Media Contact:
Christine Lott
916-932-7070
clott@walnuts.org
FOLSOM, Calif., Jan. 16, 2026 – The California Walnut Commission (CWC) joined a coalition of more than 50 agriculture organizations across the United States in a recent letter calling on Congress to take action on addressing an economic crisis for farmers, ranchers and growers.
A widening U.S. agricultural trade deficit, falling U.S. shares of global sales and persistent non‑tariff barriers have intensified competitive pressures for American producers, including California walnut growers. At the same time, input and operational costs are rising and specialty crop pricing is historically low. While recent federal measures such as crop insurance, farm bill programs, USDA’s Farmer Bridge Assistance and more are important steps, they do not cover the extensive and cumulative losses growers have absorbed over multiple years.
The CWC is grateful for and echoes the coalition’s call for Congress to bridge the gap with near‑term economic support so family farms and specialty crop growers, including walnuts, can plan and finance the upcoming season. However, action is needed urgently for growers to sustain.
“We urge Congress to provide immediate economic support to fill in the gap of remaining losses for both field and specialty crop farmers” according to the letter. “Additional support will stabilize the farm economy, protect rural communities and ensure a secure food supply.”
About the California Walnut Commission
The California Walnut Commission (CWC) represents more than 3,700 California walnut growers and approximately 70 handlers, grown in multi-generational farmers’ family orchards. California walnuts, known for their excellent nutritional value and quality, are shipped around the world all year long, with more than 99% of the walnuts grown in the United States being from California. The CWC, established in 1987, promotes usage of walnuts through domestic and export market development activities as well as supports health research with consuming walnuts.
To learn more about the California Walnut Commission, visit walnuts.org.
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