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Farm Bureau comments about the rangeland agreement

Groups collaborate on Rangeland Resolution

Environmental, ranching and farming groups joined with government agencies yesterday (Wednesday), in a pledge to conserve and improve California's privately owned rangeland. A "rangeland resolution" ... signed by 30 organizations ... states that livestock grazing and other land management practices bring environmental benefits. The resolution encourages voluntary, collaborative, locally led projects to conserve rangelands encircling the Central Valley.

Citrus farmers report shortage of harvest help

In both the Central Valley and the California desert, citrus growers report problems finding enough help to harvest fruit. The California Citrus Growers Association says Central Valley orange farmers have reported labor shortages since the season began. Lemon growers in the desert also say they have had trouble hiring enough help. Farmers say some laborers have found jobs in construction or other sectors, and others have remained in Mexico because of tighter restrictions at the border.

Farm Bureau delegates urge improved trade

Changes in farm policy should be linked to improvements in trade opportunities, according to delegates to the American Farm Bureau annual meeting. At the meeting's conclusion in Nashville yesterday, delegates voted to urge extension of current, federal farm programs until world trade talks open additional foreign markets. The delegates also re-elected Texas farmer Bob Stallman as president of the nation's largest farm group.

UC seminar to 'demystify' olive oil production

California olive oil production has been rising at the rate of 20 percent a year ... and the University of California says it wants to "demystify" olive oil for small-scale producers who might want to enter the business. The university's Small Farm Center holds a seminar on olive oil production in Davis today (Thursday). Discussions will focus on how the flavor of olive oil can be influenced by the variety of olives used, harvest and processing techniques, and other factors.

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