Monday, September 19, 2016

California Farming Facts

California has been the #1 food & agricultural producer in the United States for more than 50 consecutive years. A nearly $54 billion dollar industry that generates over $100 billion in related economic activity in the United States every year… Help us keep it that way!

Did you know that California is the largest producer of commercial garlic, artichokes and all of the nation’s dried figs here in the U.S.?

Farming is Vital to Our Economy. California grows over 400 commodities and is the 5th largest supplier of food to the world. It leads our nation in production of at least 75 commodities. It is also the sole producer of 12 commodities including almonds, artichokes, dates, figs, olives & walnuts.

California Fish & Bird Population Also In Danger. The state’s fish population is also in a dangerous spot, prompting officials to ban fishing in drought-affected rivers and streams. In particular trouble are coho salmon, which cannot get to their native streams due to lack of rain, and Chinook salmon, whose nests were exposed when the Sacramento River level fell in early November.

The extended drought is endangering birds around the state. It’s already forced some waterfowl to change where they land and where and when they fly. And more months without rain will start to affect their breeding, scientists say.

“It is a persistent myth that 80% of California’s water is used on the farm. This simply isn’t true. California’s Department of Water Resources reports that about 41% of the state’s dedicated water supply is used by farmers, approximately 10% is used in urban areas for domestic purposes and commercial businesses, while 49% goes to the environment…In order to accurately account for statewide water use it is important to also keep track of water that has an environmental priority.”

“Many State and federal laws and regulations govern California water use. Some of them mandate that a certain amount of water be used for specific environmental purposes including wild and scenic stream flows, required Bay-Delta outflow, managed wetlands and wildlife refuges. In recent years water that once irrigated farmland or ran from taps in homes is now serving environmental purposes. That water was counted as human use before is being reallocated to the environment.”

“In order to accurately account for statewide water use it is important to also keep track of water that has an environmental priority.”

~ Department of Water Resources

El Niño Is Here ~ But Will It Make A Difference? August 16, 2016 El Niño is showering California with tons of water. But most of it is going straight out to the ocean. Why are we not taking advantage of this opportunity to recover from the drought?

While this past winter was wetter than the last several, the amount of rain and snow California received was still slightly below average. The precipitation was a welcome change, but one average winter does not solve several years of serious drought. Californians have been taking great strides in their commitment to water conservation, developing a lifestyle as opposed to a momentary quick fix. Saving water is just part of our lifestyle.

Knowledge is power. Stay informed & help us spread the word. It’s important that our leaders & government officials know we want our food to come from California.

Are you looking for the perfect wholesome and gift to use as gifts for a business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Oranges
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257

559-561-3391

No comments:

Post a Comment