Over the next few years, the promotion of gene- editing will require a concerted approach across WG teams to assure all applications remain viable for development.We are also remaining steadfast in our pursuit to equip growers with information, tools and methods that will assist them to best document, benchmark, improve and communicate in their progresses in sustainability. Finally, as the new federal administration develops its agenda for climate change, the Science team will shepherd our members’ interests through the complex implications of both corporate and regulatory activities. To view projects and accomplishments from this last year, webinar series such as our
approach in the areas of crop protection, gene editing, sustainability and climate change. We will continue our advocacy work to promote the use of crop management tools, such as Integrated Pest Management, to allow the use of diverse, safe and effective approaches for managing diseases and pests. Additionally, we intend to support the development of technologies and tools designed for improving the sustainability and viability of Western Growers members. For instance, gene editing technology can provide benefits such as pest protection through higher nutrient content. However, the regulatory frameworks overseeing gene-editing technologies are similarly varied.
presentations on Whole Genome Sequencing or the Stewardship Index for Specialty Crops calculator, please visit https://www.wga.com/ services/sci-tech. Join the Team! Western Growers Science is actively seeking participants to join the 2021 Food Safety Advisory Group! The Science Department needs your input in order to stay ahead of industry matters and develop innovative solutions. If interested in the advisory group, email us at WGScience@ wga.com. a 50% reduction in pharmacy costs. If you don’t have a WGAT plan, which includes a care management program with every plan, contact Western Growers Insurance Services for more information how we can help you better manage your health care costs. You can reach a sales team member at (800) 333-4WGA. • • •
Western Growers’ H-2A Services team recently Inside Western Growers inability to delivery power to it in a timely manner, WG’s CA Government Affairs team
supported an Orange County- based member in navigating the intricacies of their H-2A filing, including added H-2A housing compliance complexities due to COVID-19. • • • Western Growers’ Trade Practices Department (your one-stop shop for consultation and education on fresh produce contracts and the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act) recently secured $42,000 in PACA
tapped their network and had the local senator reach out to PG&E to successfully resolve the issue, enabling the farm to test and operate the facility ahead of the 2021 harvest season. • • • Western Growers Assurance Trust (WGAT) launched its Enhanced Diabetes Program last summer to help members diagnosed with diabetes manage their conditions more effectively. Diabetes affects more than 34 million U.S. adults and costs employers in the U.S. an estimated $327 billion each year. WGAT is pleased to report it has enabled its members to achieve an estimated cost savings of between 3.5% and 5% in reduced medical costs and
WG Communications again leads the industry in social media by being the first ag organization to master Instagram Reels and TikTok.
Decision & Awards for two California-based
shippers that had contracts go awry due to COVID-19. • • • When a food
processing project was stalled for a Brawley-based member due to PG&E’s
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Western Grower & Shipper | www.wga.com
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