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» May 19, 2006 «

Fair weather befriends farmers

Farmers in many areas of the state are taking advantage of fair weather, scrambling to catch up from delays because of the cool, wet spring. A tomato farmer in Fresno County says fields are fast being planted, though his crop remains about two weeks behind normal. Many rice growers say their planting started a month late, and they're still working to make up the time. Cotton farmers also remain behind a typical schedule, although about 90 percent of that crop has been planted now.

Hay stocks dwindle as harvest slows

With hay hard to come by because of cold and wet spring weather, farmers have had to dip into their reserve supplies to feed their animals. A report estimated yesterday (Thursday) that on-farm hay stocks in California stand 16 percent below their levels at the same time last year … and more than 40 percent lower than in 2004. Damage inflicted by heavy spring rains means hay production in California won't meet demand this year.

Forecast indicates smaller peach crops

Fewer peaches will come from California orchards this year, as a result of wet spring weather and the removal of orchards. A government estimate issued yesterday indicates that unfavorable weather will reduce yields. It forecasts a 4 percent reduction in the volume of freestone peaches, which are sold fresh. The forecast for cling peaches shows a 17 percent reduction. Most cling peaches are canned, and cling peach growers have removed orchards in response to low prices.

Study shows how apples protect healthy cells

Failure to communicate is usually a bad thing … unless you can prevent disease cells from communicating with healthy cells. A study at the University of California indicates that apples do just that. Researchers at UC Davis have learned how compounds in apples, known as flavonoids, protect healthy cells. Flavonoids are found in a number of foods, but those in apples appear to act in a different way. The information may help fight cancer, heart disease and other chronic illnesses.