Industry News
USDA Seeks Input Concerning How to Help U.S. Specialty Crops Remain Competitive
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a new “Specialty Crops Competitiveness Initiative” to assist this sector in light of the challenges presented by recent natural disasters and disruptions in the markets due to COVID. The program seeks input from specialty crop growers to better assess needs and challenges, how USDA programs can be improved and what research topics will help...
New Database Lists Farmer Funding Opportunities in English and Spanish
The Community Alliance with Family Farmers' has compiled a new Farmer Funding Opportunities Database. Spanish translation of the database also is available.
Drought Relief Grant Funds Available
The California Small Agricultural Business Drought and Flood Relief Grant Program awards funds to small agricultural businesses that have experienced a decline in annual gross receipts or profits due to drought or flood conditions. Awards are disbursed up to $100,000.
Growers Encouraged to Vote in 2023 CAC General Election
The deadline to submit ballots for the CAC 2023 General Election is October 25. The election is for one producer member seat and one producer alternate member seat in each of CAC’s five districts. One handler member seat and one handler alternate member seat also are available.
New Legislation Reforms Drone Approval Process
A new bill signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom will modernize the California Department of Pesticide’s drone certification process. The bill passed with unanimous bipartisan support and should streamline producers’ access to drones for aerial applications and biological treatments.
Online Avocado Yield Impact Support Tool Available
An Avocado Support Tool, designed to help growers optimize tree nutrition for greater yields, is available online at www.iwannagro.com. Learn more.
