Shows
AgNet News HourJamie Johansson Says 2026 Is a Turning Point for Northern California and AgricultureThe February 16 edition of the AgNet News Hour kicked off a week of rain, World Ag Expo momentum, and a major political conversation as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill sat down with Jamie Johansson, candidate for California’s District 3 Assembly seat. Johansson, a first-generation farmer and former President of the California Farm Bureau, made it clear that 2026 could be a defining year for agriculture, energy, and water policy in the Golden State.
Johansson farms olives and citrus in Butte County and has spent years advocating for growers in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. Now, with current As...
2026-02-1648 minAgNet News HourEdward Ring Says Energy Abundance Could Transform California’s Water and Agriculture FutureThe February 13 edition of the AgNet News Hour wrapped up a powerful week of policy conversations with Part Two of the in-depth interview featuring Edward Ring, Director of Energy and Water Policy at the California Policy Center. While earlier discussions focused heavily on water, this episode zeroed in on energy, oil production, electricity pricing, and California’s economic future, all through the lens of common-sense reform.
Ring tackled a growing concern in California: refinery closures and the long-term outlook for in-state oil production. As refineries begin shutting down or repurposing to import refined gasoline instead of processing Ca...
2026-02-1348 minAgNet News HourEdward Ring: Dredging the Delta Could Unlock Millions of Acre-Feet for CaliforniaThe February 12 edition of the AgNet News Hour featured one of the most detailed and solutions-driven conversations of the year as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill welcomed Edward Ring, Director of Energy and Water Policy at the California Policy Center. Broadcasting during the final day of World Ag Expo, the discussion centered on a bold but practical idea: dredging the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta to increase water supply, reduce conflict, and restore environmental balance.
Ring argued that California’s water crisis is not simply about scarcity — it’s about management. Since the 1970s, environmental litigation halted large-scale dredg...
2026-02-1248 minAgNet News HourJohn Duarte Lays Out a Blueprint for Water Abundance as World Ag Expo Hits Full SwingThe February 11 edition of the AgNet News Hour delivered one of the most wide-ranging and policy-heavy conversations of World Ag Expo week as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill wrapped up their two-part interview with John Duarte, President of Duarte Nursery. Broadcasting during day two of the World Ag Expo in Tulare, the show focused squarely on California’s water future, immigration reform, and why abundance, not scarcity, should guide state policy.
Duarte wasted no time challenging the idea that California lacks water. Instead, he argued the state suffers from failed management, not natural shortage. He outlined three near-term solutions th...
2026-02-1148 minAgNet News HourWorld Ag Expo Week Begins as John Duarte Talks Almond Innovation, Water, and California’s FutureThe February 10 edition of the AgNet News Hour kicked off a big week for California agriculture as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill broadcast on the eve of the World Ag Expo, often called the Super Bowl of farm shows. With rain in the forecast and growers preparing to head to Tulare, the show blended excitement, innovation, and serious conversations about water, policy, and the future of farming in the Golden State.
Papagni opened the program from the road, reminding listeners that the first day of World Ag Expo is traditionally the busiest, rain or shine. With more than 1,200 vendors...
2026-02-1048 min
AgNet WestCalifornia Walnuts Poised for Growth as Global Markets AlignCalifornia walnuts are entering a pivotal moment—one defined by strong production, expanding global demand, and renewed optimism across the industry. In a wide-ranging conversation on Ag Meter, Robert Verloop, CEO ...
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2026-02-0900 minAgNet WestMaximizing Nitrogen Efficiency in Permanent CropsNitrogen management remains one of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—for California growers managing permanent crops. In today’s Agronomic Minute, Dylan Rogers, Sales Account Manager for AgroLiquid, shared practical strategies to help ...
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2026-02-0900 minAgNet WestMichigan Agriculture: A National Leader in Diversity, Cherries, and InnovationMichigan agriculture stands as one of the most diverse and productive farming systems in the United States. From fruit and dairy to beans, potatoes, and wine grapes, the state consistently ...
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2026-02-0900 minAgNet WestMatching Nutrient Demand Curves Improves Efficiency and Nut QualityMatching Nutrient Demand Curves: Proper timing is one of the most important factors in building an efficient and effective fertility program for California tree crops. In today’s Agronomic Minute, Dylan ...
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2026-02-0600 minAgNet News HourRichard Kreps Says Pistachios, Water, and Common Sense Must Lead California ForwardThe February 9 edition of the AgNet News Hour kicked off a powerful week of conversations focused on pistachios, water, and California agriculture’s future as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill welcomed Richard Kreps, a longtime California pistachio grower and industry leader. With the World Ag Expo just days away, Kreps delivered a no-nonsense assessment of where agriculture stands — and where policy continues to fall short.
Kreps opened by reflecting on the record-setting pistachio crop California growers just delivered. While early projections suggested a crop nearing two billion pounds, final numbers came in just over 1.5 billion pounds, stil...
2026-02-0648 minAgNet News HourCalifornia Walnuts Gain Momentum as Robert Verloop Sees a Turning Point for GrowersThe February 6 edition of the AgNet News Hour delivered welcome optimism for tree nut growers as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill sat down with Robert Verloop, CEO and Executive Director of the California Walnut Commission and Board. After several difficult years marked by low prices, rising costs, and market uncertainty, Verloop believes the walnut industry is finally turning a corner — both at home and abroad.
