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Comments about the need for action to curb metal thefts

Counties, cities to take aim at metal theft

Farm and law enforcement groups urge California counties and cities to enact local ordinances to attack metal thefts. The California Farm Bureau and the California State Sheriffs' Association issued a model ordinance yesterday (Wednesday). It would require tougher record keeping and payment requirements for scrap metal dealers and recyclers. The groups say they decided to push for local laws because a statewide bill stalled in the Legislature and the ongoing thefts remain a severe problem.

Storm hurts Northern California berry plants

A freak thunderstorm in far Northern California may affect Southern California strawberry production next winter. Rain, hail and high winds destroyed as many as half of the strawberry seedlings grown in Siskiyou County's three largest nurseries. Those plants would have been transplanted to Southern California farms to produce strawberries at Christmastime. While some of the plants may yet recover, Siskiyou County officials say yields will definitely be hurt.

Kiwifruit farmers expect strong crop

Although it's still too early to predict how big their crop will be, California kiwifruit growers say the early signs appear favorable. Farmers say weather at bloom time was ideal for kiwifruit and has stayed that way since then. They say the vines look healthy and have plenty of fruit. Kiwifruit growers say they hope for continued good weather without an extended hot spell, such as the vines endured last summer. Most California-grown kiwifruit comes from the Central Valley.

Farmers plant more carrots, corn, melons

Strong demand for carrots has encouraged California farmers to plant more. A government report says the state's farmers planted 21 percent more carrots for harvest during the summer months. Farmers also planted more sweet corn but planted fewer acres of broccoli, celery and head lettuce. Consumers should see more California-grown watermelon this summer, as acreage rose 7 percent.

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