MADERA COUNTY FARM BUREAU AGRICULTURE TODAY November 2011 Vol. 2, No. 1 Business Member Profi le: Member Baker, Peterson, & Franklin, CPA Survey What’s your view? Don’t forget to mail in your survey. (L to R): Janell Attebery, Kiersten Alvarado, Dennis Veeh, Toni Porter, and Karen Morais Page 6 Page 7
CALENDAR Madera County Farm Bureau to November 8 MCFB Board of Directors Meet- Host Singaporean Trade Summit ing, 12:00 p.m., MCFB Ben Hayes Hall, 1102 South Pine Street, Madera County Farm Bureau will play many sea and air trade routes. The Port of The Port of Singapore is not a mere Madera (559) 674-8871, info @ host to a group of Singaporean trade Singapore is currently the world’s busiest economic boon, but an economic necessity www.maderafb.com offi cials on Tuesday, November 15th at port in terms of total shipping tonnage, because Singapore is lacking in land and December 11:30am. All Farm Bureau members, it also tranships a fi fth of the world’s natural resources. Since Singapore’s full affi liates and interested members of the shipping containers as the world’s busiest independence from Britain in 1965, it 3 Madera Sunrise Rotary’s 26th public are invited to participate. Any container port, half of the world’s annual has had to compete with other ports in Annual Trees for Charity Dinner & agricultural operations seeking to extend supply of crude oil, and is the world’s the region to attract shipping and trade at Dance. For tickets call 706-4726 their commodity or product into a wider busiest transshipment port. Thousands of its port. It has done so by developing an or any Sunrise Kiwanis Rotary or international market are encouraged to ships drop anchor in the harbor, connecting export-oriented economy based on value- Member. attend. the port to over 600 other ports in 123 added manufacturing. It obtains raw or 3-7 California Farm Bureau Federa- The trade summit, although largely countries and spread over six continents. partially-manufactured products from tion Annual Meeting, Sparks, NV focused on the potential export of Madera Singapore is an aviation hub for the regional and global markets and exports 13 MCFB Board of Directors Christ- County agricultural commodities to Southeast Asian region and a stopover on mas Party, 6:00 p.m., The Vine- Singapore, will additionally discuss the Kangaroo route between Sydney and value-added products back to these markets yard Restaurant & Bar, 605 South market handling practices at the Port of London. There are 8 total airports in the through market access agreements such as I Street, Madera, CA Singapore for all types of perishable and country, and Singapore Changi Airport World Trade Organization directives and non-perishable products, supply chain hosts a network of 80 airlines connecting free trade agreements. management for agricultural products, Singapore to 200 cities in 68 countries. It Please RSVP, as lunch will be provided, and sanitary and phytosanitary standards has been rated one of the best international to the Madera County Farm Bureau, (559) between the U.S. and Singapore. airports by international travel magazines, 674-8871. If there are any questions, Singapore is a major international including being rated as the world’s best please don’t hesitate to contact the MCFB transportation hub in Asia, positioned on airport for the fi rst time in 2006. offi ce. Mark Your Calendars Madera County Farm Bureau will be hosting a Singaporean Trade Summit with Offi cials from Singapore’s Agricultural Cabinet which will be focusing on two main topics:
1. How Madera County agricultural products and producers will benefi t from a direct trade relationship with Singapore; supply chain management for perishable and non-perishable items. 2. Facilitation of a direct export market between Madera County farms and Singapore.
Date: Tuesday, November 15, 2011 Time: 11:30 a.m. Meet & Greet (lunch will be provided) Location: Madera County Farm Burea, 1102 South Pine Street, Madera, CA
Please call Madera County Farm Bureau (559) 674-8871 to RSVP by Thursday, November 10, 2011. 2 | November 2011 Madera County Farm Bureau President’s Message Hello. November Americans question the practices of with nature; concerns and shape our message to meet is already here. Hard farming; when asked about farming they We say most farms are family-run their fears and to let them know what to believe the year is use words like mass production, pesticides, and the consumer says yes but you are great job we are doing to improve the almost over. Most big business, subsidies, chemicals, factory beholden to big processors; quality of our food supply and improve our harvest is finished. If farming and animal cruelty. We try to We say we keep food affordable and environment. Always be on the lookout for you are finished it is a attach the wholesomeness of the farmer the consumer hears but at what expense to an opportunity to tell our story. great feeling. If not, I directly to the food but consumers separate quality; The following is from Mikey’s Funny: wish you all speed in the products from the producer. One We say we have the safest food supply Health message – finishing. A cold storm of our favorite messages is agriculture in the world and the consumer hears If walking/cycling is good for your Tom Rogers is coming in this week. delivers a safe, affordable, abundant food pesticides, antibiotics and hormones that health, the postman would be immortal; President Right now showers are all supply. The message is outdated and does may not be safe in the long run. they are talking about but no resonate with the consumer because in These responses are from test panels of A whale swims all day, eats only fish, temperatures will drop also. It is time to their memory they have always had a safe, groups that were given these messages and and is fat; start the after-harvest work. affordable, abundant food supply. While asked to give their feelings. On the positive A rabbit runs and hops and only lives 15 The following is from an article the message is correct, it doesn’t mean side of this when we talk about our efforts years; by Richard Cornett, Director of anything positive to the consumer. The to improve our practices and to reduce A tortoise doesn’t run and doesn’t do Communications for the Western Plant following are some of things that we say environmental impact, consumers hear anything yet lives for 450 years; Health Association. and what the consumer actually hears: these messages and view them positively.” And you tell me to exercise? I don’t “There is a trust in farmers but We say our methods are proven safe and We must continue to engage the public think so. It’s the tortoise life for me. consumers have questions about farming. the consumer hears your methods tamper about agriculture. We must listen to their -Tom New MCFB Donors MCFB would like to thank all of our members who help support our work through their voluntary contributions for the months of September & October. George Andrew Mark Hutson Royal Madera Vineyards Houlding Brothers Karen Andrew Robert U. Loquaci Tesei Petroleum Lorraine Bennett Dennis Meisner Lazy K Ranch J & V Farms Robert L. Bitter Marion Overgaard Ray Seibert Nello Bomprezzi Luanne Silkwood Robert Stretch Ray W. Pool Jeff D. Coulthard Carson W. Smith Stuart E. Baltz Glen S. Goto Will Gill And Sons Greenleaf Orchards Ltd. Mitchell S. Ostwald