Verloop opened with a reminder of California’s dominance in walnuts. Nearly 99 percent of U.S. walnuts are grown in California, and roughly 65 percent of production is exported. That global reach has...
2026-02-0648 minAgNet WestJohn Holmes and the Birth of Agricultural EducationJohn Holmes is an important figure in American agriculture history, recognized for his role in advancing scientific agriculture and formal agricultural education in the United States. His work helped establish ...
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2026-02-0600 minAgNet WestEarly Innovations That Transformed American AgricultureFrom Handmade Tools to a New Agricultural Era Prior to the 1800s, American farmers and ranchers relied almost entirely on handmade tools and equipment. These implements were often crafted locally ...
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2026-02-0500 minAgNet News HourJeff Aiello Says California’s Wolf and Water Crises Are Symptoms of Broken Environmental PolicyThe February 5 edition of the AgNet News Hour featured one of the most candid and wide-ranging conversations of the year as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill sat down with Jeff Aiello, a 13-time Emmy Award-winning cinematographer, PBS host, and founder of 1830 Entertainment. Aiello, best known for his work on American Grown: My Job Depends on Ag and Outside Beyond the Lens, shared what he has learned firsthand while documenting California agriculture, wolves, forests, and water policy.
Aiello explained that his recent wolf documentaries were not planned around a narrative — they unfolded in real time. While filming in...
2026-02-0548 minAgNet WestWorld Ag Expo 2026 Returns to Tulare With Global Innovation, Education, and Community ImpactWorld Ag Expo 2026 Is Almost Here World Ag Expo 2026 is set to return to Tulare, California, on February 10, 11, and 12, and excitement is building fast as ...
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2026-02-0400 minAgNet WestZone-Based Nutrition Helps Tree Crop Growers Fine-Tune Fertility ProgramsAs California growers look for ways to improve efficiency and manage input costs, zone-based nutrition is becoming an increasingly valuable tool in permanent crops. In today’s Agronomic Minute, Dylan Rogers, ...
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2026-02-0400 minAgNet WestWhen American Farming Shifted From Hand Power to HorsepowerFrom Hand Labor to Heavy Work: Early American Farming Agricultural production in the United States continued to expand in the early 1800s, but farming remained an intensely labor-driven endeavor. Despite ...
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2026-02-0400 minAgNet News HourWorld Ag Expo Countdown Begins as Megan Lausten Previews the Biggest Farm Show on EarthThe February 4 edition of the AgNet News Hour was all about gearing up for what many farmers call the Super Bowl of agriculture — the World Ag Expo, set for February 10–12 in Tulare. Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill were joined by Megan Lausten, Marketing Manager for the World Ag Expo, who offered a behind-the-scenes look at the scale, impact, and excitement surrounding the world’s largest annual agricultural trade show.
Lausten explained that preparations for the event are already in full swing, with massive equipment beginning to roll onto the grounds weeks ahead of opening day. More than 1...
2026-02-0448 minAgNet WestMaking Smart Fertility Adjustments Without Losing Sight of the Long TermAdjusting fertility programs is a normal part of managing California tree crops—but knowing when to make changes and when to stay steady can make a big difference in long-term production. ...
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2026-02-0300 minAgNet News HourRick Roberti Calls on Californians to Get Involved as Cattle Industry Faces a CrossroadsThe February 3 edition of the AgNet News Hour wrapped up a powerful three-part interview series with Rick Roberti, President of the California Cattlemen’s Association, as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill explored what lies ahead for California agriculture — and why complacency could be its greatest threat. The conversation blended hard truths about politics, land use, and regulation with a clear call to action for farmers, ranchers, and ag supporters statewide.
Roberti explained that cattle production remains one of the least automated and most hands-on segments of agriculture. Raising beef is a three-year investment, from breeding to harvest, requ...
2026-02-0348 minAgNet WestHow Minneapolis Mills Produced Nearly All of the Nation’s FlourWhen people think about America’s agricultural powerhouses, Minnesota is not always the first state that comes to mind. Yet in 1915, Minnesota stood at the very center of the U.S. ...
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2026-02-0300 minAgNet WestHow Mechanization Transformed Corn Farming in AmericaA Snapshot of Agricultural Progress American agriculture has always been shaped by innovation, but few changes were as transformative as the mechanization of farming. In this American Agriculture History Minute, ...
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2026-02-0200 minAgNet News HourRick Roberti California Cattle Threats: Wolves, Water, and Workforce
The February 2 edition of the AgNet News Hour continued the powerful, multi-part conversation with Rick Roberti, President of the California Cattlemen’s Association, as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill dug deeper into what ranchers are really facing on the ground. From unchecked predators to workforce uncertainty and food security, Roberti warned that California is drifting dangerously far from common sense — and the consequences are already showing.
Roberti explained that California’s wolf problem has moved well beyond theory and into daily reality. In regions like Sierra Valley, ranchers documented more than 100 livestock kills...
2026-02-0248 minAgNet WestCalifornia Cattle Challenges & Opportunities: Insights from Rick RobertiCalifornia Cattle Industry Faces Unprecedented Challenges California ranchers are navigating a complex landscape of predation, water management, urban expansion, and political pressures. Rick Roberti, president of the California Cattlemen’s Association, ...
