(L – R) Director General of the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Graeme Bolton; CDFA Secretary Karen Ross; Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Anthony (Tony) Perrett MP; Western Growers Representative Walt Duflock, and Hort Innovation’s Representative Andrew Francey.
From CDFA Secretary Karen Ross
Queensland is Australia’s largest agricultural state and is leaning into agtech to improve productivity and outcomes for producers. During our first few days, we have engaged with a diverse range of groups, all passionate about collaboration and advancing agtech adoption and climate resilience.
During our bilateral meeting with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI), we discussed shared opportunities around agtech, joint research, and building synergies through existing partnerships. Western Growers and F3 Innovate both have agreements in Queensland to further innovation and agtech adoption.
Queensland’s government is also spearheading the Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund, an AU$30 million investment fund to advance long-term agricultural production by supporting commercially focused innovation, something California could explore as well.
We also visited Kalfresh and Barden Farms, two growing operations investing in innovation and agtech. Kalfresh is leading efforts to establish Australia’s first food and energy precinct in Queensland, combining vegetable production, bioenergy, and food manufacturing. The company is also dedicated to workforce development, fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders through apprenticeships and financial support.
At Barden Farms, a fresh produce company, a variety of agtech and automation technologies are being deployed in the field, from electric weeders to automated farm transport—all aimed at improving farm efficiency. Barden also provided valuable perspectives on the real-world challenges farmers face when deploying automation across diverse soil types and climatic conditions.
We also had the opportunity to visit DPI’s Gatton Smart Farm, the University of Southern Queensland, Boomaroo Nurseries, and SwarmFarm Robotics. Each visit reinforced the many similarities between California and Queensland, as well as the strong ties and opportunities we share around agricultural innovation.
And it’s not just about the site visits, it’s about the networking and relationships built along the way. We joined the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE), a regional economic development nonprofit, to discuss the California AgTech Alliance and the potential for this model to support agricultural businesses in the region. Great discussions and equally great company.
I’m looking forward to the days ahead in Bundaberg, Melbourne, and Mildura. The potential for collaboration between California and Australia is tremendous, and I’m excited about what we can accomplish together.
Secretary Ross is in Australia as part of the California Trade and Climate Policy Mission.
Celebrate the International Year of the Woman Farmer alongside some of the women shaping the face of California food and agriculture at Cherry Bombe’s Farmers & Makers in Paso Robles September 25-27th, 2026.
In honor of the International Year of the Woman Farmer, Cherry Bombe is bringing together farmers, chefs, winemakers, artisans and food lovers for a weekend celebrating the women shaping California agriculture and the food we eat every day.
Through unforgettable meals and wine tastings, hands-on experiences and thought-provoking conversations, the Farmers & Makers event offers a chance to connect with the people behind California’s farms, ranches and food businesses.
What is Cherry Bombe?
If you’re at all involved in the culinary scene, you’ve probably heard of Cherry Bombe. This multi-media powerhouse hosts the popular baking podcast, “She’s My Cherry Pie”, publishes a coveted quarterly magazine and hosts impossibly chic events across the nation – all focused on highlighting some of the incredible women in the world of professional food and beverage. In the process, Cherry Bombe has created a tight-knit community that values great food and celebrates the women behind it.
Farmers & Makers:
Imagine indulging in an entire weekend of fabulous farm-to-table meals alongside some of the folks who grew the food, while spending your afternoons shopping, sampling and tasting your way through some of the Golden State’s most beloved farms, wineries and food businesses. If that sounds like your vibe, you need to get your tickets for Cherry Bombe Farmers & Makers.
This year’s event takes place September 25-27 in Paso Robles, California. While the region is probably best known for its thriving wine scene, this Central Coast gem is home to a robust agricultural community. During Farmers & Makers, participants will have the opportunity to create connections with the people who put food (and wine) on our tables and gain a deeper understanding of how food is grown – and why that matters.
Love food? This event is for you….
Whether you’re a passionate home cook, female farmer, culinary creator or a business owner, there’s something for everyone at Farmers & Makers. Throughout the weekend, guests will attend events celebrating California agriculture and our state’s female farmers, ranchers, wines and producers. California’s ag industry will have a strong presence at Farmers & Makers, with California Grown, Real California Milk, California Prunes, California Beef, California Figs and several California wineries and winemakers involved in the event.
