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. 5h ago

    Kyle Kirkland Discusses Water Management, Rising Costs and California's Agricultural Future

    On today's episode of the AgNet News Hour, Kyle Kirkland, Central Valley businessman and candidate for California's 21st Congressional District, joined Nick Papagni to discuss the challenges facing California agriculture. In Part 1 of a two-part interview, Kirkland outlined his views on water management, affordability and government spending, arguing that the Central Valley needs stronger representation in Washington. Water was a central focus of the conversation. Kirkland argued that California's challenges are not simply about water availability but how existing resources are managed.   "We don't have a water problem. We have a water management problem," Kirkland said. He pointed to what he considers insufficient investment in water storage and distribution infrastructure, emphasizing the need for consistent policies that allow farmers to plan for the future. Kirkland also described agricultural production as a matter of national security, given the Central Valley's importance to the nation's food supply.   Affordability was another major concern. Kirkland said rising costs for housing, gasoline, electricity and food are affecting agricultural businesses and the communities that depend on them. He argued that California's regulatory environment has contributed to declining in-state production and increased dependence on outside suppliers.   Drawing on his business background, including his leadership at Steinway Musical Instruments and ownership of Fresno's Club One Casino, Kirkland said he would bring a problem-solving approach to Congress.   The conversation also turned to California's high-speed rail project. Kirkland questioned its escalating costs and argued that funding could be better directed toward water infrastructure, roads, energy and housing.   Kirkland also discussed the importance of reviewing existing regulations to determine whether they are achieving their intended goals. He suggested that more legislation should include provisions requiring lawmakers to revisit policies and evaluate their effectiveness.   Hear Part 1 of the full conversation with Kyle Kirkland in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

  2. 1d ago

    Jamie Johansson Discusses Farm Labor, Wildfire Risks and California's Agricultural Future

    On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Jamie Johansson, former president of the California Farm Bureau and candidate for California's 3rd Assembly District, returned for Part 2 of his conversation about the challenges facing California agriculture. The program also featured Patrick Williams of SkySense, who discussed how remotely operated drones are helping growers protect their farms. Johansson addressed several issues affecting California producers, including agricultural labor, energy costs, forest management and wildlife conflicts. He emphasized the need for policies that support a reliable agricultural workforce while maintaining immigration enforcement and providing greater certainty for employers. Affordability was another major concern. Johansson argued that California's regulatory environment and energy policies have increased operating costs for farmers and other businesses, making it harder for the next generation to remain in agriculture. The conversation also explored wildfire prevention and forest management. Drawing on his experience in Northern California, Johansson called for greater use of controlled burns and forest maintenance to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires. He questioned whether existing permitting processes and regulatory decisions are allowing communities to respond quickly enough. Johansson also discussed growing concerns among ranchers about wolf populations and livestock losses, arguing that wildlife management policies must better account for agricultural operations. Despite those challenges, Johansson expressed optimism about California's future, emphasizing the importance of agricultural communities working together and remaining engaged in state policy discussions. Later in the program, Patrick Williams of SkySense explained how the company uses remotely operated drones equipped with thermal cameras, lights and speakers to monitor agricultural properties. Williams said the technology can help identify potential theft or vandalism while also discouraging birds and other wildlife from damaging crops. With remote pilots operating the equipment, growers can schedule patrols without having to manage the drones themselves. The two conversations highlight different approaches to protecting California agriculture, from changes in public policy to emerging technology designed for everyday farm operations. Hear the full conversations with Jamie Johansson and Patrick Williams in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

  3. 2d ago

    Jamie Johansson Calls for Stronger Water Infrastructure and Agricultural Representation in Sacramento

    On a recent episode of the AgNet News Hour, Jamie Johansson, former president of the California Farm Bureau and candidate for California's 3rd Assembly District, joined Nick Papagni to discuss the challenges facing California agriculture and why he believes farmers need a stronger voice in Sacramento. Johansson, an olive and citrus grower from the Oroville area, is seeking to represent a largely rural district covering portions of Butte, Glenn, Tehama, Sutter, Yuba and Placer counties. Drawing on his experience leading the California Farm Bureau, Johansson said agricultural communities need lawmakers who understand the financial and regulatory pressures facing producers. Water infrastructure emerged as a central topic. Johansson expressed frustration over delays in developing additional water storage, pointing to Sites Reservoir and the state's ongoing challenges with drought preparedness. He argued that California must do more to capture water during wet years and expand opportunities for groundwater recharge. Johansson also discussed the importance of holding state regulatory agencies accountable, including the State Water Resources Control Board and California Air Resources Board. He believes lawmakers should take a more active role in reviewing decisions that directly affect farmers and rural communities. The conversation also addressed the growing cost of agricultural production. Johansson described recently taking gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton to a Northern California rice harvest, where he demonstrated how fuel expenses can quickly add up for producers operating large equipment. Despite California's political divisions, Johansson emphasized that his experience working with lawmakers from both parties could help him advocate for agriculture if elected. He also raised concerns about California's state budget, energy costs and the increasing competition domestic growers face from imported agricultural products. The interview is the first part of a two-part conversation examining the future of California agriculture, state leadership and the policies shaping the industry's competitiveness. Hear Part 1 of the full conversation with Jamie Johansson in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