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2026-01-3000 minAgNet WestSpring Fertigation Strategies to Improve Efficiency in Tree CropsAs irrigation systems come back online in the spring, California tree crop growers have an important opportunity to fine-tune their fertility programs. In a recent Agronomic Minute, Dylan Rogers, Sales ...
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2026-01-3000 minAgNet WestSonoma County Agriculture: Challenges, Advocacy, and Community EngagementAgriculture in Sonoma County is thriving, but not without challenges. Dayna Ghirardelli, Executive Director of the Sonoma County Farm Bureau, shared an inside look at local farming, advocacy, and community ...
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2026-01-3000 minAgNet WestEarly Spring Moves That Protect Yield in Tree Fruit and GrapesThe Growing Edge is brought to you by Valent USA, the makers of Seize IGR for long-lasting scale control. Early spring is a narrow window where the right decisions can ...
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2026-01-3000 minAgNet News HourRick Roberti Warns California’s Wolf Crisis Is Devastating the Cattle IndustryThe January 30 edition of the AgNet News Hour delivered one of the most graphic and hard-hitting conversations yet on California’s escalating wolf crisis, as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill continued their in-depth interview with Rick Roberti, President of the California Cattlemen’s Association. This first installment of a three-part series pulled back the curtain on what ranchers are facing in real time — and why many believe state policy has gone dangerously off the rails.
Roberti explained that California’s wolf population did not organically re-establish itself, but instead migrated from Yellowstone wolves introduced decades ago. Once a s...
2026-01-3048 minAgNet WestHarry Ferguson and the Tractor Innovation That Changed FarmingIrish-born inventor Harry Ferguson holds a permanent place in American agriculture history for developing one of the most important innovations ever introduced to farming equipment. His work fundamentally changed how ...
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2026-01-3000 minAgNet WestWhy Last Season’s Fertility Still Matters for California Tree CropsWhen it comes to tree crop nutrition, what growers did last season can have a major impact on what they see in the orchard today. In a recent Agronomic Minute, ...
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2026-01-2900 minAgNet News HourDayna Ghirardelli Says Sonoma County Agriculture Is Under Constant Attack — and Still StandingThe January 29 edition of the AgNet News Hour delivered one of the most wide-ranging and passionate interviews of the year as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill sat down with Dayna Ghirardelli, Executive Director of the Sonoma County Farm Bureau. From animal-rights extremism to water insecurity, vineyard market shifts, and the rising cost of simply staying in business, Ghirardelli laid out why farming in Sonoma County has become a daily fight — and why giving up is not an option.
Ghirardelli opened by acknowledging the beauty of Sonoma County, while making it clear that agriculture there faces relentless pr...
2026-01-2948 minAgNet WestAmerican Agriculture’s Expansion in the Early 1900sAmerican Agriculture Enters a New Century In the early 1900s, American agriculture continued to expand and diversify as the nation entered a new era of scientific research and modernization. Farmers ...
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2026-01-2900 minAgNet WestPotter Valley Water Crisis: A Community Fighting for SurvivalA Town on the Edge Potter Valley, a small Mendocino County town, is facing a water crisis that threatens farms, homes, and local businesses. Rich Brazil, a 38-year veterinarian who ...
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2026-01-2900 minAgNet WestBloom Window Nutrition: Key Considerations for California Tree Crop GrowersAs California tree crops move into the critical bloom window, nutrition decisions and timing remain top priorities for growers. In a recent Agronomic Minute, Dylan Rogers, Sales Account Manager for ...
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2026-01-2800 minAgNet WestAmerica’s 1870s Agricultural RevolutionA Shift from Hand Power to Horsepower The 1870s marked a pivotal decade in American agriculture, often called the first major agricultural revolution. Farmers began moving from traditional hand tools ...
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2026-01-2800 minAgNet News HourPotter Valley Fight Escalates as Rich Brazil Warns California’s Water Future Is on the LineThe January 28 edition of the AgNet News Hour delivered one of the most detailed and urgent updates yet on the unfolding Potter Valley water crisis, as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill sat down with longtime local veterinarian Rich Brazil to explain what’s truly at stake if the Potter Valley Project dams are removed. The message was clear: this isn’t just a Northern California issue — it’s a warning for every rural community in the state.
Brazil, who has lived and worked in Potter Valley for 38 years, explained that the region’s farms, ranches, homes, and busine...
2026-01-2848 minAgNet WestStaying One Step Ahead This Season in Citrus and AlmondsThe Growing Edge is brought to you by Valent USA, the makers of Seize IGR for long-lasting scale control. As the new season approaches, in this episode of The Growing ...
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2026-01-2700 minAgNet News HourCalifornia Wolves Push Ranchers to the Brink as Heather Hadwick Demands ActionThe January 27 edition of the AgNet News Hour took a deep and urgent look at one of California agriculture’s most emotionally charged and fast-growing crises: wolves. Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill were joined by Assemblymember Heather Hadwick, who represents California’s massive and rural District 1, stretching across much of the state’s northern tier. Her message was blunt—California’s current wolf policies are failing ranchers, rural families, and public safety.
Hadwick explained that while wolves have been present in Northern California for several years, the situation has escalated dramatically. Declining deer, elk, and antelope population...
2026-01-2748 minAgNet WestEarly Season Tree Nutrition: What California Growers Should Be Thinking About NowEarly season nutrition planning is already top of mind for many California tree crop growers as almonds and pistachios begin moving toward bloom. In this episode of the Agronomic Minute, ...
