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Petition to continue duties on Chinese apple juice concentrate
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» June 15, 2005 «
Chinese juice imports disrupt apple market
Preventing American consumers from being dependent on foreign countries for food is one reason farm groups want the government to continue a tariff on Chinese apple juice. American farmers say Chinese marketers have been dumping juice on the U.S. market at unfairly low prices ... and the tariff preserves a portion of the market for American growers. The California Apple Commission says the juice market has helped some farmers stay in business.
Much new milk production heads overseas
As American dairy farms boost milk production, more than half the additional milk heads to overseas markets. The Milk Producers Council in Chino says the long-term growth in dairy exports has been remarkable. Last year alone, U.S. dairy exports increased 39 percent. The value of the nation's dairy exports reached nearly $1.5 billion.
Spring weather extends desert melon harvest
A relatively cool spring has extended the melon season in the California desert. Melon growers in the Imperial and Coachella valleys say production usually shifts to other regions about this time, but this year their plants continue to produce fruit. Meanwhile, warmer temperatures in the Central Valley have boosted melon growth, so farms there will be soon harvesting melons. Imperial Valley farmers expect to end melon harvest around July 4th.
Kiwifruit growers say crop looks big, so far
Ideal weather during bloom means an abundant set of fruit in California's kiwifruit vineyards. This week's warmer weather helps the fruit gain size. Kiwifruit usually resists rain well, but farmers are concerned about forecasts for additional rain this weekend. They may have to treat their vineyards to prevent fungal diseases. Vineyards in the Central Valley produce more than 95 percent of American-grown kiwifruit.
On the Calendar:
The theme is "Fun by the Bushel" as the San Joaquin Fair opens today (Wednesday) in Stockton. The Shasta District Fair begins in Anderson.
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