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California Farm Bureau President Paul Wenger

Farm Bureau president urges political action

Farm organizations must work together and be aggressive and strategic, according to the leader of the state's largest farm group. California Farm Bureau President Paul Wenger says farm organizations need to step up their commitment to political engagement, as a new administration and many new legislators take office in Sacramento. In a speech to the Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Monterey, Wenger said improved water storage and conveyance remain a top priority.

Temple Grandin tells ranchers to reach out

Renowned animal scientist Temple Grandin urges livestock owners to "open up" to the public about how they care for their animals. During a speech to the California Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Monterey, she recommended farmers and ranchers use the Internet as a tool to demonstrate their animal care practices. Grandin, who has developed animal-welfare auditing systems for a number of large restaurants, is also known for her personal history of autism.

Rice farmer earns conservation award

A Sutter County rice farmer has earned a statewide award for his commitment to land, water and wildlife conservation. Al Montna was presented with the Leopold Conservation Award during the California Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Monterey yesterday (Monday). Among his many conservation activities, Montna manages his rice fields to benefit waterfowl and other wildlife, and has installed a solar power unit on a rice dryer.

Two young agriculturalists win honors

A vegetable farmer from Gilroy and an agricultural loan officer from Riverbank won statewide awards in a recognition program for young farmers and ranchers. Pete Aiello of Gilroy and Corinne Santos of Riverbank were honored at the California Farm Bureau Federation Annual Meeting in Monterey yesterday. Aiello earned the Achievement Award, which recognizes farm management, leadership and service. Santos won the Excellence in Agriculture Award for contributions in agriculture and Farm Bureau.

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