Food & Farm News
Real Audio» June 8, 2007 «
San Diego farmers could see water cuts
They operate under "interruptible" water contracts, and San Diego County farmers could see their supplies cut 30% because of the curtailment of pumping from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California has told San Diego County farmers their supplies could be interrupted unless delta pumps resume work soon. The first step is a 30 percent cut before any urban reductions, followed by additional cutoffs if supplies don't improve.
Wine sales rise for 13th straight year
For a 13th straight year, California wine sales posted gains. A report from the Gomberg-Fredrikson wine consulting firm said sales volume rose 2% while the value of wine sales within the U.S. increased nearly 8%. Much of the growth came from sales of premium wines, those priced $7 a bottle and higher. Total shipments by California wineries reached 541 million gallons.
Cotton plants thrive with favorable weather
Springtime weather so far has been nearly perfect for stimulating the growth of cotton plants. Predicted warmer temperatures in the San Joaquin Valley come at the right time. The Calcot cooperative in Bakersfield reports the crop is well ahead of last year and about two weeks ahead of average. If the favorable weather continues, and if farmers can secure enough water to carry their crops through, cotton fields could have near record yields.
Farm Bureau names new administrator
An experienced agricultural executive has been named administrator of the California Farm Bureau Federation. Richard Matteis begins his duties with the state's largest farm organization in August. Matteis has served as chief executive officer for the California Grain and Feed Association, which also provides management services for two dozen other agricultural organizations. Farm Bureau announced his appointment yesterday (Thursday).
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