Despite growth trends, enormous pressure remains on the state's agriculture, according to speakers at AIC's annual Executive Seminar on Agricultural Issues in December. Globalization of markets means consolidation of food distribution systems. However, the existence of global retailers has not yet led to widespread global sourcing. Domestically, Kroger and Wal-Mart are first and second. The food marketing system's share of disposable personal income in the US has declined steadily in recent decades, but at a slower rate since 1985.
Water policy is a crucial issue for the new governor.
A few key appointments and policy changes will have profound implications for agriculture as well as other constituencies. Research on risk management tools, including results of statistical analyses that indicate producers accurately identify their most important sources of risk most of the time. Afternoon sessions covered labor supply and management, environmental regulations, water transfer issues, and family finance and estate planning. A study of an electronic market within the Westlands Water District, which is especially suitable for internal transfers to balance shortages, is providing confirmation. To manage some forms of risk, agriculture must be a player in the regulatory arena.