Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

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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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Animal Care and Youth Education at California Fairs

California FFA student Brendy Puckett earns inaugural $10,000 scholarship from Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA) Livestock exhibitions are a hallmark of local and state fairs, and teaching our student exhibitors how to care for their animals in … Continue reading

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Nutrition Incentive Grants help CalFresh recipients purchase more California-grown fruits and vegetables

CDFA’s Office of Farm to Fork is pleased to announce that 12 projects across the state and the people they serve are now benefiting from more than $30 million in California Nutrition Incentive Program (CNIP) Grant funding. The projects will … Continue reading

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CDFA’s Progress for Californians — the vast reach of Farm to School

CDFA’s report “Progress for California” highlights a variety of ways that agency programs benefit the state. The Farm to School initiative is a great example — a vital approach to improve the health and well-being of California schoolchildren through food-based … Continue reading

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