Science-based solutions for healthy and resilient communities, food systems, and environments. | | Agricultural Advice from UCCE Advisors | |
Advancing IPPM: Pollinators, Natural Enemies, and the Economic Value of Habitat
July 22, 2026
In this webinar, Dr. Lora Morandin, Associate Director of the Pollinator Partnership, will give a brief overview on how pest control and pollination benefit the ecosystem. She will also discuss the importance of wild pollinators to pollination and describe how landscape context impacts pollination and crop production. Finally, she will describe the enhancement of native pollinators and natural enemy insects through small-scale habitat integration in agroecosystems.
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UC Ag Experts: Invasive Weeds Management in Intermountain NorCal
August 5, 2026 | 3:00 - 4:00 PM
Thomas Getts, University of California Cooperative Extension Weed Ecology and Cropping Systems Advisor (Lassen, Modoc, Sierra, and Plumas Counties), will describe the biology, impacts, and control of some of the more common and damaging invasive weed species in the intermountain region of California. An IPM outline will be utilized starting out with information about the pest, followed by what physical, biological, and chemical control methods can be utilized. Species covered will include but may not be limited to: Cheatgrass, Medusahead, Perennial Pepperweed, Scotch thistle, Dyers Woad, Common crupina, and Mediterranean sage.
| | Six exits to safety: UC study finds wildfire survival depends on roads for evacuation | |
Interactive map shows wildfire risk based on number of roads out of a community
One of the strongest predictors of wildfire fatalities may be the number of roads out of a community, according to a new study from scientists at the University of California Santa Barbara and UC Cooperative Extension. Their research reveals that a surprisingly specific number of roads separates high-risk communities from safer ones during a wildfire – six.
Publishing in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers at UCSB's National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS) and Bren School of Environmental Science compiled the most extensive georeferenced wildfire fatality dataset to date, covering 342 deaths across the United States from 2008 to 2024.
The scientists found that fatalities drop sharply as communities gain more outward road access, but only up to about six exits. Beyond that point, additional roads offer little further protection.
| | UCCE Community Education Programs | | | | UC Master Gardener Program | | | | 4-H Youth Development Program | |
Ventura County 4-H Featured on Our Ventura TV
Ventura County 4-H Youth Development Advisor Melissa Guillen recently joined Our Ventura TV to share more about 4-H and the opportunities available to youth and families throughout Ventura County.
During the interview, Guillen discussed the 4-H Youth Development Program and what makes 4-H unique. As one the nation's largest youth development organizations, 4-H provides hands-on learning experiences that help young people build confidence, develop leadership skills, explore new interests, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Watch the full interview to learn more about Ventura County 4-H and how youth and families can get involved.
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Ventura County Crop & Livestock Report
The Ventura County Crop & Livestock Report is an annual summary of agricultural production, detailing the types, quantities, and economic values of crops grown. It highlights top crops, total acreage, and market trends, providing insights into the contributions of the agricultural sector. Every Agricultural Commissioner’s office is required to produce an annual crop report, making this a collaborative effort to reflect the region’s agricultural landscape.
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Saticoy Food Hub
Saticoy Food Hub is currently recruiting for three new positions as we continue to expand our work supporting farmers, strengthening local food systems, and increasing food access across Ventura County.
Open positions:
• Director of Food Safety & Operations (EXEMPT)
• Organic Certification & Farm Business Specialist (HOURLY)
• Food Hub Logistics & Distribution Manager (HOURLY)
| | Cal Poly Strawberry Center | |
July 23, 2026 | 7:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Participants will rotate through five interactive stations showcasing over 20 dynamic demonstrations led by students, staff and industry partners. Topics include the newest automation technology, arthropod pests and predators, soil-borne pathogens of strawberry and much more! We look forward to sharing the Center's latest research and happenings!
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UCCE in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties improves the lives of local residents by working with growers, families, volunteers, and partners to advance science-based solutions in agriculture, natural ecosystems, community health, and youth development.
Your support helps in many ways.
Thank you.
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