Tuesday, Aug. 03, 2010

Ag briefs: Cotton crop develops slowly

Cotton plants are still maturing later than average. Many fields were planted late because of the cool, damp spring weather. Farmers expect lower production as a result, and are treating fields for insects that could further affect the crop. However, farm advisors say a few farmers who were able to plant on schedule have good looking fields and may have average or above average yields this fall. Warmer weather is helping the cotton to grow, but concern remains about possible early rains at harvest time.

Report: Families own most farms

Family farms and ranches continue to dominate the nation's agricultural landscape, according to a new government report. The U.S. Agriculture Department reported this week that family-owned businesses account for 98 percent of United States farms and ranches. Those family farms produce 82 percent of farm production. The report classifies nearly 90 percent of farms and ranches as small farms, adding that larger-scale farms account for most production.

Success reported against invasive moth

There's encouraging news for grape growers and wine lovers from Napa County agricultural inspectors. They report great success in their fight against the European grapevine moth. Where they counted more than 100,000 insects in the first generation earlier this year, they've found fewer than 1,000 in the second. Statewide, reductions have also been reported. The invasive moth, which is native to Europe, can cause significant damage to grapes if left unchecked.

Cool weather helping Kiwifruit crop mature on schedule

Usually it wouldn't be newsworthy to report that a crop is developing on schedule ... but this has been an unusual year in California. Cool, wet spring weather delayed many crops. That makes kiwifruit an exception. The California Kiwifruit Commission says it expects harvest to start at the usual time, a couple of months from now. Kiwifruit thrives in the cooler temperatures and the fruit has developed large sizes in the cooler-than-average air.