Monterey County agriculture pumps more than $11B into local economy, study finds
MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County agriculture pumped more than $11 billion into the local economy in 2023 and supported 81,315 jobs, according to a new economic report.
Assistant Agricultural Commissioner Rich Ordonez released the latest comprehensive analysis of the county’s largest industry on Nov. 18,...
Thousands of farmworkers are prioritized for the coronavirus vaccine
COACHELLA, Calif. — The sun-baked desert valley tucked behind the San Jacinto Mountains is best known for an annual music festival that draws 100,000 fans a day and a series of lush, oasis resort towns where well-heeled snowbirds go to golf, sunbathe and party....
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.
Mushroom compost supports Salinas Valley farmers
SALINAS VALLEY — Monterey Mushrooms, a mushroom grower based in Morgan Hill, has announced the release of its Certified Organic Spent Mushroom Compost (COSMC) to row crop and leafy green farmers throughout the Salinas Valley.
A finely balanced mixture of straw, peat moss, cottonseed meal,...
Salinas Valley Fair Board seeks new members to join
KING CITY — Salinas Valley Fair has announced that there are currently two open Fair Board positions available, and it is looking for enthusiastic, hands-on individuals to join.
This is an opportunity for community members to get involved and help shape the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds...
Ag Commissioner’s Office hosts PPE distribution in King City
KING CITY — Dozens of vehicles lined up to receive supplies during a PPE distribution event on Feb. 3, hosted by the Monterey County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office in King City.
More than 60 agricultural companies, including growers, pest control businesses and farm labor contractors,...
King City High School teacher honored as California finalist for Ag Educator of the Year
KING CITY — Lauren Peterson, an agricultural teacher at King City High School, has been recognized as a finalist for the 2022-23 Ag Educator of the Year honor through Nationwide’s Golden Owl Award.
California FFA, California Farm Bureau and Nationwide made the announcement on Feb....
Guest Column | All Californians Deserve Access to Healthcare, Agriculture Workers Included
As a former California State Assemblymember and Monterey County Supervisor, I am deeply concerned about the pressing issue of rising prescription drug prices and healthcare accessibility. Our state’s progress depends on the advancement and well-being of all its communities, especially those at risk. With...
Lofgren visits Salinas Valley, receives nod from Panetta and Rivas
SALINAS — As the decennial redistricting process wrapped up last month, the concern from The World’s Salad Bowl started to mount. Local politicians, regional business giants and other community leaders asked how a plan to pair the international agricultural hub with the Silicon Valley...