  4. 3d ago

    Christian Farming Organization Challenges National FFA Convention Exclusion

    On a recent episode of the AgNet News Hour, Dan Janzen, Executive Director of Fellowship of Christian Farmers International (FCFI), joined Nick Papagni to discuss a growing dispute with the National FFA Organization over the group's exclusion from its upcoming national convention in Indianapolis. FCFI, founded in 1985, works with agricultural communities through disaster relief, youth outreach, farm shows and faith-based programs. The organization has participated in numerous state FFA conventions, connecting with students interested in agriculture, volunteer service and international agricultural development. According to Janzen, the organization was previously informed that it did not meet National FFA's diversity, equity and inclusion objectives. He said FCFI continued participating at the state level, but several state associations have since declined to allow the organization to exhibit. The dispute gained additional attention after Janzen said National FFA rejected FCFI's application to participate in this year's national convention because of its religious affiliation. Janzen questioned that decision, arguing that his organization's programs complement FFA's agricultural education and leadership mission. He also pointed to FCFI's work helping farmers recover from natural disasters and providing support to producers experiencing financial hardship. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has also drawn attention to the controversy, according to Janzen, who discussed efforts to resolve the disagreement before the convention. FCFI has submitted a demand letter requesting that National FFA reconsider its decision, with the organization seeking a response by October 14. Janzen said the group is receiving legal assistance as it evaluates its options. Despite the disagreement, Janzen emphasized that FCFI does not want to undermine FFA or discourage support for its programs. Instead, he hopes the controversy leads to a resolution that allows the organizations to work alongside one another. The interview explores the organization's concerns, its work with agricultural youth and what Janzen believes should happen next. Hear the full conversation with Dan Janzen in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

  5. 6d ago

    California Trucking Costs Mount as Fuel, Insurance and Regulations Squeeze Agriculture

    On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Mark Woods, owner of Wildwood Trucking in Kingsburg, California, and energy expert Ellington Smith returned for Part 2 of their conversation about California’s rising transportation costs. The discussion explored how insurance, regulations and changing trucking technology could affect the state’s agricultural supply chain. For Woods, the financial pressure has reached a point where trucking companies can no longer absorb every increase. He revealed that Wildwood Trucking raised its transportation rates by 15 percent beginning October 1, following months of higher operating expenses. Even with that adjustment, Woods said the increase may not be enough. His company has been working directly with customers to determine what they can reasonably afford, highlighting the difficult balance between keeping transportation businesses operating and protecting the growers and businesses that depend on them. Insurance is another growing concern. Woods described rising deductibles, additional coverage requirements and the financial exposure trucking companies face from major liability claims. But technology could also change the industry’s future. Woods discussed how artificial intelligence is already entering commercial trucking through driver-monitoring cameras, collision-avoidance systems and automatic braking. He believes these technologies could play an increasingly important role in improving safety and efficiency, even without fully autonomous trucks. The conversation also turned to electric commercial vehicles. Woods questioned whether charging infrastructure, vehicle range and operating conditions are ready to support the demands of agricultural freight transportation, particularly on longer routes. Smith offered his perspective on California’s energy policies, regulatory costs and how the state’s next governor could influence the business environment for agriculture and transportation. Throughout the discussion, both guests emphasized the importance of keeping goods moving affordably. As Woods explained, trucking expenses do not stop with transportation companies. They can eventually affect farmers, food businesses and consumers. Hear Part 2 of the full conversation with Mark Woods and Ellington Smith in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

