Grant Lundberg is Chief Executive Officer of Lundberg Family Farms in Richvale, Butte County.
Monday, July 30, 2012
New video- Energy efficiency in California Rice Milling
Grant Lundberg, CEO of Lundberg Family Farms, describes some of the steps they are taking to use resources wisely.
Grant Lundberg is Chief Executive Officer of Lundberg Family Farms in Richvale, Butte County.
Grant Lundberg is Chief Executive Officer of Lundberg Family Farms in Richvale, Butte County.
New Guest Blog- Keeping a sharp focus on Sacramento Valley Wildlife
By Phil Robertson
I called and photographed my first bird, a California Quail, at age 13 using a reed quail call and a Kodak Brownie Hawkeye box camera. I’ve been hooked on nature photography ever since! My camera for wildlife photography is a Canon EOS 7D with a Canon 100-400mm IS lens.
Growing up on a small farm in Southern Illinois I learned to love and appreciate nature. Later when I wasn’t taking wildlife photos, I crewed on a 32 foot Ericson sailboat in San Francisco Bay with an excellent skipper--Vytas Pazemenas. We won most races and all matches in the three years I raced with him. In that process I discovered that if you want to get good at something you need to compete, as competition sharpensyour skills.
These experiences fueled my competitive spirit in photographing Sacramento Valley wildlife at its best.
Capturing nature’s beauty and excitement is what gets me out of a nice, warm bed hours before dawn on an icy winter morning. It motivates me to walk through cold dark waters in my chest waders to a photo blind at the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge or a local pond; and then sit as quietly as possible for hours hoping to get “the” shot of a bird or animal.
The more wildlife I encounter on my journeys through Northern California, the more my love for nature grows.Little in this world is as beautiful as a male Wood Duck’s breeding plumage as he soaks up the first rays of morning, as delightful as the descending call of a Canyon Wren or as exciting as the exuberant, sudden rise of thousands of Snow Geese from a rice field.
I’ve been fortunate to win some awards for my wildlife photography, which is gratifying.But, the biggest reward remains the opportunity I have to appreciate God’s handiwork.
Whether you want to take photos, go bird watching or just enjoy a few unhurried moments in the countryside, visit the Sacramento Valley. This unique, unspoiled area should be cherished and protected by all!
Phil Robertson is a photographer and nature enthusiast from Lincoln. He provides travel, scenic and wildlife photos to private collectors, wildlife artists, various non-profits, environmental consulting companies, travel companies and local and regional publications and corporations.
I called and photographed my first bird, a California Quail, at age 13 using a reed quail call and a Kodak Brownie Hawkeye box camera. I’ve been hooked on nature photography ever since! My camera for wildlife photography is a Canon EOS 7D with a Canon 100-400mm IS lens.
Growing up on a small farm in Southern Illinois I learned to love and appreciate nature. Later when I wasn’t taking wildlife photos, I crewed on a 32 foot Ericson sailboat in San Francisco Bay with an excellent skipper--Vytas Pazemenas. We won most races and all matches in the three years I raced with him. In that process I discovered that if you want to get good at something you need to compete, as competition sharpensyour skills.
These experiences fueled my competitive spirit in photographing Sacramento Valley wildlife at its best.
Capturing nature’s beauty and excitement is what gets me out of a nice, warm bed hours before dawn on an icy winter morning. It motivates me to walk through cold dark waters in my chest waders to a photo blind at the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge or a local pond; and then sit as quietly as possible for hours hoping to get “the” shot of a bird or animal.
The more wildlife I encounter on my journeys through Northern California, the more my love for nature grows.Little in this world is as beautiful as a male Wood Duck’s breeding plumage as he soaks up the first rays of morning, as delightful as the descending call of a Canyon Wren or as exciting as the exuberant, sudden rise of thousands of Snow Geese from a rice field.
I’ve been fortunate to win some awards for my wildlife photography, which is gratifying.But, the biggest reward remains the opportunity I have to appreciate God’s handiwork.
Whether you want to take photos, go bird watching or just enjoy a few unhurried moments in the countryside, visit the Sacramento Valley. This unique, unspoiled area should be cherished and protected by all!
Phil Robertson is a photographer and nature enthusiast from Lincoln. He provides travel, scenic and wildlife photos to private collectors, wildlife artists, various non-profits, environmental consulting companies, travel companies and local and regional publications and corporations.
Friday, July 27, 2012
New CRC Blog- A Revolution, One Blog at a time
By Jim Morris
It might not seem destined for the history books like the industrial or high tech revolutions, but we are in the midst of a social media revolution. Information sharing is now largely done via a computer or smart phone.
Adaptation has been a key to success for California rice farmers. They use GPS technology to ensure fields are level to maximize efficiency, have shifted to shorter rice plants that produce more grain and largely changed from burning fields after harvest to flooding them to decompose straw.
The California rice industry has also been at the forefront of social media outreach. Twenty-five farmers and industry members contribute to the California Rice Blog. Popularity has grown dramatically. The blog page is the most viewed on our CalRice.org website and the number of people reading the blogs has more than doubled in the last year. In recent days we’ve heard from followers from Italy and Thailand, so the California rice story is definitely of global interest.
Family farmer Josh Sheppard was one of the first rice bloggers and has provided a steady number of written and video posts about life on the farm. He was recently honored by the Butte County Farm Bureau for his efforts.
The Farm Bureau last night also recognized vital businesses celebrating milestones this year. The Rice Experiment Station, a critical link to commercial rice production, was acknowledged for their centennial.
