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Signing of the metal theft prevention bills into law

Water availability will impact 2009 growing decisions

As farmers make plans for the 2009 growing season, water availability is a major concern. Right now there isn't much, according to the Department of Water Resources. The state's major reservoirs are storing about a third of their capacity right now when they typically would be at two-thirds capacity. Statewide precipitation between March and August was the driest in 114 years of record keeping for the state. The state water project is projecting 10 percent of water allocations next year.

Farmers applaud signing of crime-prevention bill

Stopping crimes that are destroying property and causing millions of dollars in damage were two reasons cited by Governor Schwarzenegger Tuesday as he signed a package of bills designed to curb scrap metal theft. Farmers have been especially hard hit by thieves that have disabled farm equipment in the process of stealing metal. Crops are also damaged as application of irrigation water is delayed until equipment is repaired. More than $6 million worth of metal was reported stolen in the Central Valley in 2006 alone.

It's pumpkin time on farms and in stores

Pumpkins should be in good supply in California retail stores this month as farmers are harvesting an excellent crop. Pumpkin shipments to Hawaii have already been sent. Farmers say growing conditions have been great thus far, unlike in other states where untimely rain has caused damage. California farmers say their harvest can continue if the rain showers in the forecast later this week are light. However, heavy rain could create problems. Farmers will be harvesting right up to Halloween.

McCain gets Farm Bureau endorsement

The California Farm Bureau Federation has announced its endorsement of John McCain for president. His commitment to improve the business climate by holding the line on taxes and opening markets for farm products were two reasons the organization endorsed the Arizona senator. During a conference call last summer with state Farm Bureau presidents, McCain said one of his jobs as president will be to open every market in the world to American farm products.

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