Food & Farm News
» April 17, 2008 «
On-farm egg prices have dropped
There's been a sizeable drop in the prices California farmers earn for eggs, and analysts say that should lead to reductions in retail prices. The price egg farmers earn has dropped 31 cents a dozen since the first of April and now stands at an average of 97 cents a dozen for large eggs. Prices typically drop after Easter, but market watchers say the magnitude of this year's decline was a surprise. Egg production has been increasing to meet growing demand.
Farmers prepare irrigation pumps 
Dry weather this spring, combined with court rulings that slow deliveries of reservoir water, will cause many farmers to rely on well water to a higher degree. And specialists urge farmers to check their irrigation pumps as early as possible. Advisors say early discovery of problems may help avoid times when repair crews are swamped with calls. Thefts of copper wire have disabled many pumps, and others may be damaged by rodents, insects or other problems.
Valencia orange harvest begins
Both the main varieties of California-grown oranges are reaching market now. Valencia orange harvest has started in a limited way, according to a government report released yesterday (Wednesday). Volumes of the spring-summer orange variety could be nearly 40 percent higher than last season's crop, which was reduced by freeze. Meantime, the report says the navel orange season continues to progress well, with fruit showing good color and sugar content.
Subscription farming programs prove successful
You can subscribe to a newspaper or a magazine, and in many areas you can also subscribe to a farm. A number of California farmers say they've succeeded with subscription farm programs. Customers subscribe to receive weekly boxes of produce direct from the farms, which typically are located near urban areas. Some growers allow subscribers to come to the farm and pick their own produce, as well.
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