The Schohr Ranch was honored for their 150th anniversary and it was great to see thenumber of family members in attendance.
And Lundberg & Lundberg, represented by their fourth generation of rice farmers, received recognition for their centennial.
These awards offer a glimpse at why California rice has prospered for the last century. It’s amazing what hardworking families willing to adapt to a changing world can do!
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.
It might not seem destined for the history books like the industrial or high tech revolutions, but we are in the midst of a social media revolution. Information sharing is now largely done via a computer or smart phone.
Adaptation has been a key to success for California rice farmers. They use GPS technology to ensure fields are level to maximize efficiency, have shifted to shorter rice plants that produce more grain and largely changed from burning fields after harvest to flooding them to decompose straw.
The California rice industry has also been at the forefront of social media outreach. Twenty-five farmers and industry members contribute to the California Rice Blog. Popularity has grown dramatically. The blog page is the most viewed on our CalRice.org website and the number of people reading the blogs has more than doubled in the last year. In recent days we’ve heard from followers from Italy and Thailand, so the California rice story is definitely of global interest.
Family farmer Josh Sheppard was one of the first rice bloggers and has provided a steady number of written and video posts about life on the farm. He was recently honored by the Butte County Farm Bureau for his efforts.
Josh with his son, Jack
Senator Doug LaMalfa congratulates RES Director Kent McKenzie
Butte County FB President Stacy Gore with the Schohr Family
Gore with the Lundbergs
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.Wednesday, July 25, 2012
New Lauren LaGrande Blog- Growing Leadership
Summer means many things to teenagers – no school, flip-flops, tanning time and so on. To me, summer has meant fair, working, preparing for rice harvest, swimming, of course no school and Texas. Yes, we’re talking Texas.
Talyor, the California Vice President ,myself, and my friend Brittney
Everything is bigger in Texas, from their malls, their historical landmarks and my personal favorite, cinnamon rolls. This year’s Future Business Leaders of America 2012 National Leadership Conference was held in San Antonio Texas a few weeks ago. My FBLA advisor had found out the last month of school that I had qualified to compete in the event job interview at the national level. Not only was I ecstatic to FINALLY be a senior, to show my first pig Doodle at the fair, but to also be representing my small town at Nationals. I think those of you who are reading this will find it interesting, like myself, what resonates with people when they hear “California.”
We kicked off the National Leadership Conference the first night with our State meetings. Each state would have a meeting in separate workshop rooms. California’s meeting was the loudest by far, which we were quite proud of since this year’s National theme was “Gateway to Greatness” which emphasized the power of letting your voice be heard, making a difference, and exploring new opportunities and experiences, which would ultimately lead to your own “Gateway to Greatness.” The California state officers then began to explain the design and meaning behind our new state pin design. Each state gets a state pen to put on a FBLA lanyard that the participants receive as soon as they walk in. Our state pin this year was the California bear in a business suit leaning on a tractor. The California state officers then began to explain how in the past our state pin had featured the California bear at the Golden Gate Bridge, Hollywood sign, and at Yosemite.
The bear is usually featured on or at something California is well known for and recognized for. However, this year our pin would include an aspect of California that most FBLA-ers don’t always fully recognize us for, our agriculture and how our agriculture is a key component to not only our economy, but our identity. Since I have grown up in such a rural and ag-involved community and since agriculture was such a huge part of my life, it was surprising to me that California wasn’t always recognized or acknowledged for our diverse agriculture. When my friend Brittney and I started making new friends and when they realized we were from California, they instantly asked us if we knew how to surf, had palm trees in our backyard, or if we knew anyone famous, to which we always laughed and replied “Nope just the opposite. The only thing we’ve ever surfed are TV channels.” Brittney and I then began to realize that the California state officers were right, California wasn’t properly recognized for all of its great aspects, especially its farming and agricultural side.
Being that every state receives their own state pin that includes something about their state, it became a very popular activity to trade and collect different pins from across the country. Even though most people expected all Californians to live on the beach or surf, our agricultural pin was the most desired pin out of the states, which made Brittney and I feel really good that other states began to acknowledge and admire California’s agriculture. We then attended workshops, voted for regional presidents, and I ended up placing in the top 15 in the nation for job interview.
All in all it was an amazing experience and we made tons of memories that will last a lifetime. Just like the FBLA National Leadership theme, I hope you all make new experiences, let your voice be heard, take on new opportunities and reach your “Gateway to Greatness!”
Lauren LaGrande is the latest in a family farming tradition that began nearly 100 years ago. She is a sophomore at Maxwell High School and is active in FFA, Future Business Leaders of America, volleyball, basketball and softball. When she’s on the farm, you’ll often see her with her trusted companion, Hank, the family dog. Lauren’s great-grandfather grew his first rice crop in the Sacramento Valley in 1916 and the family has continued this tradition ever since.
The bear is usually featured on or at something California is well known for and recognized for. However, this year our pin would include an aspect of California that most FBLA-ers don’t always fully recognize us for, our agriculture and how our agriculture is a key component to not only our economy, but our identity. Since I have grown up in such a rural and ag-involved community and since agriculture was such a huge part of my life, it was surprising to me that California wasn’t always recognized or acknowledged for our diverse agriculture. When my friend Brittney and I started making new friends and when they realized we were from California, they instantly asked us if we knew how to surf, had palm trees in our backyard, or if we knew anyone famous, to which we always laughed and replied “Nope just the opposite. The only thing we’ve ever surfed are TV channels.” Brittney and I then began to realize that the California state officers were right, California wasn’t properly recognized for all of its great aspects, especially its farming and agricultural side.
