Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

Monthly Archives: January 2013

Census of Agriculture, Microloan Program Excellent Examples of the Value of USDA’s Partnership With California

Two recent announcements by the USDA remind us all of the agency’s value as a federal partner in food and agricultural production.  The USDA assists Californians in a variety of ways, from producer insurance programs to school nutrition and food … Continue reading

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“Goat Day” an excellent outreach opportunity for dairy foods program

This Saturday, January 19, UC Davis will host its annual “Goat Day,” an opportunity for goat owners, veterinarians and students to learn about a variety of goat health and management topics. There will be updates on current goat research and … Continue reading

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Here comes Bacon Fest – proceeds to the Center for Land-Based Learning

The second annual Bacon Fest Sacramento is scheduled for January 20-27, 2013.  The events will include a chef’s competition, bacon specials at a number of Sacramento restaurants, a Kevin Bacon tribute night, and a coloring contest – the prizes are bacon donuts. Proceeds will … Continue reading

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After the Freeze – CDFA Works to Assess Crop Damage

Following a period of below-freezing temperatures in the Central Valley and other parts of California, CDFA’s Division of Inspection Services is working with growers and county agricultural commissioners to assess potential freeze damage to citrus fruit and avocados. There is … Continue reading

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Enrollment growing in US college and university Ag programs

Enrollment in US college and university agriculture programs is up 21 percent since 2006, according to data from the Food and Agriculture Education Information System, a partnership between the USDA, Virginia Tech University and over 200 colleges and departments of … Continue reading

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Aligning With New Proposed Federal Produce Safety Rules

Last Friday, January 4th, two years to the day after the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) was signed into law by President Obama, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued new proposed produce rules. The produce rules will go a … Continue reading

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CDFA Remembers Huell Howser

CDFA joins Californians in remembering longtime public television personality Huell Howser, who has reportedly died in Southern California at age 67. Mr. Howser’s programs frequently highlighted California’s bucolic and rural characteristics, including agriculture, and reached millions of viewers. Over the … Continue reading

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News Release – European Grapevine Moth Quarantine Lifted in Four Counties

http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/egov/Press_Releases/Press_Release.asp?PRnum=13-001 State and federal agricultural officials are lifting the European grapevine moth (EGVM) quarantine in Santa Clara, Nevada, and Santa Cruz counties, and a portion of Sonoma County. This action is the result of progress with regulatory and control efforts, … Continue reading

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