Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

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CDFA congratulates staff for completing coaching program — an important step in developing leadership skills

Ten CDFA staff members graduated last week from the agency’s Coaching for Personal and Professional Effectiveness Program, a course that provides improved communication skills for work and life and prepares employees to take on leadership positions. With 24 percent of … Continue reading

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Join Secretary Ross in celebrating Public Service Recognition Week 2025

You’re invited to watch a special message from California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross as she honors the dedication and impact of our public service employees. To our CDFA employees, our stakeholders, and the public—this message is … Continue reading

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Secretary Ross in the Central Valley — a new dairy processing plant; honoring a long-time colleague; and a vital discussion on immigration

By CDFA Secretary Karen Ross I was pleased to visit the Central Valley for two days last week and honored to be asked to attend a ribbon cutting for a new milk processing plant, appear at a farewell for a … Continue reading

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California Milk and Dairy Products: Safety You Can Rely On, Thanks to CDFA 

Milk and dairy products form a vital part of the daily diet for many Californians. Ensuring these products are safe and wholesome is a top priority, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture plays a central role in upholding … Continue reading

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Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month — Japanese Beetle infestations a major threat

April is Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month in the US, and CDFA is aligning by spotlighting its efforts to eradicate Japanese Beetle infestations in California.

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Despite Tariffs, California Continues Trade Engagement

CDFA hosted more than 20 buyers from the Middle East, Southeast Asia, South Korea and Taiwan last week to meet with California businesses and expand market opportunities for CA GROWN products. “With approximately 24 percent, on average, of California’s farm … Continue reading

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Earth Week profile — Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability (OARS) launches newsletter and blog to strengthen program visibility and collaboration

By Dr. Tawny Mata, Director of Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability In March, the Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability (OARS) unveiled a new name and logo—marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the office. This update is … Continue reading

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Earth Week spotlight — CDFA Food Recovery webpage offers resources for reducing food waste

In recognition of Earth Week, CDFA is spotlighting its Food Recovery webpage, dedicated to reducing food waste. The USDA reports that 30-40 percent of the U.S. food supply turns to food waste. CalRecycle reports that Californians discards 5-6 million tons … Continue reading

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Earth Day Recap — Secretary Ross with Governor and First Partner yesterday at CSU Chico

On Earth Day yesterday, CDFA Secretary Karen Ross joined Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom at CSU Chico’s University Farm to celebrate the progress being made across California’s agricultural education system and its importance to sustainability and … Continue reading

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Earth Day — Secretary Ross joins Governor Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom for event in Chico

Earth Day 2025 came alive today at Chico State University, where CDFA Secretary Karen Ross joined Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, along with other state leaders, educators, and local champions, to spotlight the power of farm … Continue reading

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