AgNet News Hour

AgNet News Hour Monday, 06-30-25

AgNet News Hour: Solar vs. Soil—California’s Farmland Crossroads
In today’s AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Josh McGill dig into one of the most controversial and emotional issues facing California agriculture—solar development on productive farmland.
Nick and Josh welcome Larry Westerlund, Vice President of Development & Community Engagement for White Pine Renewables, to discuss AB 1156, a bill that would allow solar installations on land protected under the Williamson Act by temporarily suspending its ag-use restriction. Westerlund argues that for growers who have lost surface water allocations under SGMA, solar is a practical Plan B to keep land viable and generate income.
But the conversation quickly evolves into a powerful and often heated debate about what California’s real priorities should be. Should the state push solar panels onto rich farmland simply because water mismanagement has left fields fallow? Or should the state focus first on building water infrastructure and restoring full allocations to the people who feed the nation?
Josh and Nick question whether the supposed environmental benefits of solar are as clear-cut as presented. From the water-intensive process of lithium mining to the toxic waste concerns tied to solar panel and battery disposal, the show shines a light on the hidden costs of renewable energy. They also challenge claims that solar fields benefit pollinators and push back on what they see as a dangerous trend of sidelining food production for feel-good energy policy.
With input from ag leaders like Rich Kreps and references to Italy’s outright ban on solar farms on ag land, the episode offers both facts and fierce advocacy for protecting California’s agriculture legacy.
Plus, in this week’s Merck Minute, Glaucio Lopes shares why 2025 could be a strong financial year for dairies—and why now is the time for strategic investment.
If you care about farming, food security, and the future of California’s rural economy, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

AgNet News Hour Friday, 06-27-25

AgNet News Hour: Immigration Reform, Border Concerns, and a Call to Protect California Farm Labor
In today’s AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Josh McGill bring you an in-depth, powerful conversation with Manuel Cunha, President of the Nisei Farmers League, who delivers a passionate and eye-opening look into the state of agricultural labor in California and the urgent need for immigration reform.
Cunha pulls no punches, outlining the very real fears many farm workers live with daily—from Border Patrol raids in rural towns to the looming threat of deportation for long-time community members who have worked in California’s fields for decades. As harvest season hits full swing with tree fruit, grapes, garlic, and almonds, farmers are bracing for labor shortages while navigating a legal and political maze that has left both employers and employees uncertain and exposed.
The episode also explores the rising costs and complications of the H-2A program, with Cunha explaining why it’s often unworkable for California producers. He calls for a new guest worker program that provides temporary legal status and protections for the existing ag workforce—a workforce that was hailed as essential during COVID but has been left behind by politics ever since.
Listeners will hear stories from the field, including families torn by fear, parents working long hours to put children through college, and farmers facing constant pressure from overlapping state and federal agencies. Cunha outlines actionable solutions, including bipartisan collaboration on the Dignity Act and a broader alliance with other industries—like construction, hospitality, and restaurants—to push immigration reform forward.
This episode is a must-listen for any grower, rancher, policymaker, or citizen concerned with the future of food production in California.
Catch the full interview and analysis at AgNetWest.com, or subscribe to the AgNet West podcast on your favorite platform. The stakes are high, the stories are real—and the time to act is now.

AgNet News Hour Thursday, 06-26-25

Labor, Wolves, and Wine Woes: AgNet News Hour Talks Ag Policy and Market Shifts
Happy Thursday from the Central Valley! On this week’s AgNet News Hour, Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and co-host Josh McGill unpack key issues impacting California agriculture. From labor and immigration policies to the state of the wine grape market and ongoing wolf-cattle conflicts, the show delivers critical updates and candid insights. Tune in for expert interviews, real-time commentary, and this week’s Almond Byte from the Almond Board of California.
🌄 Morning Views and Labor Blues
Nick and Josh kick off with a reflection on Central Valley mornings before diving into the heated topic of ag labor. From H-2A guest worker challenges to proposals for prisoner labor programs, the discussion emphasizes the urgency of making legal farm labor affordable and accessible—especially for small farmers.
“There’s plenty of people who want to work. Let’s take care of the ones who do.” – Nick Papagni
🐺 Wolves, Cattle, and Conservation Clashes
As gray wolf populations grow in California, ranchers face rising livestock losses with few legal options. The hosts debate the lack of practical support for cattlemen, comparing California’s policy to more flexible approaches in Oregon and Wyoming.
“If you're not giving cattlemen any legal avenues, how long are they going to put up with this?” – Josh McGill
🍷 Exclusive Interview: Jeff Bitter on the Wine Grape Crisis
Nick sits down with Jeff Bitter, President of Allied Grape Growers, at the Fresno Allied luncheon. Bitter delivers a sobering update on the struggling wine grape market and the urgency for coordinated marketing, tariff reform, and consumer engagement.
“It is a difficult time when most segments of the business are struggling.” – Jeff Bitter
The team discusses innovative strategies like canned wine, influencer marketing, and tapping into younger consumer trends—while acknowledging the fragmentation that plagues industry-wide action.
🌰 Almond Update: Global Trade, China, and Sustainability
The Almond Board of California’s June update highlights international trade negotiations, environmental stewardship tours, and the importance of China’s facility registration renewals for almond exports. The message is clear: the world wants California almonds.
“If you have a great quality product, people want it.” – Nick Papagni
📢 Final Thoughts
From labor reform to wolf control, and from wine marketing to almond trade, this week’s AgNet News Hour reminds listeners that agriculture is policy-driven, market-sensitive, and community-supported. The hosts call for common-sense solutions—and perhaps a sponsor to go with it.
“Our common sense—brought to you by... someone, please?” – Nick Papagni

AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 06-25-25

AgNet News Hour: Joel Allen Talks West Side Farming, Water, and Raising an NFL Quarterback
Today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour dives into California’s pressing ag issues, with a mix of heart and humor, as hosts Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Josh McGill welcome Fresno County farmer Joel Allen to the show.
Allen, who farms 3,000 acres near Firebaugh, shares a boots-on-the-ground perspective of what it takes to run a successful West Side operation—growing pistachios, cantaloupes, corn silage, and grains. With a career that started in 1987, Allen reflects on how drastically water availability has changed over the decades. “Back then, we didn’t have any issues. Today, it’s a man-made drought,” he says, pointing to the political and regulatory roadblocks that have made water access a constant battle for growers.
The conversation also highlights Joel’s new venture into silage corn for Producers Dairy, and why he’s moved away from cotton due to market challenges. He emphasizes the growing importance of smart crop rotation, dependable labor contractors, and adjusting to the rising costs of freight and inputs.
But it’s not all business. Joel Allen is also the father of Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen—and listeners get an inside look at how the NFL star’s small-town upbringing, hard work on the farm, and Friday night lights in Firebaugh shaped his path to professional football. Joel offers sincere advice to farm families raising student-athletes: “Bloom where you’re planted. Spend time with your kids. Teach them to chase their passion.”
Also in today’s show: discussion around the rollback of the USDA’s 2001 Roadless Rule and what that could mean for wildfire prevention and timber access across 59 million acres of forest land—including 4.4 million in California.
Listen to the full episode now at AgNetWest.com or subscribe to the AgNet West podcast on your favorite platform.

AgNet News Hour Tuesday, 06-24-25

AgNet News Hour: A Life in Rice—Gary Dodd Shares Passion, Hard Lessons, and Legacy in Agriculture
In today’s AgNet News Hour, host Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and co-host Josh McGill bring listeners an emotional, deeply personal conversation with one of California agriculture’s most respected voices—Gary Dodd, the 2024 Rice Consultant of the Year, honored by Corteva Agriscience.
Gary’s story is one of persistence, faith, and a lifelong devotion to helping farmers succeed. From his early days scouting rice fields in Northern California to mentoring the next generation of PCAs, Gary’s career has spanned over 50 years in agriculture—most of it focused on California’s $2 billion rice industry.
What makes this episode truly stand out is Gary’s raw and honest storytelling. He reflects on growing up with no ties to ag, taking a chance on a job in the field, and discovering his passion for insects and plant health. His journey is filled with trial, error, and ultimately triumph, as he built trusted relationships with growers, earned their respect, and helped shape the future of rice production in the state.
The episode dives into key industry issues, including rising production costs, the challenge of maintaining quality amid market competition, and the critical role of ag consultants in managing pest resistance and navigating regulatory complexity. Gary also touches on water challenges, the shift toward generics in ag chemicals, and the need for hands-on experience in a field too often misunderstood by outsiders.
But beyond agronomy, Gary’s message is about relationships—between growers and consultants, between mentors and young professionals, and above all, within families. His passion for farming, integrity in business, and love for his family resonate throughout the interview.
If you’re looking for a story that reaffirms why agriculture matters—and why people like Gary Dodd are the backbone of the industry—don’t miss today’s episode.

