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. 12h 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.

  2. 1d 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.

  3. 2d ago

    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.

  4. 3d ago

    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.

  5. 4d ago

    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.

  6. Jul 10

    Whole Vine Festival Celebrates the San Joaquin Valley's Grape Industry

    The San Joaquin Valley's grape industry will once again take center stage this fall as the Whole Vine Festival returns to Fresno State on October 24, celebrating the region's table grape, raisin, and wine grape industries while connecting consumers with California agriculture. On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Whole Vine Festival Founder and Director Vickie Goudreau shared how the event has grown into a celebration of both agriculture and Valley pride. Now entering its fourth year, the festival was created to showcase one of the San Joaquin Valley's defining industries while helping consumers better understand where their food comes from. Goudreau said the event also serves as a reminder that the Valley is home to one of the world's most productive agricultural regions. "We want to celebrate what's beautiful about our region," Goudreau said. "Agriculture has built the San Joaquin Valley, and we want people to be proud of that." The festival highlights the Valley's unique distinction as the only region in the United States that produces table grapes, raisins, and wine grapes in the same area. Throughout the day, visitors can meet growers, wineries, agricultural organizations, and businesses while learning more about the region's diverse grape industry. One of Goudreau's primary goals is introducing children and families to agriculture through hands-on educational activities. The festival's Kids Zone includes planting demonstrations, pollinator education, gardening activities, and opportunities for children to learn about healthy food choices in an interactive environment. She also hopes to involve more FFA, 4-H, and Young Farmers & Ranchers members in future festivals, saying older students can have a powerful influence by teaching younger children about agriculture. Beyond agriculture, the event showcases local culture with live music, food trucks, artisan vendors, and culinary competitions featuring California grapes. This year's festival will include a charcuterie competition, grape-inspired menu items from local food trucks, and wine and beer gardens highlighting regional products. Goudreau also believes the festival helps bridge the growing disconnect between urban residents and agriculture. As more people move into California's Central Valley without farming backgrounds, she hopes events like Whole Vine create a better understanding of the technology, innovation, and people behind the region's food production. "We need to connect our local community with the reality of how amazing our agricultural industry really is," she said. The Whole Vine Festival will be held Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Fresno State. Admission, parking, and children's activities are all free. Additional information, sponsorship opportunities, and event details are available at thewholevine.com. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

  7. Jul 9

    California Walnut Industry Looks Ahead to Strong Export Opportunities

    On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, California Walnut Commission and Board CEO and Executive Director Robert Verloop shared an optimistic outlook for the state's walnut industry, highlighting strong export demand, improving trade conditions, and what growers can expect as the 2026 harvest approaches. Verloop said the 2025 crop benefited from favorable growing conditions that resulted in exceptional quality and minimal losses during processing. While the large crop initially created abundant supplies, strong domestic and international demand has steadily reduced inventories, leaving the industry in a favorable position heading into the new season. California remains the dominant producer of walnuts in the United States, accounting for approximately 99% of the nation's commercial walnut production. The industry includes roughly 3,700 growers farming about 375,000 bearing acres throughout the Central Valley and surrounding production regions. International trade continues to be a major driver for the industry, with about two-thirds of California walnuts exported worldwide. Verloop highlighted recent progress in trade negotiations with the European Union, where reduced tariffs are expected to strengthen California's position in one of its largest export markets. He also pointed to India as one of the industry's biggest long-term opportunities. California walnuts currently face a 100% tariff entering India, but negotiations continue between U.S. trade officials and the Indian government. Verloop said lowering those barriers could significantly expand demand, calling India one of the most promising growth markets for California walnuts. Other export destinations, including Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and Southeast Asia, have also contributed to stronger international shipments over the past year. Verloop noted that while competition from countries such as Chile and China remains part of the global marketplace, California continues to distinguish itself through consistent quality, flavor, and reliability. Beyond exports, the California Walnut Commission is also working to increase domestic consumption. One major focus has been repositioning walnuts in grocery stores from the baking aisle into the produce department, emphasizing that walnuts are a fresh agricultural product grown on trees. The organization is also expanding efforts with chefs and restaurants to encourage more menu applications beyond traditional salads and baked goods. Looking toward harvest, Verloop said growers are closely monitoring weather conditions as orchards move through the critical nut-filling stage. An early harvest is possible if favorable conditions continue, although producers will continue watching for any late-season heat or rainfall that could affect harvest timing and quality. Throughout the conversation, Verloop emphasized that California's walnut growers remain focused on producing a high-quality crop while continuing to expand markets around the world. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

  8. Jul 8

    Elaine Culotti Says California Policy Will Shape Agriculture's Future

    On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, California farmer and former gubernatorial candidate Elaine Culotti discussed why she believes the state's 2026 governor's race could have lasting implications for agriculture, water infrastructure, and rural communities. Drawing from her own campaign experience, Culotti said California voters should focus on policies that directly affect farmers rather than political labels. Culotti said one of the biggest lessons she learned while running for governor was how difficult it is for independent candidates to gain visibility in California's political system. She argued that debate qualification rules and media polling often make it challenging for candidates outside the two major parties to reach voters, leaving many Californians without what she sees as broader representation. The discussion quickly turned to issues important to agriculture, particularly water infrastructure. Culotti pointed to long-discussed projects involving the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and Port of Stockton as examples of investments she believes are critical to California's agricultural economy. She argued that maintaining reliable water infrastructure will be essential for the state's farmers in the years ahead. Election integrity also became part of the conversation. Culotti expressed support for voter identification requirements and encouraged Californians to become more engaged in the election process. She said public confidence in elections is important regardless of political affiliation and encouraged voters to carefully evaluate candidates based on their policy positions. The interview also explored California's growing technology sector and the rapid expansion of data centers. Culotti questioned how personal data is collected and stored by technology companies and suggested consumers should have greater control over their own information. The conversation highlighted how advances in technology continue to raise new questions about privacy, infrastructure, and public policy. Throughout the interview, Culotti emphasized that California's farming community should remain actively involved in public policy discussions. She said decisions involving water, infrastructure, environmental regulations, and state spending all have direct impacts on agriculture and rural economies. As California prepares for next year's gubernatorial election, Culotti encouraged voters to evaluate candidates based on their willingness to address the state's long-term challenges, including support for agriculture, infrastructure investment, and economic competitiveness. She said the future of California farming will depend in part on policies that allow producers to remain productive while continuing to feed the nation. 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
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    © Copyright 2017 . All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    AgNet News Hour

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