Food & Farm News
Real Audio» April 26, 2005 «
Crime prevention program set for new vote
Efforts to sustain a successful crime-prevention program return before a state Senate committee next week. The Central Valley Rural Crime Prevention Program coordinates the fight against theft, vandalism, drug manufacturing and other crimes in farming areas. Deputies in nine participating counties recovered more than $3 million dollars' worth of stolen property last year. The program will expire unless reauthorized, and ran into unexpected obstacles in the committee last month.
Landowners representative lauds court ruling
A stricter standard would be required before courts intervene in cases involving endangered species, under a new ruling. A federal appeals court ruled that plaintiffs must present evidence of likely harm to a protected species, before a judge can halt activity on private land. The Pacific Legal Foundation said yesterday (Monday) that the ruling, in an Idaho case, means that court actions must be based on evidence, rather than mere allegations of harm.
Rains worry Kern County cherry growers
Cherry growers watch the skies, as harvest begins in the southern San Joaquin Valley. Kern County farmers report scattered damage to cherries from recent rains. Those growers have begun picking fruit for shipment to domestic markets and export to Japan. In the state's main cherry-growing region, San Joaquin County, observers say the fruit hasn't yet reached the vulnerable stage, and should withstand rain forecast for this week.
Riverside conference focuses on soil health
Maintaining the health of irrigated land will be the focus of a scientific meeting in Riverside this week. Researchers from 20 nations will discuss ways to prevent salts from building up in soil. Salt buildup can reduce or prevent crop production on affected farmland. American scientists at the meeting will describe their work with soil monitors, computer models and salt-tolerant crops.
On the Calendar:
The Schools Involvement Fair begins today (Tuesday) in Walnut.
Top
