AgNet News Hour

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.

AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 06-04-25

Don’t Miss Today’s AgNet News Hour: Trade Talks, Wheat Watch, and a Dive into California’s Farming Legacy
Today’s AgNet News Hour with host Nick Papagni, the Ag Meter, and producer Josh McGill is a can’t-miss episode, packed with news, insights, and conversations that matter to farmers and ag enthusiasts alike.Nick and Josh kick off the episode with updates on U.S. agriculture’s push to level the playing field in global trade. They cover Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins’ whirlwind trip to Italy — a critical stop as she works to open markets and reduce trade barriers for American producers. From Italy to Japan, Peru, and beyond, these negotiations could reshape the future of California agriculture. Tune in to hear why these talks are so crucial and what’s at stake for our farmers.
Spotlight on California WheatIn today’s show, we also dive into the evolving landscape of California wheat. Josh breaks down the latest on the stripe rust challenge emerging in the U.K. — a stark reminder of how fast pests and diseases can adapt. Learn how UC Davis researchers and the California Wheat Commission are staying ahead with innovative breeding and management strategies to keep our wheat industry strong.
A Conversation with Nick Anderson: California Ag’s Living HistoryOne of the highlights of today’s show is Nick’s conversation with Nick Anderson of Helena Agri Enterprises. Anderson’s deep roots in farming and his passion for the history of California’s agricultural pioneers offer a refreshing perspective. From water and freight challenges to the future of farming, Anderson’s insights remind us how much we owe to the generations who paved the way — and how vital it is to keep their spirit alive today.
Fresh Produce, Fresh PerspectiveThe episode wraps with a heartfelt reminder: nothing beats California-grown produce, picked at its peak and nurtured by the state’s world-class soils and dedicated growers. As Nick and Josh discuss, there’s no substitute for local flavor, and supporting California farmers is more important than ever.
 Ready to hear the full conversation? Hit play at the bottom of this post and enjoy the latest episode of the AgNet News Hour — your trusted source for agriculture news and stories that matter.
Listen now and join the conversation!

AgNet News Hour Tuesday, 06-03-25

Big Ideas for California Agriculture on Today’s AgNet News Hour
Start your Tuesday morning strong with Nick Papagni, the Ag Meter, and producer Sir Josh McGill on the latest episode of the AgNet News Hour from AgNet West. It’s a jam-packed show that covers the pressing issues, inspiring interviews, and innovative ideas shaping California’s agricultural future.
Rail Solutions and Tariff UpdatesNick kicks things off with a fresh look at rail transport as a potential game-changer for California’s freight crisis. Hear from Elaine Culotti, "the lipstick farmer" from Fallbrook, who’s championing the idea of moving farm goods by rail to tackle soaring fuel, labor, and insurance costs. Could this be the answer to our transportation headaches? Tune in and find out how this rail revival could open new doors for local farmers.
Tariff Talk and Global TradeNick and Josh also dive into the latest tariff news, highlighting the recent federal appeals court decision that puts tariffs back on the table. With U.S. trade representatives like Brooke Rollins racking up air miles to strike better deals, our hosts explain why tariffs could be the key to a fairer playing field for American agriculture. Plus, find out how upcoming trade talks in Peru might open new export opportunities for California growers.
The FFA Spotlight and Citrus ExpoThe episode shines a light on the Future Future Farmers of America (FFA) and its growing impact on young agricultural leaders. Plus, get the scoop on the can’t-miss Citrus and Specialty Crop Expo coming up in August — an industry Super Bowl of seminars, panels, and networking for everyone involved in citrus and specialty crops.
California Change with Steve HiltonIn a compelling interview, gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton lays out his vision for turning California around — from water allocation woes to stifling labor regulations. Hear his no-nonsense take on how to make California agriculture thrive again.
Don’t Miss It!If you care about California’s farms, food, and future, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts and join the conversation. Your voice matters — and so does the future of our farmers.

