Food & Farm News
» December 1, 2008 «
California egg production increases
California chickens produced more eggs in October than in September, according to a federal government report. There were one percent fewer hens, but they laid 7 million more eggs in October. Prices farmers earn for eggs were flat, at 95 cents per dozen. However, that is 11 cents more than farmers earned in October 2007. That price is enough so most growers earn a small profit.
Ruling opens new markets for California winemakers
California wine producers have won a court victory in Massachusetts, which overturns legislation that restricted direct-to-consumer shipments. The complex law excluded some wineries from shipping direct if they used local wholesalers. The judge ruled in favor of Family Winemakers of California. This ruling allows Massachusetts consumers to purchase wine directly from wineries in California and other states.
Young farmers group gets bigger, better 
Outreach including a presence on social networking sites MySpace and Facebook has led to the growth of California Farm Bureau's Young Farmers and Ranchers program, which develops future leaders for the organization. Community service is one key element of the program. Each county's young farmers group employs different procedures to gather food for local food banks and raise money for the needy. Monterey County members recently held a successful barn dance and donated proceeds to local charities.
Scientists study reactions of insect pests
Biotech crops do less damage to non-target insects than conventional insecticides. This is the finding of researchers who did a complex study. They found plants that were engineered to resist specific insect pests did little damage to beneficial insects while destroying harmful pests. The data was collected in several research facilities across the country. Crops engineered to resist pests that were tested include cotton and corn.
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