Planting Seeds - Food & Farming News from CDFA

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

Center for Land-Based Learning Celebrates 20th Anniversary

Earlier this week I had the honor and pleasure to help celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Center for Land-Based Learning, a non-profit organization in Winters started by California State Board of Food and Agriculture President Craig McNamara and his … Continue reading

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Food Day offers a chance to consider preparations for the future

This is Food Day, which is described by organizers as a nationwide celebration and movement for healthy, affordable, and sustainable food. That’s something we can all get behind, and I’d like to talk a little about how it helps position … Continue reading

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Statement on salmonella in poultry

We share the concerns over the recent reports of salmonella illness connected to poultry and wish to convey our empathy for the people who have contracted illness and their families. Food safety is a primary concern of California food producers … Continue reading

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California Rangeland Trust in forward-looking partnership with retailer

As we work together to embrace a future that will require a substantial increase in food production while using fewer natural resources, it is critical that we look for new ways to emphasize the importance of sustainability, which we define … Continue reading

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Vietnam Holds Great Prospects for California

In returning to California after three days in Vietnam, I’m greatly impressed by the potential the market has for California as well as the commitment of the Vietnamese government to farmers; trade; and climate change, mitigation and adaptation. During my … Continue reading

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California Agricultural Trade Delegation Travels to Asia

I am pleased to have the opportunity to return to Asia this week on a trade mission along with ten California companies looking to establish stronger relationships in the region. One of our first stops was the California-China Office of … Continue reading

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Mother Lode Fairgrounds Serve as Key Community Resource During Rim Fire

As the Rim Fire near Yosemite National Park has captured international attention, one of the many problems it has caused is the displacement of a number of Sierra Nevada residents. With emergency shelter options at a premium, the Mother Lode … Continue reading

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Protecting the Promise of California Agriculture – a report

View the report here. In turbulent economic times, assessing a government agency’s effectiveness can be a trying task. Our nation’s and indeed the world’s recent financial history did more than force government to cut budgets; it forced many great industries … Continue reading

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Back To School: MyPlate Helps Teach Our Kids to Make Healthy Choices

“Back to school” is an exciting time. Summer may be drawing to a close, but our kids miss their friends and they’re filled with nervous energy about all that awaits them. I remember – do you?  Of all the important … Continue reading

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State Fair Farm a valued partner in ag education, food bank support

I was pleased this week to make a return visit to the California State Fair, which is now 160 years old and still going strong as a vibrant destination and showplace for the best that California has to offer. From the very beginning, … Continue reading

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