In his final State of the State address on Thursday, Jan. 8, California Governor Gavin Newsom praised “the farmers who work the soil, nourished by our rivers.” He highlighted First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom’s contributions to school food nutrition, as part of our ongoing efforts to get more locally grown food into school cafeterias. And he foreshadowed today’s announcement of “a budget that continues our nation-leading investments in school meals.” On California’s reputation for innovation and leadership, he specifically named agriculture as a leading industry and said, “We don’t run from change – we drive it.”
We are grateful that our climate smart ag work will continue with Prop. 4 funding in the proposed budget. We have invested nearly $600 million since 2019 to advance climate smart agricultural practices, funding nearly 3,000 projects across 300,000 acres resulting in a reduction of approximately 27.7 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent across the life of the projects – the equivalent of taking 6.4 million cars off the road and saving 1.5 million acre-feet of water.
In the same period, we invested over $100 million to transform the California school food system through the Farm to School Program, now reaching 49% of all California school children with projects that provide access to local, climate smart and nutritious foods while supporting local farms with new market opportunities. The budget proposes $25.2 million ongoing to advance Farm to School.
As we move with purpose into 2026, CDFA is dedicated to helping our farmers, ranchers and everyone working in the food supply chain to grow, innovate, become more resilient to climate change and economic pressures, and prepare for the opportunities that come with the very bright future for California.
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 worldwide. To celebrate their contributions, the United Nations has declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer. Let’s take a look at how women are impacting agriculture in the Golden State.
Women Grow the Future
Women have always played a vital role in California agriculture – and their influence grows stronger every year. Over the last decade, there has been a 13% increase in the number of female farmers in California. As more women assume leadership roles, they are changing the face of agriculture in real time – making key business decisions and leading the next wave of innovation in food production and sustainability.
Cultivating Sustainability
Because 63% of California farms are female-operated (which means at least one woman is part of the ownership), women are responsible for key decisions about protecting the future of family farms. Whether protecting soil health or finding more innovative ways to conserve water, women are helping ensure California’s farmland stays productive for generations to come.
When Women Thrive, Communities Flourish
President John F. Kennedy popularized the phrase, “a rising tide lifts all boats,” and this is especially true in agriculture. When women have equal access to resources, farms are more productive, communities grow stronger, and local families thrive. Supporting women in agriculture means supporting agricultural policies that reflect the diversity of all the people who help put food on our tables and wine in our glasses.
California: Rooted in Equality, Leading the Nation
Californians have always known that women play an essential role in agriculture, so a woman’s right to landownership has been protected since the inception of the state. So, it’s no surprise that California is home to more female-operated farms than any other major agricultural state. Nearly two-thirds of the state’s farms are run by women, and women make up 38% of California’s agricultural producers!
Supporting the Woman Farmer – Choose California Grown
Celebrate the International Year of the Woman Farmer by choosing California Grown food, wine and flowers. California farmers produce 80% of the nation’s wine, grow half of all U.S. produce and lead the country in dairy production. And, 93% of California farms are still family-owned. When you choose California Grown, you’re supporting farm families, local communities and the women who help make it all possible.
Granny May’s Strawberry Farm is Elisabeth Saechao’s family legacy. Her Placer County U-pick farm offers visitors a first-hand look at where their food really comes from – and the opportunity to harvest their own fresh fruits.
To say that Audrey Pascone and Heather Austin are passionate about organic foods is an understatement. After embracing a healthier, organic diet and experiencing its positive impact firsthand, the two women uprooted their Bay Area lives to found an organic farm in Red Bluff, California – Red Gate Ranch.
Francie Heffernan is part of the future of California agriculture – and one of the “five Marys” behind Five Marys Ranch. Her family’s brand harnesses the power of social media to share the realities of ranch life, educating and entertaining their followers along the way.
Article by Hilary Rance and photography by James Collier and Hilary Rance for CA GROWN.
The Cal Poly Universities Rose Float, Jungle Jumpstart, makes its way towards Colorado Blvd in Pasadena during the Rose Parade January 1, 2026.
