Board Election Time Is Almost Here — We Need You!

It’s almost board election time, and we need our members' help. This year, we are changing things up to save time and money. Included below is a survey that we would appreciate you filling out. The survey will tell our staff if you would prefer to submit your nominations and ballots online or print. Please get back to us by Monday, October 27th. Based on the response feedback, we will send you the upcoming nomination forms and ballots using your preferred method.  If you have any questions, please feel free to call the WUD office at (209) 527-6453.

Answer the poll online

New on Seen & Herd: Inside the Producer Review Board Meeting



On this week’s Seen & Herd podcast, Paul Sousa recaps the latest Producer Review Board (PRB) meeting held September 22 at CalExpo in Sacramento. The six-hour session covered key updates on quota assessments, board leadership, and pending referendum results. Paul breaks down the board’s unanimous vote to recommend a 1% quota assessment increase, its proposal to reduce board size from 15 to 12 members, and discussions around hardship requests and CDFA’s ongoing legal reviews.

The episode also highlights the recognition of retiring State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Jones, updates on the New World Screwworm threat, and CDFA’s efforts to modernize dairy accounting systems. For producers following the referendum, Paul explains why results are delayed and what to expect next.

Listen Here

FSA Offices Closed During Federal Shutdown—Producers Encouraged to Prepare Paperwork 

Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices are currently closed, pausing access to federal programs such as the Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP). While offices remain shut, WUD encourages producers to use this time to gather all necessary documentation so they’re ready to apply once operations resume. Producers whose income is at least 75% from farming may qualify for increased payment limits under ELRP—up to $250,000 per year with proper certification and CPA verification.

See the eligible counties map

CDQAP September Update: Screwworm Alert and Farm Safety Tips 

The latest CDQAP Quality Assurance Update highlights two timely issues for California dairies. USDA is on high alert after confirming a case of New World Screwworm just 70 miles south of the U.S. border, urging livestock producers to watch for unhealed wounds and limit animal movement from affected areas. The newsletter also shares seasonal reminders on keeping dairy workers safe during harvest and construction—emphasizing clear traffic routes, employee awareness, and maintaining clean work areas to prevent accidents.

Read the latest CDQAP Newsletter