Food & Farm News
Real Audio» February 13, 2007 «
Berries, sparkling wine see Valentine sales boost
Valentine's Day gift giving boosts sales of California-grown flowers and nursery plants ... and also affects sales of other agricultural products. Sales data from A.C. Nielsen show that purchases of fresh strawberries rose noticeably last year, during the week that included Valentine's Day. So, too, did sales of sparkling wine. The sales data showed the category most dramatically affected by the holiday was "special chocolates."
PG&E to buy natural gas produced on dairy
As many as 50,000 homes may soon have their electricity provided by natural gas produced on a Central Valley dairy farm. Pacific Gas and Electric Company announced yesterday (Monday) it has agreed to buy natural gas from a firm that will process it from cow manure. The waste-to-energy plant will be built on a Fresno County dairy farm. A company called BioEnergy Solutions says the plant could begin delivering renewable natural gas to PG&E this summer.
Crowds gather for World Ag Expo opening
Tens of thousands of farmers, ranchers and vendors ... visitors from more than 60 countries ... and at least one likely presidential candidate … will be on hand today (Tuesday) as the World Ag Expo opens in Tulare. Considered the largest farm-equipment show in North America, the expo showcases new and noteworthy equipment and agricultural technology. Former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani, who's considering a run for president, will speak at the opening ceremonies.
'Dual resistance' protects lettuce from disease
By breeding lettuce that resists two diseases at once, researchers say they've been able to protect crops in the most economical and environmentally friendly way. A government research station in Salinas has produced several varieties of lettuce with what scientists call dual resistance. The first such varieties became available in 2004 and remain successful. Researchers say they're checking both wild and domesticated lettuce varieties to find genes that resist more diseases and pests.
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