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 years that Cal Poly has earned the Sweepstakes Award, an achievement typically dominated by large, commercially built floats and major organizations.
Designed, engineered, and built entirely by students from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Pomona, Jungle Jumpstart showcased a creative fusion of nature and technology. Students led every aspect of the project — from concept and mechanical design to floral decoration, logistics, and final assembly — collaborating across disciplines, campuses, and hundreds of miles.
California Department of Food and Agriculture SecretaryKaren Ross congratulates the teams on their achievement, “We are all incredibly proud of the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Pomona students for earning the Sweepstakes Award. Their creativity, dedication, and teamwork reflect the very best of California’s future innovators and leaders.”
Cal Poly universities’ “Jungle Jumpstart” rainforest float that showed how nature and technology work together to create a better world received the Sweepstakes Award at the 137th Rose Parade® held on a rainy New Year’s Day.
The prestigious honor — a first in the schools’ nearly eight decades in the parade — honors the most beautiful float overall and is typically won by larger, commercially-built floats or major organizations, not by self-built entries that include the California State University campuses.
A view of “Jungle Jumpstart” as it made its way through the streets of Pasadena.Students from both Cal Poly universities cheer as the float drives by.Rainforest creatures on the float included this orange frog.One of the float operators peeks out to look at a sloth, one of the rainforest creatures on “Jungle Jumpstart.”
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 the mid-90s as a postdoctoral researcher at UC Riverside having just completed his studies at Imperial College (M.Sc. and Ph.D.) in Great Britain.
Long before he became “Dr. Morgan,” though, he was already what we affectionately call an “aggie.” He fondly recalls growing up on his father’s farm in England, where “pest problems moved very slowly” – especially compared to the pace of commercial agriculture as he encountered it upon his arrival in California.
Initially, his focus at CDFA was on monitoring invasive insect pests, and searching for and evaluating their natural enemies. But the majority of his work has involved the development of large-scale insect rearing systems.
“Classical biological control, where beneficial insects are used as a stand-alone pest control strategy, has a magnificent history in California, but biocontrol as a component of Sustainable Pest Management has really come to the forefront during my career, especially in California,” Dr. Morgan reflects. “All told, we’ve released more than 35 million beneficial insects. I am particularly proud of our management of the whole biological control process, from selection to production, release, and post-release monitoring of biocontrol agents to optimize their use in pest management.”
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 joined host Vonnie Estes at the Global Produce and Floral Show in Anaheim to discuss how innovation, from precision agriculture and regenerative practices to biological solutions and artificial intelligence–is helping address rising costs, changing climate conditions, workforce transitions, and food safety challenges. The conversation reflects a pivotal moment for California agriculture, where ideas and investments are being implemented across the supply chain. As the state prepares for the year ahead, this discussion highlights how collaboration and technology can continue strengthening resilience, sustainability, and opportunity across California’s agricultural system.
Watch the full interview to hear Secretary Ross’s perspective on the future of agriculture and the path forward into 2026.
State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Jones, Public Affairs Director Steve Lyle retiring
State Veterinarian Annette Jones and Public Affairs Director Steve Lyle (left) are retiring at the end of the year. They were hosted at a recent holiday gathering by CDFA Secretary Karen Ross (right), with former CDFA Public Affairs videographer Adrian Woodfork joining the festivities.
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 around.
This week, we say a fond “farewell” to two longstanding and outstanding leaders of our department, State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Jones and Public Affairs Director Steve Lyle, who are both retiring. Stacked end-to-end, their careers in public service stretch to more than half a century. And for much of that time, they worked in tandem on the department’s successful efforts in response to emergencies and outbreaks ranging from “mad cow” disease and foodborne illnesses to brucellosis and bird flu. It took both Annette’s expertise as a veterinarian and a veteran of public policy, and Steve’s experience as a journalist and communicator, to build and lead these emergency response efforts as parallel projects to solve the scientific problems at-hand while also keeping producers, stakeholders and consumers informed of the importance of compliance, vigilance and cooperation. We have been fortunate as a state, as consumers, and as producers to have the benefit of such leadership during these critical times, when no less than public health, animal health and the continuity of our food supply were at stake.
