Here are five stories to know in this week’s edition of This Week in Ag from California Ag Network.

CAWG Announces 2027 Awards of Excellence Recipients

The California Association of Winegrape Growers has announced the recipients of its 2027 Awards of Excellence, recognizing individuals and businesses for their contributions to California’s winegrape industry.

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines has been named CAWG’s 2027 Grower of the Year. The award recognizes the company’s leadership in winegrowing, sustainability and innovation.

Founded by Jerry Lohr, J. Lohr has grown into a multigenerational, family-owned and operated winegrowing business. The company has vineyards in Paso Robles, Arroyo Seco in Monterey County and St. Helena in Napa Valley. Jerry Lohr’s children, Steve, Cynthia and Lawrence, are also involved in the ownership and operations of the vineyards and winery.

CAWG also named Jeff Bitter, president of Allied Grape Growers, as its 2027 Leader of the Year.

Bitter is a grower himself and has been involved in advocacy efforts representing California winegrape growers. He previously served on CAWG’s board of directors and has participated in industry advocacy efforts in Sacramento and Washington, D.C.

Both recipients will be recognized at CAWG’s Awards of Excellence Reception on Jan. 26, 2027, during the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium in Sacramento.

Citrus Yellow Vein Clearing Virus Quarantine Expands

The California Department of Food and Agriculture has expanded the quarantine for Citrus Yellow Vein Clearing Virus, or CYVCV, in San Joaquin County.

Effective Sept. 18, the quarantine boundary was expanded in the Lodi area, affecting portions of grids 180 and 191.

The quarantine regulates the movement of certain citrus plants and other materials that could contribute to the spread of the virus.

Growers, nurseries and others handling regulated citrus materials within the affected area should review CDFA’s latest quarantine map and movement requirements before moving regulated articles.

Interested parties and local entities also have an opportunity to appeal a quarantine area designation. Appeals must be submitted to CDFA in writing within 10 working days of the notification and must be supported by clear and convincing evidence. The quarantine boundary remains in effect while an appeal is pending.

CDFA Seeks Member for Citrus Pest and Disease Prevention Committee

CDFA is also looking for someone to take a more direct role in California’s efforts to protect its citrus industry.

The department announced a vacancy on the Citrus Pest and Disease Prevention Committee for a Northern District representative.

The committee advises the CDFA secretary on activities connected to California’s statewide citrus pest and disease work plan. Those efforts include outreach and education along with programs focused on surveying, detecting, analyzing and treating citrus pests and diseases.

Applicants should have an interest in agriculture and citrus pest and disease prevention.

Committee members do not receive compensation, but necessary travel expenses are covered according to state rules. The current vacancy extends through the first committee meeting of 2031.

Individuals interested in being considered for the position should submit a brief résumé to CDFA by Nov. 30.

Western Dairy Showcase Coming to Turlock

Young people involved in the dairy industry will have an opportunity to showcase their animals this fall at the Western Dairy Showcase in Turlock.

The event is scheduled for Oct. 7-11 at the Turlock Fairgrounds and is open to junior dairy exhibitors ages 21 and younger.

Competition will include four divisions: registered Holsteins, registered Jerseys, registered all other breeds and grade cattle.

Anthony Liddle of New York will serve as this year’s judge.

The regular entry deadline is Sept. 30, with a cost of $40 per head. Late entries will be accepted through Oct. 7 at a cost of $75 per head.

The event provides younger members of the dairy industry with an opportunity to compete, gain experience and showcase the work they have put into raising and preparing their animals.

UC Davis Wants to Hear From Orchard Growers

UC Davis researchers are asking orchard growers to provide input on their orchard floor management practices, challenges and priorities.

The survey is intended for farmers using a variety of approaches. That includes growers who plant cover crops, manage resident vegetation or maintain a clean orchard floor.

Researchers say the information collected will help identify grower priorities and areas where additional resources or technical support may be useful. The feedback will also help guide future research, outreach and conservation programs.

Results from the survey will be shared with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service to help inform conservation practice standards, program development and educational efforts.

The survey takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete, and participating growers can receive a $40 Home Depot e-gift card.

The project gives growers an opportunity to provide direct feedback that could help shape future research and resources surrounding orchard floor management.

Stay Connected With California Ag Network

From celebrating leaders in the winegrape industry to protecting California citrus and creating new opportunities for the next generation of agriculture, there is plenty happening across the industry this week.

This Week in Ag brings together five stories each week to make it easier to stay informed about the news, resources and opportunities affecting California agriculture.

For more news impacting the California ag industry, follow California Ag Network.