Where are the bees? California farmers combat rise in hive theft, threatening almond crop
By: Jake Goodrick, The Sacramento Bee
Anationwide shortage of honeybees has coincided with a rise in beehive thefts as growers throughout the Central Valley prepare for almond bloom, a pivotal time for the health of the nut, which is one of California’s most lucrative crops.
Beehive thefts in California have reached record highs in recent years, building on what’s nearly a decade-long trend, leaving beekeepers collectively short thousands of hives and millions of dollars.
Now the uptick in stolen bees has met a rise in dying bees, leaving what the state beekeepers association has described as a shortage of bees necessary to fuel
one of California’s largest agricultural industries.
“We are anticipating there will not be sufficient hives for the 2025 almond pollination season,” said Ryan Burris, California State Beekeepers Association president, in a news release. “On top of this issue, hive theft reports are coming in daily.”
The cause of the unusual volume of bee deaths is unclear and may stem from a combination of factors ranging from pests, pesticides, viruses, housing conditions, climate and more.
“It’s not exactly clear if one thing is more responsible than the others or if finally all of these things together are having a massive effect on honeybees,” said Rowdy Jay Freeman, a hive theft investigator and beekeeper.
Surging beehive thefts
Freeman, a Butte County deputy, has become a de facto expert in the nexus between beekeeping and apiarian crime.
No statewide tracking of beehive theft existed, he said, when he took his first investigation into one such incident in 2013. He began keeping those stats on his own, creating a log that shows hive thefts reaching all-time highs each of the past two years.
“Hive theft investigations are so difficult and convoluted,” Freeman said. “They aren’t like any other kind of theft investigation.”
Beehive thefts spiked nearly a decade
ago, with more than 2,700 hives stolen between 2016 and 2017, according to Freeman’s count.
But after two men were arrested — one who was convicted and one who died — in relation to a string of thefts during those years, the number of reports fell and stabilized between 300 to 640 reported thefts per year, until rising again a few years ago.
Nearly 1,100 hives were reported stolen in 2022, followed by almost 2,300 in 2023 and a record of 3,492 in
February is here and the spring season is right around the corner. Although it has been a rather dry winter most reservoirs in the state are at or above historical averages. Bees are out and trees are beginning to bloom. We are also watching our new administration work at a break neck speed and are getting the new cabinet confirmed and sworn in.
One thing that I can remember forever about February is the World Ag Expo, or as I remember it, The Tulare Farm Show. Many of my early memories, and maybe many of yours, is attending the show in February. Kinda like a right of passage that I can take my kids to now. It is always a little aww-inspiring to see the number of attendees and exhibitors that attend every year. It seems that the show is bigger every year or that I see less of it. The amazing technology and inventions are always a highlight for me. We are very fortunate that an exposition that brings in attendees from all over the world is literally located in our back yard. February also brings about the reminder
that spring is around the corner as bees are starting to be placed in orchards and trees are beginning to bloom.
This has been what seems like a rather dry year so far, maybe the Miracle-March will happen. But a bright spot is the condition of the California reservoirs. As of today, all but one California reservoir (Millerton) is at or above historical average. Snow-pack is only 80% of average statewide and 57% of April first average, hopefully these numbers get better.
Our new administration in Washington has been working at break neck speed, confirming cabinet members, addressing natural disasters, making government more efficient and a myriad of other issues. As of this article we are still waiting on the confirmation of Brooke Rollins as Agriculture Secretary, a vote is scheduled for Thursday the 13th. Mrs. Rollins is expected to be confirmed and is supported by American Farm Bureau Federation, amongst other farmer organizations. An encouraging sign is our new president recognizing the issues faced by us in the
agriculture community and specifically our issues in California (namely water). It will be interesting to watch the future back and forth between the Trump administration and the Newsom administration and California Democrats. The Newsom administration and Democrats in Sacramento have committed fifty million to “fight” the Trump administration. In an attempt to make Government more efficient the Trump Administration has vowed to investigate the severely mis-managed California High Speed Rail. This project has adversely affected many farms to the south and is reaching Merced County. This project is severely overbudget and over-deadline. I am looking forward to some accountability to this boondoggle of a project.
Merced County Farm Bureau held our Ag. Summit in Merced in January, it was a well-attended event and hopefully we can build on its momentum. In February Merced County Farm Bureau will honor young agriculturists from Merced County as we present our
annual scholarships. It is always encouraging to see the future of agriculture and is an honor to help and promote their future endeavors.
Merced County Farm Bureau will also be hosting our 107th annual meeting on March 6th at the Merced County Fairgrounds Pavillion. This will be a great informative event with a great meal. We will get the chance to introduce 7 incoming board members, and thank those out-going members. Hopefully everyone will consider attending and enjoying the evening with us. Contact the office or visit our website to purchase tickets, hopefully we will see you there!
Next month marks one year since getting the opportunity to serve as your County President, it has been an honor and a learningexperience. Merced County Farm Bureau has been, and will always remain busy advocating for Merced County Agriculture at every opportunity. As always please feel free to contact the office, myself or any boardmember with any concerns or questions. Until Next Month!
Trump administration to release avian flu plan, shift away from depopulating farms
By: Philip Brasher, Agripulse
February 16, 2025
The Trump administration is preparing a plan for combatting avian flu that will move away from depopulating entire infected flocks and rely instead on “biosecurity and medication” to contain outbreaks, says President Donald Trump’s top economic adviser.
Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, said on CBS’ Face the Nation Sunday that he has been working on the plan with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and “all the best people in government, including academics around the country and around the world.”
Hassett’s comment follows an announcement on Friday by animal drug manufacturer Zoetis that it had received USDA approval for a highly pathogenic avian influenza vaccine for use in chickens.
USDA has for years been requiring the depopulation of infected flocks to control the spread of the virus, a requirement that has contributed to skyrocketing prices for eggs.
“The Biden plan was to just, you know, kill chickens. And they spent billions of dollars just randomly killing chickens within a perimeter where they found a sick chicken,” Hassett said.
“And so what we need to do is have better ways, with biosecurity and medication
and so on, to make sure that the perimeter doesn't have to kill the chickens, have a better, smarter perimeter. And so having a smart perimeter is what we're working on,” Hassett said.
