Kings County Farm Bureau says a judge's decision is a big win in case against State Water Board
By: Kassandra Gutierrez, ABC 30
KINGS COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- A step in the right direction for the Kings County Farm Bureau.
On Thursday, a Kings County Superior Court judge ruled in their favor to continue their efforts to sue the California State Water Resources Control Board... after the board placed the Tulare Subbasin on probation back in April...
"That's a big win not just for Kings County Farm Bureau, but really all of California agriculture," says Dusty Ference, Executive Director of the Kings County Farm Bureau.
Dusty continues, "We hope
that they realize that our case is strong and we need to do this differently. We need to handle probation and achieve sustainability differently."
The Farm Bureau filed a lawsuit against the state water board in May of this year.
After the board ordered restrictions on growers in the Tulare Lake Subbasin.
That included charging farmers for pumping groundwater at a rate of $20 per acre-foot... and a $300 fee and registration requirement for each well on their property.
"And if that's not enough, we were at risk in April 2025 of the State Resource Control Board implementing what they call an interim groundwater sustainable plant that means the state controls the subasin and how much water they
could pump... or really how little water they can pump," explains Ference.
He says fees and regulations could greatly impact agriculture and the local economy.
"We don't have another industry that would make up jobs if they were lost," Dusty says. "We're at risk of losing the agriculture in Kings County, we're at risk of losing everything."
Action News reached out to the State Water Board, which also held a probation hearing with the Tule Subbasin on Tuesday for groundwater management practices.
The state board has said it's concerned about the
ground sinking due to too much water being pumped out from the Tulare subbasin.
The group argues the local plan was not doing enough, so it had to step in.
In a statement, they say they disagree with the ruling:
"This ruling solely impacts Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) implementation in the Tulare Lake Subbasin." - State Water Board.
Kings County Farm Bureau and the State Water Board will return to court in January 2025.
On Tuesday, September 18, Merced County hosted a Joint Committee Hearing between the Assembly Agriculture and Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committees. The meeting focused on water recharge and how the current policies support or challenge agriculture. Chairwoman Esmeralda Soria was in attendance on behalf of the Assembly Ag Committee. Representing the Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee were Chairwoman Diane Papan, Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo and Assemblymember Devon Mathis. I sincerely want to thank each of them for taking the time to come to Merced. The morning began with a six-person panel including two locals – UC Merced Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering Josue Medellin-Azuara and Merced Irrigation District Board Member Stephanie Dietz. Remaining members of the panel were from the Department of Water Resources (DWR) and the State Water Board (SWB). The second panel included farmers and community
members from throughout the region. I must hand it to the Assemblymembers as they asked pin-pointed questions to DWR and SWB, with SWB being in the hot seat more than a few times.
For example, a SWB staff member was asked to detail the costs of temporary and permanent water permits. If you haven’t researched this in some time or at all, it is a cool $600,000 to apply for a permanent permit. Within this same conversation, SWB staff claimed their record of approving permits was timely and efficient. Alternatively, it was not missed on the audience that a MID permit, filed in 2019, has yet to be approved. SWB cited terms that have not been agreed upon by MID and SWB and the concern that the river ran dry in 2022. As a reader, I hope you realize the fact that the SWB had three years to approve the permit before any concern over the river. Chairwoman Papan easily ran away with the best
comment of the day when she suggested the costs of applying for a flood permit be decreased in relation to the time it takes for SWB staff to approve the permit.
It was an interesting meeting and one that I didn’t expect to go as well for agriculture as it did. You can watch the video through this link https://www.assembly. ca.gov/media/joint-hearingagriculture-and-water-parksand-wildlife-20240917. We provided oral comments focused on the red-tape challenges growers were faced with during the historical floods of 2023 and highlighted a FloodMAR
project in the El Nido area that will aid in subsidence challenges.
MCFB is also at work on our upcoming FARM2U Day and CE Courses.
FARM2U Day is scheduled for Thursday, October 3 and is used to educate third graders on the importance of agriculture and healthy eating in their lives. Our CE Courses, beginning Thursday, October 10, focus on aiding growers/applicators with obtaining units to maintain their certificates. I would encourage you to check out the calendar listed on our website at www. mercedfarmbureau.org/ce.
Another month has passed and it has been a busy one. A lawsuit led by Kings County Farm Bureau had a monumental win when a Kings County Superior Court Judge granted a preliminary injunction against the State Water Board. During our August Board of Directors Meeting, we hosted a candidate night forum for Congressional District 13. At our September meeting we will be hosting candidates for Assembly Districts 22 and 27. Your Board of Directors has agreed on a dues structure change which you will see in the upcoming membership year starting in November 2024. The upcoming election is fast approaching and we will have plenty of decisions to make. One of my favorite events hosted by Merced County Farm Bureau, Farm2U Day, is scheduled for October 3rd 2024.
