Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

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Secretary Ross highlights mental health support for agricultural communities

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Secretary Karen Ross shares an important reminder about the emotional well-being of our farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers — especially in immigrant and rural communities. CDFA is partnering with trusted organizations to launch the … Continue reading

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Animal Care and Youth Education at California Fairs

California FFA student Brendy Puckett earns inaugural $10,000 scholarship from Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA) Livestock exhibitions are a hallmark of local and state fairs, and teaching our student exhibitors how to care for their animals in … Continue reading

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Nutrition Incentive Grants help CalFresh recipients purchase more California-grown fruits and vegetables

CDFA’s Office of Farm to Fork is pleased to announce that 12 projects across the state and the people they serve are now benefiting from more than $30 million in California Nutrition Incentive Program (CNIP) Grant funding. The projects will … Continue reading

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CDFA’s Progress for Californians — the vast reach of Farm to School

CDFA’s report “Progress for California” highlights a variety of ways that agency programs benefit the state. The Farm to School initiative is a great example — a vital approach to improve the health and well-being of California schoolchildren through food-based … Continue reading

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CDFA congratulates staff for completing coaching program — an important step in developing leadership skills

Ten CDFA staff members graduated last week from the agency’s Coaching for Personal and Professional Effectiveness Program, a course that provides improved communication skills for work and life and prepares employees to take on leadership positions. With 24 percent of … Continue reading

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Join Secretary Ross in celebrating Public Service Recognition Week 2025

You’re invited to watch a special message from California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross as she honors the dedication and impact of our public service employees. To our CDFA employees, our stakeholders, and the public—this message is … Continue reading

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Secretary Ross in the Central Valley — a new dairy processing plant; honoring a long-time colleague; and a vital discussion on immigration

By CDFA Secretary Karen Ross I was pleased to visit the Central Valley for two days last week and honored to be asked to attend a ribbon cutting for a new milk processing plant, appear at a farewell for a … Continue reading

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California Milk and Dairy Products: Safety You Can Rely On, Thanks to CDFA 

Milk and dairy products form a vital part of the daily diet for many Californians. Ensuring these products are safe and wholesome is a top priority, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture plays a central role in upholding … Continue reading

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Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month — Japanese Beetle infestations a major threat

April is Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month in the US, and CDFA is aligning by spotlighting its efforts to eradicate Japanese Beetle infestations in California.

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Despite Tariffs, California Continues Trade Engagement

CDFA hosted more than 20 buyers from the Middle East, Southeast Asia, South Korea and Taiwan last week to meet with California businesses and expand market opportunities for CA GROWN products. “With approximately 24 percent, on average, of California’s farm … Continue reading

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