Steve’s and Annette’s careers here covered such a broad swath of projects, challenges and successes that any attempt at a list would be incomplete. Sufficed to say that whatever issue presented itself, these were the right people for the job, again and again. It has been my pleasure to work with them on their professional journeys as public servants, and I have sincerely appreciated their counsel, conduct and friendship.
In a way, this combination of skills that Annette and Steve so successfully brought together – science and communication – encapsulates what we do best at CDFA.
In recent days, I’ve said “Thank you” in person to our retiring leaders for their service to California and to our state’s agricultural community. I would like to publicly add my thanks to them for their care and dedication in training the next generation of leaders who stand ready to succeed them. Dr. Jones hands the reins of our Animal Health and Food Safety Services (AHFSS) Division to two experienced leaders in their own right, Acting State Veterinarian Dr. Amanda “Mandy” Murray and newly appointed AHFSS Division Director Stephen Beam; and Steve Lyle is succeeded by Acting Public Affairs Director Jay Van Rein, a 25-year veteran with our communications office.
Much of what CDFA does is about the stability of agricultural markets, the safety and reliability of the food supply, and the innovation that allows those conditions to evolve and endure. What makes all of that happen isn’t just the laws, the bills, the regulations – it’s our people. It’s our CDFA employees who work with farmers and ranchers and everyone up and down the food production and marketing chain, helping build both strength and foresight into our food systems.
I trust you will all join me in sending our appreciation to those embarking upon the adventure of retirement, and our support and congratulations to those stepping forward into new roles. I, for one, feel blessed and thankful to be a part of this tremendous team and this ever-changing, always-learning process called government.
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 Veterinarian Dr. Annette Jones, who is closing out her final year of service, received an urgent request from Santa himself, seeking official approval to bring his reindeer into California.
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 connect with just a few of the many dedicated people who bring their expertise and passion to work every day in service of California agriculture.
These visits are, first and foremost, a time to say thank you! As 2025 comes to a close, I would like to recognize the good work that reflects on the entire food system we are all part of, and the remarkable diversity of roles that make it function. Moving division by division, we met with staff across the agency, acknowledging the expertise, collaboration, and public service that drive CDFA’s mission forward.
I also want to recognize the hundreds of volunteers who generously advise our programs through advisory boards. Their commitment strengthens our work, enhances our services, and contributes to making California agriculture the innovative, high-quality, and abundant producer it is today.
The employees behind CDFA’s programs help reinforce our shared commitment to service, innovation, and stewardship as the department looks ahead to the new year.
The photos below reflect our visits. Happy Holidays and may 2026 be a fruitful year for everyone in ag!
Divisions visited include:
Citrus Pest and Disease Prevention Division, dedicated to protecting California’s citrus industry through prevention, detection, and outreach.CDFA Secretary Karen Ross, recognizes the work of the Citrus Pest and Disease Prevention Division, led by Claudia Vazquez, Director (pictured left with Secretary Ross).Administrative Services Division, along with the Office of Agricultural Resilience & Sustainability and the Office of Grant Administration, supporting CDFA’s operations, climate-smart initiatives, and critical grant programs.Executive Office, where leadership and coordination help guide the department’s work across all divisions.Standing center, CDFA Secretary Karen Ross; Deputy Secretary Arima Kozina; Dr. Annette Jones, State Veterinarian and Director (retiring) of the Animal Health & Food Safety Services Division, and Deputy Secretary Virginia Jameson. Secretary Ross thanked the Animal Health and Food Safety Services Division for their extraordinary work in safeguarding animal health, dairy operations, and food safety programs statewide.CDFA Secretary Karen Ross connects online with CDFA Animal Health and Food Safety Services Division team members across the state during a staff meeting.Division of Measurement Standards Led by Kevin Schnepp, pictured center, the Division of Measurement Standards, ensures accuracy and equity in commercial weighing and measuring devices used across the state.Information Technology Services Division (ITSD) Led by Agency Chief Information Officer and ITSD Director Fredrick Gomez, the Information Technology Services Division supports CDFA’s