Food & Farm News

Audio Actuality

Proposed National Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement

Farm revenue declines slightly

California agricultural revenues declined fractionally in 2008, according to a government report. The state's 81,500 farms and ranches were paid $36.3 billion for their output, compared to $36.4 billion in 2007. Among the top 10 crops, the one with the greatest increase was hay with a 26 percent rise in value. Nursery products decreased the most at 23 percent. Milk remains the state's number one commodity, though its total value dropped five percent last year.

Dairy farmers will lose less

Dairy farmers will earn about 13 cents a gallon more for their milk starting September 1. The California Department of Food and Agriculture says the average statewide price per gallon will be $1.15, or $13.35 per hundredweight. All the commodities the state uses to establish the price increased this month. Despite the increase, the farm price for milk remains below the cost of production. Farmers will lose about $5 for every 100 pounds of milk they sell.

Groups back National Leafy Greens Agreement

Farm groups in California and other states are spearheading the drive for creation of a National Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement to enhance food safety. The proposed agreement would be similar to successful programs already in place in California and Arizona. Government agencies would back the agreement, which would cover imported greens as well as those produced in the U.S. Consumers would benefit knowing that all leafy greens they purchase were grown and processed under safe conditions.

Canneries offer higher prices for olives

The Olive Growers Council of California reports agreement has been reached with canneries earning growers the highest price in history. Manzanillo variety growers will earn $1,250 a ton for most sizes. Sevillano variety growers will earn $1,090 a ton for most sizes. However, the crop estimate is 50,000 tons about half of what was expected. Extreme weather caused some farmers to lose their entire crop and therefore their entire income for the year.

Top