Farm2U Day is scheduled for October 3rd at the Merced County Fairgrounds. This is our annual event that invites third grade students from across the county to hear from presenters involved in Merced County agriculture. This is an event that is run on generous donations of time and money from the community. It also cannot go without thanking staff for all the time they put into this great event. Anyone willing to help, however you can, please reach out.
As I wrote in last month’s article the California Farm Bureau has decided to
increase dues. This resulted in your board holding a special meeting to decide how the increase of state dues would affect our county members. It was decided that Merced County Farm Bureau will be increasing our Ag Membership dues to $375 per year, Business Membership to $400 per year, and Associate Membership to $125 per year. We never look forward to price increases and appreciate your understanding that your county farm bureau’s operating costs are not immune from this economy, having said that your annual membership is a great value for the services and representation that members receive at the local, state and national levels. If you would like to discuss this further, please reach out.
In previous articles we have discussed the lawsuit brought by our friends in Kings County against the State Water Board regarding the state placing the basin on probation. What is called a “monumental” decision on September 12th Kings County Superior Court Judge, Kathy Ciuffini, issued a preliminary injunction against the State Water Resources Control Board. The injunction prevents the state from requiring growers to pay fees and report how much water they pump. The injunction could last through the trial, which has yet to be set. Judge Ciuffini wrote “Clearly the actions of this state agency have
not been transparent, are only known to the (water board), and there has been no review, analysis, or ability to challenge their conduct.” She also added that the agency failed to show how an injunction “would cause specific, identifiable harm to the public.” This lawsuit is far from a resolution, but it seems to be going in the right direction. If anyone is willing to help out our neighbors to the south, please contact our office or Kings County Farm Bureau directly. At our August Board of Directors Meeting, we hosted a candidate forum for Congressional District 13. Thank you to both former CA Assemblyman Adam Gray and Congressman John Duarte for participating. Your board has decided to endorse Congressman John Duarte in the upcoming November 5th election. At our upcoming September Meeting we have invited candidates for Assembly Districts 22 and 27. We hope the debate between Assemblywomen Esmarelda Soria and candidate Joanna Garcia-Rose is informative and spirited and look forward to an interview with Assemblymember Juan Alanis.
November 5th is election day, which means you will only have to hear me talk about the importance of this upcoming election for one more article. California is again a 100% Vote by Mail State (no chance of fraud here). Ballots will begin
being mailed out on October 7th. It is important to get your ballots turned in and offer to help other voters get their ballots filled out and turned in. If you or someone you know is not registered to vote you have until October 21st. Please reach out if you need help in either case. Some of the races we will get to decide on are 10 ballot propositions, a presidential election, California Senate race between former Dodger and Padre great Steve Garvey and the insufferable Adam Schiff, Congressional District 13, Assembly District 22 & 27 as well as many other state and local issues. A local measure worth noting is Measure R which a local public safety county sales tax. This tax will provide public safety specific dollars to local and county fire protection, county sheriff department, local police departments and county district attorney office. We have all seen the results of funding cuts to public safety and must realize that something must happen to help.
Next month’s article will have results of candidate night forum and I am sure we will be discussing the upcoming November 5th election among other things. It is up to us to stay informed and active. As always please reach out to myself, any director or the office if you have any concerns or we can help in any way. Until next month!
Golden Valley FFA Update
The Golden Valley FFA Small Engines team had an outstanding season in 2024, going undefeated in spring Career Development Event (CDE) competitions and securing the state championship. The team, consisting of Branyon Bliss, Zoey Barragan, Ayden Chew, and Nathan Porter, competed at top field day events, including those at Arbuckle, Modesto Junior College, Chico State, UC Davis, and the Fresno State Field Day & State Finals.
Under the leadership of Golden Valley teacher John Olson, the team demonstrated excellent skills in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining small engines.
Their performance at the state finals was highlighted by individual awards, with Ayden Chew earning secondhigh individual and Branyon Bliss securing third-high individual honors.
The team’s undefeated streak and state title reflect their hard work, technical expertise, and ability to perform consistently throughout the season.
Golden Valley FFA would like to thank the numerous supporters in the local community who made competing in these events possible. Golden Valley FFA looks forward to the 2024-2025 school year with a continued commitment to excellence in and outside of the classroom.
2024 Golden Valley FFA Small Engines Team secured the state championship
Atwater FFA Chapter Officers Attend Local Leadership Conference
By: Marissa Vargas, Atwater FFA
The 2024-2025 Atwater FFA chapter officer team joined seventeen other FFA chapters from the Merced-Mariposa section for the annual FFA Chapter Officer Leadership Conference (COLC) held at Merced College September 10th. The annual leadership conference is held each year to help members develop and strengthen leadership skills and responsibilities within their new office positions. The 2024-2025 Atwater FFA officer team is comprised of Gannon Gossman, President; Iker Chargoy, Vice President; Gianna Fragulia, Secretary; Owen Reed, Treasurer; Marissa Vargas, Reporter; Grant Williamson, Sentinel; Eric Villalobos, Historian and Callie Sanders, Parliamentarian.
