Industry News
2023 Statewide Avocado Acreage Report Available Online
Each year the California Avocado Commission partners with Land IQ to produce a Statewide Avocado Acreage and Condition Analysis report utilizing digital satellite imagery, aerial photography and analytical tools to survey California avocado groves. This data provides crucial information for the industry.
FSCSC Funding Assistance Now Available for Mid-sized Agricultural Operations
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has expanded funding assistance to both small- and medium-sized agricultural operations seeking to renew or obtain a food safety certification through the Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops program. In addition, the program will include assistance for 2024 and 2025 expenses.
Three-year Organic Transition Grants Available
In partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the CCOF Foundation provides grants, mentorship and technical assistance to growers making the transition to organic production. The $10,000 grants are awarded annually for three years to assist producers as they wait the three years before achieving organic certification.
USDA Expands Crop Insurance Options for Organic California Avocado Growers
Beginning with the 2025 crop year, organic California avocado growers will have expanded crop insurance options. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Risk Management Agency will now allow Enterprise Units for California avocados and will allow non-contiguous parcels of land that qualify for optional units to also qualify for Enterprise Units.
Commission Calls on USDA to Maintain Current Inspections in Mexico
On June 26, 2024, the California Avocado Commission released a statement regarding the U.S./Mexico Operational Work Plan allowing Hass avocados from the Mexican states of Michoacan and Jalisco to be exported to the U.S. Under the current OWP, the inspections are conducted by Mexican personnel employed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
USDA Farm Service Agency Accepting Nominations for County Committees
Nominations are now being accepted for growers to serve on county committees for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency. These committees play an important role in making decisions about how federal farm programs are administered at the local level. Committee members serve three-year terms.
