California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA)
Overview
The California Department of Food and Agriculture supports agriculture through statewide programs and services. Its Specialty Crop Workforce Development Program brings agricultural employers, community colleges, and other partners together around the skills needed as farming adopts new technology. Regional partner connections help farmworkers and students find training routes, while employers and educators can discuss workforce needs and career pathways. CDFA also maintains a searchable catalogue of agricultural grant programs.
What they do
Grants for farmers and ranchers
Awards incentive and relief grants that help farmers and ranchers adopt soil health practices, install water- and energy-saving irrigation, and recover from drought or extreme weather.
Specialty crop competitiveness
Funds projects led by industry groups, nonprofits, colleges, and other organizations that make California fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and nursery crops more competitive.
Technical assistance and grower training
Funds one-on-one technical assistance from partner providers and UC ANR on conservation planning, project design, and grant writing, and trains growers to self-certify irrigation and nitrogen management plans.
Agricultural workforce development
Brings agricultural employers, community colleges, and regional partners together around the skills farming needs as it adopts new technology, connecting farmworkers and students with training and career pathways.
Programs and services
Locations
- Headquarters address 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, United States