Friday night, California Grown kicks off the weekend with a Welcome Party at the Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar. Sip on some of Paso Robles’ most celebrated wines while enjoying carefully curated small bites and chatting with fellow food lovers.
On Saturday, the Farmers & Makers Market showcases female-owned farms and food businesses throughout the state. Part farmers market and part specialty food fair, it’s the perfect place to sample products, shop for artisan goods and meet the people behind them. Throughout the event, Cherry Bombe will host various panels and discussions led by some of the most influential women in food and agriculture, including CDFA Secretary Karen Ross.
Satisfy your sweet tooth on Saturday night at the She’s My Cherry Pie: After Dark dinner, hosted by California Prunes. Delight in a custom tasting menu created by Chef Sarah Thompson of Casa Playa at Wynn Las Vegas. Then, enjoy signature desserts from highly recognized female bakers, including Kyra Johnson of Kyra’s Bake Shop, Rose Wilde of Red Bread, and Traci Alderson of Brown Butter Cookie Company.
The event concludes with The Supper Club – the grand finale celebrating the International Year of the Woman Farmer. Enjoy cocktail hour, dinner and dessert while learning more about how regenerative agriculture is changing how we grow and think about food.
Tickets + Accommodations
Tickets for individual events are limited and sure to sell out fast. You won’t want to miss these exclusive events, so reserve your space now!
Attendees are invited to take advantage of special room rates at The Paso Robles Inn and The Ava. Both properties are centrally located in bustling downtown Paso Robles, making it easy to walk to most event venues as well as nearby restaurants, coffee shops and tasting rooms.
If you’re not able to join us at Farmers & Makers to celebrate the International Year of the Woman Farmer, learn more about some of the California women who are shaping the future of food here!
Pictured: 2025 California State FFA Leadership Conference in Sacramento; Secretary Ross (center), with FFA students.
Secretary Karen Ross is featured in the July edition of the ONOR Journal in a conversation about leadership, innovation and preparing the next generation for the future. In the feature, Secretary Ross shares insights drawn from her career in agriculture and public service, emphasizing that while technology and innovation are transforming agriculture, people remain at the heart of progress.
“Today’s students are growing up in a world shaped by rapid technological change, global interconnectedness, and unprecedented access to information. Yet many remain unaware of the opportunities available within modern agriculture and food systems,” said Secretary Ross
She also discusses the importance of education, mentorship, curiosity and being open to unexpected opportunities. This advice that offers valuable perspective for farmers, students, parents, educators and community leaders. The feature highlights Secretary Ross’s belief that the future is something we cultivate by investing in people and helping young people see the possibilities ahead.
Companies interested in connecting with foreign buyers have until August 31 to register for the fall edition of the Best of the West Global Buyers Event, taking place September 8-11 in California. Hosted in conjunction with the California Department of Food and Agriculture, the inbound mission will offer participating companies two opportunities to engage with foreign buyers: 1:1 meetings in San Francisco and Los Angeles, and a product showcase in Fresno.
Product focus includes: value-added food products and dried fruit and nuts.
Two Opportunities to Connect
Participating companies can engage with foreign buyers through:
1:1 meetings with buyers in San Francisco and Los Angeles
Product showcase in Fresno
The Best of the West Global Buyers Event will take place September 8-11.
CDFA Secretary Ross at the UC ANR Agritourism Summit + CA GROWN Reception at The Flower Fields | May 2025
Whether you’re an established u-pick farmer, a travel professional looking for a way to set yourself apart from the pack or a small farming operation looking into ways to grow your business, the 2026 California Agritourism Summit offers valuable insights into one of agriculture’s fastest-growing opportunities.
The University of California’s Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) department defines agritourism as “a commercial enterprise at a working farm, ranch, or agricultural plant conducted for the enjoyment of visitors that generates supplemental income for the owner.”
In simpler terms, agritourism is any experience that invites the public onto a working farm or ranch. While U-pick farms are among the most recognizable examples, agritourism also includes everything from farm tours and educational workshops to olive oil tastings and even visits to a farm stand.
2025 San Luis Obispo Agritour – City Farm SLO
How does agritourism benefit farms, consumers and local economies?
