Author Archives: Office of Public Affairs

The USDA’s Economic Research Service (ERS) has released production data summaries for 2024 in California, with a total value for the year of $61.2 billion, an increase of 3.6 percent from 2023. This is the first time that the state’s production value has exceeded $60 billion. California remains the leading agricultural state in the nation, leading the country in dairy …

If you’re a farmer, rancher or food manufacturer interested in expanding market and trade opportunities, there are several upcoming seminars that could help. CDFA and the Western U.S. Agricultural Trade Association (WUSATA) will discuss international programs and services that support domestic and international trade development.  The seminars will focus on funding opportunities and trade events, and they will provide one-on-one …

From a CA GROWN news release This September there’s more than one reason to raise a glass. September 1 kicked off California Wine Month, officially designated by the California State Legislature as a statewide recognition of one of the world’s most iconic winegrowing regions. And on September 9, the Golden State marks its 175th birthday. “California Wine Month is a celebration …

This week, CDFA Undersecretary Christine Birdsong joined a California delegation in Denmark to focus on building academic and business collaborations on the bioeconomy.  California and Denmark share a commitment to fostering a bio-based economy, using agriculture and other industry sectors to reduce carbon emissions to meet carbon neutrality goals. Joining representatives from University of California campuses, state government agencies, and other …

CDFA recognizes September as National Food Safety Education Month with a continuing commitment to food safety education across California. For example, the CDFA Produce Safety Program’s goals are to “educate before and while we regulate,” and to support California produce farmers in understanding how to comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule. Earlier this year, Produce …

This Labor Day, Secretary Karen Ross shares a message of gratitude for the hardworking people who keep California agriculture moving forward.

News Release from Governor Gavin Newsom What you need to know: As part of California Jobs First, the state is awarding $80 million through the Regional Investment Initiative to fund ready-to-go projects that will support more than 23,000 jobs and drive sustainable economic growth across the state. SACRAMENTO — Today, Governor Newsom and the California Jobs First Council announced $80 million in …

CDFA’s Information Technology department received three awards last night at the annual “Best of California” awards at the California Government Innovation Summit in Sacramento. The award series recognizes state and local government as well as educational organizations for innovative technology projects that improve public services and government operations in California. CDFA’s awards were in the following areas: Wi-Fi Improvements — …

Today, August 26, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) proudly recognizes California Farmworker Day—established in 2021 by Governor Gavin Newsom to honor California’s farmworkers. At the height of harvest, this day shines a spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of farmworkers, whose hard work sustains our families, communities, and economy. In a special message, CDFA Secretary Karen Ross shares …

Learn more about the California Farm to School Network