Talk about a one-two punch. Between the lack of rain and the sub-freezing temperatures, “there’s no doubt about it – the two together give it a harder case,” says James McFarlane, who grows 700 acres of citrus in Fresno County.
And McFarlane says he’s one of the lucky ones: “Even though we’ve spent all that money on propane and labor, to get those wind machines on and off, even though for about a 40 day period I only spent two full nights in my warm bed, we’re probably gonna make more money because of it.”
That’s because his supply weathered the weather fairly well. Others did not. California’s citrus industry estimates the cost of the seven-day December freeze at about $440 million. That’ll lead to a shorter California citrus season in stores, and perhaps higher prices for customers.
Environment Stories
Lawmakers Get Disturbing Picture Of Status of Groundwater
Tuesday, March 11, 2014Groundwater supplies are at an all-time low in both the Sacramento and San Joaquin River basins. Management of that dwindling supply was the focus of debate at the state Capitol.
Drought Plan Calls For Moving Young Salmon Via Trucks
Tuesday, March 11, 2014(AP) -- Because of California's lingering drought, millions of young California salmon could soon be migrating to the ocean via freeways instead of the Sacramento River.
Baby Salmon On The Move
Thursday, March 06, 2014Chinook Salmon that are babies now -but will return as full-grown adults to California rivers in 2016- are beginning to make their way to the Pacific Ocean now.
Bees Feeling Effects of California Drought
Thursday, March 06, 2014The drought has left honey bees without their normal supply of wildflowers to feed on. Beekeepers have supplemented their diet, but that lacks nutrition to keep hives healthy. CapRadio's Amy Quinton tags along with a local beekeeper to learn more.
More Money For Storage Projects Added to Calif. Water Bond Proposal
Wednesday, March 05, 2014There’s a bit more progress in the delicate dance of reaching a deal on a new California water bond proposal that would replace the $11 billion bond currently on the November ballot. But a deal – if any – is still months away.