Between 2007 and 2022, the number of California farms and ranches offering agritourism opportunities increased by almost 87%. Today, agritourism is a $100 million dollar industry – and poised to continue growing exponentially.
It’s easy to see why agritourism is becoming increasingly popular. Agritourism offers hands-on experiences that help consumers create meaningful connections with the people who grow their food and the land that produces it.
Farmers and ranchers are also poised to reap the benefits of increased public interest. Agritourism allows them to share their stories, build lasting customer relationships and create new revenue streams that can strengthen the economic sustainability of their operations.
What is the 2026 California Agritourism Summit?
The California Agritourism Summit connects agricultural producers, tourism professionals, and public agencies to explore the future of agritourism and collaborate on ways to strengthen the industry throughout California.
If you’re interested in learning more about agritourism, join us in Paso Robles for the 2026 California Agritourism Summit September 23-25. The event will include panels, breakout sessions and roundtable discussions with industry experts, along with farm tours and opportunities to get to know folks from all facets of the agritourism industry.
UC ANR Agritourism Summit + CA GROWN Reception at The Flower Fields | May 2025
Who should attend the California Agritourism Summit?
The California Agritourism Summit is designed for anyone interested in growing California’s agritourism industry, including:
Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers
Travel advisors and tour operators
Regional marketing organizations and tourism agencies
Commodity boards and agricultural organizations
Economic development professionals
Public agency staff and community leaders
Whether you’re looking to attract more visitors to your farm, develop regional agritourism, or build partnerships within the industry, the California Agritourism Summit offers practical ideas, valuable resources, and meaningful networking opportunities to help you reach your goals.
Where is the 2026 California Agritourism Summit?
The 2026 California Agritourism Summit will take place in Paso Robles, a thriving agricultural community along California’s Central Coast known for its robust agritourism industry.
While panels, roundtables and breakout sessions will take place at the Ava Hotel, the event also includes “Workshops on Wheels” on September 24th. Workshop on Wheels participants will spread out throughout San Luis Obispo County to get a behind-the-scenes peek at some of the area’s most successful agritourism operations.
These tours will explore topics such as creating unique on-farm experiences, attracting visitors to your farm or region, engaging younger audiences through recreational and immersive activities, and designing memorable guest experiences that add value to your business.
Registration + Accommodations
If you’re interested in attending the 2026 California Agritourism Summit, register by clicking this link before September 11th. Registration and/or travel assistance is available to a limited number of attendees based on demonstrated need. For more information, please visit the Registration & Travel Support Interest Form. Interest form submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis. All forms must be submitted by August 21.
Special room rates are available for summit participants at the Ava hotel, where the event is being hosted. Special room rates are available at the Oxford Suites as well. Book before August 22 to enjoy these special promotional rates!
Make it a weekend! Stay for the Cherry Bombe Farmers & Makers Event
If you’re interested in extending your stay, why not add the Cherry Bombe Farmers & Makers Event to your itinerary? Celebrate the International Year of the Woman Farmer with a weekend of tastings, dinners, conversations, and special events honoring the women whose passion and dedication shape the food and drinks we enjoy every day.
Article by Hilary Rance and photography by James Collier for CA GROWN.
August 19 is National Potato Day — a time to celebrate one of California’s agricultural crops and the people who help bring it from the field to our tables.
In 2025, California potato growers harvested approximately 455,000 tons of potatoes on approximately 20,900 acres. The crop was valued at $327.3 million.
California potatoes are grown in diverse regions across the state. In 2022, the top counties by value of potato production were Kern, San Joaquin, Modoc, Siskiyou, Riverside, and Imperial.
This National Potato Day, we’re giving a big shout-out to California’s potato growers, farmers, farmworkers, and everyone across the potato food chain. From planting and growing to harvesting, packing, transporting and getting potatoes to consumers, it takes many hands to bring this crop from California farms to our tables.
Thank you to everyone who helps grow and move California potatoes!
Check out this CA GROWN blog and video about growing potatoes in California!
National Honey Bee Day is celebrated on the third Saturday of August. This year the holiday falls on Saturday, August 15.