mission by delivering secure, reliable, and innovative technology solutions. From infrastructure and cybersecurity to application development and user support, ITSD plays a critical role in keeping CDFA connected, protected, and operating efficiently across the state.CDFA Secretary Ross (center), visits Plant Health & Pest Prevention Services Division (led by Director Victoria Hornbaker, pictured center) which works to protect California’s agricultural and natural resources from invasive pests and diseases.Also pictured, the Pierce’s Disease Control Program, focused on protecting vineyards through research, prevention, and industry collaboration.Pierce’s Disease Control Program team, led by Joe Damiano, Statewide Coordinator.The Center for Analytical Chemistry within the Inspection Services Division, supporting food safety and regulatory programs through advanced laboratory science.CDFA Secretary Karen Ross (left), with Dr. Barzin Moradi, PhD, Branch Chief – Center for Analytical Chemistry; Director of the Inspection Services Division, Natalie Krout-Greenberg, and Carla Sanchez, Assistant Director — recognize Dr. Moradi’s exemplary leadership at CDFA.Pictured far left, Dr. Shaun Winterton, PhD, Branch Chief of the Plant Pest Diagnostics Center, within the Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services Division, helps protect California’s agriculture, environment, and public health by preventing, detecting, and managing invasive plant pests and diseases that threaten the state’s food supply and natural resources.Marketing Services and the Fairs & Expositions Division, led by Kathy Diaz (center with CDFA Secretary Karen Ross), promotes California agricultural products and supports the statewide network of fairs.
CDFA employees participate annually in the California State Employees Food Drive by volunteering to help sort and box food items for Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services in Sacramento. CDFA encourages all Californians to participate in the season of giving and throughout the year by finding a local food bank and making a monetary donation, a food donation or volunteering your time.
CDFA volunteers packaged 366 boxes on Tuesday, totaling 12,079 pounds of food at the food bank.
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 to survive and thrive. He explains, “I started the food hub because I saw a real need – especially around marketing – for the small farms I work with. Most of the farmers are BIPOC, and many don’t speak English fluently, which makes it incredibly difficult for them to access resources.”
Empowering small farmers
The Fresno BIPOC Produce Hub operates as an aggregator, helping small farms reach new markets and sell their produce more effectively. But what does that mean in practice? Think of the Fresno BIPOC Produce Hub as one-stop shopping for food banks, schools, restaurants and other food hubs. They market, pack and distribute produce from almost 40 small farms, streamlining the process so buyers don’t have to source from each farm individually. Instead, all products are consolidated and made available through a single, centralized system.
Keng works alongside each farmer, building relationships and identifying the unique needs of each operation. Whether it’s facilitating buyer relationships or helping to coordinate harvest timelines, the Fresno BIPOC Produce hub doesn’t just move produce – it empowers small farmers with the tools, knowledge and support they need to grow sustainably and achieve their goals.
Creating a better food system
Even in California, many communities are considered “food deserts”, struggling with access to fresh, healthy produce. Programs like the Fresno BIPOC Produce Hub play an essential role in tackling that issue, providing much-needed fruits and vegetables to Central Valley food banks and school districts. This solution is mutually beneficial, confronting food insecurity head-on while helping small farmers find new, non-traditional markets for their goods.
Keepin’ it Californian
These efforts align with the Fresno BIPOC Produce Hub’s core mission to strengthen local food systems and ensure California-grown produce remains within the communities that need it most. Keng explains, “It’s important to support local farmers, especially here in California, because California has one of the most abundant supplies of produce. We also have probably the most Asian-grown produce in the United States. And a lot of that produce is going out—it’s not staying here in California, which is kind of sad. Our goal is to create more projects and more programs that help keep the produce right here. ” Keng’s lips curve into a broad smile as he concludes, “We want to create a better food system—one that provides fresh, local produce so people can live healthier lives.”
If you’re interested in purchasing produce from the Fresno BIPOC Produce Hub, check out their new online marketplace. If you’re a farmer and interested in joining Fresno BIPOC Produce Hub, register online.
Article by Hilary Rance and photography by James Collier for CA GROWN.
