California Ag Board to Tackle Farm Economy Challenges

The California State Board of Food and Agriculture is putting the spotlight on farm economics. On Tuesday, August 5th, the Board will meet in Sacramento to talk about the current financial outlook for farmers and ranchers. Topics include ag lending, land transitions, labor challenges, and rising water management costs—issues weighing heavily across the state.

The Board advises the governor and the California Department of Food and Agriculture on ag policy, economic trends, and consumer needs. Through public forums like this one, it helps shape decisions that impact farms, food systems, and rural communities statewide.

CDFA Secretary Karen Ross says rising costs are hitting everyone in the food chain—growers, processors, and consumers. From inflation and trade disruptions to commodity pricing and input costs, California’s ag economy is navigating complex terrain.

Board President Don Cameron, a Central Valley farmer, says the shift is visible: more land sales, more abandoned fields. “Agriculture is hurting,” he said.

The meeting runs from 10 to 2 at CDFA headquarters and is open via Zoom. You’ll find the link and more info at https://pressreleases.cdfa.ca.gov/Home/PressRelease/65771593