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On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Edward Ring, director of water and energy policy at the California Policy Center, joined Nick Papagni for Part 1 of a two-part conversation about California's water infrastructure, rising costs and the policies affecting the state's agricultural economy. The program also featured Todd Burkdoll, field market development specialist with Valent USA, discussing crop protection ahead of the 2027 growing season. Ring argued that California's water challenges stem partly from decades of insufficient investment in major infrastructure projects. While acknowledging improvements in conservation and water-use efficiency, he said the state needs to reconsider its approach to expanding water supplies. "We stopped doing really big things 50 years ago," Ring said, pointing to the reservoirs, aqueducts and other infrastructure developed during the previous century. According to Ring, California has become increasingly dependent on infrastructure built for a much smaller population. He believes additional water storage and improved management of rainfall could help strengthen supplies for both agricultural and urban users. The discussion also explored California's regulatory environment and its effects on affordability. Ring argued that lengthy permitting processes, litigation and compliance requirements make it increasingly difficult to build infrastructure or expand businesses. He also questioned the growth of government spending and warned that rising costs could further undermine California's competitiveness. Looking ahead, Ring called for broader reforms that would make it easier to invest in water, energy, transportation and housing projects. Later in the program, Burkdoll discussed Valent USA's Intuity fungicide and its potential role in protecting grapes and strawberries from fungal diseases. With the possibility of increased rainfall during the coming winter and spring, Burkdoll emphasized the importance of preventative disease management, particularly against Botrytis. He explained that application timing and thorough spray coverage are critical to successful disease control, especially during sensitive crop development stages. The conversation also touched on the importance of rotating fungicides and following product label restrictions as growers prepare for the upcoming season. Hear Part 1 of the conversation with Edward Ring and the full interview with Todd Burkdoll in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Allie Cushnyr, senior agronomist for Holloway, and Abe Isaak, agronomist with AgroLiquid, discussed soil health, postharvest nutrition and preparing California crops for an uncertain winter. The program also highlighted USDA's newly announced $8 billion Harvest Fuel Relief program. The Harvest Fuel Relief program will provide one-time payments to eligible American farmers facing increased input costs and temporary market disruptions. According to the announcement discussed on the show, payments will be calculated using factors including planted acreage, production costs and commodity prices. Importantly for California agriculture, the program is expected to include eligible specialty crop producers, including fruit and vegetable growers. The conversation then turned to soil health as Cushnyr discussed Holloway's work with gypsum and other soil amendments. She explained how gypsum can help address soil sodium problems and improve water penetration, particularly when applied ahead of anticipated rainfall. Cushnyr also previewed Holloway's inaugural Soils in Action Field Day, scheduled for Thursday, October 22, at the company's Lost Hills operation. The event will feature eight speakers discussing topics including nitrogen utilization, precision agriculture and drone imagery. Growers and agricultural professionals can earn continuing education credits while learning about emerging soil management practices. Later, Isaak emphasized the importance of preparing permanent crops for the next growing season before winter arrives. "That is the beginning of the next season," Isaak said of postharvest nutrition. He encouraged growers to monitor nutrient levels through soil and tissue testing, particularly if substantial winter rainfall creates the potential for nutrient movement below the root zone. Isaak also discussed the challenges that insufficient winter chill can create for fruit and nut trees, explaining how inadequate dormancy may affect nutrient reserves and crop development the following spring. Both agronomists stressed that effective soil and nutrient management requires planning, especially as growers contend with unpredictable weather and rising production expenses. Hear the full conversations with Allie Cushnyr and Abe Isaak in the player above or on your favorite podcast app.