Being that every state receives their own state pin that includes something about their state, it became a very popular activity to trade and collect different pins from across the country. Even though most people expected all Californians to live on the beach or surf, our agricultural pin was the most desired pin out of the states, which made Brittney and I feel really good that other states began to acknowledge and admire California’s agriculture. We then attended workshops, voted for regional presidents, and I ended up placing in the top 15 in the nation for job interview.
Brittney, our advisor Mrs. Wright, and myself
All in all it was an amazing experience and we made tons of memories that will last a lifetime. Just like the FBLA National Leadership theme, I hope you all make new experiences, let your voice be heard, take on new opportunities and reach your “Gateway to Greatness!”
Lauren LaGrande is the latest in a family farming tradition that began nearly 100 years ago. She is a sophomore at Maxwell High School and is active in FFA, Future Business Leaders of America, volleyball, basketball and softball. When she’s on the farm, you’ll often see her with her trusted companion, Hank, the family dog. Lauren’s great-grandfather grew his first rice crop in the Sacramento Valley in 1916 and the family has continued this tradition ever since.Tuesday, July 24, 2012
New Guest Blog- Got Rice? The State Fair does!
By Margery Magill, Marysville FFA Alumna
Year in and year out rice is the number one crop in Yuba County and it’s something we at the Marysville Future Farmers of America are quite proud of. To help the rest of California know what rice means to our area, our group designed and built this year’s county exhibit.
We have built the Yuba County exhibit each year since 1996 as a community service product to highlight all that our county has to offer. A field trip to Schohr Farms just north of our county provided chapter advisor Bonnie Magill all of the inspiration needed for this year’s exhibit.
FFA students painted the mural, constructed the walls and picket fence, and helped design the rice trivia questions and overall display. The slimiest yet most enjoyable job was going out barefoot in the mud and digging up live rice plants from Mathews family farm and putting them in pans for the display.
The floor of the exhibit is covered in rice hulls for authenticity! Donations of rice samples, the hulls and the transplanted live rice were donated by Mathews Dryer in Yuba County. Additional rice samples were donated by Montna Farms in Sutter County. There are maps and other materials from the California Rice Commission. Topping it all off is a toy combine on display, which was donated by Valley Truck and Tractor in Yuba City.
The exhibit can be seen at the California State Fair in the Counties Building (Building A/B) through July 29. Come visit and learn about a big part of our economy … and the entire state as well.
Marysville FFA Alumna Margery Magill recently was awarded the national organization's highest honor, the American Degree. This third-year student at U.C. Davis is majoring in International Agricultural Development. This spring, she was among a dozen U.S. students that traveled to Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore to study international grain marketing, trade and global agriculture.
Year in and year out rice is the number one crop in Yuba County and it’s something we at the Marysville Future Farmers of America are quite proud of. To help the rest of California know what rice means to our area, our group designed and built this year’s county exhibit.
We have built the Yuba County exhibit each year since 1996 as a community service product to highlight all that our county has to offer. A field trip to Schohr Farms just north of our county provided chapter advisor Bonnie Magill all of the inspiration needed for this year’s exhibit.
FFA students painted the mural, constructed the walls and picket fence, and helped design the rice trivia questions and overall display. The slimiest yet most enjoyable job was going out barefoot in the mud and digging up live rice plants from Mathews family farm and putting them in pans for the display.
The floor of the exhibit is covered in rice hulls for authenticity! Donations of rice samples, the hulls and the transplanted live rice were donated by Mathews Dryer in Yuba County. Additional rice samples were donated by Montna Farms in Sutter County. There are maps and other materials from the California Rice Commission. Topping it all off is a toy combine on display, which was donated by Valley Truck and Tractor in Yuba City.
The exhibit can be seen at the California State Fair in the Counties Building (Building A/B) through July 29. Come visit and learn about a big part of our economy … and the entire state as well.
Marysville FFA Alumna Margery Magill recently was awarded the national organization's highest honor, the American Degree. This third-year student at U.C. Davis is majoring in International Agricultural Development. This spring, she was among a dozen U.S. students that traveled to Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore to study international grain marketing, trade and global agriculture. Monday, July 23, 2012
New – Sacramento Chef values California Rice
The Executive Chef of the Sheraton Hotel Sacramento and Morgan's Restaurant comments on the value of California rice to the cuisine he prepares.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
New Brian McKenzie Blog- Late July Rice Update
Family farmer Brian McKenzie comments on the progress of this year's rice crop at the halfway point of the growing season.
Brian McKenzie proudly represents the fourth generation of rice farmers in his family. Following his graduation in 2005 from The University of Nevada Reno where he earned bachelors degrees in Economics and Marketing, Brian returned to the family farm in South Sutter County to farm full-time alongside his father, Chris. Brian and his wife, Ashley, grow several varieties of conventional and organic rice. Brian enjoys the challenges that farming brings and takes pride in producing food for the world.
Brian McKenzie proudly represents the fourth generation of rice farmers in his family. Following his graduation in 2005 from The University of Nevada Reno where he earned bachelors degrees in Economics and Marketing, Brian returned to the family farm in South Sutter County to farm full-time alongside his father, Chris. Brian and his wife, Ashley, grow several varieties of conventional and organic rice. Brian enjoys the challenges that farming brings and takes pride in producing food for the world.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
New CRC Blog- Worth more than a thousand words, part two
By Jim Morris
My experience with photography in rice country is that to do it right, it’s often more than a point and shoot scenario. The more photos I take, the more I marvel at the skill of the photographers we work with and the results that they get.
