Monterey County’s crop values increase in 2021
MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County agriculture’s gross production value bounced back by 4.8% in 2021 to just over $4.1 billion, despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic that also resulted in supply chain shortages.
This increase represents a $190 million rise from 2020, when the gross production...
From dry to drenched — How local farmers deal with drastically changing conditions
After more than four years of devastating drought, 2017 saw California receive the wettest winter in more than 100 years.
Smith Family Wines discontinues wine production
After 30 years of making its own wine, Smith Family Wines will discontinue producing the Paraiso, Irie and Alexander-Smith labels and close the tasting room at the Paraiso Vineyards on Paraiso Springs Road in Soledad.
CHISPA receives $680,000 loan for King City housing development
KING CITY — Community Housing Improvement Systems and Planning Association Inc. (CHISPA) has received a $680,000 acquisition loan to purchase property in King City and create 40 affordable homes aimed toward farmworkers in the region.
The funding is being made available through the Monterey Bay...
Monterey County enters escrow on ag commissioner office in King City
KING CITY — Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez announced last week that the county has entered escrow on a property in King City that will host the return of the Monterey County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office in South Monterey County.
The location at 1011 Broadway St....
Guest Column | Restored Funding Needed for Rural Crime Prevention
Farming is often thought of as a way of life and not just a job. Many California farm families have been living this life for generations — and they want to continue the legacy, growing crops, raising livestock and supporting the communities and people...
Artichoke Festival 2025 returns to its roots in Salinas Valley
SALINAS VALLEY — The iconic Artichoke Festival is making a grand return to its roots in the heart of the Salinas Valley this year.
Set for June 14-15, the annual festival will take place at the Monterey County Sheriff’s Posse Grounds in Salinas, a move...
South Monterey County cattle business evolves into growing beef producer
KING CITY — Jeremiah Casey arrived in San Lucas, Calif., in 1861 as a young Irish immigrant. He started homesteading and ranching, raising beef, finishing them on grass and marketing them as best he could, given the limited resources at hand.
Back then, ranchers didn't...
Retiree reflects on half-century of agricultural work in Salinas Valley
SALINAS VALLEY — Jesse Holguin retired from Gonzales Irrigation Systems on Dec. 31, wrapping up a career of 40 years with the company and more than 50 years in total with agricultural work.
Holguin began working for Mel Fowler of King City 51 years ago,...
Salinas hospital hosts Farmers’ Market every Friday
Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System’s Farmers’ Market kicked off its 2017-2018 season last Friday, May 19. The Certified Farmers’ Market offers fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers and other items.