This year’s theme for the Merced-Mariposa Sectional FFA is “Beyond the Horizon”. Various activities were held at the conference which included exploring agricultural education, creating connections, proper debating skills, building team strengths, better communication and listening skills. “Meeting new people from other schools and discovering we share the same passion for serving and improving our school FFA chapters was an unforgettable experience,” said Atwater FFA chapter officer Gianna Fragulia. This conference is one of the many leadership opportunities
that students can participate in, while being involved in FFA. Chapters throughout California will meet in Sacramento, at the Golden One Center, for the annual FFA State Conference held in March. Students will be able to participate in valuable sessions that teach students about leadership, teamwork, while learning how to better advocate for the agricultural industry. The skills the students learn will be taken back to their chapter and applied throughout the 20242025 school year.
Other FFA chapters that attended the conference included Buhach Colony, Delhi, Dos Palos, El Capitan, Golden valley, Gustine, Hilmar, Le Grand, Livingston, Los Banos, Los Banos Junior High, Mariposa, Merced, Pacheco, Stone Ridge Christian, and YosemiteSequoia FFA. For more information on the Atwater High School Agriculture Department and Atwater FFA, please log on the website www. AtwaterFFA. org .
Atwater FFA Chapter and Merced-Mariposa Sectional FFA Officers (back row) Gannon Gossman, Eric Villalobos, Iker Chargoy, Grant Williamson, Owen Reed, Gianna Fragulia, Marissa Vargas, (bottom row) Branyon Bliss, Katelyn Medeiros, Jaylene Barriga, Ella Fredriks, Gracie Schnoor, Advaitaa Shymprasad, and Callie Sanders joined sixteen other FFA programs at the annual Chapter Officer Leadership Conference (COLC) held at Merced College.
VOTER GUIDE 2024
2024 General Election • Tuesday, November 5
The California Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors adopted the following recommendations on statewide ballot measures that will be before California voters in the Nov. 5 general election.
PROPOSITION
PROPOSITION 2: Issue $10 Billion in Bonds to Fund Construction and Modernization of Public Education Facilities
New construction and modernization of education institutions will cost $8.5 billion for K-12 and $1.5 billion for community colleges.
PROPOSITION 3: Removes Outdated Language Regarding Marriage from State Constitution
Repeals the unenforceable constitutional provision that marriage only between a man and woman is valid or recognized in California.
PROPOSITION 4: The Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act
Allows for the issuance of $10 billion in bonds to fund safe drinking water; drought, flood, water resilience; wildfire and forest resilience; nature-based climate solutions; climate-smart, park creation and outdoor access; and clean air programs among other programs. Allows for funding to be shifted from the state budget to bonds for ongoing programs.
PROPOSITION 5: Lower Supermajority Requirement to 55% for Local Bond Measures to Fund Housing and Public Infrastructure
Amends the constitution to lower the threshold from 2/3 vote to 55% to allow a local government to impose a parcel tax for the purpose of issuing bonds to build or rehabilitate public infrastructure and affordable housing, including downpayment assistance, or permanent supportive housing.
PROPOSITION 6: Amend the California Constitution to Bar Involuntary Servitude in Correctional Facilities
Removes a constitutional provision allowing jails and prisons to impose involuntary servitude as criminal punishment. It prohibits the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation from disciplining inmates for refusing work assignments while allowing inmates to voluntarily accept work assignments for credits to reduce their sentences.
PROPOSITION 32: $18 Minimum Wage Increase
Increases the minimum wage from $16 per hour to $18 per hour by January 1, 2025.
PROPOSITION 33: State Limitations on Local Rent Control
Allows a city or county to enact rent control by repealing the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act of 1995.
PROPOSITION 34: Restrictions on AIDS Healthcare Foundation Support
Ensures that health care providers spend 98% of revenues on direct patient care if their spending on items other than patient care exceeds $100 million over 10 years.
PROPOSITION 35: Permanent Managed Care Organization (MCO) Tax
Makes permanent the existing tax on managed health care insurance plans, currently set to expire in 2026. The revenue generated pays for health care services for low-income families with children, seniors, disabled persons and other Medi-Cal recipients.
PROPOSITION 36: Drug and Theft Crime Penalties and Treatment-Mandated Felonies
Allows for felony charges and increases sentences for certain drug and theft crimes, including organized theft.
POSITION
OPPOSE
REASONING: California is already paying off billions in bond debt, all at a cost to the general fund to service the debt payments.
NO POSITION
REASONING: CAFB does not have policy on this topic.
