KFBK - Citrus farmers in California and the rest of the country are keeping an eye on our water reserves, because they're getting low.
California is in one of its driest calendar years on record with reservoirs having very little storage remaining. Our state produces 85% of fresh fruits for the United States, some of which that can only be grown here. Bob Blakely with California Citrus Mutual says this drought can affect everyone.
"So you have all of these vital commodities, fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables that the entire country relies on California to produce those, and without water that won't happen," Blakely said.
The ongoing drought is having some very negative implications for the livestock industry as well,
"There are some areas like the central coast here in California, they're at an all time low. This is the driest year we've seen since 1917 in that area" said Stevie Ipsen of the California Cattleman's Assocation.
Ipsen continued to say the situation is critical because reserves are already depleted.
"I've heard a lot of cattle producers say that in the next couple of months if they don't see some rain, that it could put them out of business entirely, and I believe that most California ranchers would be forced to sell some of their cows," said Ipsen.
Naturally, by law of supply and demand, that could lead to higher costs at the market.
"There are some areas like the central coast here in California, they're at an all time low. This is the driest year we've seen since 1917 in that area" said Stevie Ipsen of the California Cattleman's Assocation.
Ipsen continued to say the situation is critical because reserves are already depleted.
"I've heard a lot of cattle producers say that in the next couple of months if they don't see some rain, that it could put them out of business entirely, and I believe that most California ranchers would be forced to sell some of their cows," said Ipsen.
Naturally, by law of supply and demand, that could lead to higher costs at the market.
If this dry weather persists and there isn't enough water in reservoirs, farmers will be forced to reach into their well reserves, which can deplete ground water.
No comments:
Post a Comment