On today's episode of the AgNet News Hour, Richard Fordyce, USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation, discussed billions of dollars in upcoming farm safety-net payments and new opportunities for growers through federal conservation programs. The show also featured Gary Thompson, co-founder of GUSS Automation, who shared the latest developments in autonomous spraying technology. Fordyce announced that USDA is distributing approximately $13.8 billion nationwide through the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs, a substantial increase from approximately $1.9 billion distributed during the comparable period last year.   The increase reflects higher reference prices established through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, providing additional financial support to eligible producers facing lower commodity prices or production challenges.   Fordyce explained that payments are based on the 2025 crop year, with calculations reflecting local agricultural conditions. California rice growers are among the producers who may qualify, depending on their program enrollment and eligibility.   While enrollment for the 2025 crop has already closed, Fordyce encouraged producers to contact their local Farm Service Agency office about enrolling for the 2026 crop. Enrollment for the 2027 crop is scheduled to open November 5.   Fordyce also highlighted USDA's regenerative agriculture pilot program, which emphasizes soil health through conservation practices and soil testing. Unlike ARC and PLC, the regenerative program is administered through the Natural Resources Conservation Service.   Earlier in the program, Thompson discussed how GUSS autonomous sprayers are becoming more efficient through improved navigation software, simplified controls and detailed performance reporting.   Thompson said one supervisor can oversee as many as eight autonomous machines, helping growers address labor shortages while improving spraying efficiency.   New performance reports track spray coverage, application rates, refill times and equipment interruptions, allowing operators to identify opportunities to improve productivity.   According to Thompson, GUSS machines have now sprayed more than 3 million acres autonomously, demonstrating the growing role of automation in commercial agriculture.   Together, the interviews explore two important developments for California growers: expanded federal financial assistance and emerging technology designed to improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.   Hear the full conversations with Richard Fordyce and Gary Thompson in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Carl Workenthien, a pest control adviser (PCA) with Simplot in California's Central Valley, joined Nick Papagni to discuss an unusually challenging growing season, emerging pest pressures and the rising costs of keeping California crops productive. Working with growers throughout the Reedley, Dinuba, Kingsburg and surrounding areas, Workenthien advises producers of citrus, tree fruit, almonds, pistachios and grapes. With decades of experience in the industry, he said 2026 presented challenges unlike those he had encountered in previous seasons. "This year I've never seen a year so early as this one," Workenthien said, describing how unusually warm March weather accelerated crop development and compressed the time available for essential fieldwork. The accelerated season created difficulties for growers, agricultural workers and pest control advisers, particularly in labor-intensive crops requiring careful thinning and precise application timing. Pest management has also become increasingly complicated. Workenthien explained that changes in available crop protection products have allowed some previously minor pests to become more significant problems. He pointed to citrus mealybugs as an example, noting that growers now face greater difficulty controlling pests that were once managed with broader-spectrum products. Meanwhile, rising input costs are putting additional pressure on agricultural operations. Workenthien said sulfur prices have doubled over the past year, affecting an important material used in fertilizers, soil amendments and other agricultural applications. With fewer new crop protection products becoming available in California, he said PCAs must find creative ways to manage insects and diseases using the tools they still have. Looking ahead, Workenthien also discussed the potential effects of a wetter winter, including increased fungal disease pressure and the importance of preparing orchards for the next growing season. Despite the challenges, he remains optimistic about the industry's future. "I'm bullish on farming," Workenthien said, encouraging growers to maintain a positive outlook while continuing to adapt. The conversation also explores the challenges of marketing fresh tree fruit, the importance of maintaining tree nutrition and Workenthien's passion for officiating high school football. Hear the full conversation with Carl Workenthien in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

On today’s  episode of the AgNet News Hour, Kyle Kirkland, Central Valley businessman and candidate for California's 21st Congressional District, returned for Part 2 of his conversation with Nick Papagni. Kirkland discussed rising operating costs, government accountability and why he believes California's agricultural economy needs a different approach to regulation. Kirkland argued that California's regulatory environment is making it increasingly difficult for farmers and other businesses to remain competitive. He expressed concern that lawmakers often develop policies without adequately consulting the industries affected by them. For agriculture, Kirkland said that disconnect can be especially damaging. Growers already face rising expenses for labor, transportation, energy and other essential inputs, while competing against agricultural products from other states and countries. One of his biggest concerns is the future of smaller farming operations. "I look at small farmers as entrepreneurs," Kirkland said, explaining that smaller businesses often develop innovative solutions because they must find creative ways to compete. He warned that when regulatory costs become