Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

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CDFA staff members volunteer at food bank, encourage others to do the same

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Growing Equity: How Fresno BIPOC Produce Hub Supports Small Farmers

Family farms form the backbone of California agriculture. While more than 90% of the state’s farms are considered family-owned, only around 9% of California farms are BIPOC-owned. Keng Vang established the Fresno BIPOC Produce Hub to help these underrepresented growers … Continue reading

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CDFA announces leadership changes in Division of Animal Health and Food Safety Services — Dr. Stephen Beam and Dr. Amanda Murray named to top posts

CDFA is proud to announce the appointment and promotion of two longstanding leaders in our Animal Health and Food Safety Services Division (AHFSS): Dr. Amanda “Mandy” Murray will begin the new year as California’s Acting State Veterinarian, and Dr. Stephen … Continue reading

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Imperial County Farm to School Gathering Showcases Locally Grown Produce in School Meals

A recent Farm to School regional workshop in Imperial County was a well-attended opportunity for school nutrition professionals to see how local produce could be utilized in creative and fun ways for healthy school meals. “We’re showing how you can … Continue reading

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National Poinsettia Day — California leads nation in production

Today is National Poinsettia Day! As shown in the accompanying graphic, California leads the nation in poinsettia production. There’s a grower in the Central Valley that supplies tens of thousands of poinsettias each year. CDFA visited Duarte Nursery in Hughson, … Continue reading

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Innovative Training for California Dairy Workers Honored by UN Food and Agriculture Organization 

A joint initiative between California and Ohio focusing on sustainable livestock health and responsible antibiotic use has earned international recognition from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).  Developed in partnership with UC Davis and Ohio State … Continue reading

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A Thanksgiving Message from CDFA Secretary Karen Ross

As we gather with friends, family, and neighbors this Thanksgiving, California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross shares a heartfelt message of gratitude for everyone who helps bring food to our tables. In this video, Secretary Ross reflects … Continue reading

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California at COP30: Why Showing Up Matters for the Future of Agriculture

COP30, the 30th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, brought together global leaders, scientists, advocates, and innovators to accelerate climate action. This year’s COP placed the Amazon, multilateral cooperation, and the urgent need … Continue reading

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USDA Announces Disaster Assistance Funding, Expands Support for Specialty Crop Growers 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the opening of Stage 2 of the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP), beginning November 24, 2025, expanding federal assistance to producers who suffered crop, tree, bush, or vine losses during the 2023–24 … Continue reading

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CDFA Honors Decades of Service at All-Staff IT Meeting

The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Information Technology Services Division (ITSD) gathered this morning at CDFA’s headquarters for an in-person all-staff meeting. The morning was filled with appreciation, updates, and well-deserved recognition for some of CDFA’s longest-serving IT professionals. … Continue reading

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