Memorandum
Date: August 5, 2025
To: The Honorable Lake County Board of Supervisors
From: Matthew Barnes, UCCE Area Director
Subject: Consideration of Presentation on the UC Cooperative Extension Diversified Agriculture Program
Executive Summary:
UC Cooperative Extension - Diversified Agriculture Program Update
UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Diversified Agriculture Advisor Dr. Clebson Gonçalves has been leading research and outreach efforts to support Lake County agriculture since 2022. His work focuses on enhancing sustainability, efficiency, and resilience in local crops such as pears, walnuts, olives, and grapes. Current projects include integrated weed management using organic herbicides, testing drought-tolerant rootstocks, and improving irrigation efficiency with microdensitometer technology. Additional research addresses pear branch dieback, pest management for emerging threats like the Pacific flatheaded borer, and precision spray technology to reduce chemical use. Outreach has included grower meetings, workshops, and field demonstrations on pruning, integrated pest management, and drought adaptation. Future work will continue to focus on crop diversification, regenerative practices, and strengthening partnerships with local growers and agencies to support Lake County’s long-term agricultural resilience.
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Recommended Action: Presentation Only.