It’s HOT in here with CalOsha – Indoor Heat Standards

On August 4, 2023, the CalOSHA Standards Board issued its latest revised draft of the Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Standard. It maintains the 82 degrees Fahrenheit indoor temperature trigger. The main changes to be aware of:

Additional Exemption: An exception for indoor locations that will be considered outdoors when they met all of the following criteria: (1) indoor location is not normally occupied when employees are present or working in the area or at the worksite; and (2) indoor locations where employees are present for less than 15 minutes in any one-hour period; and (3) indoor locations not contiguous with normally occupied locations.

Indoor/Outdoor Employee Clarification: Allows employers to comply with the Indoor Heat Illness Standard in lieu of the Outdoor Heat Illness Standard when employees go back and forth between outdoors and indoors.

“Cool-Down Area” Includes “To The Extent Feasible”: A cool-down area is now defined, in part, as “…an indoor or outdoor area that is blocked from direct sunlight and shielded from other high radiant heat sources to the extent feasible…”

Measurement & Recording Exemption for Air-Conditioned Vehicles: When vehicles with “effective and functioning air conditioning” they will be exempt from the measurement and recording assessment and control measures.

EMS Clarification: When an employee is exhibiting signs or symptoms of heat illness the employee cannot be left alone or sent home without being offered onsite first aid and/or provided with emergency medical services (EMS).

Integrated Indoor/Outdoor Training: Employers are permitted to integrate indoor heat illness training into their outdoor heat illness training program.

Heat Index Chart Update: The Heat Index Chart has been expanded to include rows for 80 degrees and 104-125 degrees.

The latest revised draft is now subject to a 15-day comment period. All comments are due by August 22, 2023.

Posted 08.07.2023

Author: Athena Ushana

Are you interested in unlocking the potential of agriculture investments? Look no further!

At this year’s Cultiv8 conference we will delve into the world of agricultural investment strategies. 💼💰 We’re thrilled to announce that Kelly McMurray, esteemed expert from Morgan Stanley, will be leading the discussion on this dynamic topic!

In an ever-evolving market, understanding the best investment strategies in agriculture is key to maximizing returns and making informed decisions. With Kelly McMurray’s extensive expertise and insights, you’ll gain valuable knowledge on how to navigate this exciting field with confidence.

Agriculture offers incredible investment opportunities, from farmland and agribusinesses to innovative agtech startups. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, this session will equip you with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in the agricultural investment landscape. 📈🌾

Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s leading minds. Make sure to mark your calendars for Kelly McMurray’s session at the Cultiv8 conference on November 15th. 🗓️⏰

Connect with like-minded agri-enthusiasts, exchange ideas, and discover the immense potential that agriculture investments hold. Together, we can sow the seeds of success and cultivate a prosperous future. 🌱💼

👉 Stay tuned for more updates on the Cultiv8 conference this week and get ready to explore the world of agricultural investment strategies with Kelly McMurray of Morgan Stanley!

In today’s fast-paced and competitive business landscape, the importance of motivation and morale in the workplace cannot be overstated. A motivated and engaged workforce is the cornerstone of a successful organization, driving productivity, innovation, and overall business growth. While various factors contribute to employee satisfaction, one critical aspect that often goes unnoticed is effective communication. This is where Eric Bailey’s teachings on the brain science of communication come into play, offering invaluable insights into cultivating a positive and productive work environment.

Effective communication serves as the bridge that connects leadership, teams, and individuals within an organization. When communication is transparent, empathetic, and aligned with the organization’s goals, it has a profound impact on employee motivation and morale. Employees who feel informed, heard, and valued are more likely to be engaged, committed, and driven to excel in their roles.

Eric Bailey, an expert in communication and human behavior, has delved into the brain science behind effective communication. His teachings highlight how the brain processes information, emotions, and interactions, shedding light on the ways in which communication can shape perceptions, attitudes, and ultimately, behaviors. By understanding these principles, leaders and teams can tailor their communication strategies to inspire, motivate, and foster a sense of belonging.

As you embark on this journey of enhancing workplace motivation and morale, join us this year at CULTIV8 2023 as Eric explores these principles and how to effectively implement them in your life. You won’t want to miss this.

Author: Athena Ushana

As we gather around our tables this Thanksgiving season, AgSafe extends warm wishes to everyone, expressing gratitude for those behind our meals – our farmers. In the spirit of giving thanks, let’s take a moment to acknowledge the intricate dance of elements that brings food to our tables. 

Consider the complex journey: from the soil, water, sunshine, and time invested in cultivation, to the labor-intensive processes of harvesting, sorting, packing, shipping, storing, stocking, and selling. This intricate dance forms the global food system, a marvelously interconnected web producing roughly 4 billion metric tons of food annually for billions of people worldwide. 

