Food & Farm News
Real Audio» September 8, 2005 «
AFBF backs bill to deter eminent domain
Because farm and ranch land could become a prime target for eminent-domain condemnation, the nation's largest farm group says it supports federal legislation to discourage the practice. American Farm Bureau President Bob Stallman testified yesterday (Wednesday) in favor of a bill that would deter governments from seizing land, then turning it over to private developers. The bill was introduced following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that broadened eminent domain authority.
Water expert discusses delta problems
A water expert says there's no evidence to link declining fish populations in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta to water exports from the delta. Consulting engineer B.J. Miller of Berkeley spoke at the start of a Farm Water Leadership Tour in Sacramento yesterday. He says invasive species are consuming food favored by native fish, such as the delta smelt, and that in turn is reducing the fish populations.
Orange oil compound helps fight cholesterol
A compound in orange oil appears to reduce cholesterol. The discovery by federal agricultural researchers could provide a new market for citrus farmers. Orange oil comes from orange peels. The research shows the compound in orange oil reduces levels of LDL cholesterol. Now, scientists must find the best ways to incorporate the beneficial oil into products consumers could use.
Report details horse owners' economic impact
Horses and the activity surrounding them contribute $39 billion directly to the American economy, according to figures complied by the American Horse Council. When indirect spending is included, the sector's economic impact swells to $102 billion. In addition, horses support 1.4 million full time jobs. The council says there are more than 9 million horses in the United States, including 700,000 in California.
On the Calendar:
"It's Goat Time" is the theme for the Madera Fair, opening today (Thursday) in Madera. The Gold Country Fair starts in Auburn and the Desert Empire Fair begins in Ridgecrest.
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