According to a statement on the website of USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, "HPAI is extremely deadly in poultry flocks and can wipe out entire flocks within a matter of days. There is no treatment for HPAI. In poultry, the only way to stop the disease is to depopulate all affected and exposed poultry."
The United Egg Producers and National Turkey
Federation wrote Rollins on Friday in support of using vaccines to control the virus. “It is imperative that a science-based surveillance strategy be developed in which infected animals can be distinguished from vaccinated animals, and that any validated, riskbased surveillance strategy must be agreed upon by our international trading partners,” the letter said.
The National Milk Producers Federation and International Dairy Foods Association also signed the letter.
But the National Chicken Council released a letter,
dated Thursday, to Rollins from co-chairs of the Congressional Chicken Caucus, that raised concerns about the potential impact on trade in broiler chickens, those raised for meat.
“To be clear, vaccination in any poultry sector – egg layers, turkeys, broilers, or ducks – will jeopardize the entire export market for all U.S. poultry products,” the letter said.
The letter said that “most U.S. trading partners do not recognize countries that vaccinate as ‘free of HPAI’ due to concerns that vaccines can mask the presence of the virus.”
Where and how you can get tested for bird flu
in California
Do you work with animals on a farm and feel sick?
You can receive free, confidential flu and COVID-19 testing at a mobile van
You can get tested if you work with animals and have symptoms like: Swollen or red eyes Cough Fever Body aches
Get tested for bird flu at the locations and times below:
Madera County Library, Chowchilla Branch
300 Kings Ave, Chowchilla, CA 93610
Wednesday, January 22--1pm-5pm
Thursday, January 23--1pm-5pm
Friday, January 24--11am-3pm
Saturday, January 25--11am-3pm
Wednesday, February 12--1pm-5pm
Thursday, February 13--1pm-5pm
Friday, February 14--11am-3pm
Saturday, February 15--11am-3pm
Wednesday, March 5--1pm-5pm
Thursday, March 6--1pm-5pm
Friday, March 7--11am-3pm
Saturday, March 9--11am-3pm
Merced County Human Services Agency
415 F St, Los Banos, CA 93635
Tuesday, January 28--3pm-7:30pm
Wednesday, January 29--3pm-7:30pm
Tuesday, February 18--3pm-7:30pm
Wednesday, February 19--3pm-7:30pm
Tuesday, March 11--3pm-7:30pm
Wednesday, March 12--3pm-7:30pm
Denair Library
4801 Kersey Rd, Denair, CA 95316
Monday, February 3--2pm-6pm
Tuesday, February 4--2pm-6pm
Monday, February 24--2pm-6pm
Tuesday, February 25--2pm-6pm
Monday, March 17--2pm-6pm
Tuesday, March 18--2pm-6pm
Turlock Library
550 N Minaret Ave, Turlock, CA 95380
Thursday, February 6--2pm-6pm
Friday, February 7--2pm-6pm
Thursday, February 27--2pm-6pm
Friday, February 28--2pm-6pm
Thursday, March 20--2pm-6pm Friday, March 21--2pm-6pm
Merced County Health
260 E 15th St #114, Merced, CA 95341
Thursday, January 30--3pm-7:30pm
Saturday, February 1--9am-2pm
Thursday, February 20--3pm-7:30pm
Saturday, February 22--9am-2pm
Thursday, March 13-- 3pm-7:30pm Saturday, March 15--9am-2pm
New Year New Horizons
By: Kamilia Mendoza, Merced FFA Chapter Reporter,
January marks the start of a new year for our Merced FFA students! It's an exciting time filled with hands-on learning and opportunities for growth. In this month the winter cold doesn’t slow them down, instead it ignites their passion for agriculture and leadership! FFA members are always busy working hard and applying what they have learned in the classroom whether it's through LDE’s, community service’s, or leadership activities! Although it's not just about the work, it’s also about the bonds they form with members across chapters. These connections help to build a sense of community, teamwork, and shared purpose setting our horizon for a year of learning by doing and making lasting memories!
In January, the California FFA MFE/ALA event provided a fresh start for the Merced FFA sophomores and juniors offering them a chance to dive into the world of leadership! This event brought together FFA members from across the state to engage in hands-on workshops and collaborative activities made to enhance their skills and broaden their horizons! For our Merced FFA students it was an exciting opportunity to step outside their usual chapter and section environment allowing them to connect with peers from different regions and learn from industries! The MFE (Made For Excellence) conference
allowed sophomores to develop their leadership abilities and communication strategies, while the ALA (Advanced Leadership Academy) conference gave them a deeper understanding of what it means to lead with purpose and vision. These experiences aren't just about gaining knowledge but as well as putting that knowledge into action and building meaningful relationships that would benefit them long after the conference ended. With a focus of learning by doing, the Merced FFA students left their conference feeling motivated, inspired, and ready to make a positive impact in their own chapter and beyond! The January MFE/ALA event marked the beginning of a new year full of possibilities for the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Another engaging event called “Super Saturday” hosted by the Merced/ Mariposa FFA section at Merced College was an event filled with competition and passion as students used their skills in various areas of public speaking! The day featured a range of contests, including Creed, Impromptu, Job Interview and Prepared Public Speaking, providing a platform for FFA members to demonstrate their communication skills! Within the participants was Abby Mua, a Merced FFA student who earned an impressive 6th place in the Prepared Public Speaking competition! Her dedication and hard work were outstanding and her achievement was a proud moment for the Merced FFA chapter!
As we look ahead into the rest of the year it’s clear that January was just the beginning of a year full of opportunities for growth, learning, and success! The experiences from MFE/ALA and Super Saturday have already set the standard high for our Merced FFA students reminding them about the power of hard work,
dedication, and leadership! We can’t wait to see the impact our attending students will have on their chapters and communities in the months to come. With each new challenge, our members will continue to ignite the spirit of FFA! Here’s to a year filled with new horizons and endless possibilities!
