Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

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California State Fair Honors Generations of Agricultural Legacy with 2025 Ag Heritage Awards

From a State Fair News Release The California State Fair proudly recognizes the legacy, resilience, and contributions of multi-generational farming and ranching families as part of the 2025 Agricultural Heritage Awards. This year’s honorees include families whose operations span over … Continue reading

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Lowering the boom on illegal fireworks — CDFA teamed up with San Bernardino County Fire to confiscate 13 tons prior to July 4th

CDFA teamed up with the San Bernardino County Fire Department over a series of weekends leading up to July 4th to intercept illegal fireworks at the Mountain Pass Border Station (I-15). The effort resulted in approximately 13 tons (26,000 lbs) … Continue reading

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$600 million for CDFA in new budget year

The state budget signed by Governor Newsom for 2025-2026 includes $600 million for CDFA programs, between baseline funding for core programs and new funding for the following projects: Animal and Human Health Emergency Infrastructure: The budget includes $6.1 million and 29 positions to allow CDFA to … Continue reading

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A Pride Month Conversation with Cody Nicholson Stratton, of Foggy Bottoms Boys Farms

On June 19, 2025, Cody Nicholson Stratton (pictured left), farmer/operator of Foggy Bottoms Boys Farm, joined virtually on Zoom for Pride Month Lunch and Learn; pictured right, Cody, his husband Thomas, and their six-year-old son. In celebration of Pride Month, … Continue reading

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Experience California Agriculture — Secretary Ross applauds new agritourism website from California Grown

From a California Grown News Release CA GROWN has unveiled a new digital destination—Experience California Agriculture—to spotlight the state’s diverse and dynamic agritourism offerings. From u-pick orchards and vineyard tours to farm stays and farm-to-table restaurants, the website serves as … Continue reading

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CDFA Celebrates Pride Month with Panel of LGBTQ+ Voices

Pictured, top (L-R) Jeff Cesca, Director of Marketing Services (Retired); Tad Naquin, Agricultural Biological Technician, Center for Analytical Chemistry; Gina Saldana, Personnel Supervisor, Human Resources Branch; Undersecretary Christine Birdsong; Siobhan Reid, Service Desk Analyst, Information Technology Services; Edward Southwick, Environmental … Continue reading

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CDFA marches with Pride in Sacramento

On Sunday, June 15, 2025, CDFA employees proudly participated in the annual Sacramento Pride March. The event, which brought together thousands of participants and supporters, celebrated LGBTQ+ pride, resilience, and community. CDFA was honored to walk in solidarity, showing its … Continue reading

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Progress for Californians: keeping invasive species at bay

CDFA’s report “Progress for California” highlights a variety of ways that agency programs benefit the state. A prime example is our work to prevent invasive fruit flies from becoming established and threatening our food supply. Each year brings new infestations … Continue reading

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The compost connection: from your yard to California’s farms

Today, May 29, is National Learn About Composting Day! Ever wonder what happens to the banana peels and yard clippings you toss in the green bin? In this video, Dana Yount, an environmental scientist at the California Department of Food … Continue reading

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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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