Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

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Fairs serving as emergency shelters for fire evacuees and animals

Fairgrounds in Solano, Napa, Nevada, Monterey, Los Angeles and Plumas counties have been activated to provide emergency shelter to people and animals in the path of series of fires in California. Horses, goats, chickens, sheep and donkeys are among the … Continue reading

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Guidelines for reducing energy consumption from CAISO

The California Independent System Operator (CAISO), which oversees the operation of California’s bulk electric power system, transmission lines, and electricity market, offers the following guidelines for reducing energy consumption during the current heat wave: Set your thermostat to 78° or … Continue reading

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Governor Newsom signs heat emergency proclamation to free-up energy capacity

As the West Coast continues to experience an historic heat wave and related energy shortages, Governor Gavin Newsom signed an emergency proclamation designed to free up energy capacity and reduce the need for temporary energy service disruptions. The proclamation temporarily allows … Continue reading

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Heat wave safety reminders

Infographic courtesy of the California Department of Health Services

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Secretary Ross joins state COVID-19 strike team in Tulare County – from ABC/30 TV

By Brian Johnson Overwhelmed hospitals. Large outbreaks at food processing plants and skilled nursing facilities. And sobering statistics that mean ongoing restrictions on everything from local businesses to schools. Tulare County is waging a war against the coronavirus, and the … Continue reading

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CDFA report describes possible climate impacts on farming – from Ag Alert

By Kevin Hecteman As the 21st century continues, Southern California will likely feel the effects of climate change, and farmers and ranchers will want to be ready to adapt: That’s the main conclusion of a report released by the California … Continue reading

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USDA NRCS to make up-to $360 million available for conservation projects

From a USDA news release USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) invited potential conservation partners to submit project applications for federal funding through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). NRCS will award up to $360 million dollars to locally driven, … Continue reading

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USDA adds more eligible commodities for Coronavirus Food Assistance Program

From a USDA news release U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today that additional commodities are covered by the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) in response to public comments and data. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is … Continue reading

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American cattle get bad rap in climate change discussion – opinion piece in the San Francisco Chronicle

By Dr. Frank Mitloehner, UC Davis professor Americans won’t halt global warming until they stop eating beef — at least, that’s what many people have been taught. Some have even reluctantly given up their steaks and cheeseburgers in a well-intentioned … Continue reading

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Environmental benefits of modified subsurface drip irrigation systems at dairies

California is the top milk-producing state, accounting for 21 percent of the milk produced in the United States. With that comes responsibility to find innovative solutions for managing cow manure while ensuring food and water safety and security – and … Continue reading

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