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2026-01-2700 minAgNet WestColorado Agriculture: Mining, Railroads, and Early FarmsEarly Challenges for Colorado Settlers Colorado’s agricultural story began with significant obstacles. Early settlers crossing what is now Nebraska and Kansas encountered land that seemed nearly worthless. “After a long ...
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2026-01-2700 minAgNet WestHeather Hadwick Sounds the Alarm on California’s Growing Wolf CrisisA Rural Assemblywoman Brings Reality to Sacramento Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick represents California’s Assembly District 1, a vast and deeply rural region spanning 11 counties across the far North State. In ...
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2026-01-2600 minAgNet WestHow the Wealthy Apple Put Minnesota on the Orchard MapA Doubtful Beginning for Minnesota Apples In 1860, Minnesota was not considered a place where apples could thrive. That skepticism was famously captured by journalist and editor Horace Greeley, who ...
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2026-01-2600 minAgNet News HourCalifornia Raisins in Trouble: Kalem Barserian Warns the Industry Is Shrinking FastThe January 26 edition of the AgNet News Hour focused on a crop that helped build the Central Valley—but is now fighting for survival: California raisins. Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill welcomed legendary raisin industry leader Kalem Barserian, former CEO of the Raisin Bargaining Association, for a blunt, behind-the-scenes look at why raisin consumption is falling, why growers are struggling, and what it will take to keep the industry alive.
Barserian, who’s spent 65 years in the raisin business, explained that California used to dominate the world raisin market. But today, the state has dropped to four...
2026-01-2648 minAgNet WestPotter Valley Dam Removal Threatens California Water SupplyNorthern California’s Potter Valley is facing what local leaders describe as an existential threat: the potential removal of the Scott and Cape Horn dams, a decision that could dismantle the ...
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2026-01-2400 minAgNet WestKalem Barsarian Sounds the Alarm on the Future of California RaisinsThe “Godfather of Raisins” on Trade, Acreage Loss, and What Comes Next California’s raisin industry is facing one of the most turbulent periods in its history, according to Kalem Barsarian, ...
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2026-01-2400 minAgNet WestBloom time is a make-or-break factor in almond disease control, and getting it right can protect yield all season longIn this episode of the Agronomic Minute by UPL, we’re joined by Kendall Johnson to break down why bloom is the most critical window for disease prevention in almonds, when ...
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2026-01-2300 minAgNet WestAnna Baldwin and the First Milking MachineAmerican agriculture has been shaped by countless innovators whose ideas laid the groundwork for modern farming. One such pioneer is Anna Baldwin, a largely overlooked but critically important figure in ...
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2026-01-2300 minAgNet News HourPotter Valley Water Fight Intensifies: Todd Lands Warns “This Could Happen Anywhere in California”The January 23 edition of the AgNet News Hour delivered one of the most emotional and urgent interviews of the year as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill zeroed in on the growing crisis in Potter Valley—a Northern California farming region now facing the potential removal of two dams that support water, jobs, and everyday life for hundreds of thousands of people.
Papagni opened the show by saying this issue should stop every listener in their tracks, because what’s happening in Potter Valley isn’t just a local fight—it’s a warning for rural communities across the...
2026-01-2348 minAgNet WestVerdant Robotics’ Sharpshooter Is Redefining Precision Weed ControlPrecision agriculture is entering a new era, and Verdant Robotics is at the center of that transformation. On Ag Meter, host Nick sat down with Chad Yagow, Director of Agronomy, ...
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2026-01-2300 minAgNet WestColorado’s Agricultural Turning PointAs settlers moved westward across the Appalachian Mountains, many found fertile land and favorable farming conditions in states such as Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa. These regions quickly became agricultural ...
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2026-01-2200 minAgNet News HourCalifornia Pears vs. Argentina Imports: Chris Zanobini Sounds the Alarm on a Market Under PressureThe January 22 edition of the AgNet News Hour tackled a growing concern many California growers know all too well—foreign competition flooding the market during peak domestic seasons. Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill focused the conversation on California pears, featuring an interview with Chris Zanobini, Executive Director of the California Pear Advisory Board, who laid out why the state’s pear industry is fighting for survival.
Zanobini explained that California’s pear industry is relatively small, with only about 60 growers remaining—many of them fifth- and sixth-generation family farmers. Pear orchards can remain productive for decades, meaning...
2026-01-2248 minAgNet WestCalifornia Pear Growers Sound the Alarm on Argentine ImportsInside the Growing Crisis Facing a Historic Industry California’s pear industry may be small in numbers, but it is rich in history—and right now, it is under intense pressure. In ...
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2026-01-2100 minAgNet News HourDrones, Sharpshooter Precision, and Almond Bloom Protection: Technology Takes Over AgNet News HourThe January 21 edition of the AgNet News Hour was a full-on technology showcase as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill explored the fast-changing world of ag automation—from spray drones to millimeter-accurate weed control to bloom-time disease protection in almonds. The message was clear: for California growers facing rising labor costs and tighter margins, innovation isn’t a luxury anymore—it’s survival.
The show opened with Papagni on the road in Salinas, sharing a quick reminder about heavy fog across the Central Valley and then jumping into a conversation about why marketing matters, even in agriculture. The host...
