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Rice Levee Program – Application Period Extended 

Rice Levee Program – Application Period Extended 

California Waterfowl Association (CWA) is extending the application period for the Rice Levee Program, through November 30, 2023. This program is funded by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and provides incentives for rice farmers that are willing to manage their internal levees for upland nesting bird species (Mallard, Gadwall and Pheasant). To participate in this program, rice levees must be reconstructed before January 1st or left from the previous growing season. Enrolled levees must be left undisturbed from January 1st until July 15th.

If you are willing to forgo reworking your rice levees for one year, this might be a program for you! To find out more and to apply visit the California Waterfowl Association’s Website. Application must be submitted by November 30, 2023. All applications will be ranked and successful applicants will be notified by December 8, 2023.

Key Program Requirements:

  • Rice levees must be left undisturbed from the growing season or reconstructed by January 1st. 
  • Rice levees must be left undisturbed until July 15th.
  • Participating farmers must allow monitoring of enrolled levees, to document nesting activities.
  • Bids are submitted as a cost per linear foot.
  • Landowners may be given flexibility if fields are unplanted in the spring.

For questions, please contact Jason Coslovich: 408-644-3525 or jcoslovich@calwaterfowl.org 

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California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention
Industry News •

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.