Merced FFA Chapter
Atwater FFA Earns Top 10 Honors at Chico State and Bakersfield College Competitions
By: Marissa Vargas, Atwater FFA
Seven Atwater High School agriculture judging teams joined over 2000 California agriculture students at the Chico State, Butte College, and Bakersfield FFA Field Day on Saturday, February 8th, in various agriculture skills and industry-related career development event contests.
The Atwater FFA Poultry team placed 3rd overall at Chico State with a team comprised of Brianna Duran (3rd overall individually), Eric Villalobos, Sebastian Parra, and Grace Agundis. Participants in the Poultry contest select live meattype chickens for broiler breeding, evaluate and place live egg-type hens, and rate the finished product by evaluating and grading readyto-cook carcasses and parts of chickens.
The Atwater FFA Ag Mechanics team placed 5th overall in Bakersfield as they demonstrated their plumbing, problem-solving, electrical, welding, tool identification, and a written exam on all aspects of agriculture mechanics. “This contest is all about ‘handson’ application of skills,” said coach and FFA advisor Sam Meredith, “We look forward to the opportunity to continue developing our skills and competing against other highly skilled individuals and teams throughout the upcoming contests.” Members of the Ag
Mechanics team were Trevor Struble, Logan Moore, Luke Sanchez, and Oscar Prado.
The Vegetable Crops team placed 6th overall, with a team composed of Ailene Magana (5th overall individually), Elina Burroughs, and Abigail Stubbs. The contest involves gaining knowledge and skills in the vegetable crop industry by demonstrating skills and proficiencies associated with the vegetable crop industry.
The Atwater FFA Floriculture team earned a “Top 10” placing in a huge, competitive contest that involves plant identification, arrangements, and floral skills. The team members included Abigail Rogers, Gizelle Avila, Isabella Silva, and Callie Sanders. Teams and individuals are judged on their ability to perform an assignment similar to one routinely performed in the floriculture industry. Additionally, individual members are called up to contribute to the team’s effort by completing events such as a general floriculture examination and identifying
plant materials and equipment.
The Atwater FFA Milks Quality and Dairy Foods team of McKel Nairn, Isabella Medina, Marisol Duran-Lopez, and Kaylee Potter placed 9th overall. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills in milk quality (tasting), cheese identification, real vs imitation dairy foods, and a written exam on the dairy industry.
The Atwater FFA Nursery and Landscape team of Danielle Menjvvar, Delilah Banda, Joselyn CastroSainz, and Ian Rodriguez placed 9th overall in their first contest. The contest involves demonstrated knowledge and skills in plant identification, plant selection & evaluation, transplanting, and written exams on all aspects of horticulture and the horticulture industry.
The Atwater High School FFA Veterinary Science team placed 9th overall, with Lupita Valenzuela, Brianna Narvaez, Liesl Schwartz, and Leslie Rico-Paz participating in the contest that seeks to
effectively prepare students for the expectations of the animal health care and services (Veterinary Hospitals/Clinics, Grooming Facilities, Pet Stores, Kennels/Boarding Facilities, and Feed Stores) workplace. Students participate in the identification and general veterinary tests and “handson” practicums based on realworld scenarios.
The primary judging season continues on March 1st at UC Davis, followed by Merced College, Modesto Junior College, West Hills College, Reedley College, Fresno State University, and the 2025 FFA State Finals at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo on May 3rd. The contests are developed for all California high school agriculture students, who are challenged to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in various agriculture pathways and industries.
For more information on the Atwater High School Agriculture Department and Atwater FFA, please log on the website www. AtwaterFFA.org .
Merced County Fair Board Officers Announced for 2025
Mark Erreca named as new President of the Fair Board
By: Merced County Fair
MERCED, CALIFORNIA, February 5, 2025
– The Merced County Fair is proud to announce the 2025 officer positions for the 35th District Agricultural Association Board of Directors, which was voted on at the December 18, 2024 Board meeting. Those positions are: Mark Erreca, President; Emily Haden, First Vice President; and Mark Pazin, Second Vice President.
“Mark has been a dedicated presence on our Fair Board for over two decades,” said Teresa Burrola, CEO of the Merced County Fair. “He was actually Board President the year I was appointed CEO; a meaningful connection in our shared Fair history together. His passion for our Fair, exhibitors and broader community is remarkable. I look forward to working alongside him and the rest of the Board, seeing the community come together once again at this year’s Fair – a cherished community tradition.”
Board President, Mark Erreca, of Los Banos, was first appointed to the Merced County Fair Board in 2003. He is the Owner of Erreca Cattle Company and has been a realtor since 1994, currently with PMZ Real Estate. Mark is on the Merced County Planning Commission, previously serving as its Chairman, and was Past President of the
California County Planning Commissioners’ Association. He is an active Board Member of the Grassland Resource Conservation District.
“There is something truly special about fairs, especially the Merced County Fair,” said Mark Erreca, President of the Merced County Fair Board of Directors.
“It’s a time-honored tradition that celebrates our agricultural roots and unites the community. From showcasing livestock to enjoying Fair favorites like food, live music, daily car shows and carnival rides, the Fair creates lasting memories – including many of my own. I’m honored to help carry on this beloved tradition and look forward to the best Fair yet, a fitting sendoff for our decadelong CEO, Teresa Burrola. I can’t wait to see the community come together this June to celebrate all that makes our Fair so special.”
First Vice President, Emily Haden, of Merced, has served on the Merced County Fair Board since 2012. She graduated from Merced High in 1999 and from Beloit College in Beloit, Wisconsin in 2003 with degrees in history and Spanish. Emily returned to California in 2005 and graduated with distinction from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, in Sacramento in 2009. Emily, a sixth-generation attorney, joined her father in practice in 2010. Her practice areas include business law,
with a focus on contract negotiation, estate planning and probate, and real estate. Emily has served as president of the Merced County Bar Association, the Merced County Law Library and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Merced County. She’s also active on the Merced College Foundation.