too burdensome, family farmers may decide to sell their land rather than continue operating, potentially reducing entrepreneurship and innovation throughout the industry. The conversation also addressed California's tax policies and government spending. Kirkland argued that the state should focus on reducing waste and improving accountability rather than continually increasing the financial burden on businesses and residents. Drawing on his experience managing private companies, Kirkland questioned whether California applies the same financial discipline to public spending that businesses must follow. Kirkland also returned to the issue of high-speed rail, suggesting that the project's difficulties demonstrate broader problems with California's approach to infrastructure development. Despite his criticisms, Kirkland emphasized that he remains optimistic about the Central Valley's future. He believes the region has tremendous agricultural and economic potential, provided elected officials work more closely with producers and prioritize practical solutions. Hear Part 2 of the full conversation with Kyle Kirkland in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

On today's episode of the AgNet News Hour, Kyle Kirkland, Central Valley businessman and candidate for California's 21st Congressional District, joined Nick Papagni to discuss the challenges facing California agriculture. In Part 1 of a two-part interview, Kirkland outlined his views on water management, affordability and government spending, arguing that the Central Valley needs stronger representation in Washington. Water was a central focus of the conversation. Kirkland argued that California's challenges are not simply about water availability but how existing resources are managed.   "We don't have a water problem. We have a water management problem," Kirkland said. He pointed to what he considers insufficient investment in water storage and distribution infrastructure, emphasizing the need for consistent policies that allow farmers to plan for the future. Kirkland also described agricultural production as a matter of national security, given the Central Valley's importance to the nation's food supply.   Affordability was another major concern. Kirkland said rising costs for housing, gasoline, electricity and food are affecting agricultural businesses and the communities that depend on them. He argued that California's regulatory environment has contributed to declining in-state production and increased dependence on outside suppliers.   Drawing on his business background, including his leadership at Steinway Musical Instruments and ownership of Fresno's Club One Casino, Kirkland said he would bring a problem-solving approach to Congress.   The conversation also turned to California's high-speed rail project. Kirkland questioned its escalating costs and argued that funding could be better directed toward water infrastructure, roads, energy and housing.   Kirkland also discussed the importance of reviewing existing regulations to determine whether they are achieving their intended goals. He suggested that more legislation should include provisions requiring lawmakers to revisit policies and evaluate their effectiveness.   Hear Part 1 of the full conversation with Kyle Kirkland in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Jamie Johansson, former president of the California Farm Bureau and candidate for California's 3rd Assembly District, returned for Part 2 of his conversation about the challenges facing California agriculture. The program also featured Patrick Williams of SkySense, who discussed how remotely operated drones are helping growers protect their farms. Johansson addressed several issues affecting California producers, including agricultural labor, energy costs, forest management and wildlife conflicts. He emphasized the need for policies that support a reliable agricultural workforce while maintaining immigration enforcement and providing greater certainty for employers. Affordability was another major concern. Johansson argued that California's regulatory environment and energy policies have increased operating costs for farmers and other businesses, making it harder for the next generation to remain in agriculture. The conversation also explored wildfire prevention and forest management. Drawing on his experience in Northern California, Johansson called for greater use of controlled burns and forest maintenance to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires. He questioned whether existing permitting processes and regulatory decisions are allowing communities to respond quickly enough. Johansson also discussed growing concerns among ranchers about wolf populations and livestock losses, arguing that wildlife management policies must better account for agricultural operations. Despite those challenges, Johansson expressed optimism about California's future, emphasizing the importance of agricultural communities working together and remaining engaged in state policy discussions. Later in the program, Patrick Williams of SkySense explained how the company uses remotely operated drones equipped with thermal cameras, lights and speakers to monitor agricultural properties. Williams said the technology can help identify potential theft or vandalism while also discouraging birds and other wildlife from damaging crops. With remote pilots operating the equipment, growers can schedule patrols without having to manage the drones themselves. The two conversations highlight different approaches to protecting California agriculture, from changes in public policy to emerging technology designed for everyday farm operations. Hear the full conversations with Jamie Johansson and Patrick Williams in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

