Foreign hands-on American Soil - A closer look

Sep 28, 2023

Foreign ownership of U.S. farmland is under the Senate's microscope. Owning approximately 3% of the total agricultural land, foreign entities have sparked a national conversation.

Senator Jon Tester emphasizes, "Food security is national security." The idea of nations like China and Russia having stakes in U.S. land is unsettling, especially with a 66% increase in foreign ownership since 2010.

While Canada and several European countries lead in foreign investment, China's strategic investments near military bases are particularly concerning.

Proposed legislation aims to curb foreign ownership. Amendments and bills, including the Farmland Security Act of 2023, are being discussed to protect American agriculture from potential threats.

However, the path is challenging. The impending expiration of the current farm bill and the sluggish progress are sources of frustration. Senator Ernst advocates addressing foreign investment and putting more emphasis on "farm" in the farm bill.

The potential impact on trade is also a critical factor. Restrictive measures could trigger retaliation, affecting the U.S.'s agricultural trade, especially with major importers like China.

Source : wisconsinagconnection

Video: California Farm Bureau 2025 Farm Dog of the Year Contest Winner - Willy - CAFB 107th Annual Meeting

Meet Willy: California Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farm Dog of the Year!

We’re excited to introduce Willy, a miniature long-haired dachshund with a big heart and even bigger courage, and the Grand Prize winner of this year’s Farm Dog of the Year Contest!

Willy may be small, but he’s become an indispensable partner on owner Marshal Hagedorn’s forestry and cattle operations in Shasta, Tehama, and Siskiyou counties. Adopted in 2023, he quickly found his place on the ranch, helping manage critters, tagging along for long days in the woods, and offering unwavering companionship during demanding logging work.

Willy has even taken naturally to moving cattle, surprising calves (and more than a few full-grown cows!) with his burst of energy from the tall grass. As Marshal put it: “He goes with me everywhere every single day.”

Congratulations to Willy and his family, a perfect example of how every good farm dog, no matter the size, helps keep California agriculture running strong.