AgNet News Hour Monday, 06-23-25

Today on AgNet News Hour: Beef Prices, Brisket Passion, and Water Wars in Tulare County
Today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour delivers a meaty mix of hard-hitting news, culinary cravings, and sharp analysis from Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and co-host Josh McGill.
Kicking things off is an extended conversation with Darren Hill of JD Food, a third-generation family-owned food distributor based in Fresno. With more than 35 years in the meat industry—and former chef credentials—Hill breaks down the challenges currently facing California’s meat supply chain. From skyrocketing beef prices and historic lows in cattle supply (the lowest since 1951) to the impacts of Prop 12 on pork producers, Hill shares insights on where meat prices are headed and what that means for grocers, restaurants, and backyard BBQ fans alike.
And speaking of BBQ—today is unofficially “Meat Monday.” Hill dives into the great brisket vs. tri-tip debate, praising brisket’s slow-cooked flavor and rising popularity in California. Listeners are encouraged to share their favorite brisket joints with Nick at nick@agnetmedia.com. If you’ve got a go-to spot, the Ag Meter wants to know.
But it’s not just about what’s on the plate. The conversation shifts to Tulare County, where farmers are once again at odds with the State Water Board over a proposed new fee structure. The plan includes a sliding scale for pumping fees that many small farmers say still disproportionately burdens them—especially as costs for labor, fertilizer, and regulatory compliance continue to climb. Nick and Josh argue passionately that California needs a complete overhaul of its water policy, and warn that the current system threatens the future of family farming in the state.
Also in today’s show: highlights from the California Beef Ambassador contest, California Grown’s new agritourism website, and a surge in walnut marketing aimed at younger consumers.

AgNet News Hour Friday, 06-20-25

AgNet News Hour: USDA Launches Sterile Screwworm Fly Facility and Organic Acreage Faces Challenges
On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Josh McGill take a closer look at two critical issues for U.S. agriculture: the threat of screwworm infestations and the decline in organic acreage across California.
A major announcement from USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins leads the show. In response to growing screwworm activity near the U.S.-Mexico border, the USDA has broken ground on a new $8.5 million sterile fly production facility in Edinburg, Texas. This high-capacity facility, located at Moore Air Base, is designed to produce up to 300 million sterile flies per week—dramatically ramping up efforts to halt the pest’s spread into the United States. The screwworm, known for inflicting severe wounds on livestock, has cattle and horse producers on edge as it edges closer to the U.S.
The move has drawn praise from leading industry groups, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, for its aggressive and proactive approach to protecting domestic food supplies. Rollins also detailed a five-part USDA strategy that includes surveillance, public outreach, partnerships with border states, and emergency planning with local officials. As Nick and Josh emphasize, this is more than a biosecurity measure—it’s a critical investment in animal health and economic stability.
Later in the show, the hosts pivot to California’s organic sector. Despite the state’s regulatory goals to increase organic farmland, acreage is trending downward. From stricter standards and longer certification timelines to challenges in weed management and shorter shelf life, organic growers face mounting pressures. Josh and Nick explore whether organic’s popularity is driven more by marketing than by practical farming benefits, especially given the input costs and shelf-life concerns.
Listeners are also encouraged to shop locally, read labels, and cut through the noise around trendy food claims like “non-GMO” and “fat-free.” As always, AgNet News Hour aims to keep growers informed, empowered, and connected.

AgNet News Hour Thursday, 06-19-25

AgNet News Hour: A Decade of “My Job Depends on Ag” and a Look Ahead
On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Josh McGill brought listeners a dynamic lineup of voices from the heart of agriculture, headlined by a special feature on one of ag’s most iconic grassroots campaigns: My Job Depends on Ag.
Nick sat down with Steve Malanka and Erik Wilson, the visionaries behind the now-ubiquitous decal seen on thousands of trucks and tractors across California and beyond. Since its launch in 2015, My Job Depends on Ag has grown from a humble decal to a widespread movement, boasting over 100,000 members on Facebook and a mission rooted in unity, awareness, and advocacy.
The movement started with a simple, powerful idea—get people to realize just how many jobs rely on agriculture. What began with a video in an alfalfa field quickly gained traction when community members began stating plainly, “My job depends on ag.” A sticker was made, a Facebook group followed, and the rest is history.
What sets this initiative apart is its authenticity. Steve and Erik never intended to profit; all proceeds have supported students pursuing agricultural careers. As the movement looks ahead to its second phase, they’re seeking support to expand distribution and visibility, including partnerships with ag companies and trade shows. New state and international versions of the decal have already reached places like Brazil and Australia.
Also in this episode, Todd Burkdoll from Valent USA shared critical insights on disease and pest management for berry growers transitioning into summer—especially useful given this year’s shift from a cool spring to a hot summer across California.
And in the Almond Update, listeners heard from grower rep Mike Sonke, who underscored the value of getting involved in Almond Board of California committees to drive change and strengthen grower collaboration.