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YOUR SOURCE FOR CAWG AND INDUSTRY NEWS
FOR CAWG MEMBERS ONLY
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This Week's eNews Includes:
CAWG News:
- One-Year Farm Bill Extension Passes Through Congress
- State Scientists on Strike
- CAWG's November Issue of The Crush Newsletter
- CAWG Director Named 2023 Agribusiness Person of the Year by Lodi District Chamber of Commerce
Industry News:
- California Farmers are Reeling from Loss of Powerful Congressional Allies
- New Economic Study Funded on Costs of Pierce's Disease in California
- USDA Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program Webinar
- The Duckhorn Portfolio Announces an Agreement to Acquire Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards
- One of the Worst Powdery Mildew Years in Recent Memory
- A Guide to Grapevine Red Blotch Disease and its Global Wine Production Impacts
Upcoming Events:
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Grower Options for Contract Matters Webinar
- Crop Insurance 101: Your Guide to Policy Basics Webinar
- Crop Insurance Enhancements: Your Guide to Optimizing Coverage Webinar
- New CA Laws for 2024: What Employers Need to Know Webinar
- Guaranteed Farming Revenue: Your Guide Through Whole Farm Revenue Protection Coverage Webinar
- 2024 Awards of Excellence Reception
- CAWG PAC Event During Unified Wine & Grape Symposium
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Happy Thanksgiving!
On behalf of the CAWG board of directors and staff, we wish you a healthy and happy Thanksgiving. There will be no eNews produced next week (November 23), but will resume on November 30.
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One-Year Farm Bill Extension Passes Through Congress
In an effort to avoid a government shutdown, the House approved a stopgap spending bill that included a one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill. The temporary funding package was overwhelmingly approved by the Senate (87-11). President Biden is expected to
sign the legislation.
The 2018 Farm Bill officially lapsed on September 30. If not extended, it would have caused significant disruptions to programs impacting millions of Americans. The 2018 Farm Bill, enacted before the pandemic, did not anticipate the heightened global unrest
around natural resources and the increased inflation levels experienced by the United States in recent years. CAWG is optimistic that Congress will pass a comprehensive Farm Bill in 2024.
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State Scientists on Strike
With strikes resolved for auto workers, actors, and screenwriters, one might think the Hot Labor Summer of strikes might be over. However, labor disputes continue, as the most recent labor union impasse involves the California Association of Professional Scientists (CAPS) and the Newsom Administration.
CAPS is currently conducting a 3-day rolling strike. Select worksites have been called to “walk out on strike on November 15th and 16th. On November 17th, all State Scientists throughout California will be on strike.”
After the three-day strike, it's not clear what will occur if there is a continued impasse. But, Lorena Gonzalez, who heads the California Labor Federation states the strike is “California’s first-ever civil servant strike,” and is calling for aggressive action. (NOTE: A few CSU and UC campuses have recently experienced or are currently experiencing strikes.)
CAPS's 3,300 member scientists work for several state agencies including CDFA, the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR), the Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Department of Water Resources, the State Water Resources Control Board, and regional water boards. The most recent contract expired in July 2020.
With the state facing a $32 billion budget deficit in 2024-25, and continued budget deficits for the next few years, it is unclear how the Newsom Administration will reach an agreement with labor union negotiators who are demanding higher levels of compensation for their members.
Interestingly, DPR is currently recruiting to hire a director for its Sustainable Pest Management program and is offering a salary range of up to $235,000 annually and a very generous benefits package. At the same time, DPR is also seeking an increase in the mill tax assessment to cover ongoing and escalating operational costs at DPR.
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CAWG's November Issue of The Crush Newsletter
Earlier this week, the November issue of The Crush Newsletter was released.