OPPOSE
REASONING: Shifting government program costs from general tax revenues to additional public indebtedness through bond issuance to mitigate budget shortfalls is bad fiscal policy.
OPPOSE
REASONING: The 2/3 vote for taxes and fees is paramount and should not be weakened.
NO POSITION
REASONING: CAFB does not have policy on this topic.
OPPOSE
REASONING: California is already a difficult and costly state to do business in without an increasing minimum wage.
OPPOSE
REASONING: Private property rights are paramount.
NO POSITION
REASONING: CAFB does not have policy on this topic.
NO POSITION
REASONING: CAFB does not have policy on this topic.
SUPPORT
REASONING: Law enforcement should have all the tools necessary to prevent crime from occurring.
Fusarium Race 4 in Cotton: Overview and UCCE Merced research updates
By: Giuliano Galdi- UCCE Merced, Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties
Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Vasinfectum (FOV) is a fungus that naturally live in the soil. Once a suitable host plant is nearby, FOV spores germinate and start plant infection. The fungus goes from the roots to stems through xylem, which is a vascular tissue responsible for water movement withing the plant. Depending on the susceptibility of the host and its parts, the fungal infection can clog up the xylem and plants can have a difficult time transpiring water.
Once inside the plant, FOV multiplies and can kill its host, or infected plants can complete their cycle and be re-incorporated to the soil once the season is done. The problem is that FOV can survive very well for years in plant debris and soil. Unfortunately, there are currently no economically viable methods for eradicating the fungus in commercial fields.
There are many FOV4 races. While many of them were identified in California cotton, race 4 is the most problematic. For example, race 1 has also been found in California but its damage to cotton Is usually associated with the presence of root knot nematode. Race 4, on the other hand, does not require nematodes to cause significant crop injury when present in the soil.
Signs of FOV4 infection
can appear both at the field and plant scales. In fields, significant gaps (Fig. 1) may develop where plants have died or are in the process of dying. Over time, as the pathogen spreads in the soil, these gaps can become larger and more widespread. Infected plants generally show signs such as wilted leaves, foliar chlorosis, and/ or dark brown vascular staining in the taproot (Fig. 2).
If FOV4 is confirmed, the first step is to ensure accurate identification by sending samples to a plant pathology lab, as symptoms of Fusarium races can be similar. Once FOV4 is confirmed, remove and destroy the infected plants along with those nearby. Infected plants should be either burned or composted at high temperatures to prevent further spread of the pathogen. Avoid burying the plants, as it contributes to ongoing contamination in the soil.
To address the ongoing issue of FOV4 in cotton, I have initiated projects focused on cotton variety screening and microbial interactions. Here’s an overview of my current FOV4-related projects:
1. 2024 Susceptible Varieties Seed Production at UC West Side Research and Extension Center (WSREC): Producing seeds of cotton varieties susceptible to FOV4 is critical for future research in California. These susceptible varieties, which are not readily available
commercially, are essential for creating control plots in FOV4 trials. We have planted seed production fields at WSREC and anticipate a successful harvest this season.
2. 2024 FOV4 Field Trial:
We have established a field trial in an area previously affected by FOV4. This trial includes 16 plots, with three different cotton varieties tested across four replications. Each plot features two rows: one with the test variety and one with a highly susceptible variety, which acts as an indicator of pathogen presence in the soil. Plant samples from each plot have been collected and sent to the Fresno State pathology lab for analysis.
3. 2024 FOV4 Greenhouse Trial: This trial replicates the field study within a
controlled environment at the UC Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center (KREC), allowing for precise control over experimental conditions.
4. FOV4 vs. Microbe Consortia Interaction:
This project explores the interaction between FOV4 and various microbial consortia. Soil from an infected field has been collected and distributed into 16 pots. Each pot contains two susceptible varieties (DP 340 Pima and DP 744 Pima) and one test variety. Microbial consortia have been added to some pots to assess their impact on disease symptoms and seed germination.
We will provide updates as results become available. Stay tuned for further developments!
Fig. 1 (left) Illustrates a gap in the plant row caused by FOV4 infestation and Fig. 2 (right) shows the characteristic vascular staining in a cotton taproot caused by FOV4.
Merced to Madera Project
Fairmead Community Meeting
Saturday, October 12, 2024 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Fairmead Community Members we want to hear from you!
The California High-Speed Rail Authority and the Merced to Madera Design Services Consultant Team will be on hand to present information on proposed Fairmead community improvements related to the high-speed rail project. Project team members will answers questions, and receive community input vital to the process.
There will be an informational presentation starting at 12:05 p.m. followed by a question and answer session. Project Team members will be available following the presentation for additional one-on-one discussions.
