AgNet News Hour

AgNet West Radio Network
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Get the latest local, state, and national agriculture news in today’s AgNet News Hour by AgNet West.

  1. 3h ago

    Land O'Lakes Expands Tulare Facility to Meet Growing Demand for Dairy Protein

    Land O'Lakes is making a significant investment in California's dairy industry with plans to expand its Tulare processing facility, a move designed to support dairy farmers while capitalizing on growing consumer demand for high-protein dairy products. The announcement was the focus of today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, featuring Heather Anfang, Executive Vice President and President of Dairy Foods at Land O'Lakes. Anfang said the cooperative is investing in new processing capabilities that will allow the Tulare plant to begin producing ultra-filtered milk ingredients, marking the first phase of a broader expansion into dairy proteins. "We're making an investment in our Tulare facility that will move us into the dairy proteins space," Anfang said. "This first phase is going to get us into ultra-filtered milk as an ingredient, creating a terrific growth opportunity for our farmers." The Tulare facility is already the largest manufacturing plant in the Land O'Lakes network. Because existing infrastructure is already in place, the company expects construction to move quickly, with the first phase targeted to be operational during the first quarter of next year. Anfang said the investment comes as consumer demand for dairy products continues to strengthen. She pointed to renewed interest in protein-rich foods, favorable dietary guidance, and increasing demand for butter, cheese and dairy ingredients as key drivers behind the expansion. "Dairy is in the spotlight," Anfang said. "Consumers are really interested in dairy, they're understanding how terrific dairy is as part of their diet, and we're seeing tremendous demand." While much of Land O'Lakes' retail butter and cheese business serves the domestic market, the company's ingredients division has a significant international presence. Anfang noted that roughly half of the cooperative's milk powder production is exported, creating additional opportunities for member dairy farmers. The cooperative currently represents approximately 1,100 dairy farmer members across the United States. Anfang said the new processing capacity will help support future growth from those producers, including California dairy operations that continue investing in expansion. The conversation also touched on California's regulatory environment. Anfang acknowledged the challenges manufacturers and dairy producers face operating in the state but reaffirmed Land O'Lakes' commitment to California and its farmer-members. "We are very committed to California," she said. "We want to continue to grow our processing capacity out there and support our farmers." Looking ahead, Anfang said automation, new dairy ingredients and continued investment in processing facilities will help position both Land O'Lakes and its member farmers for long-term success as consumer demand for dairy products continues to evolve. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

  2. 1d ago

    California Raisin Industry Faces Crossroads as Veteran Leader Calls for Change

    The future of California's raisin industry was the focus of today’s  episode of the AgNet News Hour, where longtime industry leader Kalem Barserian shared his perspective on the challenges facing raisin growers and processors. Drawing on more than six decades of experience, Barserian discussed declining acreage, changing consumer preferences, and why he believes new safeguards are needed as the industry continues to evolve. Barserian, former president of the Raisin Bargaining Association (RBA), said California's raisin industry has changed dramatically over the past quarter century. He noted that raisin grape acreage has fallen from roughly 280,000 acres in 2000 to about 100,000 acres, reflecting shifting consumer demand, higher production costs, and increased global competition. "People are not eating as much dried fruit as they once did," Barserian said, adding that California has slipped from the world's leading raisin producer to fourth behind countries including Turkey and China. A major portion of the conversation centered on what Barserian referred to as "gunny sacking," the practice of drying surplus table grapes into raisins rather than growing grapes specifically for raisin production. He said the practice has become more common in both South America and California as table grape growers seek additional value from fruit that does not enter the fresh market. According to Barserian, the additional supply created through this practice is changing the dynamics of California's raisin market. He proposed changes to the Raisin Administrative Committee's inspection process that would require greater verification of grape varieties entering the raisin supply chain. Barserian argued that distinguishing raisins produced from traditional raisin varieties versus surplus table grapes would improve transparency within the marketplace. Host Nick Papagni noted that the issue represents a legitimate debate within the industry, suggesting growers, processors and marketers may hold differing views on whether the practice helps California remain competitive or places additional pressure on traditional raisin producers. The program concluded with plans to invite additional industry representatives to discuss the issue from other perspectives. Beyond production practices, Barserian also discussed changing consumer habits. He pointed to California's wine grape, peach and walnut industries as examples of commodities that have adapted through marketing and product innovation. He suggested the raisin industry may also need to rethink how it promotes raisins to younger consumers and families. While export promotion efforts continue through USDA-supported programs, Barserian noted that domestic marketing has become far more limited than in previous decades. Looking ahead, Barserian expects California's raisin industry to continue consolidating around larger, vertically integrated operations that both grow and process raisins. He also believes mechanization and overhead trellis production systems will become increasingly important as labor costs continue to rise. "The industry is going to look much different in the next five to ten years," Barserian said, predicting fewer growers and processors but continued production through more efficient operations. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