2026-01-2148 minAgNet WestFrom Wagons to Pickups: The Evolution of Farm TransportationEarly Transportation on the Farm Machinery, livestock, and crops have always needed to be moved around farms or transported to market. In the earliest days of American agriculture, two-wheel carts ...
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2026-01-2100 minAgNet WestWhy California Agriculture Is Losing Ground Despite Feeding the WorldA National Agriculture Voice Weighs In On Ag Meter, host Nick sat down with Diamian Mason—nationally recognized keynote speaker, podcaster, businessman, and working farmer—to tackle one of the most pressing ...
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2026-01-2100 minAgNet News HourDamian Mason Says California Ag Is Outnumbered, Out Regulated, and Still UnmatchedThe January 20 edition of the AgNet News Hour tackled one of the biggest questions facing farmers right now: Can California agriculture stay competitive when costs keep rising and regulations never seem to slow down? Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill opened the show with a safety reminder for Central Valley drivers dealing with heavy fog, then shifted into an eye-opening interview with national keynote speaker, farmer, and ag business host Damian Mason, an “outsider looking in” who didn’t hold back on what he sees happening in California.
Mason, who farms in Indiana and has spent significant time s...
2026-01-2048 minAgNet WestHow Soybeans Became America’s Leading CropThe Rise of Soybeans in U.S. Agriculture Soybeans may seem ubiquitous in today’s American agriculture, but their widespread cultivation is a relatively recent phenomenon. According to Mark Oppold, host of ...
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2026-01-2000 minAgNet WestSoil Health, Water, and the Future of Farming With Live EarthHow Humates Are Helping Farmers Improve Efficiency in a Changing Regulatory Landscape As soil health, water efficiency, and input costs continue to dominate conversations across agriculture, Russell Taylor of Live ...
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2026-01-1900 minAgNet News HourCalifornia’s Budget Boom, Soil Solutions, and a Major Malaysia Trade Deal for U.S. AgThe January 19 episode of the AgNet News Hour kicked off with plenty of energy as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill mixed farm talk, policy, and global trade into a show that felt like a preview of what 2026 could bring for California agriculture.
Early in the episode, Papagni and McGill reacted to Governor Gavin Newsom’s newly announced $348.9 billion California budget, noting it’s grown dramatically since he took office. The hosts raised concerns about what that kind of spending means for small businesses and agriculture in the most heavily regulated state in the country. Papagni pointed out...
2026-01-1948 minAgNet WestJoseph Dart and the Invention That Revolutionized Grain ShippingJoseph Dart: A Pioneer in American Agriculture Joseph Dart, though born in Connecticut, left a lasting mark on American agriculture after moving to Buffalo, New York. Dart is best remembered ...
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2026-01-1900 minAgNet WestCalifornia Farmers in Focus at Farm Bureau ConventionCalifornia Agriculture Takes Center Stage at the American Farm Bureau Convention California agriculture took the national spotlight at the American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, where Ag Meter sat ...
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2026-01-1600 minAgNet News HourShannon Douglas on California’s Big Five: Water, Labor, Regulations, Wolves, and the Future of Farm TechThe January 16 edition of the AgNet News Hour delivered one of the most wide-ranging conversations of the week as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill continued their coverage from Anaheim and welcomed Shannon Douglas, President of the California Farm Bureau, for a deep look at the biggest issues facing California agriculture in 2026. From water storage and labor reform to predator pressure and autonomous equipment, Douglas made one thing clear: California farmers are resilient—but they can’t keep carrying the weight of broken policies forever.
Douglas opened by emphasizing how important it is for agriculture leaders across the...
2026-01-1648 minAgNet WestHarriet Strong: Visionary Behind Hoover Dam and Water ConservationHarriet Strong: Pioneer of Water Conservation and the Vision Behind Hoover Dam A Visionary for Water Management In 1885, Harriet Strong conducted a groundbreaking study on water shortages in Nevada, ...
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2026-01-1600 minAgNet News HourCalifornia Ag Spotlight: Farm Bureau & Almond UpdatesThe AgNet News Hour brings listeners inside the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, California, highlighting the latest in farm policy, California agriculture, and industry trends. Hosts Nick Papagni, “the Ag Meter”, and Sir Josh McGill provide firsthand coverage from the convention floor, where farmers, ranchers, policymakers, and industry leaders come together to share insights and discuss solutions to the biggest challenges facing agriculture today.
A key highlight of the episode is Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins’ speech, detailing significant initiatives for U.S. farmers. From H-2A labor reforms projected to save farmers over $2 billion annually, to exp...
2026-01-1548 minAgNet WestBonanza Farms: How Railroads Transformed Wheat Production in AmericaRailroads Spark a Wheat Boom In the late 19th century, wheat production in the United States expanded rapidly as new railroad lines connected farms to distant markets. These rail connections ...
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2026-01-1500 minAgNet WestInside the American Farm Bureau Convention in AnaheimInside the American Farm Bureau Federation Convention: Why This Interview Matters The American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, California wasn’t just another agriculture conference—it was a powerful reminder of ...
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2026-01-1400 minAgNet News HourBrooke Rollins in California, Potter Valley Dams, and Propane Tech: A Big Day for AgNet News HourThe January 14 edition of the AgNet News Hour brought a packed lineup for California farmers—covering everything from federal attention on state ag issues to real-world energy solutions growers can actually use. Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill broadcast with a strong message: 2026 is shaping up to be a major turning point for California agriculture.