Thanksgiving is a celebration of abundance, a moment when families nationwide come together to share in a feast. But this abundance isn’t a stroke of luck; it’s the result of tireless agricultural efforts. This holiday, as we enjoy sweet corn, green beans, cranberries, potatoes, pumpkin pie, and more, it’s crucial to recognize the farmers whose diligent work makes this culinary abundance possible. 

A quick look at the staggering production numbers of Thanksgiving staples underscores the enormity of farmers’ contributions: 

Sweet Corn: 7.4 billion pounds 

Green Beans: 2 billion pounds 

Cranberries: 1.3 billion pounds 

Potatoes: 4.4 billion pounds 

Pumpkin: 1.6 billion pounds 

Sweet Potatoes: 3.2 billion pounds 

Rice: 18 billion pounds 

These impressive statistics only scratch the surface. Beyond our dinner plates, agriculture plays a pivotal role in sustaining our economy. Recent studies show that over a fifth of the U.S. economy and a quarter of American jobs are linked to the food and agriculture sectors, the impact of agriculture is immeasurable. The 2023 Feeding the Economy report clearly demonstrates the resilience and strength of America’s food and agriculture sector, showing increased economic output in every state compared to the 2022 report. These industries are responsible for over $8.6 trillion – or nearly 20% – of the country’s economic activity, directly supporting nearly 23 million jobs (15% of U.S. employment). 

It begins in the rich soil of America’s farms and ranches – more than two million of them – spread across the heartland and stretching to the coasts, covering two out of every five American acres. So let us extend our thanks to the individuals we may never meet – the ones responsible for placing food on our tables. A heartfelt appreciation goes out to the farmers and laborers who, year after year, gamble their futures against the unpredictable whims of weather. Gratitude is also due to those who undertake demanding tasks, from processing our turkeys to picking green beans and digging potatoes. Even those up north, knee-deep in cranberry bogs, deserve our thanks. 

This Thanksgiving, let’s not only revel in the delicious spread before us but also pause to express our gratitude for those dedicated to making this moment of communal celebration possible. Their hard work not only sustains us on this special day but every day, reminding us to be thankful for the sustenance they provide and the resilience they exhibit in keeping our nation whole. 

Author: Athena Ushana

In the ever-evolving landscape of agriculture, staying ahead of the curve requires not only access to vast amounts of data but also a team of experts who can distill that data into actionable insights. This is precisely where Terrain, an exclusive offering of American AgCredit, shines. Terrain is a dedicated platform designed to provide exclusive insight and confident forecasting in the market areas that significantly impact the businesses of farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

What sets Terrain apart is its team of seasoned analysts, each with extensive experience and expertise in their respective fields. With eight analysts covering a wide range of insight areas, including agriculture, beef, dairy, grain, swine, grapes and wine, and fruit, nut, and vegetable production, Terrain offers a comprehensive view of the agricultural economy.

Terrain’s team of analysts are not just data crunchers; they are thought leaders who draw on their collective knowledge to deliver valuable market intelligence and informed outlooks. Their analyses help guide critical decision-making processes for farmers, producers, and other industry players. From tracking the trends in the beef market to providing in-depth insights into the challenges and opportunities in grape and wine production, Terrain’s analysts cover it all.

The Terrain team’s commitment to providing timely and relevant information is evident in their quarterly reports. These reports address pressing issues, such as interest rate concerns for farmers and the dynamics of surplus milk and milk prices. Their content goes beyond mere reporting; it offers financial insights, supported forecast trends, and directives on how to navigate the agricultural landscape successfully.

Terrain’s content is not just informative; it’s actionable. Farmers and industry stakeholders can rely on the insights provided by this team of analysts to make well-informed decisions that impact their bottom line. In a world where the agricultural sector faces constant challenges and opportunities, Terrain’s experienced team of analysts becomes an essential compass, guiding individuals, and organizations toward success.

Terrain’s strength lies in its team of seasoned analysts, who bring their extensive experience and expertise to the forefront. Their commitment to providing valuable insights and practical guidance is an invaluable resource for those navigating the dynamic agricultural economy. With Terrain, the lay of the land becomes clearer, and the path to success in the agricultural sector becomes more attainable.

