The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) is supporting an initiative aimed at securing federal relief for banks to lend money to agricultural producers. As part of this letter, CAWG is asking any interested growers to sign-on in support. 

In a letter penned by Farmers & Merchants Bank (F&M) of Central California to Congressman John Duarte (R-CA), F&M Bank voices their concerns about the financial challenges facing California farmers due to high input costs, low commodity prices, and foreign competition. The bank is seeking temporary relief for all banks from restrictive loan modification rules and increased USDA support to better assist agricultural borrowers. They stress the need for regulatory flexibility similar to what was provided under the CARES Act to help farmers better manage economic cycles without undue penalties or constraints.

CAWG, as an association, will be signing on in support of this initiative and is asking that any growers who would like their names included in CAWG’s letter of support, please complete this form. A list of all names and related companies will be included in a package that will be delivered to Congressman John Duarte, requesting his assistance in advancing this matter for the agricultural industry.

Please do not hesitate to share with additional growers who may be interested in supporting this initiative.