Farm Bureau Madera County Farm Bureau News New MCFB Membership Benefits 2010 - 2011 Executive Committee Madera County Farm Bureau President: Tom Rogers Agrigulture Today Insurance First Vice President: Tom Coleman 1102 South Pine Street Allied Insurance, Health Net, Members Nationwide Agribusiness, Second Vice President: Al Sheeter Madera, CA 93637 State Compensation Insurance Fund, Secretary/Treasurer: Michele Lasgoity (559) 674-8871; www.maderafb.com Appointed by President: Michael Naito MCFB welcomes the following VPI Pet Insurance Appointed by President: Dennis Meisner Jr. Advertising/Publishing new Agricultural (producer), Immediate Past President: Jim Erickson Mid-Valley Publishing Associate (consumer) and News and Entertainment 1130 D Street, Reedley, CA 93654 AgAlert, California Country Mag & T.V. Directors at Large Business Support members who Mathew Andrew Erick Kuckenbecker Advertising Sales Cheri Williams Vehicles Robert Cadenazzi Jay Mahil (559) 638-2244 joined in September & October: Dodge Trucks, Vans and SUV’s, Vehicle Rentals, H. Clay Daulton Neil McDougald Avis, Budget, Budget Trucks, Hertz Jeff McKinney Editor Normalee G. Castillo Stephen Elgorriaga Dino Petrucci NAME CITY P/C/B (USPS 324-600) Do-It-Yourself Loren Freeman Robert Sahatjian Periodicals Grainger, Kelly-Moore Paints, Carl Johnson Chris Wylie Dunn Edwards Paints Postage Paid Madera, CA 93637 Lester Brincefield North Fork C California Farm Bureau - District 9 Director And Additional Mailing Offices Sandy Creighton Madera C Travel Cathie A. Pierce Subscription Rates: Mitchell Ostwald Sacramento P Choice Hotels, Wyndham Hotels California Farm Bureau Committee 50 Cents a year for members Anja Raudabaugh Clovis P Policy Recommendation – H. Clay Daulton Annual dues: $72/$200 per year Business Services Single copies: 10 cents Jill Secrest Danville C Anderson Marketing, Air & Environmental Issues – H. Clay Daulton Farm Bureau Bank, California Farm Bureau Commodity Representatives POSTMASTER Farm Employers Laborers Service, Bee – Ryan Cosyns Send address changes to: Land’s End Business Outfitters Beef – H. Clay Daulton Madera County Farm Bureau TO BECOME A Grape – Jay Mahil 1102 South Pine Street, Madera, CA 93637 Health Services Clear Value Hearing, Specialty Crops – Tom Rogers The Madera County Farm Bureau MEMBER CALL Farm Bureau Prescription discount program, Office Staff does not assume responsibility for LensCrafters, Preferred Alliance Executive Director: Anja K. Raudabaugh statements by advertisers or for products Contact the MCFB Office at (559) 674-8871 Executive Assistant: Normalee G. Castillo advertised in Madera County Farm Bureau. 674-8871 or www.maderafb.com for details. Madera County Farm Bureau November 2011 | 3 Executive Address Senator Dick Monteith and Congressman how this process currently dominates the MCFB will be expanding its list of services Doug Ose, I was fortunate to work on industry’s ability to prosper and survive exponentially to include grant application California’s agricultural issues; ranging in everyday operations. My ability to services, permit processing and assistance from extensive public outreach forums and navigate discharge permits, habitat permits services, and other regulatory assistance campaigns, to the detailed underpinnings and mitigation, and flood control permits that will be necessary to ensure a robust and of all statutory regulations related to the –along with speaking fluent CEQA and viable agriculture sector in Madera County. industry. My unique combination of NEPA parlance, will aid me in being an We will also be focusing some renewed having an agricultural background and a asset to MCFB. My hope is that the energy into specialty reports in the paper–so BioChemistry degree qualified me to be MCFB will benefit from my extensive please look for some exciting new changes on the leading end of a highly publicized water rights knowledge and ability to to your monthly paper. “sound science” campaign for political leverage statutory legal understanding I am delighted to accept this task to hot-button issues associated with Methyl compared to agency over bearing and broad enrich my immersion with California Bromide regulations, BSE and Mad- assumption. agriculture. Please stop by, say hi and Cow Disease, Glassy-Winged Sharp In addition to continuing to provide an give me your feedback –all comments are Shooter Awareness and Response, border outstanding list of services for our members, welcome! regulations associated with diseases, carbon and Ozone emission regulations with the CARB and EPA, and Wild and Scenic Riverine criteria for the State of Anja Raudabaugh California and its agricultural stakeholders. “Designed Around Your Executive Director I was fortunate enough to serve under Fmr. Congressman Ose, who was then After a warm welcome –I am thrilled Vice–Chairman of the U.S. House of Vineyard Tractor Needs…” to hit the ground running with the Madera Representatives Committee on Agriculture County Farm Bureau! With great fortune (2000-2006) in Washington D.C., giving and the best of directed intentions, I have me access to an unprecedented new range the distinguished honor to continue to of agricultural policy issues nationwide, focus my energies on California’s Central and an unwavering capacity to advocate for Valley agri-business sector. California’s Central Valley on a national My family has been the proud owners podium. Having played a critical part in of an 8,000 acre cow-calf operation in the developing the policy authorizations Merced County for over 150 years. Fully of the 2002 Farm Bill and its regulation diversified for the last 100 years, we grow development, along with a multitude of a variety of forage crops for