California Agriculture & Climate Conference

November 9, 2026 | 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
DoubleTree Fresno

8:30 – 10:00 AM     

Welcome & Opening Remarks

Meeting Challenges with Innovation: Valley Farmers Discuss the Economics of Climate Smart Agriculture

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM     WORKSHOPS

Alternatives to Agricultural Burning: What’s Working and What’s Needed 

In 2025, a near-total ban on agricultural burning took effect in the San Joaquin Valley to improve air quality. Meanwhile, state incentive funding to support farmers in adopting alternatives has dwindled. How are farmers—particularly orchard and vineyard managers—adapting? What alternatives are available and cost-effective for different farming systems, scales, and regions? What are some of the benefits and constraints of these alternatives? What other alternatives may be on the horizon? Join us to hear farmers’ and researchers’ perspectives on these questions and to learn more about alternatives, including: chipping and mulching, whole orchard recycling, composting, air curtain burners, biochar, bio-energy, and bio-based products.

Speakers: Stephanie Bolton, PhD, Grower Research & Education Director, Lodi Winegrape Commission; Christine Gemperle, Almond Farmer, Gemperle Orchards; Brent Holtz, UC Orchard Systems Farm Advisor, UC Agriculture and Natural Resources; Cynthia Ni, Director of Innovation Programs, BEAM Circular
Moderated by Gabriele Ludwig, Director, Environmental Policy, Almond Board of California

Working with your GSA to Support Cover Crops: Strategies from Valley Farmers 

Agrivoltaics: A “Both/And” Solution to the Farmland vs Solar Conflict? 

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM     

It Takes a Village: Farmer and Farm Advisor Networks

The Power of the Purse: Local Markets for Organic and Climate Smart Products

12:00 – 1:30 PM LUNCH

1:30 – 2:45 PM     WORKSHOPS

Managing Almond Production to Optimize Climate Resilience 

How Can Dairies Survive New Water Quality, Groundwater, and Methane Regulations? 

Climate Resilience Strategies for Small and Diversified Farmers 

Exploring Rangeland Restoration on Water-Limited Farmland 

3:15 – 4:30 PM     WORKSHOPS

Managing for Water Quality, Climate Benefits, and Farm Viability on Irrigated Croplands 

Scaling Up Compost Use to Reduce Fertilizer Costs 

NRCS​: Updates on the Regenerative Ag Program and More