Decoding AI in the Central Valley

The local's guide to the startups, research labs, and people driving the next industrial revolution in our backyard.

Latest Local AI Updates

Stay informed on the AI developments shaping the valley's future.

Latest Nov 6, 2026

UC Merced researchers write AI drought-forecasting chapter for new Elsevier book

Six UC Merced scientists, from a postdoc to senior professors, explain how machine learning can combine satellite, sensor and climate data to forecast drought in California and elsewhere.

Six UC Merced researchers wrote a chapter on AI drought modeling for Elsevier's new book "Global Drought and Sustainability." The chapter explains how AI tools can combine climate records, current observations, satellite imagery and sensor data to forecast drought.

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Nov 4, 2026

Kern County voters split on asking AI for help with a long midterm ballot

Before Tuesday's election, some Kern County voters used AI chatbots to research state propositions. Others said they couldn't trust the answers, and a cybersecurity founder urged caution.

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Nov 3, 2026

Fresno marketing agencies bet on people as AI and Gen Z change ad work

The Valley's three largest agencies reported nearly flat headcount on The Business Journal's 2026 list, and a Fresno agency owner says AI speeds up production but can't replace creativity.

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Nov 1, 2026

Fresno nonprofit says voters blamed it for AI mailers from PAC with near-twin name

Fresno Building Healthy Communities says angry residents mistook it for Fresno Healthy Communities, the PAC behind AI-generated mailers attacking council candidate Naindeep Singh.

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