Author Archives: Office of Public Affairs

CDFA is on the front lines of a silent battle, one that impacts California’s horses and the equine industry every single day. While outbreaks like bird flu may get more headlines, the battle to safeguard California’s equine community against diseases is waged daily through thoughtful, consistent effort.  CDFA’s Animal Health Branch works to protect horses from these threats — diseases like …

CDFA proudly welcomed seven interns and fellows this summer for work in divisions throughout the agency. The group includes five Maddy Institute* interns, one California Council on Science and Technology (CCST) fellow, and one Stanford Environment and Policy Internships (EPIC) fellow. These individuals contributed meaningfully to CDFA, bringing fresh ideas, dedication and a shared commitment to California’s agricultural future. A …

As the country continues to recognize this week as National Farmers’ Market Week, CDFA celebrates its California Nutrition Incentive Program (CNIP), which helps low-income Californians access nutritious California-grown fresh produce at Certified Farmers’ Markets. CNIP provides increased funding support for shoppers using nutrition benefits for the purchase of fruits and vegetables at participating Certified Farmers’ Markets and retail outlets. For …

As the country is currently celebrating National Farmers’ Market Week, CDFA would like to remind Californians that when you visit a Certified Farmers’ Market, “Certified” means something significant. To be certified, a farmers’ market vendor must be registered under the provisions of Section 47020 of the California Food and Agricultural Code. This means that only the producer or lawful authorized …

CDFA Secretary Karen Ross has concluded her visit to Brazil and is looking forward to next steps in collaboration on trade and climate. During the closing portion of trip, the California delegation visited farms, packing houses, research facilities, and business incubators focusing on biological development within the agricultural sector. Brazil’s leadership on agricultural biologicals and integrated pest management was on …

CDFA joins the nation in celebrating National Farmers’ Market Week August 3-9 and encourages Californians to vote by September 30 for your favorite farmers’ market in American Farmland Trust’s 2025 America’s Farmers Market Celebration. Simply put, Certified Farmers’ Markets build healthy relationships with your local farmers and offer local food! Click on the video to see what makes California Certified …

CDFA Secretary Karen Ross is in São Paulo, Brazil this week, leading a delegation of business and agricultural organizations interested in strengthening ties with Brazil. The delegation also includes Department of Pesticide Regulation Director Karen Morrison and UC Agriculture and Natural Resources’ Vice-President Glenda Humiston. Brazil is a leading global producer and an exporter of a variety of top agricultural …

From stick bugs to helpful pollinators, the Insect Pavilion at the California State Fair is crawling with discovery! Presented by the California Department of Food and Agriculture in partnership with the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, along with the Bohart Museum of Entomology—this exhibit invites fairgoers to explore the incredible world of insects and their vital role in …

From a State Fair News Release The California State Fair proudly recognizes the legacy, resilience, and contributions of multi-generational farming and ranching families as part of the 2025 Agricultural Heritage Awards. This year’s honorees include families whose operations span over a century of dedication to California’s rich agricultural landscape, with two families celebrating an extraordinary 175 years of continuous farming. …

CDFA teamed up with the San Bernardino County Fire Department over a series of weekends leading up to July 4th to intercept illegal fireworks at the Mountain Pass Border Station (I-15). The effort resulted in approximately 13 tons (26,000 lbs) being confiscated, with 105 citations issued by firefighters. The team was on the lookout for items not classified as “safe …