Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

Author Archives: Karen Ross, California Agriculture Secretary, and Linda

Lodi 10th annual ‘Zinfest’ a celebration of community

I recently was invited to Lodi to join that region’s Winegrape Commission in celebrating the 10th annual “Zinfest.” It’s a great example of food and wine events that create local economic activity and foster direct communication between consumers and farmers. Zinfest … Continue reading

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North Hollywood High School Ag Students Keep Tradition Alive and Will Make Future Bright

Many decades ago, now-urban Los Angeles County was agrarian. In fact, it was once the largest Ag county in California. In that more pastoral time, North Hollywood High School had a 100-acre farm. Since then, it has seen its footprint … Continue reading

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Congratulations to Food and Ag Board President Craig McNamara – Agriculturalist of the Year

I wish to offer my congratulations to my colleague and friend Craig McNamara for being named Agriculturalist of the Year by the California State Fair. Craig is a uniquely visionary leader – someone who is highly deserving of this prestigious … Continue reading

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World Ag Expo in Tulare – a unique opportunity to build local and global partnerships

  I am honored to represent the State of California and the California Department of Food and Agriculture at this year’s World Ag Expo, one of the premier events of its kind in the country. The Expo represents a unique … Continue reading

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Governor Brown’s proposed budget and CDFA

Governor Brown’s proposed budget for 2014-2015 reflects a fiscal outlook that, while positive, continues to exercise caution. There are prudent investments in infrastructure with a focus on schools, health care and public safety. The budget also pays down debt. For … Continue reading

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CDFA employees get into the spirit of giving

I don’t know about you, but my office is filled with holiday spirit this year! Ornaments abound, along with snowy gnomes, red and green stockings, even little reindeer made with chocolate bars and pipe cleaners – the stuff of celebration … Continue reading

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The holiday gift that gives back

With the holiday season now fully upon us, I’d like to take moment to suggest a gift you may not have considered – the California Agriculture License Plate. This is an excellent way to show support for California agriculture while … Continue reading

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Giving so much more than thanks

Thanksgiving is a uniquely American invention, and I think it must be one of our finest. The celebrations, the food, the parades and pronouncements give us an annual reminder of all that we are so thankful for – and also … Continue reading

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December is Farm to Food Bank Month – Pushing for 200 Million Pounds of Food Annually by 2015

It is believed that more than 49 million people are food insecure in our nation – one in every six Americans.  In California, almost 4 million people are food insecure, which means they could not afford enough food at least … Continue reading

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A Source of Inspiration: CDFA Observes National Disability Employment Awareness Month

As California’s Agriculture Secretary, I get a lot of inspiration from the determination, independence and accomplishments of our farmers and ranchers. I recently found inspiration in another group of people who are no less determined to be successful and independent: … Continue reading

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