almond Update from the Almond Board of California. In the update, Clarice Turner, President and CEO of the Almond Board of California, discusses the current state of the almond industry following her presentation at the Almond Conference. Key topics include the rise in demand for almonds in various markets, record-breaking shipment volumes, and sustainability efforts in carbon sequestration, water usage, and bee-friendly practices. Turner highlights the multifaceted value of almonds, from zero-waste production to significant health benefits. She concludes with an optimistic message about the industry's future.

AgNet News Hour, Wednesday, 12-11-24

On today's episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Lorrie Boyer delve into the topic of using autonomous vehicles on farms. They discuss the ongoing conversations and concerns surrounding Cal OSHA's role in regulating these technologies, focusing on safety, liability, and operational protocols. They highlight the broader implications of autonomous machinery in agriculture, including societal concerns, the potential risks involved, and the need for effective oversight to ensure safe implementation. They also discuss the phenomenon of Tulare Lake, once dried up for 130 years, now reappearing due to extreme weather patterns. This reemergence has caused significant disruptions for California farmers, submerging tens of thousands of acres of farmland, destroying crops, and damaging infrastructure including homes, roads, and irrigation systems. The hosts address the broader implications for water management and insurance in the area, noting the challenges farmers face as they lose valuable agricultural land to this unexpected floodwater revival.
Lorrie talks with Chris Galen, the Senior Vice President of Member Services and Strategic Initiatives at the National Milk Producers Federation. They discuss the current lame duck session in Congress, focusing on temporary funding measures and delays in the new farm bill. The conversation explores the potential impacts of the upcoming Trump administration on dairy producers and personnel shifts in key agricultural positions. Galen provides an economic overview of the dairy industry, noting good harvests and steady margins. They also address the ongoing bird flu issue, emphasizing the risks associated with raw milk and advocating for pasteurization.