SLO Country Magazine
Horse Sense
SLO County agriculture contributes $1.87 billion to the local economy and provides 20,645 jobs in the county, some directly and some indirectly. Read about a local farrier and a veterinarian who are part of that workforce. View a 32-minute video about horseshoeing. View a 2.5-minute video with the vet.
Ag Update E-Newsletter -- Ag News You Need to Know!
Keep up with news and information about agriculture on the Central Coast ... [Click to subscribe]
Legislative News
California Fire Prevention (SRA) Fee -- PAY IT ON TIME! But Continue to Protest...
It is important to pay this fire fee before the due date on your billing so that you will not be subject to steep penalties, interest and a lien on your property. But protest this fee. Read more here and download a sample petition and addresses here.
Agriculturalists Organize to Address Paso Robles Groundwater Solutions
Read about the July 29 meeting and a summary of the situation here.
Asian Citrus Psyllid Currently a Threat to California Citrus
The Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP) has been found in Santa Maria and other areas in California. The following website links tell you more about the problem and how to identify this destructive pest. Click on the three listings to view the videos.
1) California Department of Food and Agriculture videos
2) Citrus Pest & Disease Prevention Program
3)
KSBY--Ag Officials Spray for Citrus Pest
How Do You Improve Your Irrigation System Efficiency?
Whether you're updating a SIP certification, starting an orchard or working as a seasonal famer, contact the Coastal San Luis Resource Conservation District to help you with irrigation scheduling and nutrient managing, water quality analysis, distribution uniformity, pump efficiency and equipment recommendations. Learn more.
Tie-Down Exemption Extended to April 30, 2014
Read the latest CHP information about the process needed for any motor carrier wishing to participate in the agricultural haulers' exemption.
Board of Supervisors
Click here for a copy of the current Board of Supervisors Meeting Agenda.
To print out a copy of the "Board Appearance Request Form," click here.
Take Action!
Do You Receive Notes From Farm Bureau?
Call or email us today to stay informed!
Membership Benefits
NEW Ag Equipment Discounts
Farm Bureau members can save $300-$500 on Case-IH equipment, including Farmall Compact tractors, large square balers, round balers, self-propelled windrowers, disk mower conditioners and more.
There is no limit to the number of discounts a member may use, as long as it's no more than one per unit acquired. Read the details here.
Receive a Bigger Discount
Farm Bureau Voting Members receive a bigger discount on a personal auto policy -- 12.5%. To find out more, Click here.
State Fund offers a discount and special programs to Farm Bureau members. Read more.
Farm Bureau offers low-cost, durable signs needed for agricultural operations. For a sample of available signs, Click here.
"No Trespassing Sign" Now Comes in Two Sizes & Two Versions
A new 24x 16-inch metal No Trespass sign in English and Spanish with the penal code number listed sells for $13 (members) & $13.50 (non-members). Orders for this sign must be pre-paid.
A 16x13-inch metal No Trespassing sign in English and Spanish without the penal code number sells for $8 (members) & $8.50 (non-members).
On the Calendar 
December 2013
» 12/19/2013
Holiday Open House
» 12/21/2013
Adelaida Farm Center Meeting
Executive Director Job
Executive Director Job Listing
Read the job description details and qualifications here.
SLO Farm Bureau Moves
Our New Location is Open at 3599 Sueldo Street #100, SLO 93401
The San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau office is now open in a temporary location while a ßnew office is built across from the San Luis Obispo Airport. Read about the move here; download a pdf map of the new location. View photos of the move and new location. All phone numbers and e-mail addresses remain the same.
Membership Benefits
General Motors Discount on Cars and Trucks
Farm Bureau members can receive a $500 discount on purchase, lease or fleet purchase of General Motors cars and trucks. An extra $1,000 is offered on new trucks through April 1, 2014. Read specific details here.
What are some benefits of your SLO County Farm Bureau membership? Read about them here. Find a current list with Farm Bureau benefits here.
Membership News
Join SLO County Farm Bureau
It's easy to join San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau and receive the benefits of membership. Read how your membership keeps you informed on local and state ag issues. Join online today! Click here.
How to Become a Business Member
For a Business Membership application, please click here. For questions, call the SLO County Farm Bureau, (805) 543-3654.
Renew Your SLO County Farm Bureau Membership
Renew your membership online today! Click here.
