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water availability in the Westlands Water District
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» August 20, 2008 «

Westside farmers struggle with water shortages

Because so much land was fallowed or abandoned, water demand in the western San Joaquin Valley has fallen enough to end a rationing program. Farmers remain restricted to 40 percent of their water allocations, but now have more flexibility as to when they can use it. A spokeswoman for the Westlands Water District says the change comes too late to allow more fall lettuce to be planted, but may help farmers trying to sustain their orchards.

Forecast says state's hay production will drop

Water shortages in the San Joaquin Valley contribute to a reduced hay crop. Forecasts issued yesterday (Tuesday) show California production of alfalfa hay down about 8 percent from last year, and other types of hay down 2 percent. Dairy cows consume most California hay. With milk prices softening and hay prices high, farmers have responded by seeking other feed for their animals. High hay prices have also affected horse owners and other livestock owners.

New ads promote potatoes' nutritional value

"Goodness unearthed" will be the new slogan for potatoes. The U.S. Potato Board said yesterday that half-page advertisements promoting the nutritional value of potatoes will appear in the September issues of several food and lifestyle publications. The board says per-person potato consumption has dropped steadily the past 10 years … and the ads aim to "set the record straight" about the nutritional value of potatoes.

Studies show men benefit from fruit, vegetable consumption

Eating more fruits and vegetables helps men avoid developing cancer of the esophagus, according to a Japanese study. The health ministry spent eight years monitoring men between the ages of 45 and 74. Those who ate the most fruit and vegetables had nearly half the risk of developing cancer than men who ate the fewest vegetables and fruits. Meantime, a British study revealed that men who ate more broccoli reduced their risk of developing prostate cancer.