On a recent episode of the AgNet News Hour, Jamie Johansson, former president of the California Farm Bureau and candidate for California's 3rd Assembly District, joined Nick Papagni to discuss the challenges facing California agriculture and why he believes farmers need a stronger voice in Sacramento. Johansson, an olive and citrus grower from the Oroville area, is seeking to represent a largely rural district covering portions of Butte, Glenn, Tehama, Sutter, Yuba and Placer counties. Drawing on his experience leading the California Farm Bureau, Johansson said agricultural communities need lawmakers who understand the financial and regulatory pressures facing producers. Water infrastructure emerged as a central topic. Johansson expressed frustration over delays in developing additional water storage, pointing to Sites Reservoir and the state's ongoing challenges with drought preparedness. He argued that California must do more to capture water during wet years and expand opportunities for groundwater recharge. Johansson also discussed the importance of holding state regulatory agencies accountable, including the State Water Resources Control Board and California Air Resources Board. He believes lawmakers should take a more active role in reviewing decisions that directly affect farmers and rural communities. The conversation also addressed the growing cost of agricultural production. Johansson described recently taking gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton to a Northern California rice harvest, where he demonstrated how fuel expenses can quickly add up for producers operating large equipment. Despite California's political divisions, Johansson emphasized that his experience working with lawmakers from both parties could help him advocate for agriculture if elected. He also raised concerns about California's state budget, energy costs and the increasing competition domestic growers face from imported agricultural products. The interview is the first part of a two-part conversation examining the future of California agriculture, state leadership and the policies shaping the industry's competitiveness. Hear Part 1 of the full conversation with Jamie Johansson in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

On a recent episode of the AgNet News Hour, Dan Janzen, Executive Director of Fellowship of Christian Farmers International (FCFI), joined Nick Papagni to discuss a growing dispute with the National FFA Organization over the group's exclusion from its upcoming national convention in Indianapolis. FCFI, founded in 1985, works with agricultural communities through disaster relief, youth outreach, farm shows and faith-based programs. The organization has participated in numerous state FFA conventions, connecting with students interested in agriculture, volunteer service and international agricultural development. According to Janzen, the organization was previously informed that it did not meet National FFA's diversity, equity and inclusion objectives. He said FCFI continued participating at the state level, but several state associations have since declined to allow the organization to exhibit. The dispute gained additional attention after Janzen said National FFA rejected FCFI's application to participate in this year's national convention because of its religious affiliation. Janzen questioned that decision, arguing that his organization's programs complement FFA's agricultural education and leadership mission. He also pointed to FCFI's work helping farmers recover from natural disasters and providing support to producers experiencing financial hardship. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has also drawn attention to the controversy, according to Janzen, who discussed efforts to resolve the disagreement before the convention. FCFI has submitted a demand letter requesting that National FFA reconsider its decision, with the organization seeking a response by October 14. Janzen said the group is receiving legal assistance as it evaluates its options. Despite the disagreement, Janzen emphasized that FCFI does not want to undermine FFA or discourage support for its programs. Instead, he hopes the controversy leads to a resolution that allows the organizations to work alongside one another. The interview explores the organization's concerns, its work with agricultural youth and what Janzen believes should happen next. Hear the full conversation with Dan Janzen in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Mark Woods, owner of Wildwood Trucking in Kingsburg, California, and energy expert Ellington Smith returned for Part 2 of their conversation about California’s rising transportation costs. The discussion explored how insurance, regulations and changing trucking technology could affect the state’s agricultural supply chain. For Woods, the financial pressure has reached a point where trucking companies can no longer absorb every increase. He revealed that Wildwood Trucking raised its transportation rates by 15 percent beginning October 1, following months of higher operating expenses. Even with that adjustment, Woods said the increase may not be enough. His company has been working directly with customers to determine what they can reasonably afford, highlighting the difficult balance between keeping transportation businesses operating and protecting the growers and businesses that depend on them. Insurance is another growing concern. Woods described rising deductibles, additional coverage requirements and the financial exposure trucking companies face from major liability claims. But technology could also change the industry’s future. Woods discussed how artificial intelligence is already entering commercial trucking through driver-monitoring cameras, collision-avoidance systems and automatic braking. He believes these technologies could play an increasingly important role in improving safety and efficiency, even without fully autonomous trucks. The conversation also turned to electric commercial vehicles. Woods questioned whether charging infrastructure, vehicle range and operating conditions are ready to support the demands of agricultural freight transportation, particularly on longer routes. Smith offered his perspective on California’s energy policies, regulatory costs and how the state’s next governor could influence the business environment for agriculture and transportation. Throughout the discussion, both guests emphasized the importance of keeping goods moving affordably. As Woods explained, trucking expenses do not stop with transportation companies. They can eventually affect farmers, food businesses and consumers. Hear Part 2 of the full conversation with Mark Woods and Ellington Smith in the player below or on your favorite podcast app.

