Industry News

Governor’s Announcement on Zero Emission Tractors by 2045

tractor at sunset

Yesterday’s announcement from the Governor eliminating the sale of internal combustion engines for passenger vehicles in 2035, also had a provision not widely reported that impacts heavy duty and off road vehicles by 2045. These are the classifications for all farm equipment. In short, the announcement yesterday directed regulatory agencies, including ARB, to develop regulations to prohibit the sale of non-zero emission passenger vehicles after 2035. It also directed that all heavy duty and off road fleets be transitioned to zero emission by 2045. 

We see this as potentially one of the most impactful regulations agriculture has ever seen affecting every farm in every region of the state. 

Our initial assessment is the requirement is both technically impossible and beyond financially infeasible. The CRC has detailed Paul Buttner to start working immediately on technical arguments that we will advance now. Kahn, Soares and Conway is rallying other Ag groups to formulate a policy response to the legislature and to CDFA. You should be calling your trade associations today to express your great concern. We need to avoid the cost and uncertainty of a 15 year uncontrolled regulatory process. 

Attached is the KSC Newsletter on yesterday’s announcement. 

Contact: Tim Johnson 

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California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention

California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention

The California Warehouse Association (CWA) has shared the following informational letter and best practices flyer:

As the new harvest season approaches, we hope this letter finds you well. This letter is a friendly reminder about the importance of maintaining the highest standards in keeping foreign materials out of trucks and bins. 

Our collective efforts to ensure purity and quality of the rice we handle are crucial not only for the success of our individual operations, but also for upholding the reputation of the entire California rice industry. Contaminants and foreign materials can compromise the quality of our product, lead to costly issues down the line, and impact our relationships with customers and partners. 

Here are a few best practices to keep in mind: 

1. Regular Inspections: Implement routine checks to ensure that all trucks and bins are clean and free from any residual materials before loading. A thorough inspection can help prevent cross-contamination. 

2. Training and Awareness: Ensure that all staff involved in the handling and transportation of rice are well-trained on procedures for maintaining cleanliness and avoiding contamination. 

3. Clear Protocols: Maintain clear and effective protocols for addressing any issues that arise, and make sure these protocols are communicated and followed consistently. 

4. Maintenance: Regularly maintain and clean all equipment and facilities used in the handling and storage of rice to prevent contamination. 

Our shared commitment to these practices will not only help us maintain the high standards of our product but also contribute to a smoother and more efficient harvest season. We ask that you share these reminders with your growers and farm bins. A one-page flyer is included with this letter that can be easily distributed. The flyer can be downloaded here

Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your ongoing dedication to the quality of California’s rice industry. 

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a successful and bountiful harvest season!

Drew Becker 
CWA President

For more information please contact the California Warehouse Association at (916) 441-1149 or email brooke@agamsi.com.