Anja Raudabaugh is joined by Dr. Michael Payne to discuss the re-emerging threat of the New World screwworm, a dangerous pest spreading northward through Mexico that prompted U.S. import suspensions. Dr. Payne breaks down how screwworms infest warm-blooded animals, the telltale signs of infection, and the historic success of the sterile fly eradication program—plus what’s being done now to control the resurgence. The episode also includes an update on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), wi...
May 27, 2025•16 min•Season 6Ep. 8
In this episode of Seen & Herd , Paul Sousa, Director of Environmental Sustainability and Regulatory Affairs at Western United Dairies, recaps a significant "doubleheader" of meetings held on Cinco de Mayo—a CDFA hearing on Stop QIP Petition #5 and an afternoon Producer Review Board (PRB) meeting. He breaks down procedural updates, introduces new board members, discusses quota administration issues, and explores the intriguing possibility of using a state bond to retire quota. Paul also prov...
May 12, 2025•18 min
This week on Seen & Herd, we have a bonus episode. In this episode, Tiffany LaMendola and Katie Burgess from Ever.Ag who discuss Livestock Risk Protection (LRP)—a timely and flexible insurance program designed to help dairy producers protect revenue from calves, crossbreds, and even cull cows. Learn how LRP compares to DRP, what changes are coming on July 1st, and how to take action to get protection in place. This episode is for you if livestock sales are part of your dairy income....
Apr 23, 2025•11 min
In this episode of Seen & Herd , Paul Sousa sits down with Steve Rowe, Chairman of Biofiltro, and Sanjar Taremi, Livestock Lead, to dive into a solution that’s gaining traction among California dairies: vermifiltration. This natural, low-tech system uses wood chips and worms to significantly reduce nitrogen loads and methane emissions from dairy wastewater, at little to no cost for producers. With changing water regulations, looming methane mandates, and new funding opportunities, this conve...
Apr 22, 2025•37 min•Season 6Ep. 6
Join us for an insightful episode of Seen & Herd as we welcome back Paul Sousa, Western United Dairies’ Director of Environmental Sustainability and Regulatory Affairs. Paul dives into the latest regulatory updates, including recent changes to CARB’s air quality rules, ongoing water quality discussions, and what dairy producers should prepare for in the coming years. Plus, we highlight the upcoming California Dairy Sustainability Summit and why it’s a must-attend event for the industry. Tune...
Mar 17, 2025•15 min•Season 6Ep. 5
This week on Seen & Herd , Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh returns to provide an update on avian influenza and its impact on the dairy industry. We discuss the latest quarantine numbers, new biosecurity measures, and USDA funding for disease prevention. Anja also explains what dairy farmers need to know about PPE availability, inspections, and the ongoing conversation about vaccines. Tune in for insights on how the industry is navigating this evolving challenge and what steps are ...
Mar 10, 2025•21 min•Season 6Ep. 4
In this episode of Seen and Herd , we break down the latest updates on California’s dairy quota referendum. Western CEO Anja Raudabaugh joins us to discuss the recently failed proposal to modify the Quota Implementation Plan and what it means for dairy producers moving forward. We’ll cover the key numbers, why the referendum didn’t pass, and the new petition to terminate the quota system entirely. Plus, we share what producers should do now to ensure their votes count in the upcoming referendum....
Mar 03, 2025•15 min•Season 6Ep. 3
In this episode of Seen and Herd , host Amanda Russell welcomes Western CEO Anja Raudabaugh to discuss the recent settlement agreement at Point Reyes National Seashore. This landmark decision marks the end of decades-long conflicts between ranchers, environmental groups, and the National Park Service. Raudabaugh breaks down the history of ranching at Point Reyes, the legal battles that led to this moment, and what the future holds for the affected dairy and beef operations. What does this mean f...
Feb 03, 2025•24 min•Season 6Ep. 2
In this episode of Seen and Herd , Amanda Russell is joined by Western United Dairies' Anja Raudabaugh for a deep dive into the legislative highlights and battles from 2024 and what’s on the horizon for California’s dairy industry in 2025. Topics include securing funding for methane reduction and farm-to-school programs, defeating anti-dairy initiatives, navigating budget shortages, and strategizing for the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and climate bond negotiations. Tune in for insights into ho...
