Food & Farm News
Real Audio» April 28, 2006 «
Excellent snowpack report
The final snow survey of the season shows a well above average snowpack, according to the California Department of Water Resources. Statewide there is 180 percent of average. The northern Sierra has the most snow, more than double at 207 percent. There is 169 percent of average in the central Sierra and 175 in the south. Analysis by state hydrologists shows that the reservoirs should be able to accommodate the snowmelt without increasing downstream river flows beyond that already experienced.
Beef ... it's what's for Memorial Day
Beef supplies are increasing just in time for Memorial Day, the holiday when Americans traditionally consume the most of it. The California Beef Council is aggressively promoting beef to keep demand in line with supply. This spring, the council is marketing heavily in the Spanish-speaking segment of the Los Angeles urban area. Hispanics make up about half of the greater Los Angeles population.
Producer egg prices improve
California farmers received about 20 cents more per dozen for their eggs last month, as demand increased approaching the Easter holiday. The National Agricultural Statistics Service reports the average farm price was 55 cents per dozen, up from 35 cents in February. Historically egg prices increase along with demand at Easter, and then decline after the holiday. Most California producers need between 40 and 50 cents per dozen to break even.
State Board supports immigration reform
The State Board of Food and Agriculture voted at its April meeting to call on Gov. Schwarzenegger and Agriculture Secretary A.G. Kawamura to vigorously support immigration reform legislation currently being considered in the U.S. Senate. State board members recognize farmers and ranchers need workers to produce the food, fiber and flowers consumers need, and reform legislation is needed to provide adequate labor supplies.
Top
