AgNet News Hour

AgNet News Hour Monday, 06-16-25

Labor, Fuel, and Citrus in the Spotlight on Today’s AgNet News Hour
Today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour zeroes in on the core issues shaping agriculture in California and across the country: labor shortages, rising fuel costs, and citrus market dynamics. Hosted by Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Josh McGill, this episode is packed with insights every grower, packer, and ag professional should hear.
The episode kicks off with discussion around President Donald Trump’s recent comments on agriculture labor, acknowledging the long-standing contributions of migrant workers and the need for common-sense reform. Trump’s remarks highlighted the reality many farmers face—relying on experienced laborers who are being pushed out by current immigration enforcement efforts. The hosts reflect on the importance of protecting legal pathways for seasonal and long-term ag workers and the role labor contractors play in supporting California’s workforce.
Next, the conversation shifts to biofuels. Josh breaks down the EPA’s bold new blending targets under the Renewable Fuel Standard, calling for over 24 billion gallons of renewable fuel by 2027. Backed by USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, the plan is being hailed as a boost for rural economies and domestic energy independence—news that corn and soybean growers will want to pay close attention to.
On the California front, the team tackles the state’s looming gas tax increase, refinery closures, and ongoing push toward electrification. With gas prices already topping $5 per gallon, the hosts express concern over the rising costs of doing business in the state and the added burden placed on farmers, freight, and food prices.
Finally, the show features an in-depth interview with Jesse Silva, VP of Sales at Kings River Packing. Silva shares the latest on California’s citrus industry—from lemon market shifts and export challenges to thrip pressures, netting strategies, and what consumers can expect in terms of volume and quality this season. He also previews how Chilean imports play a key role in supporting year-round citrus availability.

AgNet News Hour Friday, 06-13-25

Today on AgNet News Hour: Pork Policy, Labor Pressure, Solar Land Fights, and Father's Day in the Fields
As we roll into Father’s Day weekend, the AgNet News Hour brings you a Friday episode full of critical updates, meaningful insights, and a few laughs along the way. Hosted by Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Josh McGill, today’s show is a must-listen for growers, ranchers, and anyone working to keep American agriculture thriving.
The headline segment centers around U.S. Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins’ testimony to the House Agriculture Committee. Her message is clear: the USDA is putting farmers first. She covers a lot of ground, from slashing red tape and expanding global trade to confronting Prop 12, managing labor issues, and sounding the alarm on misguided solar expansion onto prime ag land.
Rollins doesn’t mince words when it comes to the impact of California’s Prop 12 pork regulations, which she says have created unfair burdens for producers nationwide. She also addresses the urgent need for sensible immigration and farm labor policy — especially in light of recent ICE enforcement actions in ag communities. If you’re concerned about labor availability or the future of farm employment in California, you’ll want to hear what was said.
Another hot-button issue is the ongoing push to install solar panels on fertile farmland. Assembly Bill 1156 is in the crosshairs. Nick and Josh don’t hold back on what they see as an attack on California agriculture — one that undermines food production in favor of energy policy. It’s a passionate segment that speaks directly to the heart of the ag community.
Plus, veteran PCA Todd Burkdoll joins the show to talk crop protection, fungicide strategies for almonds, and how growers can manage this season’s volatile weather patterns.
This Father’s Day weekend, while you’re firing up the grill or heading out for some time with family, make time for today’s AgNet News Hour. It’s informative, entertaining, and speaks directly to the issues that matter most to our agricultural families.

AgNet News Hour Thursday, 06-12-25

Tune in to Today’s AgNet News Hour: Updates, Insights & Opportunities for Our Farmers
 Today’s AgNet News Hour is packed with essential updates and insights that every farmer and ag industry professional should hear. With a blend of practical, timely information and stories of resilience, our team is here to bring you the latest in ag news.
We’re diving deep into the significant news that China and the U.S. have reached a framework for a new trade deal, with final sign-offs expected soon. Learn what this means for your exports and how it might open up fresh opportunities in a global market that’s eager for top-quality American produce. Trade wars have long challenged us, but today’s show highlights how a potential deal could be the turning point for farmers and ranchers across the nation.
California’s dairy world is also making headlines! This month, the California Milk Advisory Board is partnering with Raley’s Food for Families program to ensure more families get nutritious dairy foods. Plus, there’s a bill in the works that would allow schools to serve whole and 2% milk again. Tune in for updates on this initiative that could help boost demand for dairy products while nourishing the next generation.
We’re also covering how improved forest management strategies are taking shape. Learn how plans to clean up California’s forests are not only aimed at preventing devastating wildfires but also at boosting timber production. These policies could spell new opportunities for our rural economies.
And don’t miss our conversation with David Magana from Rabobank. He breaks down how tariffs and inflation are affecting U.S. agriculture—and what this means for your bottom line. Plus, get insights on new almond production research that could help you maximize orchard yields and profitability.
We’re your trusted source for ag news and analysis. Join us and stay informed on the policies, markets, and stories shaping your industry. Don’t miss out—listen today and make every decision count.

AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 06-11-25

Tune In: AgNet News Hour - Where Farming Meets the Future!
Today’s AgNet News Hour is packed with stories that every California farmer and ag enthusiast needs to hear.
We’re diving deep into some hot-button issues. First up: the closure of one of the nation’s largest wine distributors and what this means for California’s wine industry. Will prices rise? Will smaller wineries find new pathways? We break it down and explore what’s next for one of our state’s most vital industries.
Then, we’re taking a close look at a controversial bill from the Bay Area: AB1156. It proposes to make it easier to convert farmland without water access into solar fields. As the Ag Meter himself puts it, “Solar panels on farmland? Absolutely not!” Hear why he and countless farmers believe this is a fight worth waging—and why it’s all about water, water, water.
Speaking of water, we’ve got a serious health alert: Valley Fever cases are rising across the Central Valley. Some are blaming climate change, but our hosts say the real culprit is a lack of water. Tune in as we unpack how water allocations—and the push for solar—are turning fertile farmland into dusty, dangerous ground.
But it’s not all doom and gloom! Our feature interview is with Daniel Jackson from Family Tree Farms, a third-generation farmer from Kingsburg. Daniel talks about the journey from small family plots to international blueberry success—and the challenges of tree fruit farming in California. He also shares how the Jackson family is weathering the water crisis with innovation and grit.
Catch the full episode and subscribe to the AgNet News Hour podcast. Let’s keep California’s ag strong—together!

AgNet News Hour Tuesday, 06-10-25

Catch Today’s AgNet News Hour – Essential Updates for Farmers and Ranchers!
Good morning and happy Tuesday to all our farmers, ranchers, and agricultural partners! Join Nick Papagni and Josh McGill for a vibrant episode of the AgNet News Hour, where we bring you the latest agricultural news and insights from California and beyond.
Trade and Tariffs Take Center Stage
We kick off the show with an in-depth discussion on the latest U.S. trade numbers and the significant narrowing of the country’s trade deficit. Imports fell sharply in April, a sign of how new trade tariffs and policies are reshaping global supply chains. Learn what this means for your crops, your bottom line, and the broader agricultural economy. Will these changes stick? Tune in to hear Nick and Josh break it down.
Celebrate Lemon Month!
It’s Lemon Month — and while California’s lemon harvest is still ramping up, Nick and Josh celebrate this versatile citrus. From its incredible domestic market impact to fun facts (like how lemon demand slumped during COVID because of restaurant closures), they bring you insights and a few laughs along the way.
Brooke Rollins and the International Push
Next, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins is back in the headlines, representing U.S. agriculture on the global stage. She’s been making important inroads in Italy and beyond, highlighting the superior quality of California’s produce and aiming to expand American ag exports. Nick and Josh unpack how these international relationships support your farm and why it matters.
The Water Woes Continue: Pistachio Outlook with Rich Krebs
In a powerful interview, Rich Kreps — pistachio farmer and sustainability expert — explains how ongoing water allocation battles are hurting California growers. Learn how he’s navigating water cutbacks and still managing a record-breaking pistachio season. From 55% water allocations to pistachio harvest insights, Rich’s firsthand account is a must-listen.
Why Should You Tune In?
Because agriculture is changing fast, and we’re here to keep you up to date. From trade wars to water wars, this episode has the insights and interviews you need to stay ahead of the curve.