One of the biggest highlights came from Anaheim, where Papagni attended the American Farm Bureau Federation gathering and spoke with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. Rollins made it clear she’s paying close attention to California—especially when it comes to reg...
2026-01-1448 minAgNet WestMinnesota’s Wheat BreakthroughHow Minnesota Found Its Perfect Wheat Early Challenges for Minnesota Settlers When early settlers arrived in Minnesota, they quickly realized that wheat varieties successful in Nebraska and Kansas failed in ...
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2026-01-1400 minAgNet WestBrooke Rollins Warns California Agriculture Faces an Existential ThreatSecretary of Agriculture Addresses Farm Bureau, Water, Labor, and State Overreach Speaking at the 107th American Farm Bureau Convention in California, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins delivered a forceful ...
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2026-01-1300 minAgNet WestFrom Sheriff to Supervisor: Margaret Mims’ Vision for Fresno County’s FutureA Central Valley Leader Steps Forward Again Few public servants know Fresno County like Margaret Mims. After a 42-year law enforcement career—including 16 years as Fresno County sheriff—Mims is once ...
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2026-01-1300 minAgNet News HourMargaret Mims on Leadership, Water, and Why She’s Running for Fresno County SupervisorToday’s edition of the AgNet News Hour featured a timely and candid conversation with Margaret Mims, longtime agriculture advocate and candidate for Fresno County Supervisor, as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill discussed leadership, water policy, and the future of California agriculture.
Papagni joined the show from Anaheim, where he was attending the American Farm Bureau Federation meeting, offering a national backdrop to a discussion firmly rooted in Central Valley concerns. McGill returned to the program after paternity leave, but the focus quickly turned to Mims and her decision to once again step into public service.
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2026-01-1348 minAgNet WestThe National Road: America’s First Appalachian HighwayThe National Road: America’s First Gateway Across the Appalachians Connecting East and West When most people think of iconic American highways, Route 66 often comes to mind. But nearly a ...
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2026-01-1300 minAgNet WestOhio’s Early Agriculture: Corn, Wheat, and TobaccoSettling Ohio After the Appalachian Crossing Once early American settlers crossed the Appalachian Mountains, many chose to stop rather than continue westward. After enduring difficult and often dangerous travel, these ...
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2026-01-1200 minAgNet News HourAgNet News Hour: Health, Water, and California’s CrossroadsThe latest episode of the AgNet News Hour covers a wide range of critical issues impacting California agriculture, public health, and state leadership, blending candid conversation with sharp political and policy analysis. Hosts Nick Papagni (“The Ag Meter”) and Lorrie Boyer open the show with a light discussion before diving into serious topics shaping the future of farming and food in California.
A major focus of the episode is the national “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) initiative, which aims to combat rising obesity by encouraging whole foods, reducing ultra-processed foods, and improving access to nutritious options—especially for childr...
2026-01-1248 minAgNet WestDavid Tangipa on Prop 50, High-Speed Rail, and the Fight for California’s Central ValleyCalifornia Assemblyman David Tangipa (District 8) joined Ag Meter to discuss the future of California politics, agriculture, and representation, with a sharp focus on redistricting, election integrity, and the growing ...
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2026-01-0900 minAgNet WestHow the Ohio and Erie Canal Helped Shape OhioThe Ohio and Erie Canal: A Turning Point in Ohio’s History In the early 19th century, Ohio leaders recognized the need for better transportation to support agriculture, commerce, and settlement. ...
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2026-01-0900 minAgNet News HourAgNet News Hour: Nutrition Policy, Prop 50, and California Agriculture Under PressureThe latest episode of the AgNet News Hour delivers a wide-ranging discussion on agriculture, public policy, and the growing challenges facing California farmers. Hosts Nick Papagni, “the Ag Meter”, and Lorrie Boyer open the show with a look at new federal dietary guidelines tied to the Make America Healthy Again movement, which emphasize protein, fruits, vegetables, whole milk, and eggs while reducing reliance on grains and ultra-processed foods. The conversation highlights how these changes could affect school meals, SNAP and WIC programs, and key agricultural sectors such as dairy.
A major portion of the episode features an in-d...
2026-01-0948 minAgNet WestLex Nicoleta: Coastal Grandmother, Farming, Food & InfluenceLex Nicoleta, creator of the viral lifestyle brand Coastal Grandmother, joined Ag Meter for an in-depth conversation that blended family, farming, food, wine, and the evolving role of social media ...
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2026-01-0800 minAgNet News HourMarketing, Wine & Ag: Lex Nicoleta on AgNet News HourOn the latest AgNet News Hour, hosts Lorrie Boyer and Nick Papagni, “the Ag Meter”, dive into the intersection of agriculture, marketing, and social media with influencer Lex Nicoleta, the creator of the viral “Coastal Grandmother” brand. Lex brings a unique perspective as both a farmer’s wife and a lifestyle influencer, demonstrating how small entrepreneurs in agriculture can leverage creativity, video content, and social media to reach new audiences. She emphasizes that today’s consumers, especially younger generations, are health-conscious and digitally connected, creating opportunities for innovative marketing strategies.
Lex Nicoleta on Wine and Seasonal Produce
Lex sh...