AgNet News Hour Monday, 06-02-25

Join Nick Papagni, "the Ag Meter", and producer Josh McGill as they dive deep into the stories shaping California’s vibrant agricultural landscape on this week’s episode of the AgNet News Hour from AgNet West.
We’re bringing you the latest updates on the ongoing tariff discussions, the future of the Farm Bill, and critical challenges facing American farmers. In this episode, Nick and Josh break down how tariff battles are impacting local and national economies, and why investing in American-made goods is more important than ever.
But that’s just the beginning! We also feature a powerful interview with Dave Puglia, President of the Western Growers Association. Dave explains how specialty crops — like fresh fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts — make up half of the farm gate value in the U.S. yet only receive a fraction of farm bill funding. He unpacks the historical roots of this imbalance and shares his insights on how targeted investments could transform the specialty crop industry.
And don’t miss our spotlight story with Stephanie Moreda from Moreda Family Farms in Petaluma. Her fifth-generation family farm is under threat from well-funded environmental groups — a real-life David versus Goliath tale that will leave you inspired and fired up. Stephanie’s passion for preserving her family’s legacy and her fight against powerful interests reveal the harsh realities faced by small farmers today.
We round out the show with a citrus and table grape market update — find out why local citrus and table grapes are looking stronger than ever this season!
This episode is packed with compelling stories, expert interviews, and sharp insights you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a grower, an ag policy junkie, or just someone who cares about where your food comes from, tune in to the AgNet News Hour. Let’s support California’s hardworking farmers and stay informed on the issues that matter!

AgNet News Hour Friday, 05-30-25

The Ag Net News Hour hosts, Lorrie Boyer, Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter” and Josh McGill discuss the upcoming heatwave in California, with temperatures potentially reaching 103 degrees. The trio also explore President Trump's authority to impose global tariffs, noting a recent ruling by a three-judge panel of the US Court of International Trade that Trump lacks such authority under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The ruling requires the removal of tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, but does not affect tariffs on steel, aluminum, and imported automobiles. The Trump administration plans to appeal the decision. The panel expressed skepticism about the ruling's long-term impact.
In this segment, Nick, Josh and Lorrie talk about the push by 365 agricultural groups for the Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act to maintain federal control over pesticide labeling under the EPA. The bill, introduced in 2023 by Reps. Dusty Johnson and Jim Costa, aims to prevent states like California from imposing additional labeling requirements, citing the rigorous testing and strict standards of the EPA. The debate is linked to the recent MAHA report, which highlights environmental toxins, including chemicals used in agriculture. Concerns include the potential for state-specific regulations to disrupt the ag industry and the impact on crops like corn that rely on glyphosate
The AgNet News Hour hosts, in the final segment of today’s show, discuss the impact of tariffs on California's ports, noting that vessel cancellations have surpassed those during COVID-19. The Port of Los Angeles reported 17 cancellations in May, up from 12 last year. The conversation also touches on the broader economic implications, including the $84.4 billion in taxes contributed by port activities in 2023. The discussion emphasizes the need for long-term perspective and the potential for diversifying trade partners beyond China. The segment concludes with a fun fact about California's grape production, which is 4.9 million tons, valued at $5.6 billion.

AgNet News Hour Thursday, 05-29 25

The Ag Net News Hour hosts, Lorrie Boyer, Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter” and Josh McGill discuss the New World Screw Worm, a flesh-eating maggot affecting cattle, bison, and horses near the U.S.-Mexico border. The U.S. has closed its border to these imports, funded a $21 million project in Mexico to use sterile flies to eradicate the worm, and faces criticism from Mexico for its impact on their cattle exports. The U.S. has historically funded these efforts, while Mexico has been uncooperative, limiting U.S. access to affected areas. The discussion also touches on the broader issues of cartel influence in Mexico and the impact on U.S.-Mexico trade relations, particularly in avocados and tomatoes.
 
In this segment, Nick, Lorrie and Josh talk about the California almond industry's high quality and global demand, the challenges of freight and insurance costs, and the state's outdated ban on autonomous agricultural equipment from the 1970s. The ban, which requires operators in tractors, conflicts with the need for autonomous vehicles due to labor shortages. The right-to-repair concerns and the evolution of autonomous technology since the 1940s were highlighted. Despite California's tech-forward reputation, outdated regulations hinder innovation.
 
