Food & Farm News

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President Bill Pauli's speech to the Farm Bureau annual meeting

Governor to address Farm Bureau Meeting

The leader of the state's largest farm organization urged unity and strength among the state's farmers and ranchers, as he addressed members gathered in Monterey yesterday (Monday). California Farm Bureau President Bill Pauli said farmers would tackle a number of issues in the coming year, including labor shortages, a farm-policy debate in Congress, as well as efforts to modernize endangered-species protections. Governor Schwarzenegger is scheduled to address the Farm Bureau meeting today (Tuesday).

Fewer peach acres next year

Golden State canning peach growers have agreed to remove 4,000 acres of trees from production next year. They will receive some compensation from a program funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the California Canning Peach Association. By reducing the harvesting acreage to 26,200 acres, supply and demand is brought into balance. California canned peaches have competition from European countries where production costs are much lower.

Tangerine production increases

California is becoming an increasingly important tangerine producer. Production of Satsuma and Clementine varieties is projected to increase 14 percent this year as newly planted acres come into production. While the domestic crop should be enough to meet consumer demand, the increasingly popular imported Clementines are likely to be in short supply. Spain, the major producer is experiencing one of the worst droughts in 60 years, causing a decrease in production.

Young farmers honored

Achievements on the farm and service to agriculture have yielded statewide awards for two young California agriculturalists. Brandon Fawaz of Fort Jones earned the YF&R Achievement Award for his farm management skills and leadership qualities and service to Farm Bureau and the community. Sam Dolcini earned the Excellence in Agriculture Award for his management of his family's cattle ranch and replacement dairy-heifer operation. The awards were presented at the California Farm Bureau Federation's annual meeting in Monterey.

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