  3. 2d ago

    Gloria Romero Highlights Education and Agriculture in Part 2 of AgNet News Hour Interview

    Education, workforce development and the future of California agriculture took center stage during Part 2 of the AgNet News Hour interview with Republican lieutenant governor candidate Gloria Romero. During the conversation, Romero outlined several policy priorities she believes could strengthen California's rural communities and agricultural economy. Romero emphasized that California's agricultural industry extends far beyond crop production, arguing that strong schools, reliable infrastructure and a skilled workforce are essential to keeping farms and rural businesses competitive. One issue she highlighted was education. Romero noted that the lieutenant governor serves on governing boards for the University of California, California State University and California Community Colleges, giving the office an opportunity to influence higher education policy. She expressed concern about student achievement and workforce readiness, saying California must better prepare students for careers in agriculture, business and other industries. "We have a very profound education crisis," Romero said while discussing academic performance and workforce development. Romero also returned to the topic of California agriculture, describing farming as one of the state's most important economic drivers. She said state leaders should place greater emphasis on supporting food production through practical policies involving water, housing, education and regulation. Throughout the interview, she argued that maintaining a strong agricultural economy requires long-term investment in rural communities and infrastructure while reducing barriers that make it more difficult for producers to operate in California. The conversation also revisited government spending and transparency. Romero said she would support increased oversight of state spending and called for greater accountability in how taxpayer dollars are managed if elected to statewide office. She said restoring public confidence requires more transparency and regular review of state programs. Near the end of the interview, Romero reflected on her own background growing up around agriculture and said those experiences continue to shape her perspective on California farming. "I understand that family farms are worth fighting for," she said, adding that agriculture remains central to California's economy and identity. The interview concluded with Romero encouraging Californians to evaluate candidates based on their policy proposals and vision for the state's future. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

  4. 5d ago

    Gloria Romero Outlines Agriculture Priorities for California's Future

    California agriculture, water infrastructure and rural communities were among the topics discussed during today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, featuring Republican lieutenant governor candidate Gloria Romero. Romero shared her views on the challenges facing the state and discussed why she believes agriculture should play a larger role in California's policy discussions. Romero, a former Democratic state senator who later changed her party affiliation, said California's agricultural regions often receive less attention than the state's major urban centers. She argued that farmers, ranchers and rural communities deserve a stronger voice in Sacramento, particularly when it comes to water, infrastructure and regulatory policy. Water was one of the primary issues discussed throughout the interview. Romero said California should invest more aggressively in water storage, additional reservoir capacity and desalination projects while continuing to improve long-term planning for the state's growing population. "Water is the source of life," Romero said. "We have to prepare for the future." The conversation also touched on California's energy sector. Romero referenced the state's oil production, arguing that California has significant energy resources that could help support jobs and reduce reliance on imported petroleum. She also discussed recent AgNet News Hour interviews covering California's commercial fishing industry and domestic energy production, saying both industries deserve greater public attention. Romero also criticized what she described as increasing regulatory burdens on agriculture, saying California producers face challenges ranging from water availability and permitting to labor costs and environmental regulations. She argued that state leaders should focus on policies that allow farming operations to remain competitive while continuing to produce food for California and the nation. Another topic during the interview was the California Coastal Commission. Romero said that, if elected lieutenant governor, she would serve on several state commissions and would advocate for what she described as a more balanced approach to protecting natural resources while supporting economic activity along the coast. She specifically pointed to concerns about water quality and wastewater issues affecting Southern California beaches. Throughout the discussion, Romero emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation and encouraged Californians to evaluate candidates based on their proposed policies and solutions. The interview is part one of a two-part conversation, with the second installment continuing the discussion on California policy, agriculture and the state's economic outlook. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