Welcome New SLO County Farm Bureau Members!
Agricultural Members --
Lynn Compton, Robert Hartsten, Michael Reddell, TriCal Inc., Yerich.
Associate Members -- Andros Engineering Corporation, Peter Ayer, Dennis Campbell, Angela Carpenter, Michael Daley, Jeff Downing, Martina Estrada, Rain Gow, Leon Hunter, C. Jordan, Gloria Montemagni, Joseph Neil, Noble Saw Inc., Benjamin Ramirez, Veronica Ruiz, Amelia Rutiz, Amber Simmons, Treasury Wine Estates, Matt Trevisan, Marshall Williams, Willow Creek Olive Oil LLC.
New Collegiate Membership Offered CFBF invites students between 16 and 25, enrolled in a post-high school education program such as community college, four-year university or trade school, to join Farm Bureau for $25 a year. Gift memberships are available. Learn more.
SLO Co. Ag Department
2012 County Crop Report -- New Record Value
An increase of nearly 18% in gross values over 2011 was reported. Published copies of the report are available; call (805) 781-5910 or download the pdf here. Also -- See a USDA Farms, Land in Farms, and Livestock Operations 2012 Summary here.
2012 County Crop Report Plus -- Economic Study
Read how SLO County agriculture contributes $1.87 billion to the overall economy with direct and indirect output, provides 20,645 jobs and contributes economic stability to our county. Download the pdf.
Firewood Buyers Beware!
The SLO County Ag Department encourages residents to purchase firewood from local sources to lessen chances of bringing harmful insects and plant diseases into the county. Read more.
Freddy of the Year
Congratulations Janet Andrews!
Janet Andrews, a native of San Luis Obispo, is being honored for her outstanding service and contributions to agriculture through her work with Farm Bureau as well as in the community. Read more. Watch a video as SLO Farm Bureau President Carlos Castañeda presents Janet Andrews with her award.
2013 Ag of the Year
Congratulations, Dr. Joe Sabol
At Cattlemen and Farmers' Day during July's Mid-State Fair, lifelong educator Dr. Joe Sabol was honored as Agriculturalist of the Year. During his 40-year career at Cal Poly, his passion for agriculture has inspired thousands of students, as well as adults in the Ag Leadership Program. In retirement, he continues to teach through his work with California Rare Fruit Growers, the Great AGventure and other activities. Read more.
Events
95th CFBF Annual Meeting
Saturday-Wednesday, December 7-11, Monterey
"Growing Our Future, Valuing Our Traditions" is the theme for California Farm Bureau's annual get-together.
Find complete schedule and registration information here or call (916) 561-5591.
Event Photos
Annual Meeting of Members
Carlos Castaneda and a new board of directors were installed. View event photos here.
Edna Farm Center Meeting -- View photos here.
North Coast Farm Center Meeting -- View photos here.
2013 Great AGventure -- View photos here.
Tours
Seminars
Avocado Growers' Seminar Series Available on DVD 
"Managing a Large Avocado Crop" is the 7th DVD in this series from Index Fresh. For a copy of the DVD and more details, call local fieldman Giuseppe Bonfiglio at (805) 341-3059 or read the article here.
California Bountiful
CFBF Magazine
California Bountiful Magazine features articles about holiday decorating and celebrations, agriculturalists, gardening, recipes, books and more. Link here.
Farm Safety & Workers
Take Extra Precautions When Using a Ladder
An indispensable tool for many farms and ranches, ladders can also be a safety hazard. Click here for safety tips to read and share with workers.
Hazard Label Changes Require Worker Training by December 1
Effective December 1, all workers who work with or around hazardous chemicals must receive training on new warning labels that are being phased in by manufacturers at the direction of OSHA. Read more.
Cover Agritourism Activities With Farm Insurance Policy
The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture estimates 52,000 farms earn income from agritourism. If you offer those opportunites, be sure to discuss insurance to cover your liabilities with your agent. Read more.
Important Employee Issues
Learn about the latest topics for employers and employees -- healthcare, legislation, Cal OSHA, scams, studies, surveys, unemployment insurance, workers' comp, Form I-9, medical marijuana and much more. Read the August 2013 newsletter; read September 2013.
Farm Team
FARM PAC
California Farm Bureau Federation encourages Farm Bureau voting members to stay engaged in the political process, even in a non-election year. Read more.