On a recent episode of the AgNet News Hour, Mark Woods, owner of Wildwood Trucking in Kingsburg, California, joined the show to discuss rising diesel costs and why a new federal effort to provide fuel-tax relief may be difficult to put into practice for California truckers. Wildwood Trucking operates more than 60 trucks throughout California and Arizona, hauling many of the products and supplies that keep agriculture moving. That includes packaging materials, drip irrigation equipment, trees and fresh fruits and vegetables moving from fields to major packing houses.   Woods said increasing fuel costs are putting additional pressure on trucking companies already operating on tight margins. Wildwood has been forced to add some transportation surcharges, while Woods said he is also seeing other trucking companies go out of business.   The conversation came shortly after the White House announced an effort to temporarily allow dyed diesel fuel normally reserved for off-road uses to be used in qualifying on-road agricultural and trucking operations. The federal action also provides relief from the 24.4-cent-per-gallon federal excise tax on diesel.   Woods said the idea could provide some relief, but questioned how practical it will be in California. Among his concerns are whether dyed diesel would be readily available along trucking routes and how California will handle vehicles operating under the federal relief when state law normally restricts dyed fuel from highway use.   Beyond the immediate fuel-tax proposal, Woods discussed a much larger concern about the future of trucking in California. He said fuel prices, insurance, regulations and other operating expenses are making it increasingly difficult for companies to absorb additional costs without eventually passing them along to customers.   The interview also explores how those transportation costs ultimately affect farmers, packers and consumers—and why Woods believes California's trucking challenges extend well beyond the price displayed at the pump.   Hear the full conversation with Mark Woods on your favorite podcast app.

On a recent episode of the AgNet News Hour, Vicki Goudreau of the Whole Vine Festival joined the show to preview this year’s event at Fresno State and explain why the festival is about much more than grapes. Later in the program, Luke Lindberg, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, discussed new opportunities for U.S. agriculture through trade with China and other global markets. The Whole Vine Festival takes place October 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Fresno State, bringing together the Central Valley’s table grape, raisin and wine industries. The free event includes live music, food trucks, agricultural exhibits, samples and plenty of activities for families. For Goudreau, one of the biggest priorities is introducing children to the agriculture happening around them. This year’s kids’ activities include a petting zoo, planting and food preparation activities, honeybees and tractors for younger children. Her goal is to build pride in the Central Valley and help the next generation understand just how important agriculture is to the region. Goudreau also explained that the festival has a larger mission: changing the way people think and talk about the Central Valley. She believes celebrating the region’s agricultural legacy can help young people recognize the opportunities around them and encourage residents to become more invested in solving the Valley’s challenges. Later in the program, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg provided an update on the new “30 for 30” framework with China. Lindberg discussed potential opportunities for U.S. fruits, nuts, vegetables and other agricultural products, as well as an upcoming USDA trade mission to China. Lindberg also explained how USDA is working to remove technical and regulatory barriers that can prevent American specialty crops from reaching overseas customers. He shared where he sees some of the strongest opportunities for U.S. agriculture heading into the final months of the year. Hear the full conversations with Vicki Goudreau and USDA Under Secretary Luke Lindberg on your favorite podcast app.

On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Dave Puglia, president and CEO of Western Growers, joined us for Part 2 of a wide-ranging conversation about the future of California agriculture. From water infrastructure and rising production costs to automation and the next generation of farmers, Puglia offered his perspective on where the industry goes from here. Water remains one of the biggest pieces of that conversation. Puglia said California needs additional surface storage, canals, aqueducts and groundwater storage, but argued that simply building infrastructure isn't enough. The state also needs to address the regulatory system governing how that infrastructure is developed and operated. He also raised a bigger question about who benefits from agricultural water infrastructure—and who should pay for it. Puglia pointed to Sites Reservoir as an example, arguing that the economic activity, employment and tax revenue generated by productive farms should be considered part of the broader public benefit when projects are financed. The discussion then turned to technology. Puglia said agricultural automation has advanced considerably, particularly with automated weeders and thinners. Harvesting remains a much tougher challenge, especially for crops such as berries and Central Valley stone fruit. Western Growers is working with technology companies through its innovation efforts and Reservoir Farms, where new equipment can be tested under real farming conditions before growers make major investments. Puglia also discussed consolidation in California agriculture, what encourages him about younger farmers entering the business, and whether he believes California can change course after years of difficult agricultural policy.