We’ve utilized photos from Gary Kramer for perhaps a decade. This Willows-based photographer has traveled the world photographing wildlife. His work has been seen in thousands of articles and a series of books, including one on the birds of the Pacific Flyway. I love the colors of this photo he took for us.
Phil Robertson has provided us dozens of tremendous wildlife photos as well. Phil grew up in Illinois and describes the Sacramento Valley in heavenly terms with “so many and such a variety of nature’s finest critters.”
Mary Wurlitzer takes full photographical advantage of her life on a rice farm. She’s taken many compelling photos, including this image of one of my favorite rice country birds, the Sandhill Crane.
Chris Haile has a passion for wildlife and agricultural aviation and has been kind to share his images with us. Capturing agricultural pilots is extremely difficult because how fast they travel, but Chris does terrific work.
All of the photographers we work with have their own style, which is exciting. It shows different perspectives on the same subjects; hopefully giving full justice to the subject matter.
We work with additional photographers and I’ll continue to profile them as time goes on. Photography will remain a key part of how we tell the story of California rice and the Sacramento Valley.
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.
My experience with photography in rice country is that to do it right, it’s often more than a point and shoot scenario. The more photos I take, the more I marvel at the skill of the photographers we work with and the results that they get.
We’ve utilized photos from Gary Kramer for perhaps a decade. This Willows-based photographer has traveled the world photographing wildlife. His work has been seen in thousands of articles and a series of books, including one on the birds of the Pacific Flyway. I love the colors of this photo he took for us.
Phil Robertson has provided us dozens of tremendous wildlife photos as well. Phil grew up in Illinois and describes the Sacramento Valley in heavenly terms with “so many and such a variety of nature’s finest critters.”
Mary Wurlitzer takes full photographical advantage of her life on a rice farm. She’s taken many compelling photos, including this image of one of my favorite rice country birds, the Sandhill Crane.
Chris Haile has a passion for wildlife and agricultural aviation and has been kind to share his images with us. Capturing agricultural pilots is extremely difficult because how fast they travel, but Chris does terrific work.
All of the photographers we work with have their own style, which is exciting. It shows different perspectives on the same subjects; hopefully giving full justice to the subject matter.
We work with additional photographers and I’ll continue to profile them as time goes on. Photography will remain a key part of how we tell the story of California rice and the Sacramento Valley.
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.Monday, July 16, 2012
New CRC Blog- What’s in a name? Quite a lot actually!
By Julie Cader
Julie is Finance & Administration Manager for the California Rice Commission, and a big proponent of trying new recipes- especially if they feature California rice.
It’s always exciting to have old friends visit us in Auburn, especially those that used to live here and have moved on down life’s trail. Our friends, Jeff and Teri, were in town the other day and hungry for sushi and sake, so we headed off to Hanami Sushi located on Lincoln Way in Auburn. We were warmly greeted by MamasanHyeon-sook Park and Savannah Widmann, who were proud to share their new sushi roll menu with our famished group.
Now, we are all familiar with the many variations of unique roll names such as Rainbow Roll, Spider Roll and Philadelphia Roll, but what caught our eye were the bizarre names of HanamiSushi’s new exquisite creations. Well, we had to try the Hot Ex-Wife, No Pain No Gain, All Night Long and Monkey Rolls, made with yummy California rice. The rolls were absolutely delicious, fresh and full of spicy flavor—perfect for even those with the most discerning taste buds.
What’s in a name? Quite a lot actually! Come visit us in Auburn and check out the new rolls at Hanami Sushi—who knows what their next fantastic creation will be!
Julie is Finance & Administration Manager for the California Rice Commission, and a big proponent of trying new recipes- especially if they feature California rice.
It’s always exciting to have old friends visit us in Auburn, especially those that used to live here and have moved on down life’s trail. Our friends, Jeff and Teri, were in town the other day and hungry for sushi and sake, so we headed off to Hanami Sushi located on Lincoln Way in Auburn. We were warmly greeted by MamasanHyeon-sook Park and Savannah Widmann, who were proud to share their new sushi roll menu with our famished group.
Now, we are all familiar with the many variations of unique roll names such as Rainbow Roll, Spider Roll and Philadelphia Roll, but what caught our eye were the bizarre names of HanamiSushi’s new exquisite creations. Well, we had to try the Hot Ex-Wife, No Pain No Gain, All Night Long and Monkey Rolls, made with yummy California rice. The rolls were absolutely delicious, fresh and full of spicy flavor—perfect for even those with the most discerning taste buds.
What’s in a name? Quite a lot actually! Come visit us in Auburn and check out the new rolls at Hanami Sushi—who knows what their next fantastic creation will be!
Thursday, July 12, 2012
New CRC Blog – Worth more than a thousand words, part one
By Jim Morris
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been on a small country road in the Sacramento Valley and thought, “Wow, this is a view I have to share!” I keep my Canon at my side and have taken thousands of photos over the years.
It’s easy to be enthusiastic for a place as unique and authentic as the Sacramento Valley. Thankfully, we have found an appreciate audience for the steady stream of photos posted on our website and social media.
Fortunately a lot of talented photographers are capturing these captivating subjects.
Brian Baer has logged many long days in rice country and has an amazing eye. This photo of the rice harvest with Sean Doherty is an all-time favorite.
Paolo Vescia has delivered wonderful portraiture of rice growing families. This shot of three generations of the Sheppard family in Butte County includes a wonderful use of reflections.