Fairmead Elementary School Cafeteria 19421 Ave. 22 3/4
Chowchilla, CA 93610
Source: California High-Speed Rail Authority
For more information, please visit the Authority’s website at www.hsr.ca.gov or contact Augie Blancas, Public Information Officer at (559) 720-6695 or by email at augie.blancas@hsr.ca.gov
Spanish translation will be available at the meeting. All other interpretation, translation, and language requests and requests for reasonable accommodation must be made 72 hours in advance of the scheduled meeting date by calling (916) 324-1541 or emailing info@hsr.ca.gov For TTY/TTD assistance, call (916) 324-1541 or the California Relay Service at 7 11.
Celebrating National 4-H Week 2024
By: Russell Hill, Associate 4-H Youth Development Advisor
As National 4-H Week 2024 kicks off from October 7th to 12th, Merced County is gearing up to celebrate the profound impact of this century-old youth development program. This year’s theme, “Beyond Ready,” highlights the readiness of 4-H youth to tackle the challenges of the future with confidence and resilience.
The 4-H program, which began over a century ago, has its roots in agricultural education with the formation of youth clubs aimed at introducing innovative farming practices. The first official 4-H club was established in 1902 by A.B. Graham in Clark County, Ohio, initially known as a Tomato Club or Crown Growing Club. Merced County 4-H programs began a short 15 years later in 1917 and have been in continuous service to the community for more than 107 years.
Today, 4-H is the largest youth development organization in the United States, serving over 6 million members. The program has evolved far beyond its agricultural roots to include a wide array of activities and learning opportunities. In Merced County, 4-H offers projects and opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), healthy living, and civic engagement. The program is designed to build life skills such as leadership, healthy living, and community service through hands-on learning experiences. 4-H
members can participate in various projects, from robotics, shooting sports, and environmental science to public speaking and animal care. Through these opportunities, 4-H aims to prepare young people to be proactive leaders and responsible citizens.
The impact of 4-H on young people is profound. Members gain valuable skills that help them succeed in school, their future careers, and their personal lives. The program’s emphasis on hands-on learning and mentorship fosters a supportive environment where youth can explore their interests and develop their potential.
4-H has helped millions of youths pave a path forward. We’re ready to inspire more to do the same; through programs that are proven to work, we’re building a generation that’s beyond ready. Ready to lead. Ready to serve. Ready to build. Read to conquer. We are Beyond Ready.
As we celebrate National 4-H Week 2024, it’s a perfect time to recognize the contributions of 4-H members, volunteers, and community supporters in Merced County. Their dedication ensures that the program
continues to thrive and make a positive difference in the lives of young people.
For more information on how to join or support 4-H in Merced County, visit the Merced County 4-H Youth
Development Program website http://merced4h. ucanr.edu our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ MercedCounty4H or contact the office at 209-385-7418.
Students In Agriculture - Learning to Do and Living to Serve
By: Kamilia Mendoza, Chapter Reporter
As the August air rolls in, the Merced FFA Chapter is all about “Living to Serve!” As our members showcased remarkable dedication and enthusiasm for agriculture and leadership, engaging in a diverse arrangement of impactful services and events. Their involvement spans from community service events to their own personal SAE’s, highlighting their ongoing efforts to positively impact the community and give back! Through their collective efforts, these young leaders are not only advancing personally and professionally but as well as contributing significantly to their communities and fostering a spirit of service and excellence that extends beyond their capabilities they had imagined.
Our FFA members are deeply committed to the quote ”living to serve” and take great pride in giving back to the community. This month we had members from the Merced FFA attend a community service event at a mini amusement park called KiddieLand located at the Applegate Park! During the event, our dedicated members volunteered their personal time to assist in various areas of the park. They helped at the ticket booths, served food, and provided support wherever it was needed, whether that meant assisting guests or managing the park operations! This hand on event has given the FFA members an opportunity to develop their skills and
impact the community in a positive way all while supporting the local attraction that brings joy to many families and children!
This past Saturday members helped serve dinner at the Merced River Ag Boosters Annual Fundraiser dinner. This is one dinner that members always look forward to serving at. It is a great atmosphere and helps give back to the community that helps support students at the local county fair. It also provides an opportunity to network with other FFA programs in the area as well as some of our local agriculture community. We would like to thank the Merced River Ag Boosters for always inviting us out to assist in serving their dinner.
Our members who have attended several events have earned experience and skills, allowing them to take on their own SAE’S. One of our chapter officers will take the stand and let us know all about her swine breeding project! “Hi Merced FFA, I am Abby Mua, the Merced FFA chapter secretary! I just wanted to include a few details on what I do for my SAE project! I breed pigs for the students in the Merced FFA. I also breed them for people outside of Merced, along with 4-H kids as well!
I spend my hours taking care of my pigs, such as keeping
pens clean, washing them, and keeping a schedule of the breeding dates. I breed my pigs through Artificial Insemination (AI). I keep track of when the sows are pregnant and the days when they are due. Once in the farrowing crate on the duedate, I keep watch of the sows myself to make sure the process runs smoothly, but I also pull piglets from the mothers as needed. I also treat and medicate all of the baby pigs after they are weaned from their mother, and that is how I operate my SAE project!
