Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

Category Archives: Uncategorized


Trade mission to Mexico concludes — important opportunities to connect on trade issues as well as New World Screwworm

CDFA joined a USDA trade mission to Mexico this week. Deputy Secretary Rachael O’Brien was able to connect with Mexican and U.S. government officials as well as meet with key trading partners in the bakery, retail, and produce sectors. The delegation … Continue reading

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CDFA joins USDA trade mission to Mexico

CDFA Deputy Secretary Rachel O’Brien is participating in the U.S. – Mexico Agribusiness Trade Mission occurring this week in Mexico City. The trade mission is highlighting trade opportunities and business connections with the United States’ largest bilateral trading partner. The USDA … Continue reading

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CDFA kicks off California State Employees Food Drive – Early!

Every year, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) leads the State Employees Food Drive, raising food, funds and awareness regarding hunger issues in our state. California produces nearly half of the nation’s fruits and vegetables, yet more than … Continue reading

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Agritourism – How Pumpkins are Grown in California

This October, we’re celebrating California’s fall harvest season, along with California Farmer and Farmworker Month – by exploring the people, places, and flavors that make our state’s agriculture special. In partnership with CA GROWN’s new digital hub — Experience California Agriculture — we’re highlighting … Continue reading

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Farm to School Month Grantee Spotlight: Yucaipa-Calimesa Joint Unified School District

As CDFA continues the celebration of October as National Farm to School Month, we’re highlighting two-time California Farm to School Incubator Grant Program grantee Yucaipa-Calimesa Joint Union School District (YCJUSD), in San Bernardino County. YCJUSD started purchasing oranges and kiwi … Continue reading

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Agritourism – The Best Places to Go Apple Picking This Fall

This October, we’re celebrating California’s fall harvest season, along with California Farmer and Farmworker Month – by exploring the people, places, and flavors that make our state’s agriculture special. In partnership with CA GROWN’s new digital hub — Experience California Agriculture — we’re highlighting … Continue reading

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CDFA’s Leslie Fernandez Wins ‘Women Making a Difference’ award

CDFA congratulates State Organic Program Special Investigator Leslie Fernandez for recently being recognized with a Women Making a Difference Award from Orange County. This award is given to women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, impact and commitment in their fields, … Continue reading

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Secretary Ross joins UC ANR to introduce California AgTech Alliance; funded by California Jobs First

CDFA Secretary Karen Ross today joined University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) and other partners to introduce the California AgTech Alliance, a statewide initiative intended to transform how agricultural technology moves from lab to field as well … Continue reading

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The Climate Resilience Strategy for California Agriculture is out for public review

Now Extended!Review Period: October 7, 2025 – November 21, 2025 CDFA encourages stakeholders, including farmers, ranchers, technical assistance providers, and the public, to review the draft guidelines and submit feedback during the open comment period. The California Department of Food and Agriculture … Continue reading

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Agritourism – California’s Pumpkin Patches: Hunter Farms

This October, we’re celebrating California’s fall harvest season, along with California Farmer and Farmworker Month – by exploring the people, places, and flavors that make our state’s agriculture special. In partnership with CA GROWN’s new digital hub — Experience California Agriculture — we’re highlighting … Continue reading

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