Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

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Benefits of California Farm to School Program discussed at school nutrition conference

At the California State Nutrition Association (CSNA) Legislative Action Conference yesterday (April 7), CDFA Farm to School Program Manager Nick Anicich discussed how the initiative is benefitting students, farmers, and school meal supply chain partners across California. From frequent Farm … Continue reading

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If you are a Californian, this is for you: Unveiling CDFA’s Strategic Plan Update for 2025-2030

By CDFA Secretary Karen Ross Whenever I’m asked to describe or summarize California agriculture, especially for an audience that isn’t Californian, it’s an opportunity to start a conversation and learn what our more global audience thinks and knows about what … Continue reading

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California FFA State Leadership Conference: Secretary Karen Ross speaks to future agricultural leaders

On Thursday night April 3, CDFA Secretary Karen Ross addressed California FFA students at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, delivering an inspiring message about the power of teamwork, innovation, and the role of FFA in shaping the future of agriculture. More … Continue reading

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New CDFA report details “Progress for California’s Agricultural Community”

From the past winter’s fires in Southern California to our ongoing recovery from bird flu in California’s dairy and poultry farms, California agriculture has been put to the test. The headlines are captivating and the emergency response efforts are urgent … Continue reading

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CDFA celebrates Women’s History Month with inspiring panel of women leaders

CDFA proudly celebrated Women’s History Month with a dynamic panel discussion on Wednesday, March 26, moderated by Undersecretary Christine Birdsong. As part of the month-long celebration, CDFA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, along with the CDFA Office of Civil Rights, … Continue reading

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The Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability — introducing a new name for a groundbreaking sustainability program

By Dr. Tawny Mata, Director of CDFA’s Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability I am excited to announce that our office has a new name: The Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability (OARS).  Along with the name change, we have … Continue reading

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Ag Day 2025 Photo Gallery: “Ag At Work: Cultivating Careers & Communities”

California’s annual celebration of agriculture returned to the west steps of the State Capitol today, bringing together farmers, ranchers, agricultural enthusiasts and leaders around this year’s theme: “Ag At Work: Cultivating Careers & Communities.” California’s First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom addressed … Continue reading

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Sec. Ross joins Community Alliance with Family Farmers for announcement of 10 projects receiving CDFA Urban Agriculture Grant Program funding

CDFA Secretary Karen Ross spoke about the benefits of urban agriculture at an event hosted today by the Community Alliance with Family Farmers (CAFF) at the International Garden of Many Colors in Sacramento. “By continuing to invest in urban agriculture … Continue reading

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California sets the stage for National Agricultural Trade Day – March 19, 2025

International trade plays and important role for California’s agricultural industry.  Exports of the state’s agricultural bounty supports jobs both on and off the farm, including harvesting, farm labor, marketing, transportation, and port work. It is estimated that California’s agricultural exports from … Continue reading

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Ag Day at the State Capitol is coming up – March 19th

Mark your calendars for March 19, and join us in celebrating California ag! This year’s theme is “Ag At Work: Cultivating Careers and Communities.” Did you know there are over 300 unique careers in agriculture? From farmers and farmworkers to … Continue reading

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