ISSUE HIGHLIGHTS
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Feature Story: 2023 Harvest Progress Report
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Federal Focus: Endangered Species Act Obligations Endanger Use of Crop Protection Toos
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State Update: 2023 Legislative Summary
- CAWG Elects New Officers and Directors
- Lack of Public Review
- Successful CAWG Pac Dinner at Guantonios in Lodi
- CAWG PAC Event at Ace of Spades During Unified Wine & Grape Symposium
- CAWG Upcoming Webinars
- Employers Must Use the Revised Form I-9
- CSWA Seeks Winegrowers with Dry Farming Experience or Interest
- Ironic Burn
- CAWG Awards of Excellence Reception
- CAWG Foundation Scholarships - Now Online
- CAWG Opportunities During Unified
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CAWG Associate Member Spotlight: Allied Grape Growers
Ads from G3 and Peterson Cat.
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CAWG Director Named 2023 Agribusiness Person of the Year by Lodi District Chamber of Commerce
Aaron Lange, VP of Viticultural Operations at Lange Twins Winery and current CAWG Director (and past chair), was recognized by the Lodi District Chamber of Commerce as the 2023 Agribusiness Person of the Year.
Throughout his career, Aaron has been a leader in adopting and implementing sustainable growing practices. His efforts in local, regional, and state advocacy have made a profound impact on California's winegrape industry.
Aaron will be recognized during the Lodi District Chamber of Commerce's Annual Dinner on December 1 at Hutchins St. Square in Lodi.
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California Farmers are Reeling from Loss of Powerful Congressional Allies
The political landscape surrounding California agriculture is changing with the passing of Senator Dianne Feinstein and the removal of Representative McCarthy from the speakership. These political shifts have created a void for advocates of the state's agricultural interests. Without figures like Feinstein and McCarthy, who were influential champions for agriculture, there is uncertainty about how to navigate key issues, especially concerning water resources.
The absence of strong agricultural advocates in Congress can be a threat to the industry's political future, potentially impacting funding and access to water. This situation reflects broader concerns about California's diminishing influence in Congress. The state's massive agricultural sector, being the nation's largest food producer, is particularly vulnerable to these changes.
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New Economic Study Funded on Costs of Pierce's Disease in California
CDFA's Pierce's Disease (PD) and Glassy-winged Sharpshooter (GWSS) Board approved $75,000 for an updated economic study with the working title: "Costs of Pierce's Disease in the California Grape and Wine Industry and Benefits from the PD Control Program and R&D."
"The reason we want to start this project now is we would like to obtain and highlight the study's results in time for the next grower referendum in 2025," said Matthew Kaiser of the CDFA PD Control Program who presented the proposal to the PD/GWSS Board.
As required by state law, wine, and grape industry members who pay annual PD assessments must vote in a referendum held every five years to continue the operation and funding of the PD/GWSS Board for its research and outreach activities.
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USDA Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program Webinar
CDFA is holding a briefing focused on the USDA Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program (FLSP) for farmers and producers in California. The webinar will be held on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 10:00 a.m.
USDA announced $65 million in grants available for agricultural employers through the FLSP. The pilot helps employers address workforce needs in agriculture, promotes a safe and healthy work environment for farm workers, and supports migration pathways for workers, including for H-2A workers from Northern Central America. The program is open to all agricultural employers as defined in Section 9 Definitions of the NFO.
The webinar will cover topics including: eligibility, competitiveness, recruitment, permissible uses for the grant, and more.
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The Duckhorn Portfolio Announces an Agreement to Acquire Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards
Earlier today, The Duckhorn Portfolio, Inc. announced it has reached an agreement to acquire Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards for approximately $400 million.
Established in 1973, Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards released its first wine in 1981 and has grown to be one of California's best-known luxury Chardonnay brands. Known for its refined style and commitment to merging traditional and innovative winemaking techniques, Sonoma-Cutrer owns six estate vineyards spanning 1,121 acres in both the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast appellations.
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One of the Worst Powdery Mildew Years in Recent Memory
Wine grape growers statewide have struggled with Powdery Mildew this season due to the substantial influx of moisture. Powdery Mildew can aggravate issues related to bunch rot, and once present, it becomes difficult to eliminate.
An article published by AgNet West underscores the importance of implementing a comprehensive disease management program as we approach 2024. The publication suggests that growers consider a more robust management program heading into next season. Vineyards will have a significant amount of inoculum and forecasts are calling for another wet winter. Starting with a strong program and evaluating the conditions as the season goes on could be necessary to avoid losses experienced this year.