Second Vice President, Mark N. Pazin, of Merced, has served as Chief of Law Enforcement at the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services since 2014. He’s served as Sheriff for Merced County from 2002 to 2013 and previous to that has held several positions in the Merced County Sheriff’s Department from 1981 to 2002, including Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Commander and Assistant Sheriff. He’s earned a Master of Arts degree in national security from American Public University. Pazin is currently a member of the Merced Area Boosters Organization; and the California State Sheriff’s Association where he served as President from 2011 to 2012. Mark’s father, John Pazin also served on the Merced County Fair’s Board from 1996 to 2000.
Fair Highlights:
• 2025 Merced County Fair | The 2025 Merced County Fair will kick off the summer, June 4 - 8. Be sure to check the website (www. MercedCountyFair. com), entertainment announcements and the Competitive Exhibits books will be posted soon.
• Stay In The Know | Want to be the first to know about concerts, new featured food items, admission discounts and more? Then sign up for our email newsletter at (www.mercedcountyfair. com/contact-us) or connect with us on our social media handles.
• Merced County Fair Pre-Party | If you haven’t already, get your tickets for the Merced County Fair’s Annual Pre-Party on February 28. Tickets are $75 per person, which includes dinner and hosted bar. Guests will enjoy live entertainment by Scotty Rich, a silent and live auction, a 50/50 raffle, and of course your fair food favorites of corn dogs and kettle corn! Attendees must be 21 years old. Tickets are available for purchase online only at www. mercedcountyfair.com/ pre-party.
A Successful Super Saturday
By: Gustine FFA
Super Saturday was held on January 25th. It is a sectional-level contest, meaning every chapter in the Merced-Mariposa section was eligible to compete. With contests like English Creed, Spanish Creed, Impromptu, Extemporaneous, Job Interview, and Prepared Speaking, this is a meaningful way to gain public speaking abilities, fast thinking, and learn more about agriculture.
The participants for Creed were Luke Avila, Dominic Alves, Jacqueline
Chavez, and Kaylah Bedford. Congratulations to all those who participated. For the Spanish Creed, Gustine FFA was represented by Carlos Rangel, Elizabeth Meza, and Emely Castaneda Diaz. Great job to Carlos Rangal as he placed 1st in the section. Impromptu had four contestants, Mark Silveira, Carson Bell, Kylee Lopes, and Juliana Martinez. Congratulations to Carson Bell for placing 2nd and Juliana Martinez for placing 3rd in Impromptu speaking. They will move on to the regional competition. Extemporaneous had
Maddeline Villnow as a participant. Congratulations to her for competing in this competition. The job interview included Alina Camacho, Emilia Galindo, Justin Lopes, and Baylor Bloom. A huge congratulations to Alina Camacho as she placed 5th and Baylor Bloom who placed 1st. Baylor will move on to the regional competition. The last competition that Gustine FFA members participated in was Prepared Speaking.
Gwendolyn Barcelos, Oscar Vergara, and Isabella Cortez
did an amazing job. Oscar Vergara placed 3rd overall and Isabella Cortez placed 2nd. They will both be moving onto the regional level.
The regional contest will be held on March 7th. Wish the Gustine FFA members good luck as they continue their journey in their chosen speaking competition. All participants learn the importance of agriculture knowledge and the use of critical thinking to present logical responses to questions revolving around agriculture. Good luck FFA members!
California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom Welcomes Amanda Fletcher as New Executive Director
By: CFAITC
California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (CFAITC) announces the appointment of Amanda Fletcher as its new Executive Director, effective immediately. Amanda succeeds Interim Executive Director Becca Whitman, who after six years on CFAITC’s Board of Directors, guided the organization through a critical transition period with exceptional leadership.
During her time as Interim Executive Director, Becca coordinated a seamless transition, reignited vital partnership relations, restructured the team, and laid the foundation for the organization’s continued success. CFAITC is deeply grateful for Becca’s
contributions and her steadfast commitment to the mission of advancing agricultural literacy among California’s students and educators. She will continue to serve the organization with a focus on strategic partnerships and leadership development.
Amanda brings a wealth of experience in agriculture education, management, and community engagement, coupled with a profound passion for agricultural literacy. Her tenure at CFAITC has provided valuable insights into the organization’s strategic goals and programmatic needs, positioning her to lead CFAITC into an exciting new era of growth and impact.
“My agricultural roots run deep, growing up in Dixon, California, where
my family was involved in hay, row crops, and cattle,” said Amanda. “From my early involvement in 4-H and FFA to earning an Agriculture Education degree from California State University, Chico, my lifelong commitment to agriculture has shaped my career. I’m honored to lead CFAITC and am eager to build on its incredible legacy by connecting with educators, students, and industry partners to inspire a deeper understanding of California’s rich agricultural heritage.”
Amanda’s professional journey includes serving as Auction Manager at BidCal Online Auctions, where she developed strategic planning, operational oversight, and management skills, complemented by a creative, problem-solving
mindset. As CFAITC’s Administrative Coordinator, Amanda had active roles in fundraising, donor relations, budget oversight, and event coordination—experiences that have prepared her to drive the organization’s mission forward.
CFAITC remains committed to delivering high-quality educational resources and experiences that highlight the importance of agriculture in daily life. Under Amanda’s leadership, the organization is poised to strengthen its partnerships, innovate its programs, and inspire the next generation of agricultural advocates.
For more information, please visit www. learnaboutag.org or contact info@learnaboutag.org.
Hive Theft
continued from page 1
2024, according to Freeman.
“It’s a couple separate groups of people who are primarily stealing the big numbers and there are probably some smaller guys in between,” Freeman said. “But that’s millions of dollars of beehives.”
It takes north of 2 million hives, according to past estimates, of which more than half are hauled into the state, to produce California’s almonds. Beekeepers rent their hives to growers for upward of $225 apiece during almond bloom, with farmers renting hundreds of hives or more, depending on their acreage, to spread throughout their orchards.
Sarbdeep Atwal, whose family has farmed in the Yuba-Sutter area since the 1970s, said that hives have rented for as much as $280 this bloom, and he’s heard of some farmers paying up to $300.
His Placer County beekeeper this month brought him hives from Idaho for his 500 acres of almond orchards in Yuba County. So far, his orchards were on pace with the adage of reaching 15-25% bloom by Valentine’s Day.
