By CDFA Secretary Karen Ross
Visiting last week with farmers, ag tech companies, and academic researchers in Denmark and the Netherlands demonstrated the shared priority of investing in science-based tools and agricultural technology to advance climate resiliency on working lands. From biological and nature-based solutions, to seed development and on-farm automation – agriculture can address climate challenges with increased sustainability, productivity, and innovation.
Partnerships were a common theme to advance research and innovation through data sharing. The commitment to meet targeted climate reductions and become carbon neutral by 2050 requires significant on-farm adaptation. In the ag tech sector a focus on precision farming that moves from the orchard-level to the tree-level is one example, as smart sprayers for sustainable pest management in addition to sensors and other technology to reduce spray volume and drift are more readily available now. Technologies and research are vital to achieve climate goals, and investments are needed through partnerships between industry, government and academia.
California’s farmers and ranchers have done great work in furthering climate smart agricultural practices on working lands. We have many opportunities ahead of us to leverage international partnerships and collaborations to invest in a carbon-neutral economy. The work we are doing in greenhouses, precision farming, fertilization, biologicals and agricultural technology will support further climate advances on our working lands. California can meet the climate challenge in demonstrating that one of the most productive agricultural economies can reduce climate emissions while maintaining sustainability and productivity. Our international partners share this commitment.
I would like thank the California delegation for participating in this trip and furthering collaborations with our international colleagues. Participants in the climate and trade mission included: Michelle Buffington, California Air Resources Board & CDFA’s Environmental Farming Act Science Advisory Panel; Helene Dillard, UC Davis; Maresse Keene, OpenGate; Josette Lewis, Almond Board of California; Mark Mason, Grower-Shipper Association of Central California; Dave Puglia, Western Growers; and Gabriel Youtsey, UC Agriculture and Natural Resources.
