Food & Farm News
Real Audio» May 10, 2007 «
Governor promotes water plan with new reservoirs
Saying, "We can't afford to wait any longer," Governor Schwarzenegger pressed for passage of a water plan for the state's long-term needs. The governor spoke yesterday (Wednesday) to a water association meeting in Sacramento. He said he wants California to remain at the forefront of water conservation. At the same time, the governor said the state must build more aboveground reservoirs to increase water storage, improve flood protection and provide flexibility to respond to climate change.
Estimate forecasts a record almond crop
Limbs on some California almond trees are bowing and splitting under the weight of what will likely be a record crop. A government estimate issued yesterday forecasts a 17 percent jump in almond production, up to more than 1.3 billion pounds. The report attributes the increase to expanding acreage, favorable weather and what it calls "sufficient bee presence" for pollination. Marketers say the large crop will help fulfill rising demand for almonds.
Experts to meet to plot apple-moth strategy
Can the light brown apple moth be eradicated? That question may be answered next week. A technical working group of scientists will meet to analyze whether the moth can be eliminated or merely contained. The apple moth attacks a variety of plants and has been trapped in eight Bay Area and Central Coast counties. Inspectors from the federal government have joined local personnel to help in distributing and checking apple-moth traps.
Survey shows people eating at home more often
Rising energy costs have affected the way people eat, according to an annual survey of consumer trends. The Food Marketing Institute survey indicates many Americans have changed their food-purchasing behavior in response to rising prices for gasoline and home heating. Nearly 70 percent of people who responded to the survey said they're eating out less often and cooking more at home. Another 62 percent said they're eating more leftovers.
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