Jan 27, 2025•16 min•Season 6Ep. 1
In this episode, we have a recording of our latest labor webinar with Anthony Raimondo. Anthony gives us the latest legal updates and discusses the critical issues surrounding dairy workforce protection. Tune in as Anthony shares insights on mitigating risks, technological solutions, and strategies to ensure workforce safety and efficiency in the dairy industry. For questions about the topics covered in this episode, please contact Kyle Lutz at kyle@wudairies.com OR Anthony Raimondo at apr@49acr...
Dec 16, 2024•57 min•Season 5Ep. 36
This week on Seen & Herd, we have a recording of last week's WUD-Wide Zoom Call. The meeting covered Regulatory Updates, Political Action, and Key 2025 Compliance Issues. In-person WUD Winter Meetings will happen in January 2025. More details on those meetings will be released soon. If you have questions about the content shared, please contact us at podcast@wudairies.com.
Dec 09, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 5Ep. 35
In this episode of Seen and Herd , we welcome back Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh to celebrate a monumental victory against Measure J in Sonoma County. Learn how a powerful coalition of farmers, local businesses, and strategic campaigning defeated this anti-agriculture ballot initiative in a historic 85%-15% landslide. We discuss the impact of this win, the strategies behind the campaign, and what’s next for protecting dairy and animal agriculture across California. Learn more about ...
Nov 26, 2024•25 min•Season 5Ep. 34
In this episode of Seen and Herd , we sit down with Patrick Johnston and Jonathan Strike from 3F Captive Services to uncover how captive insurance can revolutionize risk management for dairy farmers. From customizable policies to long-term asset growth, learn how this innovative approach transforms challenges into opportunities for the agriculture sector. Tune in to hear how 3F is helping dairy families turn risks into profits. To learn more about 3F Captive Services, reach out to either Patrick...
Nov 18, 2024•29 min•Season 5Ep. 33
In this episode of Seen and Herd , Amanda Russell welcomes Anthony Agueda, a passionate advocate for the dairy industry and a third-generation dairy farmer, to discuss his recent efforts in organizing a remarkable milk drive. Anthony shares the inspiring journey of the intercollegiate "Give a Gallon Challenge," a statewide competition among California colleges that aims to fight food insecurity by donating milk to local food banks. This year, Anthony and his team surpassed all expectations, deli...
Nov 11, 2024•21 min•Season 5Ep. 32
This week on Seen & Herd we have the recording from last week’s HPAI Train the Trainer seminar in Tulare. For questions about the seminar, please contact us at info@wudairies.com.
Nov 05, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 5Ep. 31
Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh is back on Seen & Herd this week to discuss the Sonoma United campaign. This political action effort aims to defeat Measure J, a proposal that could significantly impact dairy farms in Sonoma County by restricting animal feeding operations. Learn how Sonoma United is leveraging grassroots efforts, digital campaigns, and targeted mailers to protect the future of local agriculture in one of California’s most progressive regions. Learn more about Sonom...
Oct 28, 2024•15 min•Season 5Ep. 30
In this episode of Seen and Herd , we sit down with WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh to discuss the latest updates on avian influenza in the dairy industry. With over 130 herds under quarantine and the virus continuing to spread, the conversation covers the current challenges, available resources, and the financial support programs designed to help farmers weather the storm. We also dive into safety measures, the role of PPE, and upcoming events aimed at protecting workers.
Oct 22, 2024•22 min•Season 5Ep. 29
In this episode of Seen and Herd , host Kyle Lutz and Rachel Bonini join Amanda Russell to discuss two key programs designed to assist dairy producers: DTAP (Dairy Technical Assistance Program) and DTAP+. Kyle and Rachel explain how these programs help California dairy farmers navigate complex regulatory requirements, improve financial aid accessibility, and provide personalized assistance through face-to-face, phone, and virtual consultations. The conversation covers common challenges dairy pro...
Oct 07, 2024•15 min•Season 5Ep. 28
In this episode of Seen and Herd , Paul Sousa, Director of Environmental Services and Regulatory Affairs at Western United Dairies, provides an in-depth environmental update from the recent board meeting. Tune in as Paul discusses the latest dairy market trends, the newly approved methane-reducing feed additive for dairy cows, and the ongoing saga around dairy digesters and California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standards. He also highlights upcoming deadlines and opportunities for dairy producers, includ...