2026-01-0848 minAgNet WestOhio: America’s First Agricultural CapitalOhio’s Early Role in American Agriculture In the early 1800s, Ohio was widely considered the agricultural capital of the United States. As westward expansion pushed settlers beyond the Appalachian Mountains, ...
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2026-01-0800 minAgNet WestWorld Ag Expo 2026 Showcases Global Ag InnovationThe World’s Largest Agricultural Show Returns Preparations are well underway for the World Ag Expo, the largest agricultural exposition in the world, returning to the International Agri-Center in Tulare, California, ...
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2026-01-0700 minAgNet WestJohnny Appleseed: John Chapman’s Legacy in American AgricultureEarly Life in Massachusetts John Chapman, famously known as Johnny Appleseed, holds a lasting place in American agricultural history. Born in September 1774 in Massachusetts, Chapman grew up in a ...
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2026-01-0700 minAgNet News HourAgNet News Hour: Policy, Innovation & the Future of AgricultureIn this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick Papagni, “the Ag Meter”, and Lorrie Boyer deliver a wide-ranging discussion on the most pressing issues facing agriculture at both the state and national levels. The show opens with California weather updates and a look at renewed activity from the USDA under the Trump administration, including export reports, WASDE data, and growing attention on agriculture policy.
A major theme throughout the episode is farm labor and immigration reform. The hosts stress the urgent need for practical solutions that protect long-term agricultural workers while ensuring accountability and legal path...
2026-01-0748 minAgNet News HourCalifornia Raisins & Grape Innovation: AgNet News Hour Highlights
California agriculture continues to evolve as growers adapt to water shortages, rising labor costs, and global competition. On the latest AgNet News Hour, Fresno County Viticulture Advisor George Zhuang shared insights on the grape and raisin industry, highlighting innovation, collaboration, and the future of raisin production.
Raisin Industry Innovation and Sustainability
Zhuang emphasized the importance of staying competitive in the global market. With California no longer the undisputed leader in raisin production, new varieties like Sunpreme, combined with mechanized pruning and trellis systems, are paving the way for more efficient, sustainable...
2026-01-0648 minAgNet News HourFood Dyes, Fraud, and the Future of Agriculture in 2026The first AgNet News Hour of 2026 opened with a wide-ranging conversation on agriculture, food policy, and accountability, as Nick Papagni, “the Ag Meter”, and Lorrie Boyer set the tone for a year expected to bring major change. From rising costs and labor challenges to food regulation and taxpayer transparency, the discussion reflected growing frustration among farmers, families, and small businesses across California and beyond.
A central focus of the program was a powerful and personal interview with Erin Krier, Professor of Agriculture at Allan Hancock College, who shared how artificial food dyes dramatically affected her son’s behavi...
2026-01-0548 minAgNet News HourAgNet News Hour Podcast: Water, Policy, and the Future of California AgricultureThe AgNet News Hour kicks off 2026 with a comprehensive discussion on the most critical issue facing California agriculture: water. Hosts Nick Papagni, “the Ag Meter”, and Lorrie Boyer examine how farmers continue to struggle under mounting regulations, high costs, and long-standing policy failures, even as the state experiences multiple strong water years. They emphasize that while agriculture is cyclical, many of California’s water challenges are man-made—and solvable—if lawmakers act during wet years instead of waiting for drought-driven crises.
A featured interview with Josh Weimer, Director of External Affairs for the Turlock Irrigation District (TID), highlights...
2026-01-0248 minAgNet News HourCalifornia in Crisis: Elaine Culotti on Leadership, Voter ID & AgricultureCalifornia faces critical challenges in 2026, from economic mismanagement to overregulation and environmental disputes, and farmers are feeling the impact. On the AgNet West News Hour, Nick Papagni, the Ag Meter, spoke with Elaine Culotti, the “lipstick farmer” and undercover billionaire, about the state’s urgent need for capable, business-minded leadership. Culotti emphasized that voter responsibility is key: “Go in there and vote. Demand voter ID. Make sure your vote counts,” she urged, highlighting the importance of informed voting over party lines to restore accountability in state government.
Culotti and Papagni detailed California’s overreliance on billionaires, noting that a small...
2026-01-0148 minAgNet News HourAgNet News Hour Podcast: 2025 Ag Review & 2026 OutlookOn this New Year’s Eve edition of the AgNet News Hour, host Nick Papagni, the Ag Meter, looks back at the defining agriculture stories of 2025 while setting the stage for 2026. The episode covers trade and tariff shifts, California water and SGMA challenges, labor and immigration pressures, freight and regulation costs, and record-setting years for pistachios and other commodities. Featured interviews with Roger Isom and Steven Pistoresi highlight regulatory crossroads, water infrastructure needs, and innovative pest management solutions shaping the future of farming.
2025-12-3148 minAgNet News HourAgNet News Hour: California Agriculture, Wine Industry Insights & Trade Talks for 2026In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, Nick Papagni, “the Ag Meter”, and Lorrie Boyer explore a wide array of topics that matter to California agriculture and beyond, from environmental policies to the wine industry, and international trade. The discussion starts with the ongoing controversy surrounding the reintroduction of wolves, which is a significant issue for farmers and ranchers in both California and Colorado. While environmentalists advocate for the reintroduction to restore balance in the ecosystem, ranchers argue that the wolves are attacking livestock, causing economic harm. Nick and Lorrie reflect on the challenges of proving wolf depredation inci...
