The Ag Net News Hour’s Lorre Boyer and Nick Papagni, “The AgMeter” highlighted some news from China about a change in a trade leadership could be a turning point when it comes to negotiating tariffs between the U.S. and China.  Nick then had an interview with Kings River Packing regarding Georgia citrus growers coming to California and touring their operation. The California citrus market is thriving, with Kings River Packing handling over 22 million boxes. The company faces challenges from tariffs, particularly in Canada, but sees opportunities in domestic product demand. The lemon market is expected to improve, with increased demand in summer. The tour hosted just over 20 visitors.

​The USDA is considering significant changes to its Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation, and Risk Management Offices, including potential closures and staff consolidation. A proposal from the Office of Management and Budget aims to cut fiscal 2026 funding, reduce research and conservation efforts, and trim program budgets. The plan includes moving staff from Washington, D.C., to rural areas and forming state committees to oversee local operations. Concerns have been raised about the impact on county committees and the ability to accommodate farmers without internet access. The 2018 Farm Bill requires USA to notify Congress before closing any FSA office.

​This segment is brought to you by the highlighted some news from China about a change in a trade leadership could be a turning point when it comes to negotiating tariffs between the U.S. and China. Nick then had an interview with Kings River Packing regarding Georgia citrus growers coming to California and touring their operation. The California citrus market is thriving, with Kings River Packing handling over 22 million boxes. The company faces challenges from tariffs, particularly in Canada, but sees opportunities in domestic product demand. The lemon market is expected to improve, with increased demand in summer. The tour hosted just over 20 visitors.

The USDA is considering significant changes to its Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation, and Risk Management Offices, including potential closures and staff consolidation. A proposal from the Office of Management and Budget aims to cut fiscal 2026 funding, reduce research and conservation efforts, and trim program budgets. The plan includes moving staff from Washington, D.C., to rural areas and forming state committees to oversee local operations. Concerns have been raised about the impact on county committees and the ability to accommodate farmers without internet access. The 2018 Farm Bill requires USA to notify Congress before closing any FSA office.

This segment is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. In the latest episode of the Almond Journey podcast, Chuck Fleck of Sierra Gold Nurseries discusses the challenges and advancements in almond breeding. He explains the slow cycle of almond hybridization, which can take up to three years to test for self-fertility. Fleck highlights the importance of breeding for resistance to the navel orange worm, which caused significant industry issues in 2023. He also notes the introduction of new self-fertile varieties like Shasta and Pyrenees, which have improved crop management but can be demanding on rootstocks. The conversation underscores the need for resilient almond varieties as pesticide resistance and regulatory changes may impact future production.California. In the latest episode of the Almond Journey podcast, Chuck Fleck of Sierra Gold Nurseries discusses the challenges and advancements in almond breeding. He explains the slow cycle of almond hybridization, which can take up to three years to test for self-fertility. Fleck highlights the importance of breeding for resistance to the navel orange worm, which caused significant industry issues in 2023. He also notes the introduction of new self-fertile varieties like Shasta and Pyrenees, which have improved crop management but can be demanding on rootstocks. The conversation underscores the need for resilient almond varieties as pesticide resistance and regulatory changes may impact future production.