Thank you!” Thank you Abby Mua for telling us about her project!
We also have another star student Tyler Horn who worked hours on end to give back to the community!
“Hello, I am Tyler Horn the Merced FFA chapter historian, my project was a picnic table I finished for the community. The picnic table took me 6 hours from start to finish. The processes I took were planning, gathering materials and hardware,
prepping the materials, fabrication of the project, and double checking my work satisfaction. This SAE project was then as a donated gesture and was given back to the owner.” Thank you Tyler Horn for telling us more about your project and giving back to the community!
As this month draws to a close, we want to acknowledge the incredible efforts of our students, who have truly gone above and beyond in serving the Merced community! Their dedication and hard work have made a significant impact, demonstrating their commitment and passion for making a difference! Looking ahead to next month, our enthusiasm and dedication will only continue to grow, becoming stronger and more focused than ever before. The time we have spent working together, helps our growth and learning abilities within our chapter. As we move forward, we are excited to build on this momentum and achieve even greater things together!
Merced FFA helping at the Merced River Ag Booster Dinner
ATTENTION
Farmers and Farm Employees who need to renew their DL-267 Endorsement or acquire their initial endorsement.
The Agricultural Hazardous Materials Transportation Program is being offered by the Farm Bureau and Nationwide Insurance. This class is for persons 21 years or older and have a current California Class C drivers license.
Due to new requirements, once a person completes the course, they must:
• Submit completed training record along with a completed CHP application
• Await paperwork return from CHP
• Pay any applicable DMV fees
• With returned CHP paperwork apply for DL-267 certificate from the DMV
Farm City’s Forty-Eighth Annual Banquet
Dinner Fundraiser
Honoring outstanding citizens of Merced County in their Ag related fields to benefit local students to further their education in agriculture
SAVE THE DATE
Saturday, November 16, 2024
Merced, CA 6:30 PM -10:00 PM
Please contact any one of the following people for tickets: Dori Silva, Hannah Cole, Stacy Jasso, Gina Rosas, Vikki Dompe, Robert Sylvester, Matt Jasso, Nikki Maddux, Jack Hurley
If you know of an individual/family/business you believe should be nominated, please complete the form below and submit it to Agribusiness Committee of Merced County PO Box 2731 Merced, CA 95344 by October 1, 2024 For questions call 209-675-6348, 209-675-6480 or 209-675-3458
Name of Nominee
Address of
Phone Number of Nominee
the
Nominated By_
A n a g e n c y t h a t ’ s o l d e r t h a n t h e d i r t y o u f a r m . C e l e b r a t i n g 1 1 2 y e a r s i n M e r c e d ( 2 0 9 ) 7 2 2 - 1 5 4 1 f a n d b 1 9 1 2 . c o m 7 2 5 W 1 8 t h s t . M e r c e d , C A L I C 0 3 5 8 3 2 7
2023 1st place winner
Prizes
1st place $1,000
2nd place $500
Open now through September 22 ENTER YOUR PHOTO!
Submit photos of fresh food, rural scenery, animals, crops, harvests, life, work, family or any inspiring photo captured on the farm or ranch.
Enter up to fi ve high-resolution photos for the general contest and one photo for the People’s Choice category at cfbf.com/photocontest.
3rd place $250
People’s Choice $100
Honorable Mentions $50 (six winners)
Budding Artists (ages 13 & younger)
1st place $250 2nd place $100
Voting for the People’s Choice category will be open from Sept. 24–30.
The contest is open to amateur photographers who are Farm Bureau members. Participants who are not Farm Bureau members can visit cfbf.com/join to learn about becoming a member. Go to cfbf.com/photocontest for contest rules.
Cayden Pricolo, Merced County
Beginning Farmers & Ranchers Mentorship Program
Enroll in a New Program Aimed at Preserving California’s Agricultural Heritage.
Beginning farmers and ranchers in California face many challenges in sustaining their agricultural operations. This program provides no-cost mentoring services from experienced farmers and ranchers to facilitate knowledge transfer.
Who can become a mentor?
Farmers (including specialty crop growers) and ranchers with more than 10 years of experience operating a production agriculture business in California can become mentors.
Benefits of becoming a mentor:
• Receive incentive pay ($50/hr) for up to six hours of time invested in mentoring a beginning farmer and/or rancher.
Who can become a mentee?
• Share knowledge, skills, and experience to help guide the long-term success of a beginning farmer and/or rancher in California.
Farmers (including specialty crop growers) and ranchers with one to 10 years of experience operating a production agriculture business in California can become mentees.
Benefits of becoming a mentee:
• Learn from experienced farmers and ranchers through six hours of mentoring.
