Monthly Archives: November 2025

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 on the beauty of fall, the bounty of California agriculture, and the many hands, from farmers, ranchers, farmworkers, and supply-chain …

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 for a just and resilient transition at the center of global climate discussions. California’s participation came at a moment when …

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. Honoring 25+ Years of Service A key highlight of the meeting was the 25+ Year Service Recognition, honoring ITSD employees …

CDFA Secretary Karen Ross and Virginia Jameson, Deputy Secretary for Climate and Working Lands, are in Belém, Brazil this week for COP30, the United Nations’ annual climate summit. California is a global leader in climate-smart agriculture and remains a steadfast partner in confronting the climate crisis. Throughout the week, Secretary Ross will be highlighting California’s leadership and strengthening international cooperation …

Pictured: Secretary Karen Ross (third from left), along with California State Assemblymember Chris Rogers (fourth from left), Assemblymember Damon Connolly (fifth from right); Andy Berliner (founder and CEO of Amy’s Kitchen, center); also included, Amy’s Kitchen staff and California Energy Commission staff members. CDFA Karen Ross visited Amy’s Kitchen in Santa Rosa to see firsthand the results of a California …

At CDFA we take great pride when we discover practices and standards utilized here in California are sources of inspiration beyond our borders. Recently, India’s Ministry of Fisheries Animal Husbandry & Dairying Government released its draft “Guidelines/SOP for Blood Transfusion and Blood Bank for Animals in India,” citing CDFA’s guidance in its references. This recognition underscores the influence of the …

By Gabriel Dillard Fresno County is the No. 1 farm county in the nation, its farms selling a record $9.03 billion worth of production in 2024 — up nearly 6% from the previous year. When it comes to total economic impact, that dollar figure more than doubles. On Tuesday, Nov. 4, the Fresno County Board of Supervisors received Agricultural Commissioner Melissa …

CDFA joined a USDA trade mission to Mexico this week. Deputy Secretary Rachael O’Brien was able to connect with Mexican and U.S. government officials as well as meet with key trading partners in the bakery, retail, and produce sectors. The delegation visited Mexico City’s Central de Abasto (Latin America’s largest wholesale market) and toured Grupo Bimbo Bakery — a significant partner …

CDFA Deputy Secretary Rachel O’Brien is participating in the U.S. – Mexico Agribusiness Trade Mission occurring this week in Mexico City. The trade mission is highlighting trade opportunities and business connections with the United States’ largest bilateral trading partner. The USDA Delegation includes more than 150 participants representing businesses, industry associations and state departments of agriculture. Mexico is California fourth largest …