Lodi Eye
LodiEye provides additional information on trending stories / topics published by local media and shared on local social media accounts.
Tariffs and California Wine Exports
The 2025 tariffs have created unprecedented challenges for US wine exporters, with California accounting for 95% of US wine exports and facing an estimated $531 million in revenue losses. The Lodi region, representing approximately 8% of US wine exports, could potentiallly lose $45 million in export revenue, putting 850 jobs and 12,000 vineyard acres at risk
US Domestic and Imported Oil Prices are dropping…
Domestic and imported crude oil prices dropped in May 2025; this trend is expected to continue through October 2025. The reduction in crude oil prices has been reflected in prices at the pump. In California, the minor state excise tax increase and new emissions regulations took effect on July 1; however, these measures have not been sufficient to reverse the overall downward trend in prices, which is attributed to broader market factors.
Residential Solar - Big Changes Coming
Rooftop solar adoption in San Joaquin County will be influenced by federal trade policy, California’s net metering regulations and the One Big Beautiful Bill. The cost of solar instailations will increase signifcantly and homeowners will wait longer for a return on their investment.
California LCFS, 2024 CARB amendments and Gas Prices
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved amendments in 2024 that go into effect on July 1st 2025, along with an excise tax increase of 1.6 cents per gallon. This report examines the current CARB amendments in effect and the potential changes to the LCFS Credit Market that could impact gas prices.
California Gas Prices linked to Brend Crude Price
California's gasoline and diesel prices are closely linked to global crude oil benchmarks, particularly Brent crude, due to the state's reliance on imported oil. The conflict between Israel and Iran could potentially close the Hormuz Strait — 25% of the world’s crude oil must transit there. Any restriction on oil shipments would raise the global price of crude oil, specifically Brent Crude.
California Refinery Closures - More Bad News…
The impending closures of California's Phillips 66 Los Angeles and Valero Benicia refineries threaten to create a daily gasoline shortfall exceeding 6 million gallons — and cut 45% of Northern California’s asphalt production. Arizona and Nevada will also feel the pinch.
California refineries, imported crude oil and refined fuels.
California's refinery landscape is poised for significant change over the next year, with major capacity reductions expected by 2026. This report examines the current refining capacity in California and analyzes the projected changes due to announced refinery closures, their causes, and potential implications for the state's fuel supply and prices.
Impact of Tariffs on San Joaquin Valley Farmers
Tariffs imposed by the U.S. government—particularly under President Donald Trump—have had significant and largely negative impacts on San Joaquin Valley farmers, especially those growing almonds and other export-oriented crops. The region, a global agricultural powerhouse, relies heavily on international markets for both selling produce and sourcing essential farm inputs.
California Fuel Blends: What and Why?
California’s unique fuel blends, particularly California Reformulated Gasoline (CaRFG), are a direct response to the state’s longstanding air quality challenges and strict environmental regulations.
California, like the rest of the U.S., requires different gasoline formulations for summer and winter to address both environmental and engine performance needs. The differences are especially pronounced in California due to its stricter air quality standards.
Impact of California Refinery Closures on Neighboring States
Neighboring states—primarily Arizona and Nevada—are not positioned to compensate for California’s fuel shortages. In fact, these states are themselves heavily dependent on California’s refineries for their own gasoline and diesel supplies.
The Impact of Phillips 66 and Valero Refinery Closures in California
Valero Energy Corporation has announced plans to cease, idle, or restructure operations at its Benicia refinery by April 2026, following Phillips 66's earlier announcement to shut down its Los Angeles facility by October 2025. These closures represent significant shifts in California's refining capacity and will have far-reaching implications for the state's fuel supply, economy, and local communities.
Sports Tourism in Lodi
Lodi, known for its wine tourism, is actively exploring opportunities to expand into sports tourism by leveraging existing facilities and community partnerships.
Lodi’s sports tourism initiatives are notably smaller in scale but more community-focused compared to nearby cities in California’s Central Valley.
Lodi’s Sports Tourism Feasibility Study, initiated in Q1 2025, is currently in progress, with findings expected to shape strategic investments and partnerships.
