Food & Farm News
Real Audio» September 20, 2005 «
ESA modernization bill introduced
Congressmen from both parties introduced a bill to modernize the Endangered Species Act at a Sacramento news conference yesterday (Monday). They chose to announce the bill a continent away from Washington, D.C. to illustrate that the bill would return more control to state and local governments. The bill would have government compensate property owners at fair market value for any loss that results from protecting endangered species. It would also require that sound science be used in decision-making.
California grown gold kiwifruit available soon
Consumers should find California grown golden kiwifruit in retail stores this fall. Farmers who planted golden vines several years ago have encountered unexpected problems that delayed production. The vines did not do well in California's dry climate. Farmers learned to use cultural practices that increased humidity under the canopy where the fruit grows, and provided nutrients feeding vines what they needed. The result this year is good size fruit with excellent taste, described as a mixture of mango and melon.
No new Monterey County glassy-winged sharpshooters found
There have been no additional finds of glassy-winged sharpshooters in Monterey County since the lone insect was found in a sticky trap nearly two weeks ago. It was the first find of the insect not related to nursery shipments in the county. In that the bug was found near highway 101 and the Salinas airport, inspectors suspect it may have hitched a ride on an airplane or motor vehicle. Intensified trapping will continue for a year, but each day without another insect being discovered makes inspectors think they have captured the only insect pest.
Poor year for California egg ranchers
Consumers pay more than a dollar a dozen for eggs at retail. However, California farmers last week received an average of 49 cents. Producers have lost money for the first eight months of this year. Industry analysts say that although the rest of the year may be profitable growers will still have a net loss for 2005. Without a profitable year some growers may soon be forced out of business, further reducing California egg production.
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