Seen & Herd

In this episode of Seen and Herd, we explore the latest developments surrounding the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in California’s dairy farms. Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies, discusses the virus's impact on the dairy industry and the rigorous biosecurity measures in place. It is important to note that pasteurized milk remains safe to consume.

More information & Resources: https://westernuniteddairies.com/issues/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-hpia-2/

For questions about this episode, please contact us at [email protected].

In this episode of Seen & Herd, we sit down with Justin Oldfield, the Executive Director of the California Cattle Council, to explore the council's efforts to strengthen the dairy industry's image in Sonoma County. We discuss the importance of educating the public on the critical role dairy farmers play in the local economy, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship.

Tune in to learn about the strategies being deployed to build trust and foster a deeper understanding between dairy producers and consumers.

See the campaign website and collateral materials at sonomacows.com. To learn more about the California Cattle Council, visit calcattlecouncil.org.

Follow the California Cattle Council on Social Media:

This week on Seen & Herd, Paul Sousa is on to discuss the CDFA's digester Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP) and Dairy Plus on the latest episode of Seen & Herd.

CDFA has allocated approximately $8 million for the digester program, $17.4 million for AMMP, and a substantial $58 million for Dairy Plus, funded by the USDA’s Climate Smart Commodities Grant. These programs aim to reduce methane emissions and improve water quality, providing grants for innovative manure management practices.

The extended application deadline of October 18 allows for thorough preparation and more competitive submissions.

For more information, visit the CDFA website or email Paul Sousa at [email protected].

On this episode of the Seen & Herd podcast, we are joined by Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh to discuss the Sonoma United initiative aimed at opposing Measure J in Sonoma County. We dive deep into the community toolkit, addressing the frequently asked questions surrounding the initiative. Key topics include the devastating economic impact of eliminating dairy production, the misleading nature of Measure J, and how Sonoma United is rallying the community to protect local agriculture and livelihoods. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the fight to preserve Sonoma County's agricultural heritage.

Resources:

In this episode of Seen and Herd, Amanda Russell sits down with Jeff Guy from PG&E to discuss the intricacies of the current rate structure for agricultural customers, particularly dairy farmers. They delve into the differences between agricultural, industrial, residential, and commercial rates, emphasizing the unique benefits of the agricultural rate category. Jeff clarifies recent changes to the rate structure and introduces pilot programs for real-time pricing. He also explains the factors contributing to rate increases and outlines strategies for dairy farmers to manage their electricity costs, including avoiding peak usage times and utilizing energy efficiency programs. Jeff also highlights PG&E’s efforts to handle power outages, prioritize critical loads, and provide customer service.

For more information about this episode, please reach out to us at [email protected]. For more information about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

We have a big episode on Seen & Herd this week!

Tiffany LaMendola of Ever.Ag, is joined by Katie Burgess and Kathleen Wolfley for an in-depth May Milk Production Report, highlighting a 0.9% year-over-year decline in U.S. milk production, influenced by cow numbers and regional variations.

WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh is back on the podcast this week, discussing the legislative and constitutional deadlines approaching in June, particularly focusing on the budget negotiations and the potential for bonding packages for critical infrastructure.

For more information about this episode, reach out to us at [email protected].

This week on Seen & Herd, join WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh as she takes the host chair to welcome Dr. Michael Payne. Together, they delve into the latest updates and insights on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).

For questions about the topic or the podcast, reach out to us at [email protected].

In this episode of Seen and Herd, Amanda Russell, the communications consultant for Western United Dairies, is joined by Anja Raudabaugh for an update on the Avian Influenza situation. They discuss the latest federal orders from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) concerning mandatory testing and reporting requirements for the interstate movement of lactating dairy cattle. Anja provides crucial clarifications, addresses common questions from farmers, and outlines available financial support and resources for affected farms. The conversation also covers new biosecurity measures and recommendations for minimizing influenza transmission at dairy cattle exhibitions.

This week on Seen & Herd, we provide an important update on the legislative landscape in Sacramento, focusing on the status of various bills and their implications for the agricultural sector. Our guest, Anja Raudabaugh, delves into the details of two key bills: AB 2436, concerning cattle inspection fees, and AB 2079, which aims to regulate high-capacity wells. We discuss the legislative process, the current fiscal constraints, and the ongoing negotiations to ensure fair and effective regulations. Tune in to learn about the critical developments and how they impact us.

If you have questions about this episode, please reach out to us at [email protected] or at [email protected].

>See the Letter of Support for AB2436: https://westernuniteddairies.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/AB2436_Cattle_Orgs_Support_Asm.Ag_._4.1.24-1.pdf

In this episode of Seen & Herd, we welcome Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh to discuss California's May budget revise. The state faces a significant $28 billion deficit, impacting numerous programs. We delve into the slowed legislative cycle and the urgent budget cuts, highlighting the impact on K-12 education, housing, homelessness, climate change, and social safety nets. Specific focus is given to the Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP), which faces funding cuts but still offers potential through federal matching funds. The episode also covers the precarious state of water projects and the challenges the oversubscribed Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund poses. Tune in for insights on the tough financial decisions and their implications for agriculture and environmental programs.