CCM Hosts Annual Ventura County Grower Meeting

 Earlier this week, CCM staff traveled to Santa Paula for our annual Ventura County Grower Meeting. The meeting included lunch and a conversational update from CCM Director of Governmental Affairs Jacob Villagomez on current issues CCM is working on that impact the California citrus industry, with a particular focus on District 2 growers.

Much of the conversation centered on lemon imports from Argentina, which have significantly impacted District 2 grower returns in recent years, and possible avenues CCM staff is exploring to get more attention on this issue. Attendees also discussed other legislative and regulatory issues affecting citrus growers in the region, such as the SB24 plastic packaging law and ACP/HLB.

CCM Board Chair Julia Inestroza also addressed attendees, noting that incoming CEO Tom Danowski will begin next week. She shared the Board’s excitement for his leadership and the organization’s next chapter.

CCM would like to thank Board Director and District 2 grower Lisa Tate and her family for hosting the meeting at their home and citrus ranch, as well as all of the growers and industry partners who joined us for the event.