  6. Oct 8

    California Trucking Industry Confronts Rising Fuel Costs

    On a recent episode of the AgNet News Hour, Mark Woods, owner of Wildwood Trucking in Kingsburg, California, joined the show to discuss rising diesel costs and why a new federal effort to provide fuel-tax relief may be difficult to put into practice for California truckers. Wildwood Trucking operates more than 60 trucks throughout California and Arizona, hauling many of the products and supplies that keep agriculture moving. That includes packaging materials, drip irrigation equipment, trees and fresh fruits and vegetables moving from fields to major packing houses.   Woods said increasing fuel costs are putting additional pressure on trucking companies already operating on tight margins. Wildwood has been forced to add some transportation surcharges, while Woods said he is also seeing other trucking companies go out of business.   The conversation came shortly after the White House announced an effort to temporarily allow dyed diesel fuel normally reserved for off-road uses to be used in qualifying on-road agricultural and trucking operations. The federal action also provides relief from the 24.4-cent-per-gallon federal excise tax on diesel.   Woods said the idea could provide some relief, but questioned how practical it will be in California. Among his concerns are whether dyed diesel would be readily available along trucking routes and how California will handle vehicles operating under the federal relief when state law normally restricts dyed fuel from highway use.   Beyond the immediate fuel-tax proposal, Woods discussed a much larger concern about the future of trucking in California. He said fuel prices, insurance, regulations and other operating expenses are making it increasingly difficult for companies to absorb additional costs without eventually passing them along to customers.   The interview also explores how those transportation costs ultimately affect farmers, packers and consumers—and why Woods believes California's trucking challenges extend well beyond the price displayed at the pump.   Hear the full conversation with Mark Woods on your favorite podcast app.

  7. Oct 7

    Whole Vine Festival Celebrates Central Valley Agriculture

    On a recent episode of the AgNet News Hour, Vicki Goudreau of the Whole Vine Festival joined the show to preview this year’s event at Fresno State and explain why the festival is about much more than grapes. Later in the program, Luke Lindberg, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, discussed new opportunities for U.S. agriculture through trade with China and other global markets. The Whole Vine Festival takes place October 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Fresno State, bringing together the Central Valley’s table grape, raisin and wine industries. The free event includes live music, food trucks, agricultural exhibits, samples and plenty of activities for families. For Goudreau, one of the biggest priorities is introducing children to the agriculture happening around them. This year’s kids’ activities include a petting zoo, planting and food preparation activities, honeybees and tractors for younger children. Her goal is to build pride in the Central Valley and help the next generation understand just how important agriculture is to the region. Goudreau also explained that the festival has a larger mission: changing the way people think and talk about the Central Valley. She believes celebrating the region’s agricultural legacy can help young people recognize the opportunities around them and encourage residents to become more invested in solving the Valley’s challenges. Later in the program, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg provided an update on the new “30 for 30” framework with China. Lindberg discussed potential opportunities for U.S. fruits, nuts, vegetables and other agricultural products, as well as an upcoming USDA trade mission to China. Lindberg also explained how USDA is working to remove technical and regulatory barriers that can prevent American specialty crops from reaching overseas customers. He shared where he sees some of the strongest opportunities for U.S. agriculture heading into the final months of the year. Hear the full conversations with Vicki Goudreau and USDA Under Secretary Luke Lindberg on your favorite podcast app.

  8. Oct 6

    Dave Puglia: Water and Automation Could Shape California Agriculture’s Future

    On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Dave Puglia, president and CEO of Western Growers, joined us for Part 2 of a wide-ranging conversation about the future of California agriculture. From water infrastructure and rising production costs to automation and the next generation of farmers, Puglia offered his perspective on where the industry goes from here. Water remains one of the biggest pieces of that conversation. Puglia said California needs additional surface storage, canals, aqueducts and groundwater storage, but argued that simply building infrastructure isn't enough. The state also needs to address the regulatory system governing how that infrastructure is developed and operated. He also raised a bigger question about who benefits from agricultural water infrastructure—and who should pay for it. Puglia pointed to Sites Reservoir as an example, arguing that the economic activity, employment and tax revenue generated by productive farms should be considered part of the broader public benefit when projects are financed. The discussion then turned to technology. Puglia said agricultural automation has advanced considerably, particularly with automated weeders and thinners. Harvesting remains a much tougher challenge, especially for crops such as berries and Central Valley stone fruit. Western Growers is working with technology companies through its innovation efforts and Reservoir Farms, where new equipment can be tested under real farming conditions before growers make major investments. Puglia also discussed consolidation in California agriculture, what encourages him about younger farmers entering the business, and whether he believes California can change course after years of difficult agricultural policy.

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About

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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