  5. 6d ago

    California Wine Grape Growers Focus on Recovery, Marketing and Fair Competition

    The California wine industry is navigating one of its most challenging periods in decades, but growers are focused on adapting, advocating and positioning the industry for long-term success. Those issues were the focus of today’s  episode of the AgNet News Hour, featuring Natalie Collins, president of the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG). Collins recently returned from Washington, D.C., where she joined a delegation of California winegrape growers to meet with lawmakers on issues including the Farm Bill, trade, appropriations and the overall health of the state's wine industry. She said those face-to-face conversations help policymakers better understand the challenges growers are facing across California. One of the industry's biggest concerns is declining wine consumption, which has contributed to the smallest California wine grape crush in two decades. Collins said the downturn has resulted in vineyard removals, winery closures and difficult decisions for many multi-generational farming families. Despite those challenges, she believes the industry has a path forward. "I think we are looking at focusing on how we as an industry talk about wine, how we market wine, and how we appeal to broad demographics and different age groups," Collins said. CAWG is encouraging the industry to make wine more approachable for younger consumers through new packaging options, expanded marketing efforts and wine tourism, while reminding consumers that there is no "right" wine—only the wine they enjoy. Another priority is ensuring California growers can compete fairly against imported bulk wine. Collins highlighted Assembly Bill 1585, legislation sponsored by CAWG that would have required any bottle labeled simply as "American" wine to contain 100% American-grown grapes, rather than the current federal standard allowing imported wine to make up part of the blend. Although the proposal advanced unanimously through the California Assembly, it ultimately stalled in the Senate. Collins said California growers are willing to meet the state's high regulatory standards but need policies that recognize the higher cost of producing grapes domestically. She also encouraged consumers to support local agriculture by looking for wines labeled with California appellations, such as California, Napa Valley, Sonoma County or Lodi. "When you choose California wine, you know who grew those grapes and the families behind them," Collins said. Looking ahead, Collins expects California's wine grape harvest to begin earlier than normal after a warm growing season. She said the industry continues investing in precision agriculture, mechanization, new wine styles and consumer outreach while remaining optimistic about the future. "We're a resilient industry," Collins said. "We're going to come back, but it's going to take all of us working together." Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

  6. Jul 15

    Sunny Toor Sees Strong Demand as California Almond Harvest Nears

    California's almond industry is entering the 2026 harvest with optimism as strong global demand, stable prices, and a slightly smaller crop position growers for another successful marketing year. On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Valley Pride Ag's Sunny Toor shared his outlook while traveling overseas to meet with buyers in key export markets. Speaking from Dubai before continuing to India, Toor said the 2025 crop has largely moved through the supply chain, with shipments expected to reach approximately 2.6 billion pounds out of a crop of roughly 2.7 billion pounds. He credited growers, processors, exporters, and international customers for keeping demand strong throughout the season. Looking ahead, Toor expects this year's crop to come in slightly below last season's production. "My number is between 2.6 and 2.65 billion pounds," Toor said, noting that several years of challenging grower returns have taken a toll on production. He added that stronger almond prices during the past year have finally allowed many growers to improve their financial position after several difficult seasons. Harvest is also expected to begin earlier than normal. Toor said orchards are running roughly one-and-a-half to two weeks ahead of schedule, with harvest expected to begin in portions of the Central Valley within days. While spring heat may slightly reduce kernel weights, overall crop quality appears strong, with no major issues reported heading into harvest. International markets continue to drive the California almond industry. Toor estimated that 70 to 74 percent of the state's almond crop will be exported this season, with major demand coming from India, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. India remains one of Valley Pride Ag's most important markets. Toor said his current overseas trip is focused on securing in-shell almond sales ahead of the country's Diwali celebration, one of the busiest periods for almond consumption. He also noted that negotiations between the United States and India could eventually reduce tariffs on almonds, creating additional export opportunities. Beyond India, Toor sees continued growth potential throughout North Africa, including Morocco and Algeria, while established markets across Europe and the Middle East remain strong. California continues to supply the majority of the world's almond demand because of its consistent quality and reliable production. Toor emphasized that maintaining quality begins in the orchard, encouraging growers to stay vigilant for late-season pest pressure and continue working closely with their pest control advisers through harvest. "Quality isn't made by processors or marketers," he said. "It's made by the growers." Despite ongoing challenges facing California agriculture, Toor said stable prices and steady global demand have created a much healthier outlook than growers experienced just a year ago. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