Bruce Johnson is able to pursue his photography passion right in his Oroville backyard. He’s taken some amazing bird photos, including this recent entry of an Oriole chasing away an Osprey- a classic!
It’s great to be able to share the beauty of wildlife with your spouse, and I have had the wonderful fortune to be able to team up with my wife Leslie on rice country photo journeys. It has been a great bonding experience and her photo talents continue to soar like the birds she captures.
Next time, I’ll profile another group of excellent photographers helping bring the people, places and wildlife from the Sacramento Valley to the world.
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been on a small country road in the Sacramento Valley and thought, “Wow, this is a view I have to share!” I keep my Canon at my side and have taken thousands of photos over the years.
It’s easy to be enthusiastic for a place as unique and authentic as the Sacramento Valley. Thankfully, we have found an appreciate audience for the steady stream of photos posted on our website and social media.
Fortunately a lot of talented photographers are capturing these captivating subjects.
Brian Baer has logged many long days in rice country and has an amazing eye. This photo of the rice harvest with Sean Doherty is an all-time favorite.
Paolo Vescia has delivered wonderful portraiture of rice growing families. This shot of three generations of the Sheppard family in Butte County includes a wonderful use of reflections.
Bruce Johnson is able to pursue his photography passion right in his Oroville backyard. He’s taken some amazing bird photos, including this recent entry of an Oriole chasing away an Osprey- a classic!
It’s great to be able to share the beauty of wildlife with your spouse, and I have had the wonderful fortune to be able to team up with my wife Leslie on rice country photo journeys. It has been a great bonding experience and her photo talents continue to soar like the birds she captures.
Next time, I’ll profile another group of excellent photographers helping bring the people, places and wildlife from the Sacramento Valley to the world.
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.Wednesday, July 11, 2012
New Dennis Lindberg Blog- Important stage for this year's rice crop
The traditional summer heat is helpful as we’ve reached one of the most critical stages of development – this year’s rice crop is being made right now.
We have passed the 60-day mark since planting and we are beginning the panicle initiation stage. During the next two weeks, the rice will be pollinating. Rice is a self-pollinator, and to protect the plants, we raise our water level in a field a few inches to shield the rice. The higher water level provides a boost of up to five degrees, which can be valuable because we don’t want to see temperatures dip below 55 degrees. When it gets that cold, it can lead to blanking and immature rice kernels. Fortunately, good farm management and usually cooperative California weather lead to nice plump rice kernels come harvest time.
The rice crop looks pretty good right now. There have been some weed issues here and there, but growers are controlling them.
As we approach the halfway mark of crop development, many farmers are making final repairs on harvesters. It’s never too early to get ready for harvest. This will be my 71st consecutive rice harvest. Sharing this experience with my family and growing a wonderful crop are tremendous rewards for the hard work.
Dennis Lindberg has grown rice in Butte County for nearly 70 consecutive years.He’s a well-known author and metal artist, taking scrap metal and creating beautiful animal sculptures. His civic work and love of community is evidenced by his being honored as “Outstanding Citizen of the 20th Century” by Lundberg Family Farms. He and his wife Charlotte have two children – Gary and Sherry. Gary farms with his father in the historic community of Richvale, which recently celebrated its centennial.
We have passed the 60-day mark since planting and we are beginning the panicle initiation stage. During the next two weeks, the rice will be pollinating. Rice is a self-pollinator, and to protect the plants, we raise our water level in a field a few inches to shield the rice. The higher water level provides a boost of up to five degrees, which can be valuable because we don’t want to see temperatures dip below 55 degrees. When it gets that cold, it can lead to blanking and immature rice kernels. Fortunately, good farm management and usually cooperative California weather lead to nice plump rice kernels come harvest time.
The rice crop looks pretty good right now. There have been some weed issues here and there, but growers are controlling them.
As we approach the halfway mark of crop development, many farmers are making final repairs on harvesters. It’s never too early to get ready for harvest. This will be my 71st consecutive rice harvest. Sharing this experience with my family and growing a wonderful crop are tremendous rewards for the hard work.
Dennis Lindberg has grown rice in Butte County for nearly 70 consecutive years.He’s a well-known author and metal artist, taking scrap metal and creating beautiful animal sculptures. His civic work and love of community is evidenced by his being honored as “Outstanding Citizen of the 20th Century” by Lundberg Family Farms. He and his wife Charlotte have two children – Gary and Sherry. Gary farms with his father in the historic community of Richvale, which recently celebrated its centennial.
New Blogger Brian Barrett- Leadership in California rice
California rice industry member Brian Barrett comments about the important role leadership plays.
Brian Barrett is a third generation rice farmer from Maxwell. Upon graduation from California State University Chico with a degree in Agricultural Business, Brian worked briefly for Farmer's Rice Cooperative before going on to work as a Grain Merchandiser for ADM Rice. While working for ADM rice Brian took night classes and earned his Masters in Business Administration at the University of Phoenix, graduating with honors.
Brian Barrett is a third generation rice farmer from Maxwell. Upon graduation from California State University Chico with a degree in Agricultural Business, Brian worked briefly for Farmer's Rice Cooperative before going on to work as a Grain Merchandiser for ADM Rice. While working for ADM rice Brian took night classes and earned his Masters in Business Administration at the University of Phoenix, graduating with honors.Brian farms with his family in Colusa and with his wife, Amanda, in Placer County. Brian is involved in the rice industry on several boards and committees, and was recently selected to be a part of the 2012 Class of the Rice Leadership Development Program, where he is having the privilege to tour all of the rice growing states and learn leadership skills. Brian and his wife welcomed their first child, a baby girl, Peyton, in June.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
New CRC Blog- A little taste of Hawaii at 6,225 feet above sea level
By Julie Cader
Julie is Finance & Administration Manager for the California Rice Commission, and a big proponent of trying new recipes- especially if they feature California rice.
