Author Archives: Karen Ross, Secretary, California Department of Food and Agriculture

In response to the federal government’s recent decision to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum, China has ordered retaliatory tariffs on about $2 billion worth of U.S. food and agricultural exports, which could have a significant negative impact on California’s … Continue reading →

On Ag Day last week, the Center for Land Based Learning hosted a screening of a wonderful film, “Farmers for America,” created by Graham Meriwether and narrated by the excellent Mike Rowe. It’s a film I hope more organizations will … Continue reading →

Our annual Ag Day is today (March 20) at the State Capitol, and our theme this year, “Climate Smart – California Grown,” is far more than a slogan. It’s actually a key part of the road map for the future … Continue reading →

The final numbers for 2017 State Employees Food Drive are in and we are very pleased to note an increase in food donations compared to 2016! CDFA and its Office of Farm to Fork coordinated the food drive from late … Continue reading →

One person can make a difference and sometimes we don’t have the time to say goodbye. It is with great sadness we say goodbye to our dear colleague and friend from the Netherlands, Mr. Ton Akkerman who passed away suddenly … Continue reading →

Each time I drive through California’s Central Valley I am in awe of how much food it produces. The Valley is responsible for almost 10 percent of the country’s agriculture value and is home to many of California’s most productive dairies. … Continue reading →

The recent holiday season collapsed in flames for thousands of Ventura and Santa Barbara County residents in the path of the catastrophic Thomas Fire. It is considered the largest fire in California history, burning nearly 282,000 acres and destroying more … Continue reading →

Each year Governor Brown sponsors GEELA, the Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Awards, an event to recognize individuals and organizations for exceptional achievements in conservation and environmental stewardship. It is the state’s highest environmental honor. At the annual GEELA awards … Continue reading →

Governor Brown’s proposed budget of $488 million for the California Department of Food and Agriculture for 2018-2019 reflects his emphasis on steady growth while maintaining a sufficient rainy day fund. Some key CDFA proposals are as follows: Use of Antimicrobial … Continue reading →

By CDFA Secretary Karen Ross As Christmas approaches this year, I’ve been on the road quite a bit and I’ve spoken with a lot of farmers and their families. On the drive back from Monterey, and before that from Napa … Continue reading →