the operation other key legislative issues such as COOL, –including, oat hay, alfalfa, wheat, barley and USAID, my capacity for understanding and rye. Specialty crops are also on the how agricultural is impacted, regarded, menu as my family maintains property in and assisted through careful workshop various berry production and rootstock planning, listening sessions, committee operations. Throughout the years I am hearings, and many un-publicized horse- proud to say I’ve assisted with various trades on the national and local level is battles facing agricultural operations in the unique. Valley on behalf of my family’s and the My private sector experience working industry’s interests. Ranging from heated for engineering, design, and planning imminent domain battles, to equally fiery firms proved to round my learning water wars; my family’s ranch has served experience in the agricultural, engineering, as my personal barometer for all things and regulatory sides of the agricultural John Deere‛s Vineyard Special 6115D relevant in my employment passions. industry. My fluidity in permitting, both During my political tenure with Fmrs. state and Federal, allow me to understand All New “Wet Clutch” option Up to 140 Powerful Horsepower Tier III Compliant Engines for the long haul Shredding New Triple Valve Option with detent and flow control - allows you to run cane cutters at idle By For a limited time - 0% Financing available Bursey Almonds • Walnuts • Pistachios • Citrus Midland Tractor 1901 W Cleveland Ave (559) 352-0926 Madera, California Madera, CA 4 | November 2011 Madera County Farm Bureau High Speed Rail Update The California High Speed Rail Authority (Authority) California since CEQA became a law in 1970. The by 2033. The extension of HSR into the major population has released a long awaited updated business plan detailing signifi cance of this milestone cannot be stated enough centers of California looms as a major challenge in future costs of building the High Speed Rail (HSR) and –especially since the segment in consideration was only itself because the additional construction—estimated at estimated revenue generated by more accurate ridership from Merced to Fresno (versus the entire state). approximately $20 billion dollars—is currently unfunded numbers. The Authority now estimates construction The Madera County Farm Bureau (MCFB) submitted according to the report. The new business plan implies could cost $98.5 billion in infl ation-adjusted dollars, a detailed letter during the public comment period that funding would most likely appear from the federal more than twice the previous estimate of $43 billion. The questioning the DEIS/EIR in a number of specifi c areas in government. Support at the Federal level however, appears new business plan comes at the heels of a controversial an effort to protect Madera County’s agricultural industry. Draft EIR/EIS comment period, which closed on October MCFB’s letter, along with public comment letters of scant outside the Obama Whitehouse and then only 13, 2011, for the Merced to Fresno Section of the multiple Central Valley organizations and the California from certain Members of the California Congressional project. Criticism surrounding the DEIR/EIS included Farm Bureau Federation, are available for review online Delegation. The costs and benefi ts of a major capital the Authority’s lack of a sound business plan –one which at www.maderafb.com, MCFB’s comprehensive website. improvement project for the State of California, equal outlined the actual revenue generation as compared to the Eventually, the Authority will make all public comments to nearly a quarter of the Nation’s overall capital costs of building a capitol project. The November 1, 2011, available for review to the general public. improvement budget, may offer little appeal to Members of release of the updated business plan precluded the public The Authority plans to begin construction in 2012, Congress outside the state of California. from providing accurate comments on this document starting with a 130-mile section roughly between Madera According to this latest information, only the extension during the critical DEIR/EIS phase County and Kern County that is fi nanced with 5.2 billion of the HSR into San Jose or Los Angeles would create The DEIR/EIS comment period for the Merced to dollars of state and federal funds. How far north through an operational high-speed system, generating enough Fresno Segment of the Project generated an estimated Madera County and possibly into Merced County this 8,250 comment letters from the public, local government initial construction phase will go will depend on route ridership and fare revenue to pay operational costs. At agencies, private enterprises, and concerned stakeholders. preferences and corresponding costs in Madera County, that point, that Authority believes private or foreign Even as comments are still being tallied and considered, a decision that could be made within the next sixty days. government investors will be enticed to fi nance route this fi gure marks the highest number of comments The project would further extend service either southward extension to San Francisco on the north and Anaheim on provided on any single CEQA project in the State of to the outskirts of Los Angeles or northward to San Jose the south, and eventually to Sacramento and San Diego. Pilot pistachio crop insurance program approved USDA Risk Management Agency Insurance Corporation (FCIC) Board of Directors on Sept. cases where the unit is expected to be either on or off for 22, 2011. RMA operates and manages the FCIC. the following year. Any losses incurred will be indemnifi ed Oct. 25, 2011 The pilot Pistachio Crop Insurance Program is a two- on a year-to-year basis. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Risk year production-based policy featuring a new approach for Since pistachio production often displays large year- Management Agency announced Oct. 24 a new pilot addressing alternate bearing commodities like pistachios to-year yield swings, T-Yields are not available so the program of insurance for pistachios beginning with the 2012 crop year. where production can vary signifi cantly with years of low policyholder must provide at least four years of production The Pistachio Crop Insurance Program will make crop production, or “off” years, typically followed by years of records from the acreage. insurance available to growers in 21 counties in California, high production, or “on” years. Pistachio orchards will be insurable after 90 percent of two counties in Arizona, and one in New Mexico. The Producers will elect a coverage level and price election the trees have reached at least the tenth growing season specifi c counties and other program details will be released percentage which remains in effect for the two-year life of after set out. The alternate bearing adjustment does not in the near future. the policy. Since production is reported annually, however, apply until the 12th growing season. The program was approved by the Federal Crop the approved yield is recalculated, adjusting to account for The sales closing date will be Dec. 31, 2011. J&L Capital Resources RIPPERDAN AUTO & AG "Equipment Financing & Leasing Programs" All types of business – New & used equipment – Titled & non-titled “Got Parts?” “Set up credit lines now for end of year equipment purchases !” TOOLS FILTERS Box 368 • 1318 Draper Street, Kingsburg, CA 93631 TRACTOR PARTS CEMENT Toll: 700/818-2883 Ph: 559/897-6960 • Fax: 559/897-6970 HYD OIL & HOSES PVC PIPE
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Mark your calenders! The Madera Sunrise Rotary’s 26th Annual Trees for Charity Auction & Dinner Dance Saturday, December 3rd, 2011 Please join us in celebrating the holiday season and the spirit of giving Hatfield Hall: No host Cocktails - 5:30 p.m. Madera Fairgrounds: Dinner - 6:30 p.m. Featuring: Auctioning of donated Christmas trees from local non-profit organizations and charities. Silent auctioning of donated Christmas wreaths and special holiday gifts. Dancing to the music of The Yard Dogs. Tickets $50 per person Tables for 10 For Tickets call 706-4726 or any Sunrise Rotary Member Madera County Farm Bureau presents… Sunny Portugal featuring Estoril Coast & Algarve * November 2-11, 2012 Complete With Optional 5-day Madeira Island Lisbon * Jeronimo’s Monastery * Sintra * extension (all information on detailed flyer) Obidos * Fatima * Folkloric Fado Dinner 10 Days * 19 Meals: 6 Dinners, 1 Show * Evora * Algarve * Cape of St. Lunch, 12 Breakfasts * Portuguese Wine Vincente * Sagres * Lagos * Azeitao * Insurance Solutions with every dinner Fresno Airfare * Air Taxes & Fees of $150 Cost: $3,049 per person, double (subject to increase until paid in full) * occupancy ** Book by May 2, 2012 and Hotel Transfers * Hometown Transfer from save $100 per person Madera with 10 or more passengers **Not included $220 per person for Explore the gorgeous Portuguese • Home • Farm • Business Cancellation Waiver and Insurance Riviera. Tour Lisbon, Portugal’s capital Agricultural highlights include set on seven hills overlooking the Tagus discovering ancient castles, Roman River. See Jeronimo’s Monastery, Belem • Auto • Health • Life ruins, groves of lemon and almond trees, Tower and the towns of Sintra and Evora, rolling hills of vineyards. One entire day all of which are UNESCO World Heritage is yours to experience the Algarve where Sites. See the beautiful Monument to the geraniums, camellias and oleanders grow Discoveries, which honors Portuguese alongside fig, orange and almond trees. At explorers. Visit Fatima, the world-famous a local cork factory and museum you can Marian pilgrimage site. Savor excellent Foster & Parker create your own cork souvenir. You will Portuguese cuisine and wine while local watch a presentation by a local liqueur artists perform folkloric dances and songs INSURANCE maker followed by tasting of some of including the traditional Fado music. Visit the varieties. You will be delighted with beautiful Cape of St. Vincente, where 200- a Portuguese cooking demonstration foot cliffs plunge into the Atlantic. Join us followed by a delicious dinner featuring for the trip of a lifetime! local delicacies and wines. Stop to visit Our partner, Collette Vacations’ Steve Barsotti a family-run shop that demonstrates California Sellers of Travel registration how azulejos, the famous hand-made number is 2006766-20. 674-8536 Portuguese tiles, are made. Then, enjoy a For more information, please contact: tour and tasting of local wines when you Madera County Farm Bureau 1643 N. Schnoor Ave • Madera visit a centuries-old winery. Norma Castillo www.fosterparker.com CA Lic. #0551757 Tour highlights include: Cascais * Phone: (559) 674-8871 6 | November 2011 Madera County Farm Bureau Business Member Profi le BAKER, PETERSON & FRANKLIN, CPA, LLP Founded in 1917, Baker, Peterson Ag Business Award. The 2011 recipient & Franklin, CPA, LLP is a full-service of our award is Allied Grape Growers, accounting and consulting fi rm in Fresno who will be honored at an Ag Awards California with a 50-person staff. Baker, luncheon event on November 16 at Peterson & Franklin is a progressive fi rm that has grown from its inception to Tornino’s in Fresno. BP&F is actively being one of the largest locally-owned involved in numerous ag organizations accounting fi rms in the Central Valley. We including Ag One Foundation, Ag believe our growth and success is a direct Lenders Society, California Women result of providing clients with effective, in Agriculture, Fresno County Farm effi cient, and responsive service. The size Bureau, Madera County Farm Bureau, of our fi rm allows us to provide a variety of services and maintain specialties within as well as FFA and 4-H Clubs. Our our fi eld. The specializations of the fi rm Ag Department writes and produces are agriculture, closely-held and family AgriViews, a fi nancial ag newsletter, business, manufacturing, auto dealerships, several times a year. In addition to tax and estate planning, business publishing AgriViews, BPF also sends consulting, and auditing & accounting. eblasts with timely fi nancial information A strong commitment to providing the highest possible level of service to our 2011 BP&F Ag Business Award, Allied Grape Growers (L to R): Nat DiBuduo (AGG and periodically conducts ag accounting clients has permitted Baker, Peterson President), Debbie Jacobsen (AGG member), Matt Andrew (AGG Chr.) classes for our clients. & Franklin to become recognized as a BP&F Ag Department the challenges of rising costs, the global leading CPA fi rm in this region. Success The fi rm’s largest industry Ag Client Experience: and growth in the future are dependent pricing structure, and new government specialization is agriculture, and our • Agricultural Marketing Orders upon our ability to sustain this superior regulations, tax laws associated with • Cheese Processing reputation. For this reason, our most Ag Department is structured to serve agriculture can be complicated and • Chemical & Fertilizer Suppliers important continuing objective is to individuals, partnerships, corporations confusing. With our ag expertise, we • Cotton Gins provide unequaled service. and other entities in the agribusiness help farmers and agribusiness take • Dairy Operations & Replacement An important indicator of a fi rm’s industry. Because of our background in Heifers advantage of all available tax laws commitment to quality service is its the agriculture industry, both in our client • Farm Equipment Dealers peer review report which we voluntarily base and in our staffi ng, we can bring and strategies to minimize taxes and • Farm Management & Custom participate in a demanding quality control maximize profi tability. Farmers program every three years. Baker, Peterson a unique set of skills to ag businesses. The fi rm’s commitment to the • Field & Row Crops & Franklin is proud to have received a peer We understand the challenges and can provide business solutions relevant to ag ag community is evidenced by our • Food Processing review rating of pass for the year ended • Fresh Fruit Packing & Shipping March 31, 2011. businesses and farming. In addition to sponsorship of the 16th annual BP&F • Livestock & Poultry Operations • Nursery Operations & Shipping • Nut Processors • Permanent Trees & Vines • Raisin Processors • Rice & Grain Driers • Vegetable Packing, Processors & Shipping
Community Baker, Peterson & Franklin encourages the partners and staff to be active participants and leaders in civic and Knowing when, where and how much industry organizations. The fi rm supports community involvement of our personnel to irrigate is critical to the success of a farming by providing reasonable time during work operation. PureSense is the leading provider of hours and fi nancial support. The fi rm real-time soil moisture and weather data that also generously contributes to over 100 empowers you to make better irrigation decisions. professional, business, and community organizations. Discover how hundreds of growers are taking the The Farm Bureau keeps our fi rm up to mystery out of irrigation with real-time data and date on the current issues and legislature unparalleled service and support from PureSense. affecting the farming community. It serves as an excellent resource for industry 888.882.7873 | www.puresense.com knowledge, allowing us to provide our clients with superior service. We feel that our membership with the Farm Bureau has permitted us to maintain a growing ©2011 PureSense Environmental Inc., 1141 West Shaw Avenue, Suite 201, Fresno, CA 93711 connection with the local agriculture community. Madera County Farm Bureau November 2011 | 7 MEMBER SURVEY Quarter of California Did the 2010-2011 farmworkers live in poverty UCANR SAREP aims to help researchers add context to these numbers by interviewing members of Floods Damage Your Oct. 25, 2011 organizations that work with farmworkers and The UC Sustainable Agriculture Research other stakeholders. Participants will be asked and Education Program is launching a project to suggest the types of research, education and Product or Property? to address California farmworkers’ living communication projects they would fi nd most and working conditions. Through one-on-one helpful as they work to improve farm laborers’ A Contributing Op-ed for MCFB by Lance Johnson, interviews with members of local organizations working and living conditions. The research agenda General Manager, Madera Irrigation District that serve farmworkers, the researchers intend is scheduled to be completed by September 2012. to learn how the university can best help with “Projects such as this – creating a research Flooding during the past winter and spring caused signifi cant damage research, education and outreach. agenda with the participation of people who will in many areas of Madera County not the least of which was to land, “A sustainable food system is healthy and safe ultimately use the information for their work – is crops, homes and businesses of Madera County Farm Bureau members. for everyone, including all those who work the inspired by the University of California’s land That was also the case for Madera Irrigation District, (which incurred land,” said Tom Tomich, director of SAREP. “As grant mission to serve society,” said Gail Feenstra, hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages to District facilities), SAREP continues to support sustainable agriculture SAREP food systems coordinator. “SAREP was and other local water agencies. Unfortunately while MID and local research, we look forward to identifying research founded to help ensure all California agricultural agencies have good data on their damages to date there has not been a opportunities that will improve farmworker interests, particularly the underserved voices, are concerted effort to collect data on private landowner damages that is conditions.” supported through scientifi c research, education needed to develop an overall estimate of this year’s fl ood damages. California farmworkers face many challenges at and outreach.” work and in their communities. Nearly a quarter This newsletter includes a survey of MCFB members of their Research regarding California farmworker of California farmworker families live in poverty, issues has been conducted, but there is more to fl ood damages which will be helpful in developing better data and an according to the U.S. Department of Labor. do. SAREP aims to assist both researchers and understanding of the overall costs and scope of this year’s fl ooding. While farmworkers play a crucial role in feeding farmworkers by identifying research that workers This data will in turn help guide efforts directed towards development Californians, food insecurity is among the many and community organizations would fi nd most of fl ood control and management plans to address both short and long challenges they face daily. Farm work is one of the useful. fl ood control and management needs within parts of Madera County. most hazardous occupations in the state, but nearly In addition to identifying research topics, key I encourage all MCFB members to complete the survey to help start 70 percent of California farmworkers have no stakeholders and potential partners and funders, the process of assessing and potentially developing a meaningful fl ood health insurance, according to a California Institute SAREP is forming an advisory committee to guide control system within Madera County. for Rural Studies report. its farmworker research and outreach efforts.