• Attend biannual workshops alongside subject matter experts and peers.
• Enjoy annual subscriptions to the Ag Alert® weekly newspaper and Farm Bureau Extension classes.
• Work towards self-declared goals such as adopting new management practices, scaling production and distribution, learning established and emerging marketplaces, improving business accounting and finance fundamentals, and more.
To enroll as a mentor or mentee, complete an online application at cfbf.com/EOR. Information from the online application will be used to match mentors and mentees.
Funding for this Project was made possible by a grant/cooperative agreement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service and National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the USDA.
Richard "Bud" Rowland Roduner
February 8, 1929 – September 15, 2024
Richard "Bud" Rowland Roduner, age 95, of Merced, California passed away on Sunday, September 15, 2024. Bud was born in Merced, California on February 8, 1929. A Funeral Service for Bud will be held Monday, September 30, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral home, 1490 B Street, Merced, California 95341. A Graveside Service following will occur Monday, September 30, 2024 at 11:30 AM at Evergreen Memorial Park, 1480 B Street, Merced, CA 95341.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bud's memory may be made to Merced County Historical Society and Courthouse Museum, West 21st and N Street, Merced, California 95340 US, https://www.mercedmuseum.org; and Hinds Hospice, 410 West Main Street , Ste A, Merced, California 95340 US, hindshospice.org.
This award recognizes an industry or allied industry member who has contributed a significant technical advancement for the betterment of the California almond industry through research, innovation or facilitated adoption of practices
Aldo Juliano Sansoni
August 30, 1931 - August 23, 2024
Los Banos, California - Aldo Juliano Sansoni, 92, passed away on Friday August 23, 2024, at his home in Los Banos, California.
Mr. Sansoni was born on August 30, 1931, in Merced, California, to Italian immigrants Aniceto and Amelia Sansoni, who hailed from Tuscany, Italy. From his parents, he inherited a strong work ethic and a deep passion for agriculture. Aldo graduated from Merced High School, attended St. Mary's Preparatory College High School and served his country as a graduate of the U.S. Navy Technical Training School. Enlisting in the United States Navy in 1951 during the Korean Conflict, Aldo was stationed in Hawaii and provided leadership as a Petty Officer Third Class assigned to the Bureau of Ships Parts Technician and in this capacity, he worked with classified material and held a U.S. security clearance. Additionally, he served on the USS Ajax which headed to Japan and Indochina (later referred to as Vietnam), in a special assignment as an interpreter between the Italian regiment of the French Foreign Legion and American commander. Bringing credit and distinction to himself, Aldo received a Naval Commendation for developing a special method improvement program in 1953.
Upon his return to civilian life, Aldo married the love of his life Virginia Bisignani on February 20, 1955. Together, along with his sister-in-law and brotherin-law, Mary and Fred Petroni, they continued and expanded the legacy left to them by their Uncle Pasquale Bisignani. Aldo
continued to be a pioneer and entrepreneur, further developing a prolific farming career and a life infused with leadership, community and faith. However, Aldo was much more than just a farmer. He demonstrated a sincere commitment and enthusiasm for legislative water and soil conservation. He first joined his local soil conservation board in 1957 and lead its on-farm activities with local growers for over 30 years. In 1975, then Governor Ronald Reagan appointed him to serve on the State Soil Conservation Commission, earning recognition that same year as Soil Conservationist of the Year and he was reappointed to the Commission a year later by Governor Jerry Brown who named him Commissioner Chair. Additionally, he was a Member and Chairman for the State Resource Conservation Commission, Director of the San Luis Canal Company for 43 years, President of the San Luis Resource Conservation District, and spent 18 years on the Blue Diamond Grower Executive Board. Most recently retiring in 2023 from the Lower San Joaquin Levee District Board. He was affiliated with more than 15 other agricultural organizations throughout his lifetime and represented them proudly. Aldo took great pleasure in serving his community. He was a strong supporter of Catholic Charities of Merced, being named the Harvest of Hope Honoree in 2022. He spent eight years on the Mercy Hospital Foundation Board which resulted in the construction of Mercy Medical Center.
Aldo was the guiding light and patriarch of his family. He was extremely proud of his Italian heritage and for 17 years, he and Virginia spent one to two months each year renovating the family home in Vellano. In Italy, they built deep, lasting friendships and the people adored them for embracing their way of life.
Throughout his lifetime, Aldo demonstrated perseverance, steadfastness, honesty, and integrity, which garnered him immense respect and sincere
admiration from friends, colleagues and employees. He had the utmost respect for his employees who became his family. The men that currently worked for Aldo, are a result of multi-generational families that have been employed with Delta Farms and the family for decades. Up until a few months ago, Aldo was still an active decision maker along with his business partners of the family farming operation, The Pentagon Co. dba Delta Farms. The yellow hay trucks that are notoriously connected to Delta Farms were Aldo's pride and joy. Even during the years of volatile hay prices, fierce competition, and droughts, he beat down the pavement and kept the trucks on the road. At the age of 77 and after the loss of his dear friend and associate, Danny Cotta, Aldo became the sole hay salesman for Delta Farms Trucking Inc. once again until 2018 when he brought on and mentored a young dynamic entrepreneur who now owns Delta Farms Trucking Inc.
