Agriculture

The widespread hypothesis that climate warming will result in unprecedented agricultural pest populations and cause food insecurity worldwide is oversimplified, according to a new study by a team led by Mia Lippey, an entomologist at the University of California, Davis. But the study does indicate that pests fare better in warmer temperatures than their natural enemies, which researchers identified as a cause for concern. 

California agriculture has spent decades building export markets around the world, particularly in Asia. But new research by agricultural economists Colin Carter, Sandro Steinbach and Yasin Yildirim shows how quickly changes in trade policy can destroy market access critical to the success of some agricultural sectors.

For two and a half centuries, the United States has been founded upon our capacity to feed communities, both at home and throughout the world. Through the forethought of federal legislators and Abraham Lincoln, we now have a complex and interconnected cooperative system for growing, cultivating, harvesting, processing and delivering the food we all rely on. 

Fluffy scrambled eggs, omelets and breakfast burritos are all made possible by an egg-ceptional program feeding both campus and the community. Produced by hens raised on campus and cared for by our students, these eggs are part of nutritious meals found in the Dining Commons, a staple at The Pantry and helping local organizations like the Yolo County Food Bank.

Dean Ashley M. Stokes from the UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, or CA&ES, will gather with fellow scientists, staff and students in Tulare at the 2026 World Ag Expo. 

The event, which is Feb. 10-12, is the largest annual agricultural show of its kind and brings together farmers, growers, ranchers, prospective students, alumni and leaders throughout the agricultural industry.

The theme this year is “Grounds for Innovation.” 

UC Davis Global Affairs is offering a host of summer abroad options, including two new programs: Agriculture and the Environment in Colombia, and Brewing and Beer in Germany and Belgium.

For nearly 20 years, the Olive Center at the University of California, Davis, has worked to improve the olive and olive oil industry through research, education and outreach. The center, known for its work in sustainable olive growing and improving olive oil quality, has named chemist Selina Wang as its faculty director to guide the next phase of research and innovation for the state’s growing olive industry.

For every juicy tomato or crunchy almond California grows, there’s a pile of pulp, hulls or scraps that often goes to waste. A new online tool, created by University of California, Davis researchers, tracks those agricultural byproducts aiming to find innovative ways to put them to use.

Sama Reitzes is all about building stronger communities through good food, sustainable practices and making gardening accessible to everyone. The UC Davis alum earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural and environmental education last winter and continues to grow that work on campus, where she’s joined efforts to install a new ADA-accessible garden and make green spaces more inclusive for all.

Under a canopy of trees, young kids dig for worms in a compost bin on campus. Their little dirt-covered fingertips gently pluck out one they think will be speedy enough to win a “worm race.” Led by UC Davis students, this hands-on activity shows kids how worms play an important role in healthy soil and plant growth. It's just one of many fun lessons in the Kids in the Garden program.