  7. Jul 14

    Kevin Kester Discusses Beef Markets, Land Use and California Policy in Part 2

    The conversation with former National Cattlemen's Beef Association President Kevin Kester continued on today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, with topics ranging from beef imports and land use to California's business climate, wolf management, and the outlook for the state's cattle industry. Kester began by addressing a common misconception surrounding beef imports. While some producers are concerned about imported beef entering the U.S. market, he explained that imported lean beef plays an important role during periods of historically low cattle inventories. Because the U.S. herd remains near multi-decade lows, processors rely on lean beef imports to blend with domestic beef trim for hamburger production. Kester said those imports help meet consumer demand while allowing supply and demand—not politics—to determine market conditions. The discussion then shifted to California's proposed changes to the Williamson Act, which would allow some agricultural land enrolled in the state's farmland preservation program to be converted to solar development while maintaining certain tax benefits. Kester said organizations including the California Cattlemen's Association and California Farm Bureau oppose the proposal, arguing that productive farmland should remain dedicated to food production. Looking toward California's 2026 election, Kester said leadership decisions can have lasting impacts on ranchers and agricultural businesses through regulations, permitting, taxation, and overall economic policy. While emphasizing that the California Cattlemen's Association works with elected officials from both parties, he noted the importance of policies that encourage producers to remain in business and invest in agriculture. The interview also revisited one of California ranchers' most persistent challenges—wolf depredation. Kester said producers continue dealing with livestock losses while state wildlife officials remain limited by endangered species protections. Although he believes progress will eventually come, he acknowledged ranchers continue to face both financial losses and significant stress as wolf populations expand across Northern California. Despite those challenges, Kester said the cattle industry remains optimistic. Strong cattle prices continue to support producers, and forecasts calling for the potential return of El Niño this fall could bring much-needed rainfall to California rangelands. Before wrapping up the interview, Kester offered advice for consumers looking to get the most from a quality steak. He recommended allowing beef to age under proper refrigeration before cooking, saying the process naturally improves tenderness and flavor. "We're excited about the cattle business," Kester said. "The markets are good, and hopefully we'll see some rain this winter to help producers moving forward." Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

  8. Jul 13

    Kevin Kester Discusses Cattle Industry Challenges, Screwworm Response and Beef Processing Support

    The AgNet News Hour welcomed former National Cattlemen's Beef Association President Kevin Kester for a wide-ranging discussion on some of the biggest issues facing the U.S. cattle industry, including New World screwworm, wolf depredation, historically low cattle inventories, and new USDA assistance for beef processors. Kester, a fifth-generation California rancher from Parkfield, said rebuilding the nation's cattle herd will take time. With U.S. cattle numbers sitting at their lowest levels in decades, he expects meaningful expansion to remain several years away. "Just by Mother Nature and the biology of a beef animal, we're probably at least three years out, and five years could be very possible before we start building up numbers," Kester said. The conversation also focused on the continued threat posed by New World screwworm. Kester emphasized that while the parasite presents a significant challenge for livestock producers, it is not a food safety issue for consumers. He explained that USDA, working alongside the State of Texas, is investing heavily in eradication efforts through sterile fly production. Existing facilities in Panama and Mexico are already releasing approximately 100 million sterile flies each week, while a new USDA production facility under construction in South Texas is expected to dramatically expand that capacity. Kester said researchers are also making progress on genetic technologies that could make future sterile fly production even more efficient. Another major concern for Western ranchers remains wolf depredation. While federal officials are pursuing actions that could remove Endangered Species Act protections for gray wolves, Kester noted California producers continue to face challenges under the state's endangered species protections. He said ranchers continue experiencing livestock losses while compensation remains limited. "We still have the state listing, so that does not really solve the issue for those of us here in California," Kester said. The interview also covered USDA's recently announced Supporting Processor Investment in Rural America (SPUR) Program, which will provide up to $500 million in temporary assistance for small and mid-sized beef processors. Kester explained that while larger packing companies have the financial resources to weather the current cattle shortage, many smaller processors are struggling with reduced throughput as national cattle supplies remain tight. The federal funding, he said, is intended to help those facilities remain operational until cattle inventories begin recovering in the coming years. The discussion continues in Part Two, where Kester addresses beef imports, international trade, and the long-term outlook for the U.S. cattle industry. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

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Get the latest local, state, and national agriculture news in today’s AgNet News Hour by AgNet West.

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  • Creator
    AgNet West Radio Network
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2017 . All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    AgNet News Hour

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