Aldo's love of farming extended to his personal half acre garden that was filled with heirloom tomatoes, Italian zucchini, basil, and parsley. Family and friends benefited from the produce of that garden and the fruit trees surrounding it every summer. Another passion was his love of woodworking. There was not anything that he couldn't fix, make from scratch or a project that he wouldn't tackle. Whether that was a decorative piece of furniture, antique farm equipment, vintage trucks, or restoring his 1930's Red Ryder wagon for his great granddaughter. With every wood project completed, he would proudly brand it with his AJS brand.
A supreme acknowledgement to his business partner Pat Gallichio, for his devotion, loyalty, and commitment for the past 50 years in assisting Aldo and his daughter Lisa Sansoni Menezes to continue the legacy of the ranch for the Sansoni family. Heartfelt appreciation to Kim Martinez, the Delta Farms office manager, and her children, who since joining the Delta team six years ago have
become part of the family and shown great care, thoughtfulness, and love. Aldo required 24-hour care since this past March. Our heartfelt thanks to the wonderful care team of ladies especially Ivonne Flores, Erica Cueva, and Veronica Torres. Their outstanding care, compassion and friendship offered his family peace of mind in keeping their promise to allow Aldo to live out his life at home on the Delta.
Aldo is preceded in death by his parents, Aniceto and Amelia Sansoni; his loving wife, Virginia; brother, Henry Sansoni and nephews, Keneth & Steven Sansoni. He is survived by his brother, Ezio Sansoni (Eleanor); his three daughters, Claudia Sansoni Ferretti, Lisa Sansoni Menezes (Patrick) and Sandra Sansoni (Bruce Ekmanian); grandchildren, Nina and Michael Ferretti, Nisa Dufur (Matthew) and his great-granddaughter Madison as well as many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.
In receiving the outpouring love and support during his family's time of loss, there have been heartfelt messages that captured the essence of who Aldo was. "His accomplishments changed agriculture; he was such a pioneer. Aldo has a legacy that many could wish for. His love for his family and his devotion to agriculture has set the bar for many to reach. He was a jack of all trades and master of many. He was a living history book, and he lived what he loved." Please remember Aldo's lifelong motto… "Conserve the land for it will feed you forever."
A Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM, Friday, September 13, 2024, at St Joseph's Catholic Church, Los Banos. Interment to follow at Los Banos District Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Catholic Charities of Merced, 336 W. Main St., Merced, CA 95340 Tax ID 941678938 or Mercy Medical Center Merced Foundation, 2740 M Street, Merced, CA 95340. Services conducted by Hillview Funeral Chapel, Gustine.
Price Controls
Just when we thought we had been regulated to death, Kamala Harris is planning to up the ante! With grocery prices through the roof, and inflation at astronomic levels, Americans are in desperate need of financial relief. Farmers and ranchers have been struggling to keep their businesses afloat and are looking for a light at the end of the tunnel. That tunnel looks very dark and Kamala’s proposed plan feels like a train barreling out of control.
Vice President Kamala Harris has revealed her new plan to regulate food prices in an effort to make groceries more affordable for American families. While the intention appears to be honorable, Harris’s proposal is packed with unintended consequences that threaten to exacerbate rather than improve the problems it’s trying to address.
Harris’s plan is a strategy to enforce price controls on groceries, supposedly to restrain inflation and ease the financial drain on consumers. On paper, this may seem like a practical approach. Nevertheless, price controls have historically proven to be an unreliable solution with unintended consequences. By setting artificial limits on prices, Harris’s plan risks creating a multitude of new problems, from shortages to reduced quality
of goods, increasing blackmarket activity and long-term economic instability.
Harris’s plan also increases concerns about its effect on small grocery stores, farmers and ranchers. If indeed they are forced to sell products below market value, these businesses will struggle even harder to survive. Inflation is obviously a compound problem, driven by a variety of causes, including supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, printing more money and global economic conditions. A simplistic price control measure does little to address these fundamental issues and may, in fact, divert attention from more effective, long-term solutions.
Harris’s price
control plan looks a lot like Socialism, and there is no room for Socialism in our free market system. Allowing businesses to take care of their business with less government control would be a great way to reduce inflation and grow our economy. In these unstable economic
times, I encourage farmers, ranchers and conservators to invite friends, neighbors and family members to join the collective voice of the Farm Bureau. Together, we can make our organization stronger than ever, one member at a time.