The Almond Board of California's Associate Director of Industry Relations and Communications, Jenny Nicolau, discuss the annual California State FFA conference in Sacramento, where they interviewed and awarded $29,000 in scholarships to 11 students through the Almond Leadership Program, totaling $350,000 since inception. The funds are raised through silent auctions and golf tournaments. The conference will be held December 10-12. Additionally, the discussion touches on the resurgence of fig farming in California due to its drought tolerance and marketing efforts, and the growing interest in Agave crops for tequila and mezcal production.

AgNet News Hour Wednesday, 05-28-25

The Ag Net News Hour Hosts, Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter,” cover the challenges in the freight industry affecting agriculture, particularly in California. Nick Foglio of Foglio Commodities highlighted that despite high fuel costs and equipment expenses, freight rates are not increasing, leading to significant losses for trucking companies. He notes that insurance costs and regulatory burdens exacerbate these issues. The conversation also touches on the impact of these challenges on various agricultural commodities, such as almonds, pistachios, and raisins, with some markets showing resilience while others remain stagnant. The segment emphasizing the need for policy changes to support the freight and agricultural sectors.
 
Nick and Lorrie then discuss the financial struggles of the ag world, particularly the trucking industry, with insurance costs in California being two and a half times higher. President Trump's proposed 50% tariff on EU imports starting June 1 is highlighted, with a significant $236 billion U.S. trade deficit with the EU. A federal judge in California blocked USDA and other federal agencies from mass firings and reorganizations, affecting 21 agencies and 15,000 positions. The Trump administration's authority to reorganize without Congress's approval is debated, with Speaker 1 confident in their legal standing. The conversation also touches on California's financial mismanagement and the need for a state overhaul.
 
In this segment, the hosts start with a report from the USDA regarding their 2025 hurricane outlook. The outlook predicts an above-average season with a 60% chance of above-normal activity, 30% chance of near-normal, and 10% chance of below-normal. NOAA forecasts 13-19 named storms, 6-10 hurricanes, and 3-5 major hurricanes. Colorado State University's forecast aligns, predicting 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes. The eastern Pacific basin is expected to have a below-normal season. The discussion also coveres organic pest management solutions and the challenges faced by the wine industry, including the need for healthier wine options and attracting younger consumers.

AgNet News Hour Tuesday, 05-27-25

On today’s show, Ag Net News Hour Hosts, Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter,” give information about the local and national hay market with Nick Foglio of Foglio Commodities. Foglio says that they are experiencing some downward pressure with out of state ranches and tariff uncertainly has limited the export opportunities, creating more inventory come into the central valley.
Coming up in tomorrow's show, Foglio will address the hot button issue of freight and give a close look of what is really going on in the ag industry and why there are so many challenges that people should now about.
Then, “The Ag Meter,” has a feature interview with Brian Reisinger. They discuss his book "Land Rich, Cash Poor," which explores the challenges and solutions for American farmers. He highlights the economic struggles farmers face, including rising costs of seed, feed, fertilizer, energy, land, and taxes, while prices remain stagnant. Reisinger noted that 45,000 farms disappear annually, affecting food security and affordability. He emphasizes the need for new entrepreneurial opportunities and better guidance for the next generation. Reisinger also addresses the impact of environmental regulations and land grabs, such as the situation at Point Reyes, on family farms. His book is available on Amazon and at bookstores.
The Ag-Net News Hour hosts, Nick and Lorrie discuss the California avocado industry's request to President Trump for inspectors to prevent pests like weevils from entering the U.S. from Mexico, due to safety concerns posed by cartels. The Biden administration previously withdrew inspectors for similar reasons. The segment also highlights the superior quality of California avocados compared to Mexican ones and the challenges posed by cartels. Additionally, the show touches on the rebounding almond industry, the growing popularity of hydroponics, and the diverse uses of low-THC cannabis in various products.