AgNet News Hour Monday, 06-09-25

Happy Monday, growers, ranchers, and ag industry partners! If you’re searching for insights that will help you navigate challenges in the field and beyond, tune in to today’s AgNet News Hour. We’ve packed it with stories that truly matter to your operation.
We start off with a revealing conversation with Nick Foglio of Foglio Commodities, who breaks down the freight crisis that’s gripping California and the nation. With spiraling insurance costs, driver shortages, and a patchwork of policies, getting your produce to market is tougher than ever. Nick explains how this hits your bottom line and what’s needed to get our supply chains moving smoothly again.
Next up, we dig into the rise of produce theft, highlighted by a recent cherry heist in the San Joaquin Valley. As cherry prices soar, criminals are increasingly targeting these high-value crops. We break down how to protect your farm and what’s driving these troubling trends.
This episode also dives into the world of dairy. We’re joined by Dr. Kevin Dill and Dr. Katie Bradley from Purina Animal Nutrition to explore the critical role of gut health in fresh cows. Learn how focusing on gut health during lactation’s early days sets the stage for long-term productivity and herd health. For dairy producers, this is a segment not to miss!
We wrap up the hour with Dave Puglia, President of Western Growers Association, who discusses California’s ongoing water issues and how international trade policy is shifting the ground beneath our feet. From drought adaptations to tariff battles, Puglia’s insights are invaluable for every grower and processor working to stay competitive.
If you’re in agriculture, you need to be in the know. Today’s AgNet News Hour covers everything from the orchard to the boardroom, with real conversations about what’s happening now — and what’s next.

AgNet News Hour Friday, 06-06-25

Discover Innovative Agave Farming and More on Today’s AgNet News Hour
Today’s AgNet News Hour brings you the latest and most intriguing agricultural stories from across California and beyond. Hosted by Nick Papagni, “the AgMeter”, and producer Josh McGill, this episode promises to engage, inform, and inspire.
Kicking off the show, we spotlight a concerning national security development: the FBI's recent arrest of two Chinese nationals accused of smuggling a hazardous fungus – a dangerous agroterrorism agent – into the U.S. This fungus poses a major threat to our critical wheat, barley, maize, and rice crops, and it underscores the need for ongoing vigilance in agricultural biosecurity.
Turning to local challenges, we revisit the persistent issue of raw sewage flowing from Tijuana into Southern California. It’s an environmental crisis impacting everything from farming and fishing to public health. We’re calling on California officials to find real solutions.
But today’s show also features an inspiring story of innovation that every grower should hear. Join us as we sit down with the ever-forward-thinking Stuart Woolf of Woolf Farming and Processing. He’s pioneering a bold idea: farming agave – a water-sipping crop that could transform the west side of Fresno County. In the face of persistent water challenges, Stuart shares how agave could offer a sustainable future, even creating a potential California agave spirit industry to rival Napa Valley’s wine scene.
Stuart dives deep into how he’s using agave as a water-wise alternative crop. Learn how he’s navigating everything from pest management (think agave weevils and gophers!) to innovative marketing strategies and establishing an industry-wide agave council. This isn’t just a business idea – it’s a vision for revitalizing California farmland while staying ahead of the game.
Tune in to this fascinating conversation and gain insights on water-smart farming, sustainable innovation, and the resilience of California agriculture. Head to AgnetWest.com to listen to the full episode, see photos of agave in action, and learn how you can get involved. Let’s keep pushing for smarter, more sustainable farming – together.
 

AgNet News Hour Thursday, 06-05-25

Don’t Miss Today’s AgNet News Hour: Protect Your Farm and Future
Good morning, farmers and ag enthusiasts! The AgNet News Hour is here to keep you informed on the issues that matter most to your farm and your livelihood. Today’s show is packed with updates and insights you won’t want to miss.
First Up: Agroterrorism Threats
We start with a crucial report that all farmers need to hear: two Chinese nationals have been charged with smuggling Fusarium graminearum—a dangerous fungus that can destroy your wheat, barley, and rice fields—into the U.S. One suspect is still at large. This isn’t just news; it’s a wake-up call about the real threats facing American agriculture. We’re breaking it all down so you know what’s at stake and how to protect your operation.
New Leadership at the Almond Board
Next, we’ve got an update on the 2025 Almond Board of California elections. Meet the new directors and learn how you can get involved in shaping the future of California’s almond industry. Taylor Hillman shares why your voice—and your ideas—matter more than ever.
Honeybee Health in Crisis
Pollinators are the backbone of farming, but they’re in trouble. Varroa mites are becoming resistant to Amitraz, one of the main tools beekeepers rely on. We’re sharing why this matters for your crops and what’s being done to fight back.
Stuart Woolf Talks Ag Challenges and Opportunities
Finally, tune in for an eye-opening chat with Stuart Woolf of Woolf Farming and Processing. Stuart dives deep into the harsh realities of farming today—soaring input costs, burdensome regulations, and the fight to stay competitive. But he’s not giving up, and neither are we. You’ll hear how Stuart is exploring innovative solutions like agave to weather California’s tough water situation.
Listen in now! Click to hear the full episode and stay ahead of the issues impacting your farm.