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
Robots Could Have A New Job On The Farm
Monday, January 26, 2015Robots may soon be pulling weeds on Central Valley farms. UC Davis researchers received $2.7 million dollars from the USDA.
'Tough Season' For California Wine Grape Growers Relying on Groundwater
Thursday, January 22, 2015The fourth year of drought in California has some state wine grape growers that rely on groundwater 'concerned' about the upcoming season.
California Farmers Turn Sugar Beets Into Energy
Thursday, January 22, 2015Struggling sugar beet farmers in the San Joaquin Valley are turning their crop into energy instead of sweetener. A pilot plant could prove to be good for the environment and the economy.
Bird Clean Up Continues At Fairfield Rescue Center
Wednesday, January 21, 2015The cleanup of some sort of mysterious goo on Bay Area seabirds continues at a rescue center in Solano County.
County Officials Condemn Public Fridge
Tuesday, January 20, 2015A UC Davis student is on a mission to stop food waste by placing a refrigerator in his front yard for neighbors to share leftovers.