Pollination and timing
The almond bloom requires a delicate balance. Farmers plan to have bees released before their trees bloom in February and March, so they are ready to pollinate immediately. The flowers may have only a handful of days to pollinate. Different varieties in an orchard may bloom at different times. The wrong weather at the wrong time can doom an orchard.
“Bees are one of the most important beings in the
world, in my opinion,” Atwal said. “It’s known, because they’re so vital to the habitat, they’re vital to the food source.”
Atwal said he hasn’t had hives stolen from his orchards, which aligns with other farmers in the area. The Yuba County Sheriff’s Office has had just two reported hive thefts dating back to 2019, valued at $1,000 and $13,000, respectively, said Katy Goodson, sheriff’s office spokesperson.
“The thefts that are happening, it’s not just a person that lives in the area, it’s another commercial beekeeper or somebody that’s tied to them,” Atwal said. “It’s a sophisticated theft operation in my opinion.”
Local beekeepers tend to their bees and hives while placed in orchards as contracted by growers. Hives that are stolen from an orchard hurt the grower who needs them for pollination, but the direct loss falls on those who own the bees.
One such beekeeper, Pete Kenney, has plied his trade in the almond and prune orchards of Yuba-Sutter area for more than 40 years. He said his hives have not bee stolen, short of a one-off occasion here and there. He and his workers check on his hives nearly every day this time of year.
“When bees are in high demand, that’s when it seems like the theft rears its ugly head,” Kenney said.
But, with fewer than 300 hives reported stolen so far this year, by Freeman’s count, theft hasn’t been the only cause of lost bees.
What’s behind the shortage
Philip Russell, of Strachan Apiaries in Sutter County, said that he expects most almond growers will find
bees for this year’s bloom, but that signs of the shortage have arisen, and affected his own colonies, to an extent.
“I’ve received more calls this year than I ever have before, for people needing bees,” Russell said.
The San Joaquin Valley portion of the Central Valley, south of Sacramento, has more orchards and, generally, more hive theft than areas north of the capital. That area also attracts a lot of out-of-state hives to meet its demand.
“You’ve got farmers right now looking for anything,” Russell said. “They don’t really care the strength of (the hives), as long as they can get some bees in their orchard for the pollination.”
California’s relatively mild winter hurt colony size for some beekeepers, Russell said, as the relative warmth kept bees flying outside longer, during months with fewer food sources to forage.
“That time of year, if the bees are flying, they’re dying,” he added.
For some beekeepers in the South who truck in hives to supplement almond bloom, weather events throughout the past year may have killed bees or stripped beekeepers there of the resources to rebuild, Russell said.
“It’s kind of a perfect storm of everything involved,” he added.
Beekeepers often reach contracts with growers before the calendar turns, meaning the prices are set before the full size of the colonies is known, Russell said. They also may make exceptions for longtime customers.
This year’s shortage hasn’t affected prices for most growers yet, but may have consequences later.
“It’s going to take the beekeeping industry quite a
while to recover from this,” Freeman said.
Tracking bees and thieves
Although Russell hasn’t had his own hives ripped off en masse, nearly 500 sent from a beekeeper in Montana and under his care were taken from his property years ago, during the the first spike in reported thefts.
“Every single one of his hives were stolen in one foggy night,” Russell said.
Out-of-state beekeepers may bear additional risk of theft, partially because of the distance. Entrusted to a broker and out of sight, their hives possibly aren’t checked as frequently as a beekeeper would watch their own.
Then there’s the matter of law enforcement. With the Central Valley and its almond orchards encompassing more than a dozen counties, jurisdictional issues may arise, but no state task force tackles hive thefts, Freeman said. On a local level, the investigations are complicated and often unlike other theft cases sheriff’s offices typically pursue.
In response to the rising crime and limited resources to investigate, the state beekeepers association has partnered with the Pipkin Detective Agency, a private firm that specializes in agricultural crime, which has donated 50 hours toward investigating hive thefts.
That partnership comes in response, in part, to the lack of law enforcement resources dedicated to investigating the rise in thefts. The hope is for the agency to fill the gaps that form between the limitations of local law enforcement and the statewide nature of the crimes.
When suspects are caught with stolen hives,
Hive Theft
continued from page 10
proving they were the ones who committed the theft is difficult.
“Even when we know as a
beekeeping industry that we caught the people who are responsible for this,” Russell said, “we don’t seem to get the follow through with the judicial system to make sure it’s enforced and somebody’s
made an example out of so we can curb those kinds of thefts.”
He expects the rising demand for bees spurred by the nationwide shortage to cause the rise in thefts to
grow worse this year.
“There are going to be some desperate people out there, and desperate people make bad decisions sometimes,” Russell said.
California Congressman Josh Harder Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Stop Foreign Foods from Crowding Out Local Products - Central Valley is the Fruit and Nut Basket of the World, Producing 25% of the Nation’s Food
By: Sierra Sun Times
February 18, 2025
- WASHINGTON –
Last week, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) introduced bipartisan legislation, the AmericanConsumer Awareness of National Source (American CANS) Act, to protect local producers by making it easier for shoppers to distinguish local products from foreign ones. The American CANS Act requires that countryof-origin labels be clearly displayed on the front label or top of canned goods so shoppers aren’t left guessing about what they’re feeding their families.
The Valley is the fruit and nut basket of the world, producing 25% of the nation’s food, and Stockton was once home to one of the largest canneries in the country. But economic pressures and import competition have forced canning plants to close — in 2018, Seneca Foods shut down its Modesto peach canning plant, costing hundreds of jobs. Currently, shoppers have no way to know if their canned goods are coming from local producers or foreign suppliers.
“Families deserve to know
if they're buying peaches from down the road or from halfway around the world,” said Rep. Harder. “This bipartisan bill pushes back on the imported products that are flooding our shelves by giving shoppers the transparency they need to buy local and support their neighborhood farms.”
“America’s farmers and producers work tirelessly to feed our nation, but we continue to stock our shelves with internationally grown canned products,” said Rep. Van Orden. “Our farmers deserve to have their hard work recognized. This legislation will ensure we have clear countryof-origin labeling on canned goods to support local agriculture production and increase transparency for consumers.”