An event we always enjoy is the Tahoe City Wine Walk, where food and wine aficionados stroll throughout the scenic town of Tahoe City on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe.
Although it was a cold and windy day, with dark clouds threatening rain, we powered through on a mission to conquer more than 30 food and wine stations. We discovered hidden treasures in the charming shops, enjoyed live bands, sampled wonderful California wines and delighted in the delicious small plates of local restaurants and caterers. One of our favorite spots was the North Shore Hawaiian Grill, offering small plates of Kalua Pork and cabbage over California Calrose rice for all of the wine walk enthusiasts.
Owners Steve and Collette Martinez are known for their authentic Hawaiian Style plate lunches and dinners served with yummy California Calrose rice and island style macaroni salad.
The sampling was delicious (we had seconds) and we vowed to be back for their North Shore Carrot Pineapple Cake on our next visit.
Don’t miss North Shore Hawaiian Grill on your next 6,000+ foot visit to the lake.
Julie is Finance & Administration Manager for the California Rice Commission, and a big proponent of trying new recipes- especially if they feature California rice.
An event we always enjoy is the Tahoe City Wine Walk, where food and wine aficionados stroll throughout the scenic town of Tahoe City on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe.
Although it was a cold and windy day, with dark clouds threatening rain, we powered through on a mission to conquer more than 30 food and wine stations. We discovered hidden treasures in the charming shops, enjoyed live bands, sampled wonderful California wines and delighted in the delicious small plates of local restaurants and caterers. One of our favorite spots was the North Shore Hawaiian Grill, offering small plates of Kalua Pork and cabbage over California Calrose rice for all of the wine walk enthusiasts.
Owners Steve and Collette Martinez are known for their authentic Hawaiian Style plate lunches and dinners served with yummy California Calrose rice and island style macaroni salad.
The sampling was delicious (we had seconds) and we vowed to be back for their North Shore Carrot Pineapple Cake on our next visit.
Don’t miss North Shore Hawaiian Grill on your next 6,000+ foot visit to the lake.
Monday, July 9, 2012
New Guest Blog- Celiac Disease, What you should know
By Marilyn Geller
Celiac disease is an inherited autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive process of the small intestine. When a person who has celiac disease consumes gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley, the individual’s immune system responds by attacking the small intestine and inhibiting the absorption of important nutrients into the body. Celiac disease can be associated with other autoimmune disorders and, undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to osteoporosis, infertility, neurological conditions and in rare cases, cancer.
Celiac disease affects at least one percent of Americans, or nearly three million people in the United States. By comparison, Alzheimer’s disease affects approximately two million people. It is possible to be diagnosed with celiac disease at any age. Family members are at the greatest risk and should be tested, even if they have no symptoms.
The only treatment for celiac disease is to follow a gluten-free diet--that is, to avoid all foods that contain wheat (including spelt, triticale, and kamut), rye, and barley.For most people, following this diet will stop symptoms, heal existing intestinal damage, and prevent further damage. People with celiac disease can eat a well-balanced diet which includes rice, and gluten-free bread and pasta made from rice flour.
Since there is no FDA regulation of the term “gluten-free,” learning to read food labels for hidden gluten is a must. Meeting with a registered dietician who is an expert in the gluten-free diet is recommended.
Only a few years ago, gluten-free products were found only in health food stores or specialty stores. People did not know what celiac disease was and could not even pronounce the word. Celiac Disease Foundation has played a major role in the dramatic increase in celiac awarenessby sponsoring conferences and gluten-free expos, and partnering with prominent celiac medical centers andmajor food manufacturers to promote the gluten-free lifestyle.
Since its inception in 1990, Celiac Disease Foundation has been at the forefront of celiac disease education, awareness, advocacy, and support services. Today, guided by its Medical Advisory Board of international experts, and supported by Chapters and Connections throughout the United States, CDF is meeting the growing public health challenge of increased diagnosis of celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. With a range of vital programs and services for the public, patients, healthcare professionals and the food industries, CDF remains dedicated to improving the quality of life for those diagnosed, yet to be diagnosed, and their families.
For more information, visit CDF at www.celiac.org or call 818.716.1513.
Celiac disease is an inherited autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive process of the small intestine. When a person who has celiac disease consumes gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley, the individual’s immune system responds by attacking the small intestine and inhibiting the absorption of important nutrients into the body. Celiac disease can be associated with other autoimmune disorders and, undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to osteoporosis, infertility, neurological conditions and in rare cases, cancer.
Celiac disease affects at least one percent of Americans, or nearly three million people in the United States. By comparison, Alzheimer’s disease affects approximately two million people. It is possible to be diagnosed with celiac disease at any age. Family members are at the greatest risk and should be tested, even if they have no symptoms.
The only treatment for celiac disease is to follow a gluten-free diet--that is, to avoid all foods that contain wheat (including spelt, triticale, and kamut), rye, and barley.For most people, following this diet will stop symptoms, heal existing intestinal damage, and prevent further damage. People with celiac disease can eat a well-balanced diet which includes rice, and gluten-free bread and pasta made from rice flour.
Since there is no FDA regulation of the term “gluten-free,” learning to read food labels for hidden gluten is a must. Meeting with a registered dietician who is an expert in the gluten-free diet is recommended.