Sep 30, 2024•41 min•Season 5Ep. 27
In this episode of Seen and Herd , we explore the latest developments surrounding the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in California’s dairy farms. Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies, discusses the virus's impact on the dairy industry and the rigorous biosecurity measures in place. It is important to note that pasteurized milk remains safe to consume. More information & Resources: https://westernuniteddairies.com/issues/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-hpia-2...
Sep 02, 2024•16 min•Season 5Ep. 26
In this episode of Seen & Herd, we sit down with Justin Oldfield, the Executive Director of the California Cattle Council, to explore the council's efforts to strengthen the dairy industry's image in Sonoma County. We discuss the importance of educating the public on the critical role dairy farmers play in the local economy, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship. Tune in to learn about the strategies being deployed to build trust and foster a deeper understanding between dairy produc...
Aug 13, 2024•15 min•Season 5Ep. 25
This week on Seen & Herd, Paul Sousa is on to discuss the CDFA's digester Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP) and Dairy Plus on the latest episode of Seen & Herd. CDFA has allocated approximately $8 million for the digester program, $17.4 million for AMMP, and a substantial $58 million for Dairy Plus, funded by the USDA’s Climate Smart Commodities Grant. These programs aim to reduce methane emissions and improve water quality, providing grants for innovative manure management pr...
Aug 05, 2024•25 min•Season 5Ep. 24
On this episode of the Seen & Herd podcast, we are joined by Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh to discuss the Sonoma United initiative aimed at opposing Measure J in Sonoma County. We dive deep into the community toolkit, addressing the frequently asked questions surrounding the initiative. Key topics include the devastating economic impact of eliminating dairy production, the misleading nature of Measure J, and how Sonoma United is rallying the community to protect local agricultur...
Jul 28, 2024•15 min•Season 5Ep. 23
In this episode of Seen and Herd , Amanda Russell sits down with Jeff Guy from PG&E to discuss the intricacies of the current rate structure for agricultural customers, particularly dairy farmers. They delve into the differences between agricultural, industrial, residential, and commercial rates, emphasizing the unique benefits of the agricultural rate category. Jeff clarifies recent changes to the rate structure and introduces pilot programs for real-time pricing. He also explains the facto...
Jul 15, 2024•25 min•Season 5Ep. 22
We have a big episode on Seen & Herd this week! Tiffany LaMendola of Ever.Ag, is joined by Katie Burgess and Kathleen Wolfley for an in-depth May Milk Production Report, highlighting a 0.9% year-over-year decline in U.S. milk production, influenced by cow numbers and regional variations. WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh is back on the podcast this week, discussing the legislative and constitutional deadlines approaching in June, particularly focusing on the budget negotiations and the potential for b...
Jul 01, 2024•30 min•Season 5Ep. 21
This week on Seen & Herd, join WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh as she takes the host chair to welcome Dr. Michael Payne. Together, they delve into the latest updates and insights on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). For questions about the topic or the podcast, reach out to us at podcast@wudairies.com.
Jun 24, 2024•24 min•Season 5Ep. 20
In this episode of Seen and Herd, Amanda Russell, the communications consultant for Western United Dairies, is joined by Anja Raudabaugh for an update on the Avian Influenza situation. They discuss the latest federal orders from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) concerning mandatory testing and reporting requirements for the interstate movement of lactating dairy cattle. Anja provides crucial clarifications, addresses common questions from farmers, and outlines available fin...
Jun 10, 2024•25 min•Season 5Ep. 19
This week on Seen & Herd, we provide an important update on the legislative landscape in Sacramento, focusing on the status of various bills and their implications for the agricultural sector. Our guest, Anja Raudabaugh, delves into the details of two key bills: AB 2436, concerning cattle inspection fees, and AB 2079, which aims to regulate high-capacity wells. We discuss the legislative process, the current fiscal constraints, and the ongoing negotiations to ensure fair and effective regula...
Jun 03, 2024•26 min•Season 5Ep. 18
In this episode of Seen & Herd, we welcome Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh to discuss California's May budget revise. The state faces a significant $28 billion deficit, impacting numerous programs. We delve into the slowed legislative cycle and the urgent budget cuts, highlighting the impact on K-12 education, housing, homelessness, climate change, and social safety nets. Specific focus is given to the Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP), which faces funding cuts but stil...
May 21, 2024•26 min•Season 5Ep. 17
Western United Dairies CEO, Anja Raudabaugh, is back on Seen & Herd this week giving us an update on the Avian Influenza.
May 13, 2024•19 min•Season 5Ep. 16