“As a cooperative association of over 150 family farmers, we appreciate Representative Harder’s understanding of the value of USA grown food,” said Matt Strong, President and CEO of Pacific Coast Producers.
“The American
CANS Act will help to educate consumers, school administrators, and health care institutions on the origin of products that they are purchasing for our families, our schools, and our hospitals and health care facilities by making the importing country clearly visible to consumers.”
In just 2023, Valley farmers produced 25,300 tons
of peaches, 1,140 of pears, 16,800 of apples, 3,050 of apricots, and 912,000 of tomatoes, generating over $176 million for the local economy. This industry also supports 34,000 jobs— keeping those jobs strong starts with making sure consumers know where their food is coming from.
California Farm Bureau stands with agricultural workers and farmers, calls for workforce stability amid reported concerns
By: California Farm Bureau
Sacramento, CA – While there have been news reports of unease among some farm employees, the California Farm Bureau has been in contact with numerous farmers across the state and has not heard of any widespread workforce disruption.
Bryan Little, senior director of policy advocacy at the California Farm Bureau, which represents more than 26,000 farm and ranch families in the state, clarified that while concerns exist, farmers are continuing operations. While it’s unclear if all farms are fully operational, Farm Bureau has not received reports indicating otherwise, and efforts are always underway to ensure workforce stability.
“We recognize that some workers may feel uncertain right now, and we want to be very clear: California agriculture depends on and values its workforce,” Little said. “Farm employees are not just workers—they are partners in this industry. They are people with families, dreams and an incredible work ethic that keeps food on tables across America. We understand the uncertainty some might feel right now, and we want to be absolutely clear: California’s farmers stand with you. We respect you. We value you. And we will do everything in our power to ensure that agriculture remains a place
where you are safe and supported.”
With one-third of the nation’s agricultural workforce located in California, farm employees play an indispensable role in food production. These skilled workers plant, cultivate and harvest the crops that make California the leading producer of fruits, vegetables and nuts in the United States.
“Without these employees, crops would go unharvested, rural businesses would suffer and food prices could rise for families across the country,” Little said. “This is not just a farm issue—it’s a food security issue, an economic issue and a community issue.”
The interdependence of agriculture and rural economies is without question, according to Little. Thousands of employees in ag-adjacent industries— including food processing, transportation and equipment suppliers—depend on the steady flow of agricultural work to sustain their livelihoods.
Little addressed the urgent need for immigration policy reform, noting that California’s agricultural workforce challenges are not new.
“Farmers and ranchers have struggled with chronic labor shortages for years, and uncertainty surrounding immigration policy only exacerbates the problem,” he said. “California’s farmers
and ranchers are ready to work with the administration and Congress to advance real, bipartisan workforce reforms this year,“ Little said. “This isn’t just about filling jobs—it’s about ensuring security and stability for the agricultural workforce and the farmers who depend on them.”
To provide a long-term solution, Little outlined three key priorities for workforce reform:
• Modernizing the H-2A agricultural visa program to make it more flexible and responsive to the labor needs of farmers and ranchers.
• Providing earned legal status for current agricultural workers, recognizing their longstanding contributions to U.S. food production.
• Crafting immigration policies that reflect the reality of agriculture in a diverse state like California, where workforce stability is essential to feeding the nation.
While supporting lawful immigration policies, the Farm Bureau cautioned against indiscriminate enforcement actions that do not account for workforce stability.
“We need policies that offer real solutions, rather than uncertainty,” Little said. “It’s like pulling the foundation out from under a house. If we want a strong
agricultural economy and a secure food supply, we need solutions that reflect the reality of farming— not blanket enforcement measures that put the entire agricultural system at risk.”
Little said the California Farm Bureau remains in close contact with worker advocates, policymakers and agricultural leaders to monitor any reports of workforce disruption and to help ensure that California’s farms continue to function smoothly during all of California’s upcoming harvest periods.
“California Farm Bureau will continue to advocate for practical, compassionate solutions that protect our workforce, stabilize our industry and secure America’s food supply,” Little said. “California agriculture is strong, and our message to farm employees is simple. You are essential. You are valued. And farmers will continue to stand with you. As harvest season approaches in key growing areas, we will do everything in our power to ensure a stable and secure workforce, a dependable food supply and a strong agricultural economy for the future.”
The California Farm Bureau works to protect family farms and ranches on behalf of more than 26,000 members statewide and as part of a nationwide network of 5.8 million Farm Bureau members.
State's water decisions impact more than just Californians
By: Dan Keppen, Family Farm Alliance, Western Farm Press
Steve Schmidt, the veteran GOP strategist who worked in the George W. Bush White House, once said, “Whether they're for good or bad, all trends in the United States start in California.”
Sometimes government decisions made in California can extend impacts to other parts of the West, as well.
The deadline for public comments to the California State Water Board on California’s water quality control plan for the BayDelta was Jan. 10. The impacts of imposing a 55% unimpaired flow on the Sacramento River and other tributaries to the Bay-Delta — as proposed by State Water Board staff — would have a massive impact on contractors from Redding all the way to San Diego. This will also have an impact on Southern California’s interest in the Colorado River, since State Water Project (SWP) supplies out of the Delta would be significantly impacted.
Perhaps the most important nexus between the Lower Colorado River Basin and California’s Bay-Delta is the availability of future SWP supply allocations to customers in Southern California. About 30% of the water used in urban Southern California comes from the Colorado River.
Restrictions on northern Sierra water supplies — what might otherwise appear as a non-connected water source
— can increase southern California’s reliance on the Colorado River and subsequently reduce water management options and flexibility in the Lower Basin, when the SWP and Colorado River are operating under drought or shortage conditions.
In short, the State of California’s resolution of Bay-Delta water quality challenges has a direct bearing on California’s ability to address the larger Colorado River basin water supply challenges facing seven states and a binational region.
Recognizing this critical concern, eighteen Colorado River Basin agricultural water and federal hydropower interests from the headwaters of the Colorado River to the Mexican border joined on a letter formally expressing concerns to the State Board staff proposal.