Author: Athena Ushana

In the crisp embrace of this November, AgSafe’s CULTIV8 conference not only brought forth a stellar lineup of speakers but also cultivated a fertile ground for rich conversations and new perspectives. The insights and personal experiences shared by our diverse group of attendees breathed life into the discussions, providing a tapestry of wisdom that wove seamlessly with the speakers’ presentations. Here’s a glimpse into the transformative wisdom they shared:

Labor Force Trends in Agriculture:

Dr. Matthew Roberts, a beacon of knowledge on global agricultural economics, addressed the pressing labor situation in agriculture. With a global perspective and actionable strategies, Dr. Roberts provided a roadmap for navigating the challenges of the contemporary labor landscape, offering a compass for sustainable and resilient solutions. Attendees left with a deepened understanding of the human element driving the industry’s growth.

Underlying Market Forces:

Kelly McMurray, with a keen eye on agricultural markets, painted a vivid picture of the underlying forces shaping the industry. As global demands shift and climate considerations become paramount, Kelly explored the delicate dance between supply and demand, emphasizing the need for agility in navigating market fluctuations. Her shared perspectives on equity market resilience and outlined themes for the next bull market, providing attendees with valuable insights to steer through financial landscapes in the agricultural sector.

Rapid Technological Changes:

In the wake of the digital revolution, Morrison Jacobs, a tech maven with roots in agriculture, discussed the rapid integration of technology in farming. From AI tools to revolutionizing farming practices, Morrison explored the transformative power of cutting-edge technologies, offering a glimpse into the future of agriculture and its integration with digital innovation. The fields are becoming smart, and those who adapt are reaping the benefits of increased efficiency and sustainability.

New Ways of Communication:

Communication is the bridge that connects every corner of the agricultural community. Eric Bailey took center stage to guide the audience through the art of effective communication and leadership in the face of rapid technological shifts. Eric emphasized the transformative power of effective communication, showcasing how opening channels of dialogue can bridge gaps, foster collaboration, and elevate the industry’s collective voice. He unveiled strategies to navigate the evolving agricultural terrain, leaving attendees inspired and armed with innovative tools.

As the conference concluded, it was evident that agriculture is not just growing in fields but transforming through knowledge. The heart of AgSafe’s CULTIV8 beats with the rhythm of collaboration and shared knowledge. The insights and personal experiences our attendees provided became the threads that wove a tapestry of understanding, enriching the conversation and offering new perspectives on the issues at hand. The intersection of labor force trends, rapid technological changes, underlying market forces, and new communication strategies is paving the way for a dynamic future. CULTIV8 was a transformational experience, where seeds of wisdom were planted, and will be nurtured and cultivated for a flourishing tomorrow.

Here’s to the growth, transformation, and continued prosperity of agriculture!

Author: Athena Ushana

Date: 11/29/2023

Cultivating Mental Health Resilience: AgSafe’s ACTIVATE24 Conference Spotlights Keynote Marshal Sewell and his Mind Your Melon Movement

In the heart of Plant City, Florida, Marshal Sewell was raised on his family’s fruit and vegetable farm. The vibrant fields were a backdrop to the joys and challenges of agricultural life, shaping Marshal’s understanding of the unique stressors faced by those in the industry. A tragic event catapulted Marshal’s lifelong quest for mental health awareness and management.

While raising awareness serves as the foundation of his work, Marshal emphasizes the need for proactive day-to-day choices. His background in agriculture serves as the catalyst for a broader perspective on mental health, extending the conversation beyond the farm. Marshal’s personal journey underscores the connection between agriculture, mental health, and proactive choices. He identifies common themes such as communication, exercise, healthy eating, and personal reflection as pivotal in fostering resilience. His organization, Mind Your Melon, serves as a hub for these thoughts, concepts, and resources, encouraging individuals to be proactive in maintaining their mental well-being.

Now, as the keynote speaker at AgSafe’s ACTIVATE24 Conference, Marshal brings his personal journey to the forefront, shedding light on the importance of destigmatizing mental health discussions within the agriculture sector. Mind Your Melon is a movement that goes beyond the fields, striving to encourage proactive choices for healthier, resilient lives.

The movement addresses the profound question: What do fruits and vegetables have in common with mental health? According to Marshal, more than meets the eye. Having grown up on a farm, he intimately witnessed agricultural stress, prompting him to delve into the realm of mental health.

Marshal provides a comprehensive approach to mental well-being, offering resources on nutrition for brain health, exercise and fitness, and guidance on seeking help when needed. Marshal’s goal is clear – to inspire healthier minds through proactive lifestyles.

As AgSafe collaborates with Marshal Sewell and Mind Your Melon, their joint efforts aim to destigmatize mental health discussions in agriculture and provide vital support and resources to those who need it. The conversation starts with a simple yet powerful notion: it’s time to mind your melon, cultivating a proactive approach to mental health for a resilient and thriving agricultural community.

Posted 12.07.2023

Author: Athena Ushana