GreenSheet | March 1, 2024

The California Department of Food and Agriculture Produce Safety Program is developing a PSP data repository website that allows growers to view their own digital farm inspection records and reports. The database will be searchable and allow growers to verify and update records in one central location.

The California Avocado Society is hosting a free “Fertilizers and Irrigation” seminar on April 11 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. The event will be held in person and virtually.

The new Expanding Our Roots: Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Mentorship Program will begin accepting enrollments on February 21. The free program is designed for farmers and ranchers with one to 10 years of experience and will pair 200 new farmers/ranchers with mentors who have more than 10 years of experience.

The San Diego Region Water Quality Board has a seat available on its seven-member Board. The San Diego County Farm Bureau is looking for interested applicants with an agricultural perspective that they can recommend for the position.

In January 2024, the Commission received a letter from Avocado Growers of California (AGC) requesting that the Commission contact U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Vilsack regarding the call for a referendum on the Hass Avocado Board. The request was considered by the Commission at its February 22, 2024 Board meeting.

On March 15, the Ventura County Local Working Group will host an informational meeting on several topics of interest to agricultural operations. Attendees may attend in person or virtually. 

The Hass Avocado Board is seeking nominations for eight open seats — four open seats for producers and four for importers. The nomination process is open from March 1 to April 1, 2024.

Beginning in mid-February, CAC started filming California avocado groves and growers who will be featured in the 2024 consumer advertising campaign. The new creative will spotlight the California difference by showcasing the very people and places integral to producing the fruit, with messaging that focuses on locally grown and sustainably farmed.