Good morning, Salinas.

A free spay-neuter clinic hosted by Hitchcock Road Animal Services will take place this weekend in Salinas and has already filled 200 spots after 500 sign-ups, as rising costs burden pet owners and vet shortages slow service; officials emphasize the need for more regular, affordable schedules.

Farmers in Salinas Valley are preparing for potential rises in fertilizer and diesel prices as global tensions with Iran push costs higher; associations warn that once lower-cost fertilizer supplies run out, prices could surge 30-40% for fertilizer and diesel could hit $7 per gallon.

A new survey shows that monarch butterfly habitat in central Mexico increased by 64% compared to last year—yet only 12,260 butterflies were counted on the California coast, marking the third-lowest winter count.

Experts say planting more milkweed and native nectar flowers is key to supporting their migration.

CPA Barry Dolowich said rental losses only lower taxes if there is rental income and that the $25,000 limit for active participation drops as income rises — it is eliminated at $150,000.

He urged discussing plans with a tax preparer before buying rental properties.

Santa Cruz County Supervisors passed a resolution renaming Cesar Chavez Day to Farmworkers Day to honor the legacy of local farmworkers, while Monterey County officials approved renaming the holiday to Farmworker Appreciation Day to celebrate their role in the agricultural community.

State lawmakers passed AB 2156 to rename César Chávez Day to Farmworkers Day — the bill now moves to the Senate and is expected to reach the governor on Thursday, setting a new honor for farmworkers who power local fields on March 31.

Jose Modesto Live Concert

9 p.m. — Hacienda Mexican Grill — Ticket required — Experience the passionate Latin music of Jose Modesto, an artist deeply rooted in his cultural heritage.