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Have you ever come across a pest in pears that defies all expectations? In August 2023, a seasoned PCA with more than five decades in the orchards encountered a remarkable discovery: a flatheaded borer—typically a menace to wood—now turning its attention to pear fruit. This unprecedented find could signal a new era in pest behaviors and fruit crop challenges. 

The implications are still unfolding, and the full story is just beginning. In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Cindy Kron, UC Cooperative Extension IPM Advisor for Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino, and Lake Counties, unpacks what we know so far and what the future may hold. 

For more, pair this podcast with Dr. Kron’s insightful article previously featured in the June issue of The Adviser magazine. 

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A planthopper from Asia is marching across the U.S. — and California’s vineyards and citrus groves are squarely in its sights. The spotted lanternfly (SLF) has already devastated crops in the East, and its arrival in California is only a matter of time. But there’s hope. 

In this episode, Dr. Marco Molfini talks about scientific discoveries of previously undescribed species! We explore groundbreaking research from UC Riverside where scientists are racing against the clock to identify native egg parasitoids - tiny natural enemies - that could stop SLF before it gains a foothold in California. These findings have the potential to make a significant impact on California agriculture!

Listen to this episode as a companion piece to Dr. Mofini’s article in The Adviser.

Dr. Molfini's Article in the March 2025 issue of The Adviser magazine.

YouTube video: How to Make A Spotted Lanternfly Trap

PCAs go to www.salinas-summit.com for the 2025 Salinas Biological Summit, click on ‘Buy Tickets’, select ‘Get Tickets’ and then enter access code SBSPCA25. This enables PCAs to register at the discounted ticket rate.

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We’re talking all things CDFA SPM grant study! 

In this episode we provide news and updates to the CDFA grant-funded study for 2025; we chat with Jonathan Battig about his involvement in the 2024 study and what he’s excited about for 2025; we have a conversation with FMC's Issa Qandah about almonds (a newly added crop to the grant study in 2025!) and disease control solutions; and finally, we discuss the details the 2025 Grant Interns.
Learn how to participate in the study and earn $2,000 for doing so! 

CAPCA's CDFA Grant-Funded Study Information 
(Grant Intern emails can be found here)

2025 Grant Commercial

View a digital copy of the March 2025 issue of The Adviser magazine

FMC website

Additional music and sound effects obtained from https://www.zapsplat.com

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In this episode, we’re joined by Eric Peterson, a Compliance Specialist at Azzule Systems, a division of Primus GFS, to discuss his recent article in The Adviser magazine titled A PCA’s Introduction to Auditable Integrated Pest Management Plans. Eric breaks down what makes an IPM program auditable, why it's critical today, and how PCAs can guide growers in implementing effective plans. 

Azzule Systems website:  https://azzule.com/

PrimusGFS website:  https://primusgfs.com/

Crop Steward website:  https://cropsteward.com/

CAPCA Grant Information:  https://capca.com/grants/

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Join us in this special episode of Advice for the Adviser, where we dive into what to expect at CAPCA’s upcoming Annual Conference, commemorating its 50th Anniversary!
Tune in for engaging conversations with a stellar lineup of guests: Dan Wickham, Co-Chair of the Conference Committee and passionate CAPCA advocate; Scott Downey, Director of the Center for Food and Agricultural Business and professor of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University; and Dennis Donohue, Director of the Western Growers Center for Innovation & Technology.
Whether you’re a seasoned conference attendee or planning to join us for the first time, this episode is packed with valuable insights and information on what to expect from this landmark event. Don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate 50 years of progress and collaboration in the CAPCA community!

Additional music and sound effects obtained from https://www.zapsplat.com

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In this episode of Advice for the Adviser we talk to Rachel Lattimore, the General Counsel and Executive Vice President of Legal at CropLife America, and dive into some of the nuances of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Endangered Species Act (ESA) updates, regulations, and mitigations. 

CropLife America website: https://www.croplifeamerica.org/

EPA ESA webpage: https://www.epa.gov/laws-regulations/summary-endangered-species-act

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In our fourth full-length episode of Advice for the Adviser, we talk with Casey Creamer, President and CEO of California Citrus Mutual (CCM) about the 2024 seasonal outlook for citrus in California.
Our discussions include the challenges and innovations within the citrus industry, sustainable pest management strategies, and water insights. Whether you're a citrus PCA or eager to learn more about the crop, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge.

CCM website: https://www.cacitrusmutual.com/

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In our third full-length episode of Advice for the Adviser, we talk with Natalie Collins, President of the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) about the 2024 seasonal outlook for winegrapes in California.
Natalie shares her insights on navigating the dynamic world of winegrape marketing, sustainability practices, and leadership in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting, this episode is packed with valuable advice.

CAWG website: https://www.cawg.org/

Takeaways for PCAs:

1. Communicate frequently and often with your grower(s) about their particular situation.
2. Be an extra set of eyes for the grower with field scouting to help with early detection.
3. Be a resource for the grower by offering solutions.

CAWG 50th Anniversary celebration: November 21, 2024, in downtown Sacramento.

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In our second full-length episode of Advice for the Adviser, we talk with Daniel Hartwig, President of the California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) about the 2024 seasonal outlook for fruit in California. This episode brings you insightful discussions on advisory strategies tailored to the dynamic world of fresh produce.

In addition, we talk to Rodger Belisle, Syngenta's Agronomic Service Representative for Northern California, about crop protection and the upcoming season.

CFFA website: https://cafreshfruit.com/
Syngenta website: https://www.syngenta-us.com/

Additional music and sound effects obtained from https://www.zapsplat.com

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Alexis Silveira talks about CAPCA's 2024 continuing education opportunities, including 10 hours of free CE for members.