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California Property Owners and Farmland Protection Act
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» January 17, 2008 «

Farmer-backed ballot initiative qualifies

Voters will cast ballots this June on a measure to add new property-rights protections to the California Constitution. The secretary of state's office said yesterday (Wednesday) that the California Property Owners and Farmland Protection Act has qualified for the ballot. The measure is sponsored by the California Farm Bureau and taxpayer groups. It would reform government power to seize private property while allowing use of eminent domain for legitimate public purposes.

California trade delegation to visit Cuba

A group of agricultural leaders and state officials from California will visit Cuba next week, to explore future sales opportunities for crops and commodities. State Food and Agriculture Secretary A.G. Kawamura said yesterday that Cuba represents "a good potential future market for California agriculture." Kawamura's department received a license from the federal government last month to conduct the agricultural trade mission.

Asparagus farmers seek profitability

Facing a challenge from imported asparagus, California farmers try to keep pace by growing new varieties and using new farming techniques. A University of California study indicates the challenge they face is considerable. The study says California farmers need to earn $1.30 a pound for their asparagus, to break even. In recent years, the actual prices have been as much as 13 cents a pound below that break-even point.

Innovative pest-control work to be honored

Three agricultural pest-control efforts will be among those honored today (Thursday) by the state Department of Pesticide Regulation. The Almond Pest Management Alliance will be recognized for developing a guide to environmentally responsible pest management. Sonoma County pest-control consultant Laura Breyer will be honored for innovative work with grape growers. San Joaquin County farmer Chris Locke will be recognized for work in sustainable walnut farming.