Only a few years ago, gluten-free products were found only in health food stores or specialty stores. People did not know what celiac disease was and could not even pronounce the word. Celiac Disease Foundation has played a major role in the dramatic increase in celiac awarenessby sponsoring conferences and gluten-free expos, and partnering with prominent celiac medical centers andmajor food manufacturers to promote the gluten-free lifestyle.
Since its inception in 1990, Celiac Disease Foundation has been at the forefront of celiac disease education, awareness, advocacy, and support services. Today, guided by its Medical Advisory Board of international experts, and supported by Chapters and Connections throughout the United States, CDF is meeting the growing public health challenge of increased diagnosis of celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. With a range of vital programs and services for the public, patients, healthcare professionals and the food industries, CDF remains dedicated to improving the quality of life for those diagnosed, yet to be diagnosed, and their families.
For more information, visit CDF at www.celiac.org or call 818.716.1513.
Marilyn Geller, MSPH, is Chief Operating Officer of the Woodland Hills-based Celiac Disease Foundation.
Summertime Gluten-Free Pineapple Fried Rice
Making the Pineapple Boat
Summertime Gluten-Free Pineapple Fried Rice
Heat up olive oil and onions in a pan at low heat for 5 minutes.- Add sliced mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers and stir at medium heat until almost done (around 10 minutes).
- Optional: Flavor the vegetables with salt, pepper and red chili pepper.
- In separate pan, scramble 2 eggs.
- In original pan, add sliced pineapple and stir for 2 minutes.
- Add scrambled eggs and 2 cups rice in original pan on very low heat.
- Add 3 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce and mix everything together. Let sit for 1 minute then stir again and repeat. Scoop into pineapple boat and serve.
Making the Pineapple Boat
- Turn it to find the most attractive and stable way for it to lie.
- Now slightly turn it and slice no more than 1/4 of the pineapple from the top using a serrated knife. Do not cut the leaves.
- Cut around the inside of the pineapple, following the "rim". Cut deeply, but not where your knife will cut through the other side.
- Cut the pineapple into cubes. Again, cut deeply but not enough to cut through the other side.
- Using preferably a sharp spoon, scoop out the pineapple cubes.
- After Fried Rice is done, scoop into the pineapple boat and serve.
Friday, July 6, 2012
New Blogger Brice Lauppe- July Rice Update
California rice industry member Brice Lauppe updates the rice crop progression in early summer.
Brice is the fourth generation from his family to be involved in the California rice industry. He is a graduate of Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and is currently a Field Representative for Farmers’ Rice Cooperative. Brice is an active member of the USA Rice Leadership Development Program. He and his wife, Leslie, have three wonderful children, Brynn, Blake, and Cole. In his spare time, Brice enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf and basketball, and coaching his kids' sports teams.
Brice is the fourth generation from his family to be involved in the California rice industry. He is a graduate of Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and is currently a Field Representative for Farmers’ Rice Cooperative. Brice is an active member of the USA Rice Leadership Development Program. He and his wife, Leslie, have three wonderful children, Brynn, Blake, and Cole. In his spare time, Brice enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf and basketball, and coaching his kids' sports teams.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
New CRC Blog: Beyond Zion
By Julie Cader
Julie is Finance & Administration Manager for the California Rice Commission, and a big proponent of trying new recipes- especially if they feature California rice.
Every year my daughter Jaime and I plan a birthday escape from the crowds and hectic schedules in search of new adventures. This year we followed the Pony Express Trail through Nevada and headed over to Zion and Bryce National Parks for a week of hiking and exploring.
We stayed in the small community of Springdale, Utah, surrounded by the scenic sandstone and soaring towers of Zion.
For a birthday celebration dinner, we decided on Thai Sapa, known for their fusion gourmet dishes from Thailand, Indochina and Japan.
The name “Thai” honors both Thailand and the Chinese/Vietnamese word of the same spelling which means “Great”. The name “Sapa” stands for a hill tribe community at 5,000 ft. in Vietnam at the Chinese border. Thai Sapa was born out of Chef Tung’s love of cooking in her café in Viet Nam. Everything on their menu is homemade, truly natural and very delicious. When we asked what type of brown rice was served, Chef Tung gladly replied that they only use Lundberg Family Farms Golden Rose Brown Rice.
Chef Tung added they also use a variety of produce from their own garden and orchard as well as from the town’s local farmers. Interesting enough, they have an aggressive recycling program, which includes the use of their used fry oil in their various friends’ old diesels. Our meal was excellent and the California brown rice was the best! If you ever have an opportunity to visit Zion and Bryce National Parks, be sure to stop in at Thai Sapa and say hi to Chef Tung and her husband, Dennis.
Julie is Finance & Administration Manager for the California Rice Commission, and a big proponent of trying new recipes- especially if they feature California rice.
Every year my daughter Jaime and I plan a birthday escape from the crowds and hectic schedules in search of new adventures. This year we followed the Pony Express Trail through Nevada and headed over to Zion and Bryce National Parks for a week of hiking and exploring.
We stayed in the small community of Springdale, Utah, surrounded by the scenic sandstone and soaring towers of Zion.
For a birthday celebration dinner, we decided on Thai Sapa, known for their fusion gourmet dishes from Thailand, Indochina and Japan.
The name “Thai” honors both Thailand and the Chinese/Vietnamese word of the same spelling which means “Great”. The name “Sapa” stands for a hill tribe community at 5,000 ft. in Vietnam at the Chinese border. Thai Sapa was born out of Chef Tung’s love of cooking in her café in Viet Nam. Everything on their menu is homemade, truly natural and very delicious. When we asked what type of brown rice was served, Chef Tung gladly replied that they only use Lundberg Family Farms Golden Rose Brown Rice.
