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CVP water availability in the Sacramento Valley

CVP reduces water allocations

The Central Valley Project made it official yesterday (Tuesday), reducing water supplies to its farm customers. Those farmers now can buy only 40 percent of contract water supplies, a cut of 5 percent. That has sparked particular concern in the San Joaquin Valley, but CVP customers in the Sacramento Valley also face cuts. Some farmers there have already used their full allotment of CVP water. They'll supplement with well water, straining groundwater supplies.

Central Valley melon harvest starts slowly

It's been a slow start for the Central Valley melon harvest. Farmers say their cantaloupes, honeydews and other melons remain about two weeks later than average in maturing. Cool temperatures have slowed fruit growth, and some farmers lost their first melon planting to the mid-April frost. Melons from farther south will continue to be available. Specialty melons such as Ambrosia, Candew and Gala will come into production in Central California about mid-July.

Report evaluates air-freight to China

An increasing number of flights between California and China opens opportunities for farm exports, according to a new report. The Center for Agricultural Business at Fresno State University says airlines flying to California often offer lower freight rates for products moving on their return trips to China. The report focuses on potential for shipment to 14 Chinese cities, and says there may be particular opportunities for California-grown fruit.

Bees pollinate California field crops

Field crops have become the focus for beekeepers doing pollination work at this time of year. Beehives have been placed in fields of safflower, sunflower and vine seeds. Leafcutter bees are being prepared for placement in alfalfa seed fields. Bees also can help pollinate tomatoes, both in fields and in greenhouses. Most of the out-of-state hives that enter California for almond pollination have left the state.

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