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The U.S. Plant Variety Protection Act prohibits unauthorized production or sale of seed of protected varieties. 8 | November 2011 Madera County Farm Bureau Technology opens door to solving california’s water supply crisis By Mike Wade In the second segment, Panoche Drainage District California Farm Water Coalition General Manager Dennis Falaschi demonstrates the innovations that have enabled him to recycle the saline Initial broadcast schedule: How California can use the latest technology to solve its drainage water from more than 100,000 acres of farmlands. water supply crisis is the focus of a new Public Broadcast KVPT, FRESNO As a result, contaminants that used to be discharged into Thurs. November 3 at 9:00 PM System program co-sponsored by the California Farm the San Joaquin River have been reduced by 85 percent. Water Coalition. KCET, LOS ANGELES The water is now being used to grow specially selected Tues. November 1 at 7:30 PM (repeats 12:30 AM) “This is really a celebration of the creativity and agricultural commodities that scientists hope will one day leadership that everyone from family farmers in the Fri. November 18 at 7:30 PM (repeats 12:30 AM) help to improve food supplies and nutrition in Third World Central Valley to the public water agencies that serve KVIE, SACRAMENTO countries. our largest cities have implemented in addressing one of Thurs. November 3 at 9:00 PM In the last segment, Huell Howser visits a family farm Tues. November 8 at 7:00 PM California’s biggest challenges for the future,” says Mike KIXE, REDDING Wade, Executive Director of the California Farm Water that is carrying water conservation to extraordinary levels Wed. November 2 at 7:30 PM Coalition. of efficiency, using cutting edge technology that enables KVCR, SAN BERNARDINO The program, “Stretching Our Water Supplies,” will the farmer to look into the root zone below ground and Thurs. November 3 at 9:00 PM be broadcast on public television stations in California, measure the “heartbeat” of his crops. Sun. November 6 at 9:00 PM Oregon and Nevada beginning in November. It is “The creativity on display in the program will be KPBS, SAN DIEGO produced by Huell Howser as part of his long-running evident to everyone who cares about protecting our water Sat. November 12 at 5:30 PM series on life in California for public television. resources,” said Wade. “Huell Howser has done an In the first of the program’s three segments, amazing job of searching out the best work and translating distinguished biologist Dr. Stuart Siegel, founder of the science into stories to which we can all relate and see California for public television have been endorsed by the Wetlands and Water Resources, Inc., San Rafael, explains clearly how important these innovations will be to our California Teachers Association, the California Federation how public water agencies serving California’s farms and lives.” of Teachers, the California State Library Foundation, cities are working together to restore wetlands and habitat “Stretching Our Water Supplies” is co-sponsored by the California Library Association the California School in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, the crossroads of the the California Farm Water Coalition and the Family Farm Boards Association, the California Council for the Social state’s water system. Alliance. Huell Howser’s long-running reports on life in Studies, and the California Historical Society. FARM BUREAU OFFERS NEW Pistachio industry ready COLLEGIATE MEMBERSHIP for level playing field Inviting a new generation of members, Conference, and collegiate members the California Farm Bureau Federation has may compete in the statewide Collegiate American Pistachio Growers of these states excluded imported pistachios announced a new membership category Discussion Meet sponsored by the Farm from FMO regulations. for students between the ages of 16 and Bureau YF&R program. Oct. 21, 2011 Former Chairman of American Pistachio 25. The “collegiate” membership category “In order to continue to produce safe, The pistachio industry is now in Growers, Brian Blackwell, Blackwell is now available for students enrolled in nutritious food in the future, we need to the final stage of a multi-year effort to Farming stated, “We produce a safe, a post-high school education program encourage young people to pursue the full pass Federal Regulation, Section 608e high quality product and want to insure such as a community college, four-year variety of agricultural careers, from actual (known as Section 8e). This will legally that our competitors are producing at the university or trade school. farm and ranch production to lending to mandate all foreign pistachios be held “The new Farm Bureau collegiate processing to communications and all other same level as our domestic growers.” Mr. to the same minimum grade and quality membership provides an easy, inexpensive related fields,” Wenger said. “The Farm Blackwell spent considerable time over way for young people interested in careers Bureau collegiate membership will help standards currently required only for the last three years meeting with growers in agriculture to connect with their peers, young people stay connected and informed domestic product. A notice in the Federal in Arizona and New Mexico to insure network with other Farm Bureau members about issues and opportunities in California Register will be published that will their backing of the proposed regulation. and find their place within the farming and agriculture.” commence a 60-day comment period on The American Pistachio Growers (APG) ranching community,” CFBF President The collegiate membership classification this Regulation, paving the way for final organization has long worked with the Paul Wenger said. is effective immediately, with an online implementation to level the playing field U.S. Trade Representative and USDA Collegiate Farm Bureau members application available at www.cfbf.com/ for all pistachios sold in the U.S. officials towards implementation of this receive access to an online version of joinfb/. Membership information is also When California pistachio growers goal. Ag Alert®, the award-winning weekly available from county Farm Bureaus. approved the Federal Marketing Order Passage of Section 8e will remedy the newspaper covering California agriculture. Annual dues are $25. Gift memberships for Pistachios (FMO) in 2003, Arizona inequity in the current law and subject Additionally, collegiate members will may be purchased. California residency is have access to scholarship information, not required for membership. and New Mexico growers were not all pistachios to the same standards. internship opportunities and agricultural The California Farm Bureau Federation included. Both U.S. law and World Long-term efforts of WPA/APG have career information. Membership also works to protect family farms and ranches Trade Organization rules require all contributed substantially to this positive includes a discount to register and attend on behalf of approximately 76,500 members U.S. production to be in compliance result, and we firmly believe we are close the CFBF Annual Meeting and the annual statewide and as part of a nation-wide network with domestic standards in order for the to ensuring American consumers receive Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership of nearly 6.3 million Farm Bureau members. imported crop to be inspected, so omission only the highest quality pistachios. Madera County Farm Bureau November 2011 | 9 National Christmas Tree from California October 28, 2011 National Christmas Tree near the Capitol the following cities: celebrated winners of the statewide Song The 2011 National Christmas Tree is building at President’s Park on the Ellipse. November 5th - Sonora, CA, November Search competition. a California Fir from Tuolumne County, As part of the California Fir’s 4,000-mile 8th - Oakdale, CA, November 8th - “We asked ourselves, ‘what would we California. journey to the U.S. Capitol, the tree will Manteca, CA, want the worldwide global community The six-story-high fir tree will be cut be celebrated on a 20-stop national tour, November 9th - California State Capitol, to hear from this nation, courtesy of and sacrificed for the nation on November allowing Americans to place a holiday November 10th - Modesto, CA, November California, as we light the U.S. Capitol 5th from the Stanislaus National Forest of ornament or note on the famous tree from 10th - Merced, CA Tree?’ It was, without hesitation, joy, love, Central California. the Golden State. November 11th - Fresno, CA, November understanding and peace,” declares Kate The U.S. Forest Service has declared the In true California celebrity fashion, the 11th - Madera, CA, November 11th - Wallace. Capitol Christmas Tree from California as famous tree will travel with around-the- Kingsburg, CA The song, which “not only reflects “The People’s Tree” and is honored to be clock security protection --- federal law The official song of the 2011 Capitol the spirit of California, but the spirit of involved in sending California’s holiday enforcement protection, no less. Christmas Tree is “Peace, Peace, Peace,” the season,” is prominently featured on gift to The People of the United States. Californians will have several chances by Santa Barbara singer-songwriter and the official Capitol Christmas Tree 2011 California’s donation of the U.S. to wish bon voyage to the 2011 Capitol 5th generation Californian Kate Wallace website, which features lots of of fun Capitol Christmas Tree is being supported Christmas Tree as it makes appearances in and songwriter Annie J. Dahlgren, the holiday information. by private donors, who are proudly providing the $300,000 cost of shipping the California Fir to Washington, DC as a holiday gift to America. Additionally, a child from California has been chosen to join in lighting the 2011 FARM BUREAU SUES FRESNO COUNTY OVER FARMLAND CONVERSION Lawsuit says solar power projects should avoid prime farmland In an action aimed at conserving prime farmland and protecting the integrity of California’s main farmland-conservation program, the California Farm Bureau Federation filed a lawsuit today that charges the Fresno County Board of Supervisors with overstepping its authority when it authorized construction of a utility-scale solar power project on prime farmland. Earlier this month, county supervisors voted to cancel a Williamson Act farmland- conservation contract on 90 acres of prime Class I soil, to allow the parcel to be developed for a large solar power plant. Farm Bureau said the Williamson Act requires that a proposed contract cancellation meet rigorous findings. For example, to find that a cancellation is in the public interest, the benefits of the proposed project must substantially outweigh the objectives of the farmland- protection program, and there cannot be See Farmland; Page 10 10 | November 2011 Madera County Farm Bureau Rapid Transformation to Winter A Guide to Agritourism: in California This Week
A class for Fresno region farmers and ranchers offered by UC Cooperative Extension Fresno County and the UC Small Farm Program in partnership with the Fresno County La Nina Pattern Farm Bureau and the Fresno-Clovis Convention & Visitors Bureau
Predicted to Hit California
The National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC) has predicted a cold and potentially wet year for California this year – with all indications pointing towards another La Nina weather pattern. Based on the September 2010 comparison, La Nina conditions are not as strong as they were last year and a drier year is predicted; however colder temperatures than last year are being predicted by the CPC. CPC is predicting a Are you considering agritourism or nature tourism on your farm or ranch? Would you like to build your agritourism or nature tourism business? high volume of Omega Blocking patterns for the 2011-2012 season, potentially causing isolated blocks of severely cold weather temperature spells throughout California. More information can be found at www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov. This class is for you! Local pioneering agritourism operators will share their own experiences and will be part of a supportive network of advisors as class participants plan and start new enterprises. Participants will learn from experts in business planning, regulatory compliance, risk FARMLAND are located in appropriate places. management, hospitality and cost-effective marketing, including social media. Continued from Page 9 “Farmers recognize the potential of solar power,” Wenger said, “and California The hands-on, interactive activities will guide participants as they assess their own farms other, unprotected land available for the or ranches for agritourism potential and start their own business, risk management and farmers lead the nation in the installation marketingp lans. same use. of on-farm solar power generators. But In its lawsuit, Farm Bureau said Fresno Each participant will receive a free copy of the extensive handbook, “Agritourism and pressure to build utility-scale solar plants Nature Tourism in California”, which will be used as a text for the class. County supervisors “have completely has touched off a land rush that threatens and repeatedly ignored the unanimous thousands of acres of prime farmland. Registration is open – Sign up today recommendations and advice” from state There are millions of acres of marginal land agencies, local advisory committees and its Fresno, Madera, Merced, Tulare and Kings County farmers and ranchers are encouraged to sign in California. That’s where these power up for the three-session course. Registration is now open at http://ucanr.org/agtour.fresno.11 own staff, that the request for cancellation plants should go, so we can conserve prime did not meet the requirements and that farmland to grow the crops that sustain our Dates: Thursday, December 8, Wednesdays, January 25 and March 14 the Williamson Act contract should not be state and nation.” Times: 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. each session cancelled. Location: Fresno County Farm Bureau, 1274 West Hedges Avenue, Fresno, CA 93728 The suit, fi led in Fresno County Superior Cost: $25 for 3-session course ($30 after December 1) Williamson Act contracts include an Court, aims to halt cancellation of the Information: Penny Leff, UC Small Farm Program, paleff@ucdavis.edu, 530-752-7779 agreement from landowners to maintain Williamson Act contract and to require their property in agricultural use for 10 the county to comply with the act in any
This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2010-49200-06203. years. In return, landowners receive a further cancellation requests. property tax assessment based on the The California Farm Bureau Federation agricultural value of the property rather works to protect family farms and ranches than on its development value. on behalf of approximately 76,500 California Farm Bureau President Paul members statewide and as part of a Wenger said the organization fi led suit to nationwide network of nearly 6.3 million assure that large-scale solar power facilities Farm Bureau members. At Your Service BUY DIRECT!