2025-12-3048 minAgNet News HourFFA: Building the Next Generation of California Agriculture LeadersCalifornia agriculture is facing growing challenges—from extreme weather and trade pressures to regulatory shifts—but the future of farming depends on the next generation. On this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Lorrie Boyer spotlight the California FFA Foundation, exploring how youth education shapes the state’s agricultural workforce and leadership pipeline.
Katie Otto, Executive Director of Development for the California FFA Foundation, shares her personal journey—from a young student hesitant about agriculture to a passionate advocate for FFA. She emphasizes the power of ag teachers, like her mentor Mr. D...
2025-12-2948 minAgNet News HourAgNet News Hour: Regenerative Ag & Dairy Insights for 2026Join the AgNet News Hour for expert insights into the latest in U.S. agriculture. In this episode, we cover USDA’s Farmer-First Regenerative Agriculture Pilot Program, which rewards farmers for improving soil and water quality using NRCS tools like EQIP and CSP. Learn how partnerships with corporations, technical service providers, and urban communities are scaling regenerative practices to improve crop yields, nutrition, and sustainability.
We also sit down with Amy DeLisio, CEO of the Dairy Council of California, to discuss the health benefits of milk and dairy foods. Discover why whole milk, chocolate milk, and cultured da...
2025-12-2648 minAgNet News HourAI, Robotics, and Innovation in California Agriculture – AgNet News Hour Christmas SpecialCelebrate Christmas with the AgNet News Hour as host Nick Papagni, the “Ag Meter”, talks with industry leaders transforming California agriculture. Gabe Sibley of Verdant Robotics reveals how their AI-powered Sharpshooter system delivers fertilizers, herbicides, and pollen with millimeter-level precision, helping growers cut labor costs by up to 85% while increasing yields.
Shannon Douglass, President of the California Farm Bureau, discusses regulatory challenges, water management, and ways farmers can engage in local and state policy through initiatives like Campaign School. Todd Burkdoll of Valent USA shares decades of crop science expertise, including plant growth regulators, fungicides, and techniques to i...
2025-12-2547 minAgNet News HourAgNet News Hour: Farming, Freight & Market Reality
On this Christmas Eve “Best Of” episode of the AgNet News Hour, host Nick Papagni, the “Ag Meter”. sits down with Nick Foglio of Foglio Commodities for a candid, wide-ranging conversation on the real challenges facing agriculture today. Foglio breaks down weak hay and alfalfa markets, low milk prices, lost export demand, and the tough financial decisions farmers must make to stay afloat. The discussion also dives into water uncertainty, land conversion, generational farming pressures, and why automation must deliver immediate returns to work for family farms.
One of the most eye-opening segments focuses...
2025-12-2448 minAgNet News HourAgNet News Hour Podcast Recap: Agriculture Policy, Rodeo Ambassadors, and Holiday Cheer
The latest episode of the AgNet News Hour from AgNet West delivers a compelling blend of hard-hitting agricultural policy, real-world producer concerns, inspiring personal stories, and just the right amount of holiday fun—making it a must-listen for anyone connected to farming, ranching, or rural life. Hosts Nick Papagni, the “Ag Meter”, and Lorrie Boyer begin the show by tackling one of the most talked-about issues in agriculture today: the U.S. House’s move toward delisting the gray wolf from the endangered species list. The discussion dives into what this decision could mean for cattle and sheep pr...
2025-12-2348 min
Japan Tariff News and TrackerUS and Japan Forge Landmark Trade Deal with 15 Percent Tariff on Imports, Promising Massive Investment and Market ShiftsListeners, today’s top story is a development shaking the foundation of trade between the United States and Japan. On July 23, the Trump administration revealed the framework of a sweeping new trade and investment agreement with Japan. This deal sets a baseline 15 percent tariff for all U.S. imports from Japan, covering modern automobiles, auto parts, electronics, and other goods—down from the 25 percent Trump had previously threatened to impose as soon as August 1. However, even this reduced rate represents a major jump from the pre-2025 auto import tariff of just 2.5 percent, a shift directly impacting both carmakers and American cons...
2025-07-2503 min
AgNet Weekly with Sabrina HalvorsonOctober 21, 2023: Farmer in Favor of OFF ActIn a recent story for Southeast AgNet and AgNet West, Sabrina Halvorson talked with a representative of the National Cattlemens Beef Association on why they’re against the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act. The OFF Act would make some changes to checkoff organizations. After that aired, Sabrina heard from a farmer and organization leader who is in favor of the OFF Act and invited her to share her thoughts. In this episode, Sabrina is chatting with Angela Huffman, Vice President of Farm Action Fund. To keep everything clear on what the act actually says, Sabrina put a link to...
2023-10-2109 minAgNet Weekly with Sabrina HalvorsonOctober 21, 2023: Farmer in Favor of OFF ActIn a recent story for Southeast AgNet and AgNet West, Sabrina Halvorson talked with a representative of the National Cattlemens Beef Association on why they’re against the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act. The OFF Act would make some changes to checkoff organizations. After that aired, Sabrina heard from a farmer and organization leader who is in favor of the OFF Act and invited her to share her thoughts. In this episode, Sabrina is chatting with Angela Huffman, Vice President of Farm Action Fund. To keep everything clear on what the act actually says, Sabrina put a link to...
2023-10-2109 min