Chef Tung added they also use a variety of produce from their own garden and orchard as well as from the town’s local farmers. Interesting enough, they have an aggressive recycling program, which includes the use of their used fry oil in their various friends’ old diesels. Our meal was excellent and the California brown rice was the best! If you ever have an opportunity to visit Zion and Bryce National Parks, be sure to stop in at Thai Sapa and say hi to Chef Tung and her husband, Dennis.
New CRC Blog: Angry Rice Birds, The Sequel
By Jim Morris
One week following my eventful trip to a rice field to photograph Black Terns, wife Leslie and I took another try at capturing this California rice-dependent species.
This is the time of the year when many bird species nest and raise their young in Sacramento Valley rice fields. It’s a great time to observe and photograph them, but it’s also a time when mom and dad birds are understandably protective of their new arrivals.
We headed back to western Colusa County and had no trouble finding Black Terns. Several pairs squawked and swooped around our pickup truck as we entered their home turf. One thousand, one hundred and forty-eight photos later, Leslie was able to better capture this fast and furious bird.
It’s great to see wildlife entrenched in rice fields. We also spotted amazing numbers of Killdeer, ducks, egrets, scores of Blackbirds and an American Bittern.
The star of this day was this small bird that made several close passes to advise us to keep a respectful distance from its young.
Watching them catch their fill of dragonflies and gulp them down in mid-air was a treat. The ecosystem looked very much in balance on this warm July morning.
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.
One week following my eventful trip to a rice field to photograph Black Terns, wife Leslie and I took another try at capturing this California rice-dependent species.
This is the time of the year when many bird species nest and raise their young in Sacramento Valley rice fields. It’s a great time to observe and photograph them, but it’s also a time when mom and dad birds are understandably protective of their new arrivals.
We headed back to western Colusa County and had no trouble finding Black Terns. Several pairs squawked and swooped around our pickup truck as we entered their home turf. One thousand, one hundred and forty-eight photos later, Leslie was able to better capture this fast and furious bird.
It’s great to see wildlife entrenched in rice fields. We also spotted amazing numbers of Killdeer, ducks, egrets, scores of Blackbirds and an American Bittern.
The star of this day was this small bird that made several close passes to advise us to keep a respectful distance from its young.
Watching them catch their fill of dragonflies and gulp them down in mid-air was a treat. The ecosystem looked very much in balance on this warm July morning.
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
New video- Avocet Courtship
Naturalist, artist and educator John Muir Laws describes actions by American Avocets he viewed during a field trip to Sacramento Valley rice fields.
Monday, July 2, 2012
New CRC Blog: Angry California Rice Birds
By Jim Morris
It seemed like such a simple and fun assignment- find Black Terns and photograph them for an upcoming publication.
Black Terns are one of the nearly 230 wildlife species that call California ricelands home, so I knew that a little sleuthing would lead to success.
As the sun rose Friday I headed north on I-5 to Williams and was expertly guided to Black Tern habitat by family rice farmer Jim LaGrande, who has seen these birds in and around his farm for about a decade.
The good news is we found 9 or 10 Black Terns. The challenging news is that we found 9 or 10 Black Terns.
It’s nesting time and these birds are a bit protective. I understand their desire to safeguard their young. It did make the photography rather challenging, as the terns took turns showing their displeasure through squawks and aerial acrobatics. (In fact, one tern complained loudly for quite some time, all the while carrying its supper- a big, fat dragonfly- in its beak.)
Finally, their patience came to an abrupt end. Two snapping cranky terns came within inches of me and drove home the point that my visit was over.
Knowing these birds would be excitable; I set my camera up for burst mode – capturing multiple images with one push of the button to try to capture some action shots. Out of more than 400 images, I was happy with two of them.
Here’s a close up shot of a Black Tern, which had been hovering over my head.
And here’s a shot capturing the beauty of the rice field and the coast range in the backdrop.
Black Terns are part of the vast and varied ecosystem in California rice country. They may have an angry disposition, but I appreciate that they take their role as parents so seriously.
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.
It seemed like such a simple and fun assignment- find Black Terns and photograph them for an upcoming publication.
Black Terns are one of the nearly 230 wildlife species that call California ricelands home, so I knew that a little sleuthing would lead to success.
As the sun rose Friday I headed north on I-5 to Williams and was expertly guided to Black Tern habitat by family rice farmer Jim LaGrande, who has seen these birds in and around his farm for about a decade.
The good news is we found 9 or 10 Black Terns. The challenging news is that we found 9 or 10 Black Terns.
It’s nesting time and these birds are a bit protective. I understand their desire to safeguard their young. It did make the photography rather challenging, as the terns took turns showing their displeasure through squawks and aerial acrobatics. (In fact, one tern complained loudly for quite some time, all the while carrying its supper- a big, fat dragonfly- in its beak.)
Finally, their patience came to an abrupt end. Two snapping cranky terns came within inches of me and drove home the point that my visit was over.
Knowing these birds would be excitable; I set my camera up for burst mode – capturing multiple images with one push of the button to try to capture some action shots. Out of more than 400 images, I was happy with two of them.
Here’s a close up shot of a Black Tern, which had been hovering over my head.
And here’s a shot capturing the beauty of the rice field and the coast range in the backdrop.
Black Terns are part of the vast and varied ecosystem in California rice country. They may have an angry disposition, but I appreciate that they take their role as parents so seriously.
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.
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