Fresno State’s 2026 Agribusiness Management Conference will bring agricultural executives, producers and industry leaders together to discuss federal policy, regulatory challenges and emerging technologies affecting California agriculture.
The conference will be held on Oct. 29, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pardini’s at 2257 W Shaw Ave. in Fresno.
The conference, themed “Navigating Risk in Uncertain Times,” will feature Washington agricultural policy analyst Jim Wiesemeyer as its keynote speaker, according to a Fresno State announcement.
The event will focus on how agricultural businesses can respond to changing government policies, market conditions, labor challenges and technological developments.
Federal agricultural policy takes center stage
Wiesemeyer, who has covered Washington agriculture and trade policy since 1978, will deliver the morning keynote examining developments in the farm bill, international trade, energy policy, regulations and taxes.
His presentation will address how those issues affect farm budgets, commodity markets and long-term business planning.
Wiesemeyer currently serves as a Washington policy analyst for AgBull Media, contributes to Farm Journal’s AgriTalk radio program and hosts the weekly podcast “Wiesemeyer’s Perspectives.”
His reporting career includes interviews with senior government officials, U.S. presidents and every U.S. Department of Agriculture secretary since Earl Butz.
California regulations and business challenges on the agenda
The conference will also feature Bill Wolman, who is scheduled to discuss California’s Private Attorneys General Act, known as PAGA, and its implications for employers.
A panel discussion will examine external pressures affecting agricultural businesses, including regulatory changes, commodity markets and statewide agricultural policy.
Panelists include:
- Abby Taylor-Silva, Managing Director of Regulatory Affairs, Kahn, Soares & Conway, who will address new regulations and compliance deadlines affecting California businesses.
- Julie Adams of the Almond Board of California, who will provide a commodity industry perspective.
- Emily Rooney, president of the Agricultural Council of California, who will discuss regulatory and budget policy affecting farmer-owned businesses.
The discussion is intended to help agricultural organizations identify emerging challenges and prepare for changes in the business environment.
Agricultural technology and innovation in focus
Walt Duflock, Senior Vice President of Innovation at Western Growers, will deliver the luncheon keynote on the role of technology in addressing agricultural challenges.
Duflock, a fifth-generation California farmer and technology entrepreneur, will examine how robotics, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies could help growers address labor shortages, water management, food safety and productivity.
His presentation will also explore the importance of demonstrating practical value and return on investment before growers adopt new technologies.
Conference targets agricultural decision-makers
The conference is designed for agricultural executives, producers, managers, advisers, educators and students involved in California’s agricultural industry.
In addition to presentations and panel discussions, the program will include networking opportunities for participants to connect with peers across the industry.
Fresno State’s Agribusiness Management Conference focuses on management issues facing California agriculture while encouraging professional connections and leadership development.
The university said the 2026 program aims to provide attendees with practical information and strategies for responding to an increasingly complex agricultural business environment.