• Fuels • Lubricants Serving Valley Agriculture • Propane For Over 60 years WE ONLY SELL • On-site Road & Field Service IRRIGATING THE VALLEY SINCE Longview Fiber Raisin Trays 1300 S. Gateway Drive (559) 673-3597 • Tires For Farm & Ranch 1967 DESIGN THROUGH INSTALLATION Preorder NOW and SAVE! P.O. Box 1263 (800) 421-3370 Alignments & Brakes • Full Service Dept. Madera, CA 93639 (559) 673-6608 fax 559-637-4261 19170 HWY 99 2822 S. Maple Tal Cloud 1445 I Street • Reedley • 638-3535 559-674-0490 MADERA, CA 93637 Fresno CA 93720 559.233.3023 RAISIN PAPER ROLLS RAISIN GROWERS YOUR AD HERE REACH OVER 1,100 Valley Feed Guaranteed MADERA COUNTY FARM BUREAU 121 N. Gateway Drive Madera, CA 93637 Quality & MEMBERS FOR JUST $45 A MONTH Call Chad Today! CALL CHERI AT 638-2244 Tree & Vine Supplies Ph: 237-3819 Pricing! TO PLACE YOUR AD Ph: (559) 674-6735 • Fax: (559) 661-7200 Madera County Farm Bureau November 2011 | 11 Madera County Department of Agriculture Home shopping for cherries in China Continuing Education Seminar Chinese consumers looking for California-grown fruit can now order 2011 Winter Seminars it on television. The U-S Agriculture Department blog reports that California grapes, cherries and citrus fruit are all DATE: HOUR: TOPIC CE HRS Nov. 9th 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Agrian: online use reporting and more! 2.0-L hitting the Chinese airwaves, to high Nov. 18th 10:00 am – 11:00 am Herbicide resistance management 1.0-O demand. Consumers bought 19-hundred 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Changes to enforcement response regulations 1.0-L boxes of cherries on a Chinese home- Nov. 29th 10:00 am – 11:00 am All about honey bees: colony strength, diseases, and notifi cation requirements 0.5-L & 0.5-O shopping network. And the U-S-D-A 11:00 am – 12:00 pm The VOC problem and what it means to you 1.0-L says it took only 30 minutes to sell 35-hundred boxes of oranges on a The letter “L” indicates Laws and Regulations and The letter “O” indicates other. Credit hours have been requested for both. Chinese online retail website. All seminars are FREE and open to the Public. No pre-registration required for classes. Topics subject to change without notice. Seating based on availability. For more information call: (559) 675-7876, Monday-Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Raisin Production Private Applicator Certifi cates Meeting is Nov. 16
A Private Applicator Certifi cate (PAC) is required to purchase, possess, or apply Restricted Use Pesticides. It also qualifi es the holder The San Joaquin Valley Viticulture to train pesticide handlers. Private Applicators are not qualifi ed to apply pesticides to fi elds other than their own. Technical Group, Central California The PAC is issued by the County Agricultural Commissioner upon completion of a written exam with a score of 70% or better. Winegrowers, University of California PACs are renewed every three years, on the following schedule: Cooperative Extension and Fresno surname beginning A-H: renewal in Dec 2012 County Farm Bureau will host a raisin surname beginning I-Q: renewal in Dec 2013 production meeting on Nov. 16 at 10 surname beginning R-Z: renewal in Dec 2011 A total of six Continuing Education (CE) hours, over the three years, are required to renew a PAC. Hours are prorated if the PAC is a.m. at FCFB, 1274 W. Hedges Ave., held for less than the three-year cycle. Two, of the six, CE hours must be in Laws and Regulations. Certifi cate holders may retake the Fresno. written exam instead of attending CE meetings. Topics of discussion will include: PAC holders who have completed the required CE hours at Madera County Continuing Education Meetings will receive renewed review of the 2011 raisin production PACs in the mail, along with an application form which must be signed and returned to this offi ce in order to validate the PAC. season and: incoming raisin inspection; PAC holders who have completed CE hours elsewhere must provide, to this offi ce, proof of attainment prior to renewal. processed products; and the effects of the plant growth regulator CPPU on ‘Selma Pete’ berry maturation, raisin IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING IN OUR yield and quality. PAPER PLEASE CONTACT: CHERI WILLIAMS Cost for those who RSVP is $10; the MID-VALLEY PUBLISHING fee for unregistered guests is $15. The cost includes lunch. (559) 638-2244 To RSVP, or for more information, contact Jon Holmquist at 559-661-5539. Free Classifieds MCFB MEMBER RATES: Classifi ed ads are FREE to all Madera County Farm Bureau members and must be of a NON-COMMERCIAL nature. Ads are limited to for sale for sale To advertise in our classifi ed section, please fi ll out the form below. fi ve lines per member, for a maximum of THREE MONTHS. Send ads directly to: FARMALLS - CUB - 100 M 1964 THIOKOL SNOW CAT Name: Mid Valley Publishing, 1130 G Street, Reedley CA 93654 - Cheri Williams 559-638- Fresh Paint all running - $6,000 All. Runs Great - Needs Paint $9000 2244 or fax 559-638-5021. 559-6592409 10/11 Address: City: Includes Trailer. Email Jane: NON-MCFB MEMBER RATES: Classifi ed ad rates are $25 for 20 words. Each CLEAN AND UNCONTAMINATED additional word is $1. Ads must be paid in advance and sent directly to Mid-Valley soil available at no cost. [email protected] or Bill: Phone: Publishing, 1130 G Street, Reedley CA 93654 - Cheri Williams 559-638-2244 or fax Contact Russ Cobb at [email protected] 8/11 completed form to 559-638-5021. 805-218-9808. 9/1 Email: Madera County Farm Bureau reserves the right to reject, edit or cancel any 2006 WR450 YAMAHA advertisement at any time in accordance with its policy. Submission of an Ad Copy: excellent condition, runs wanted advertisement to a sales representative does not constitute a commitment to great $3,200 obo. Contact
Agriculture Today to publish the advertisement, nor does publication of an Kevin @ 559-283-3634 7/11 advertisement constitute an agreement for continued publication. All ads must be GOOD GRAPE GONDOLA SUMMER SPECIAL ALMOND checked for errors the fi rst day of publication by the advertiser. All advertising 5 or 6 ton. Call Jose at is subject to the terms of the current rate card. Classifi ed Ad Deadline for the wood $125 a cord. July and August November issue is Friday, October 28, 2011. Call Jose 559-217-6338 7/11 559-217-6338 7/11 YES! I am a Madera County Farm Bureau Member Member #:(see address label) Call 638-2244 to run your classifi ed ad Send ads directly to: Mid Valley Publishing, 1130 G Street, Reedley CA 93654 or fax 559-638-5021. 12 | November 2011 Madera County Farm Bureau
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