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A Guide to Grapevine Red Blotch Disease and its Global Wine Production Impacts
An international team led by Dr. Björn Krenz from the Department of Plant Viruses at the Leibniz Institute DSMZ-German has summarized the latest research findings and questions surrounding Red Blotch Disease and its global spread.
The study suggests that Red Blotch Disease, first identified in California has likely spread through the transport of infected cuttings. In addition, the three-cornered alfalfa hopper (Spissistilus festinus) is identified as a potential carrier. To combat this spread, researchers recommend the use of clean material and, in heavily affected areas, the complete removal of infected vines.
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Upcoming Events and Trainings | |
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Grower Options for Contract Matters Webinar
Join CAWG for a webinar addressing opportunities available to growers through the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Market Enforcement Branch (MEB). The mission of the MEB is to objectively enforce laws enacted to ensure confidence and stability in the agricultural marketplace and to protect against unfair business practices between producers, handlers, and processors of California farm products. This webinar will specifically cater to those who have encountered issues with their winery buyers, particularly related to contract matters.
When and Where:
Register
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Crop Insurance 101: Your Guide to Policy Basics Webinar
What can crop insurance do for you? If you are new to crop insurance or have been purchasing it for years, it is always important to review your policy to ensure you are getting the most out of it.
The winegrape industry has seen its share of turbulence over the past two years. From hurricanes, to smoke exposure, to extreme drought and lighter yields. With the 2023 harvest under our belts, it is time to start planning for next year. An important part of your 2024 planning process is risk management of your most valuable asset - your winegrapes.
When and Where:
Register
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Crop Insurance Enhancements: Your Guide to Optimizing Coverage Webinar
Whether you are new to crop insurance, or you’ve been purchasing it for many years, CAWG is committed to bringing you education on the most current industry topics. Join CAWG to learn more about how to enhance your crop insurance coverage, what qualifies under the Federal Crop Insurance program as a claim, and how various claims scenarios are handled.
When and Where:
Register
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New CA Laws for 2024: What Employers Need to Know Webinar
Join CAWG for a webinar providing a roundup of state labor legislation, guidelines, and regulations that recently took effect or will take effect in January 2024.
Governor Newsom signed some significant labor and employment legislation with which California employers will need to comply. Learn how these changes may apply to your operation and how best to ensure compliance.
When and Where:
Register
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Guaranteed Farming Revenue: Your Guide Through Whole Farm Revenue Protection Coverage Webinar
Want to protect your crop against price and market losses? Maybe Whole Farm Revenue Protection is for you!
Join CAWG to learn more about Whole Farm Revenue Protection and if it is right for your operation.
When and Where:
Register
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2024 Awards of Excellence Reception
Join CAWG to honor Sangiacomo Family Vineyards as its 2024 Grower of the Year and California Secretary of Agriculture, Karen Ross, as its 2024 Leader of the Year.
All CAWG members are welcome to join in celebrating the remarkable achievements and invaluable contributions of both the Sangiacomo Family and Secretary Ross to California's winegrape industry.
The awards reception will follow the Unified Wine and Grape Symposium welcome reception at the Sheraton Grand, Sacramento. Registration for the Unified Wine and Grape Symposium is not required and there is no fee for attending the reception.
When and Where:
- January 23, 6 PM, Sheraton Grand, Sacramento
Sponsorship Opportunities are available, contact Jenny Devine for more information.
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CAWG PAC Event During Unified Wine & Grape Symposium
Join CAWG for a rockin' good time while supporting the CAWG PAC during the Unified Wine and Grape Symposium at Ace of Spades!
Last year's event was a sold-out success so we are bringing it back this year. Live music will be on tap by Remedy 7, featuring our very own Michael Miiller (CAWG's Director of Government Relations) on drums.
When and Where:
- January 24, 8 PM, Ace of Spades, Sacramento
Sponsorship Opportunities are available, contact Jenny Devine for more information.
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