Dave Puglia on California Agriculture, Water, Labor, and Automation
Dan
October 7, 2026
Agri-Business, Economy, Infrastructure, Interview, Irrigation, Labor and Immigration, Regulation, Special Reports, Technology, Water
California agriculture is navigating a challenging combination of water shortages, labor concerns, regulations, trade uncertainty, rising costs, and a rapidly changing technology landscape. On “The Ag Meter” Nick Papagni sat down with Dave Puglia, president and CEO of Western Growers Association, for a wide-ranging discussion about the issues shaping the future of California agriculture.
Dave Puglia
Puglia, who has led Western Growers since 2020, brought decades of experience in California public policy and agricultural advocacy to the conversation.
Farmer Resiliency in California
The interview began with a discussion of farmer resiliency, including Stuart Wolf’s efforts to develop agave production on the West Side despite difficult water conditions. Puglia said California farmers continue to search for new opportunities despite high energy costs and a challenging regulatory environment. He described agave as another example of growers adapting to changing conditions and looking for profitable alternatives.
Puglia also criticized what he sees as a disconnect between lawmakers' stated support for agriculture and policies affecting farmers and farm workers. He pointed to agricultural overtime requirements as an example and argued that economic pressures ultimately influence where businesses choose to operate.
Western Growers and Regional Differences
Western Growers represents growers in California, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico, while its members operate across numerous states and countries. Puglia highlighted the stark differences between California and Arizona, particularly for growers in the Imperial Valley competing with operations just across the border in Yuma.
Trade, Canada, and the Farm Bill
Trade relationships with Mexico and Canada remain particularly complicated for California agriculture. Puglia explained that Mexico is both a competitor and a major export market, while Canada is California fresh produce’s largest export market. He said declining Canadian consumer demand for American products had become a concern for California agriculture and pointed particularly to impacts on the wine and fresh produce industries.
Puglia also discussed the stalled Farm Bill, saying disagreements over SNAP administrative requirements were among the issues preventing an agreement. He described the proposed legislation as potentially transformative for specialty crops, with additional support for pest and disease research, mechanization, automation, risk management, and more efficient water use.