California agriculture is facing a growing list of challenges, from rising labor costs and water restrictions to regulations, trade pressures and competition from imported produce. On the latest AgNet News Hour, Nick Papagni, “the Ag Meter”, and Josh sat down with Dave Puglia, president and CEO of the Western Growers Association, for a wide-ranging conversation about the issues affecting farmers and the future of the state’s agricultural industry. Puglia discussed the resilience of California farmers, pointing to new opportunities such as agave production as an example of growers adapting to difficult conditions. However, he also warned that California’s regulatory environment, high energy costs and labor challenges are making it increasingly difficult for agricultural businesses to remain competitive. He said agricultural organizations frequently work together in Sacramento to prevent harmful policies from moving forward, describing much of their work as trying to “keep pucks out of the net.” The conversation also examined California’s broader economic challenges. Puglia noted that people from across the economic spectrum are leaving the state, including working families and taxpayers who contribute to California’s budget. He contrasted California’s regulatory environment with Arizona, where growers can operate under a significantly different cost structure even when producing the same crops just a short distance away. Trade was another major topic. Puglia explained the complicated relationship California growers have with Mexico and Canada, noting that both countries are critical export markets while imports can also compete directly with California crops. He called for stronger labor and food-safety standards for Mexican agricultural production while recognizing the potential consequences of trade retaliation. The Farm Bill and SNAP negotiations were also discussed. Puglia said the proposed Farm Bill could be transformative for specialty crops by providing greater support for pest and disease research, mechanization and automation, crop insurance and more efficient economic assistance programs. He also advocated for bipartisan action on agricultural labor, including a regulated work-status pathway for longtime farm workers and improvements to the H-2A program. Puglia emphasized that farm labor should not be dismissed as “low-skilled” or “unskilled.” California’s specialty crops require significant skill, speed and precision, whether workers are harvesting melons, packing strawberries or carefully preparing table grapes. He encouraged lawmakers and political candidates to visit farms and experience the work firsthand. The discussion also touched on imported produce arriving during California’s growing season, potentially putting additional pressure on domestic growers. With California agriculture navigating so many challenges simultaneously, the conversation provides valuable insight into what growers are facing and what policies could shape the industry’s future. Listen to the full AgNet News Hour podcast to hear Nick Papagni and Josh’s complete interview with Dave Puglia and get his perspective on labor, water, trade, the Farm Bill, regulation and the future of California agriculture.

On a recent episode of the AgNet News Hour, Michael Jameson, director of sales at Morada Nut Company, returned for Part 2 of the conversation, focusing on how technology, changing retail habits and increased competition are reshaping the way California walnuts and other specialty crops are marketed. The competition for space in the produce department has changed dramatically during Jameson’s career. He said a typical produce section carried around 100 items when he entered the business roughly 40 years ago. Today, retailers carry around 500 items while choosing from thousands of products available worldwide. That makes consistency, quality, service and pricing increasingly important for suppliers trying to hold onto valuable shelf space. Jameson believes artificial intelligence could make that competition even tougher. Rather than buyers ordering extra inventory to avoid running out, Jameson said AI could increasingly analyze factors such as weather, holidays, traffic, store placement and sales per square foot to determine much more precisely how much product a retailer needs. He also expects AI-powered cameras and other technology to help retailers monitor inventory, product condition and pricing in real time. Technology is already reaching the packing side of the business. Morada Nut Company incorporated AI into one of its cherry packing lines this year, giving the operation an early look at how the technology could influence production and marketing decisions. Social media presents another opportunity. Jameson discussed technology that can deliver targeted promotions to consumers near a retailer, potentially alerting them that California walnuts or cherries are available nearby. For agricultural commodities competing for consumer attention, he said staying current with technology and marketing will become increasingly important. But Jameson doesn't believe technology should replace the traditional relationships that have long driven produce sales. He described how personal relationships with buyers once helped shippers understand markets and work through difficult seasons. Today, much of that communication takes place through email and digital ordering systems rather than phone calls and face-to-face conversations. His approach to the future is to combine both worlds: new technology and social media with old-fashioned customer relationships. Listen to Part 2 of the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.