Instead, the Colorado River interests urged consideration of Voluntary Agreements — also known as Healthy Rivers and Landscapes (HRL) — proposed in March 2022 by a diverse group of
stakeholders with specific expertise in managing and operating California’s water systems.
The HRL option pairs increased instream flow and Delta outflow with nonflow measures, including habitat improvements, which will improve the biological function of aquatic habitat for the benefit of species. In the larger and more immediate picture, reduced SWP supplies as a result of the Water Board staff option will make it more difficult to develop a collaborative solution to the Colorado River’s post-
2026 Operational Guidelines among the seven basin states.
For these reasons, the Colorado River interests joined fellow agricultural water users served by the CVP and SWP in expressing support for the HRL and urged the Board to adopt them without modification.
Such an action will also have beneficial consequential effects to the myriads of diverse Colorado River Basin interests who will continue to successfully work together to address droughts and water shortages in a collaborative and effective way, as is their long tradition.
Rollins vows return to 'core mission' of USDA
By: Steve Davies, Agripulse
The newly sworn in secretary of agriculture pledged Friday to return the agency to its “core mission” in an address to employees and supporters at the USDA’s headquarters. She also told USDA employees to cooperate with the Department of Government Efficiency initiative led by Elon Musk.
“It is the honor of a lifetime to serve as the nation's 33rd secretary of agriculture, and a privilege beyond description to have the trust of President Donald J. Trump and the opportunity to advance his agenda here with all of you,” Brooke Rollins said in a brief speech attended by many ag luminaries, including House Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn “GT” Thompson, R-Pa.
“That agenda is, of course, the agenda of the. whole American people, among whom the men and women of American agriculture stand in the very first rank,” Rollins said.
"We will focus USDA on our core mission of supporting American farming and ranching and forestry. We will work with both the White House and Congress to get it done," she said.
Later Friday, USDA issued a press release outlining “bold actions” she was taking to reform the department.
The release said USDA had terminated 78 contracts worth $132 million and that more than 1,000 contracts were under review. Already terminated contracts included $2.8 million in Politico
subscriptions, $254,000 for diversity dialogue workshops and $91,000 “for training, education, and access to professional and economic opportunities for women and increasing their participation in climate change adaptation activities” in Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and the Caribbean.
The USDA release said she was also killing all “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) programs to reprioritize unity, equality, and meritocracy.
“To this end, USDA has identified and canceled 948 employee trainings, 758 of which focused on DEI alone. Other canceled trainings include Environmental Justice and gender ideology.”
Rollins said in her address that she was "proud to invite the Department of Government Efficiency here into USDA,"
efficient.”
She said she expected USDA personnel to offer DOGE workers “full access.”
Rollins also said she would “end identity politics, identity celebrations and [diversity, equity and inclusion] here at USDA. … We will instead celebrate the things that make America the best in the world — our merit, our faith and our liberty.”
“All of our people deserve equal dignity, and at this department, we will be the
model for that,” she said. She said she had received a briefing on the avian flu outbreak that has affected poultry and dairy cows across the country but did not offer specifics on what the department plans to do about it.
“We had a really important briefing last night on the avian bird flu right over here in my new office, and I was just so impressed,” Rollins said. “And I think it is such a great, great sign of things to come.”
“They've been here for a few weeks,” Rollins said. “We are welcoming the efforts because we know that that work will make us better here at USDA. It will make us stronger, it will make us faster, and it will make us more
California Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria Introduces AB 707, to Fund Hwy. 152 Improvements Needed for Expanding San Luis Reservoir in Merced County
By: Sierra Sun Times
February 18, 2025SACRAMENTO, CA – Last week, Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria (D-Merced), introduced AB 707, which will appropriate $455.5 million for improvements to State Highway Route 152, which are needed to accommodate increasing the water capacity of the San Luis Reservoir.
“California’s water system desperately needs increased water storage capacity in order to meet the needs of both our residents and our agriculture economy,” said Soria. “In order to increase this capacity, the surface of the B.F. Sisk Dam and the San Luis Reservoir must be raised. However, this means State Route 152, which crosses over the reservoir must also be raised and improved.”
AB 707 helps deliver on California’s promise to secure water for its residents by providing funding for the state’s portion of the reservoir expansion project, and modifications of State Route 152.
“Since its completion in 1967, the San Luis Reservoir has served as the hub of our water storage system for the farms, communities, and ecosystems reliant on southof-Delta water supply,” said Board Chair of the San Luis
& Delta-Mendota Water
Authority Cannon Michael.
“The Authority thanks Assemblywoman Soria and our legislative delegation for their support to improve the affordability of this critical water storage improvement by working to secure state funds to improve unrelated public safety improvements on State Route 152.”
“Given the reality of extreme weather caused by climate change, it is vital to invest in water supply storage projects that help support the people and businesses of California,” said Valley Water Board Chair Tony Estremera. “Thank you to Assemblywoman Soria for introducing a
bill that provides critical transportation safety benefits and supports the Sisk Dam Raise and San Luis Reservoir Expansion Project, which will improve water supply reliability to 2 million people in Santa Clara County and help lessen the financial burden on our local ratepayers.”
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l i v e s t o c k s a l e o f t h e a n i m a l s t h a t h a v e b e e n d o n a t e d .
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M
And Away We Go
President Trump has hit the ground running at breakneck speed, signing over 50 Executive Orders since January 20th. The President’s EO from January 31st titled, “Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation” is one order that has really caught my attention. Over the last four years, the Biden administration has implemented numerous policies aimed at reforming the agricultural sector. The main focus was on climate initiatives, infrastructure investments, and reducing industry alliance. These policies have faced major criticism for their negative impacts on farmers and ranchers.
According to Agriculture. House.Gov, farmers have reported significant increases in production costs during the Biden administration. Between January 2021 and January 2022, the prices of essential inputs like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers surged by 125%, with an additional 17% increase from January to March 2022. These rising costs have strained farmers' financial stability and contributed to higher food prices for consumers. The administration's trade policies have been criticized for not effectively supporting U.S. farmers in the global market. In 2023, the U.S. agricultural
trade deficit reached $21 billion, a stark contrast to the average trade surplus of over $5.2 billion in previous years. This shift has been attributed to a lack of proactive engagement in establishing new trade agreements and advocating for American agricultural products abroad.
