Food & Farm News

» November 14, 2012 «

Turkey Day costs rise, but not by much

That Thanksgiving turkey and dinner rolls are going to be a bit more expensive this year. The American Farm Bureau Federation's annual Thanksgiving price survey found that the meal for 10 individuals will cost an average of $49.48, a 28-cent increase over last year's total. In California, turkey producers say they have been able to weather the increases in the cost of feed and look forward to strong demand for California-raised turkeys. Our state supplies 35 percent of the nation's turkeys.

Herding dogs put to the test

Many of California's farms and ranches rely on herding dogs to complete day-to-day activities. A competition held in Northern California last weekend put the skills of the dogs and their handlers on display. The University of California Hopland Research & Extension Center hosted a weekend of sheep dog trials, with more than 45 dogs and their owners participating. The dogs were judged on their ability to calmly move four sheep through a designated pasture course and into a small pen.

Early frost challenges farmers

The Central Coast was hit with earlier-than-usual frost this week, causing farmers to take preventative measures. Growers in the area received warning in advance of the cold snap and were able to avoid most damage to crops by starting up wind machines and adjusting irrigation schedules. The wind machines are able to keep air flowing and hold temperatures up above freezing.

Firewood demand heats up as temperatures cool

Those that sell firewood say that even during economic challenges, there is still demand from consumers, and in some cases, the demand increases. Sellers say that one option for families is to use wood-burning fireplaces and stoves to heat their homes instead of relying on electricity, natural gas or propane. Trees in California's forests, farms and residential areas are vulnerable to pests carried on firewood logs, so officials urge sellers and buyers to keep a close eye on the wood for signs of insects.