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New law requiring Sonoma County wines to contain at least 75 percent juice from grapes from that county

Almond harvest more than half finished

About 60 percent of the almond crop is out of the field and farmers estimate it will be another three weeks before all harvesting is complete. Growers in Central Valley locations where it rained over the weekend slowed harvest so almonds could dry. Quality of the crop is good, but there are more rejects than anticipated, mostly from damage from navel orange worm. Weather permitting, the crop will meet federal government projections of just over a billion pounds.

Water supplies good

The Central Valley Water Project has more water to carry over to the next season this year than they had last. The water year runs from October 1 through September 30. There are about 8.3 million acre-feet of water in project reservoirs this year about 180,000 more than last year. Government officials will monitor reservoirs and meet flood control objectives throughout the rainy season. However, the large carry-over is good news in case of a dry winter.

Sonoma wine bill signed

Governor Schwarzenegger has signed a bill that requires wine with Sonoma County on its label to contain at least 75 percent juice from grapes grown in the county. The Sonoma County Grape Growers Commission plans to expand promotion of wine from the county. Napa County is the only other appellation with that requirement, but the governor in his signing message suggested that other areas use the same method to promote their locations and wines.

Farmers hope for dry weather

Sweet potato farmers are hoping for dry weather for another three weeks. Harvest is going well and quality is excellent. However, rain could create major problems, slowing harvest pace and creating potential disease. The harvesters aren't able to traverse the fields when they are muddy. Cold, wet weather also creates various fungal disease problems. If it stays dry, production forecasts will be met.

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