A report from wsj. com notes that efforts to address consolidation in the meatpacking industry have faced challenges. For example, the bankruptcy of Pure Prairie Poultry in late 2024 led to the euthanization of 1.3 million chickens in Iowa, highlighting the difficulties in fostering competition within a sector dominated by a few large corporations. This incident underscores the complexities involved in reducing industry consolidation and its impact on small and medium-sized producers.
Despite policy changes intended to support small farmers, many have expressed concerns that these measures are insufficient. The U.S. lost more than 150,000 farms between 2018 and 2022, a trend attributed to factors such as corporate consolidation, climate challenges, and inadequate safety nets. Small farmers argue that current policies do not adequately address these issues, leading to ongoing financial difficulties and farm closures.
In stark contrast, President Donald Trump has implemented numerous policies and initiatives aimed at supporting American agriculture. His approach has incorporated trade negotiations, financial aid, deregulation, and energy cost reductions, all designed to strengthen the agricultural sector. During his first term, President Trump renegotiated over 50 trade agreements to improve market access and exports for American agricultural products
In his second term, President Trump has vowed to reduce regulations on farmers and ranchers. He has promised to reverse regulations that contribute to increased costs for agricultural supplies and to cut farm energy costs by half within the first year of his term. These initiatives aim to lower production costs and increase the competitiveness of American agriculture. It’s the dawn of a new day for agriculture, and the future looks very bright!
Merced County Business Member Directory
Businesses Supporting the Farm Bureau
To be included in the directory, join Merced County Farm Bureau as a business member by calling (209) 723-3001.
Farm Equipment
Garton Tractor, Inc........................(209) 726-4600
Kirby Manufacturing......................(209) 723-0778
N&S Tractor.....................................(209) 383-5888
Holt Ag Solutions.............................(209) 723-2021
Real Estate
Flanagan Realty................................(209) 723-4337
Keller Williams Property Team....(209) 769-4698
Dick Templeton Property Team...(209) 761-4441
Groups & Organizations
California Farmland Trust...............(916) 544-2712
California Sweetpotato Council.(209) 385-7403
Hilltop Ranch Inc................................(209) 874-1875
Merced Boosters..............................(209) 761-0815
Turlock Irrigation District.............(209) 883-8205
UCCE Merced...................................(209) 385-7403
Water & Land Solutions..................(209) 677-4700
Farm Services
Agri-Valley Consulting...................(209) 769-2357
Cal Ag Safety....................................(209) 351-0321
Dutch Door Dairy............................(209) 648-2166
GAR Bennett....................................(559) 480-3029
J&F Fertilizer.....................................(209) 495-1964
Mid Valley Ag Service.....................(209) 394-7981
Stone Family Spreading..................(209) 756-1491
WTS McCabe LLC............................(209) 854-6818
Construction Contractors
M-Mig Construction, Inc...............(209) 724-9488
Repairs & Services
Arrowhead Field Repair LLC.......(209) 658-5250
Cab Air Systems.............................(209) 551-3301
SS Blue...............................................(209) 722-2583
Food Processing
Del Rio Nut Company.....................(209) 394-7945
Sensient Natural Ingredients......(800) 558-9892 Harvesting & Hauling
Wallace & Son..................................(209) 382-0131
Irrigation,
Wells & Septic
Allison Sierra, Inc............................(209) 966-4082
IJ Larsen Pumps...............................(209) 634-7276
Pacific Southwest Irrigation......(209) 460-0450
Precision Aqua.................................(209) 756-2025
Quality Well Drillers........................(209) 357-0675
Rain for Rent.....................................(559) 693-4315
San Luis Pump Company..............(209) 383-0464
SWAN Systems................................(661) 335-2649
Farm Supplies
American River Ag..........................(209) 385-9553
Cal Farm Service..............................(209) 358-1554
Kellogg Supply...................................(209) 722-1501
Livingston True Value......................(209) 394-7949
Marfab...............................................(209) 826-6700
Pacific Bay Equipment...................(800) 640-1227
Stanislaus Farm Supply.................(209) 723-0704
Fuel Services
Amarants Propane Service...........(209) 358-2257
Hunt & Sons, Inc................................(916) 383-4868
Pazin & Myers, Inc............................(209) 725-2050
Western States Petroleum Assoc.. (661) 321-0884
Valley Pacific Petroleum................(209) 948-9412
Insurance
Barlocker Insurance......................(209) 383-0220
Fluetsch & Busby Insurance...........(209) 722-1541
InterWest Insurance........................(209) 723-9181
Rico, Pitzer, Pires & Associates.(209) 854-2000
Walter Mortensen Insurance......(209) 353-2700
Winton Ireland Insurance..............(209) 394-7925
Financial Services
Alice B. Contreras CPA..................(209) 722-6778
American Ag Credit Merced.......(209) 384-1050
American Ag Credit Los Banos..(209) 826-0320
Central Valley Community Bank.(209) 725-2820
Farmers & Merchants Bank.........(209) 626-4118
Grimbleby Coleman CPAs............(209) 527-4220
Yosemite Farm Credit Merced....(209) 383-1116
Yosemite Farm Credit Los Banos.. (209) 827-3885 Miscellaneous Sunset Pool Service........................(209) 286-7665
Ensz (Solar) .....................(209) 204-0702
Resources Corp ...........(661) 421-3515
Business Support Farmers DCB Farming, LLC
Mariposa County Business Member Directory
Farm Supplies
Mariposa Feed & Supply...............(209) 966-3326
Mariposa County Farm Bureau....(209) 742-5875
35-A District Agriculture Assn....(209) 966-2432
Mariposa County Ag Commissioner..(209) 966-2075
Allison Sierra, Inc............................(209) 966-4082
Chases Foothill Petroleum............(209) 966-3314
Edward Lien & Toso Ag Appraisers... (209) 634-9484 Rain for Rent......................................(559) 693-4315
Ranch Fence, Inc..............................(209) 966-5914
Valley Pacific Petroleum...............(209) 948-9412
966-2527
966-5444
966-2719