Ahead of National Honey Bee Day on August 15, we’re celebrating the honey bees and beekeepers that play an important role in California agriculture. Honey bees do more than produce honey. Through pollination, they contribute to the production of crops that are an important part of California’s agricultural economy. As National Honey Bee Day approaches, we’re celebrating the honey bees, beekeepers and California agriculture that make it all possible.
“Bees and other pollinators are an essential part of California agriculture, supporting the crops we grow and the food we enjoy. Protecting pollinators also reminds us of the important role nature plays in supporting healthy and resilient farms and communities. By embracing nature-based solutions, including creating habitat and forage on working lands, we can support pollinators while strengthening the health and sustainability of California agriculture,” said Secretary Karen Ross.
770,000 honey bee colonies were in California as of April 1, 2026.
The total value of pollination in Arizona, California and Hawaii reached $364 million in 2025, up 3 percent from 2024. The total value of pollination for almonds increased 5 percent from 2024 to 2025.
California apiarists produced 11,025 pounds of honey in 2025, valued at $28.334 million.
With the ongoing cyclospora outbreak, many consumers, restaurants and grocery stores are concerned about the safety of their produce and its origin. The California LGMA would like to assure the public that California lettuce and leafy greens are in full production and are not associated with the ongoing outbreak. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported that many of the cyclospora cases were linked to iceberg lettuce grown in Central Mexico.
“Food safety is essential to consumer health and trust, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture takes our role seriously,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “We know the repercussions can be significant, both for those who get ill and their families, as well as on business operations and local economies. Through the leadership of CDFA’s Inspection Services Division with our state and federal partners, the Leafy Green Marketing Agreement and other industry stakeholders, thousands of audits and farm inspections happen each year. We also participate in education events, research projects and work groups to continually improve food safety programs, support farming practice adoption and ensure food grown in California remains the safest in the country.”
Why California lettuce is at low risk for cyclospora contamination
LGMA has created a Cyclospora Fact Sheet to help everyone in the supply chain better understand why lettuce and leafy greens from California LGMA members are a low-risk commodity for cyclospora contamination. The bottom line is that California LGMA handlers follow science-based food safety metrics that address the key pathways associated with cyclospora contamination, making California leafy greens a very low-risk commodity. LGMA’s program focuses on preventing contamination before it occurs through risk identification, mitigation practices and continuous improvement.
Today marks the final day at CDFA for Undersecretary Christine Birdsong, concluding five years of dedicated service to the State of California. Throughout her tenure, Christine brought significant experience working with industry leaders in the agricultural community and provided steady, thoughtful leadership during periods of substantial change, leaving a meaningful impact on the department.
Secretary Birdsong at Sustainable Agriculture Summit.
Before departing, Christine took a few moments to share her reflections and favorite memories from her time at CDFA.
Q: What was your favorite part of working with CDFA?
A: The people – amazing staff, amazing humans doing amazing things!
Q: What was your biggest challenge while at CDFA?
A: Public speaking! I never stopped being nervous.
The Public Affairs team must provide an editorial note that in her last week, Christine testified in the legislature and did a phenomenal job representing the department!
Q: What was your favorite memory while at CDFA?
A: Attending division director meetings and seeing everyone interact and support one another.
Q: What is your favorite California agriculture product?
A: LETTUCE! And all things that go into salads.
CDFA Secretary Karen Ross: “I always say that the Undersecretary has the hardest job in the department, and that is especially true at a department as large and diverse as CDFA. Christy brought calm confidence to her role. She has been an enormous asset to the state, me and every person at CDFA. I thank Christy for all she has done and wish her every success in the future. Thank you, Christy!”
To mark the occasion, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) visited the Cameron Park Certified Farmers’ Market in El Dorado County, one of the state’s 650 certified markets, to hear directly from the people who help make these markets thrive. In this video, the market manager, local farmers, and customers share why supporting Certified Farmers’ Markets matters. Many Certified Farmers’ Markets throughout California operate year-round, providing continued access to fresh, locally grown food.
As Californians celebrate National Farmers Market Week, CDFA encourages everyone to visit a Certified Farmers’ Market and experience the benefits of buying directly from local farmers. Every visit helps strengthen California agriculture.
“When you make a purchase at a Certified Farmers Market, sale proceeds go directly to the farmer, providing critical support for small farms while enhancing access to fresh, local, healthy food,” said Secretary Karen Ross.
