Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

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2026 is the International Year of the Woman Farmer

California’s female farmers and farmworkers are at the heart of our food system, driving advances in innovation, food safety, quality, and sustainability every day. Whether behind the scenes or in the fields, women are actively shaping the future of agriculture … Continue reading

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Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Pomona Win Top Honor at the 137th Rose Parade

Cal Poly’s student-built Rose Float, Jungle Jumpstart, has been named the Sweepstakes Award winner at the 137th Rose Parade – the parade’s highest honor, recognizing the most beautiful float overall. This historic win marks the first time in nearly 80 … Continue reading

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Dr. David Morgan, CDFA biological control leader, retires

As CDFA’s primary scientist in the field of biological control, Dr. David Morgan has had a hand in many projects over the years. He came to CDFA from “across the pond,” a few years after arriving on our shores in … Continue reading

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Looking Ahead to 2026: Innovation and the Future of California Agriculture

As California agriculture wraps up 2025 and looks toward 2026, conversations about technology, climate, and collaboration are shaping what comes next for food and farming. In a recent episode of the Fresh Takes on Tech podcast, CDFA Secretary Karen Ross … Continue reading

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Senior staff retirements, new appointments signal change and continuing strength at CDFA

State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Jones, Public Affairs Director Steve Lyle retiring By Karen Ross, CDFA Secretary As our CDFA family prepares to turn the calendar over to 2026, the adage “the only constant is change” seems particularly appropriate this time … Continue reading

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Santa’s reindeer cleared for entry into California by State Veterinarian

As we wrap up 2025, we are reflecting on another year of growth, collaboration, and dedication to California agriculture and animal health. To celebrate the season, we are sharing a festive holiday video with a little North Pole magic. State … Continue reading

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Secretary Karen Ross Marks the Season with End-of-Year Visits Across CDFA

By Secretary Karen Ross As part of a long-standing California Department of Food and Agriculture tradition, I, along with members of our executive team, spent time visiting staff across the agency during end-of-year holiday visits. We had the opportunity to … Continue reading

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CDFA staff members volunteer at food bank, encourage others to do the same

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Growing Equity: How Fresno BIPOC Produce Hub Supports Small Farmers

Family farms form the backbone of California agriculture. While more than 90% of the state’s farms are considered family-owned, only around 9% of California farms are BIPOC-owned. Keng Vang established the Fresno BIPOC Produce Hub to help these underrepresented growers … Continue reading

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CDFA announces leadership changes in Division of Animal Health and Food Safety Services — Dr. Stephen Beam and Dr. Amanda Murray named to top posts

CDFA is proud to announce the appointment and promotion of two longstanding leaders in our Animal Health and Food Safety Services Division (AHFSS): Dr. Amanda “Mandy” Murray will begin the new year as California’s Acting State Veterinarian, and Dr. Stephen … Continue reading

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