madera county farm bureau - maderafb.com newspapers/may 2013/mcf… · while one-fourth of the moms...

5 things moms get wrong at the grocery storeCommonGround

According to a new survey, American moms may be building their grocery lists based on misinformation about how their food was grown and raised.

The Gate-to-Plate survey of more than 1,000 moms was commissioned by CommonGround, a grassroots coalition of farm women who want to foster conversations among all women - on farms and in cities - about where our food comes from and how it is raised. Findings of the survey include:

ORGANIC FOODSEighty-four percent of moms surveyed

believe that organic food is farmed without any pesticides, fertilizers or herbicides.

The facts - Organic is a labeling term that indicates that the food or other agricultural product has been produced through approved methods. Synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering may not be used and organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides. However, more than 50 synthetic substances may be used in

organic crop production if other substances fail to prevent or control the target pest. All foods - whether organic or nonorganic - must meet certain health and safety regulations before being sold to consumers.

GMO FOODSWhile one-fourth of the moms who

participated in the survey said they had never heard of genetically modified (GMO) foods, the majority of moms question the safety of GMO foods. Nearly half - 43 percent - of moms in the survey believe that GMO food is nutritionally and

Madera CountyFarM Bureau

May 2013 Vol. 3, No. 7

May7 Executive Committee Meeting,

2:30 p.m., MCFB Conference Room, 1102 South Pine Street, Madera (559) 674-8871, info @ www.maderafb.com

14 MCFB Board of Directors Meet-ing, 12:00 p.m., MCFB Ben Hayes Hall, 1102 South Pine Street, Madera (559) 674-8871, info @ www.maderafb.com

19 MCFB 14th Annual Scholarship & Wine Tasting, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00p.m., Appellation California, 32749 Ave. 7, Madera. info @ www.maderafb.com

23 Heat Stress Training; Spanish 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., English 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., MCFB Ben Hayes Hall, 1102 South Pine Street, Madera, RSVP by: 5-21-2013 to (559) 674-8871.

June4 Executive Committee Meeting,

2:30 p.m., MCFB Conference Room, 1102 South Pine Street, Madera (559) 674-8871, info @ www.maderafb.com

CaleNdar

agriculture todayBusiness Member ProfilePage 6 2

Make sure to call or go online to purchase your

Wine tasting tickets today!

See 5 Things; Page 8

Madera County Farm Bureau Student of a Farm laborer $1,000 Scholarship Angel DeLeonMadera High SchoolPlans to attend: Fresno Pacific College

GPA: 3.59Major: Graphic Arts

What Special Activities have you participated in? Madera Interact Rotary Club; Madera Leo Lions; Kiwanis Key Club; Art Club; Science Club; Mexican-American Club; Vocational Industrial Clubs of America; Fashion Club; Madera Academic Youth Alliance; Key Visions.

What citizenship honors did you receive? CSF; Engineering and Technology Teacher’s Choice Award; Anti-Graffiti Drawing Contest; UC Scholars..

Madera County Farm Bureau Student of a Farm laborer $1,000 Scholarship Cristina SoaresChowchilla Union High School

Plans to attend: CSU- Fresno GPA: 4.47Major: Biology

What Special Activities have you participated in? Buhach Senior Santo Cristo Sidemaid; City of Chowchilla Easter Egg Hunt; St. Columbia Catholic Church Fall Festival; Member of FFA; Member of the FFA Dairy Judging Team; Member of CSF; Chowchilla Sociedade Flor Acoreana Community Service; Crossroads Chrisitan School Community Service.

Correction

The majoriTy of moms incorrecTly define organic producTion.

Organic food is produced without using MOST conventional pesticides. However, more than 50 synthetic pesticides may be used in organic crop production if other substances fail to prevent or control the target pest. According to the american Academy of Pediatrics.

organic

The FacTs

Know Before you Buy The majority of moms shop for groceries 1-2 times each week, spending more than $76 on an average trip.

Things moms geT wrongat the grocery store { }

believe that organic food is farmed without pesticides, fertilizers or herbicides.

of moms believe organic is inherently better than non-organic foods.84% 50%

2 | May 2013 Madera County Farm Bureau

After nearly ringing the bell on the California High Speed Train Authority and approaching the court house steps, the Madera County Farm Bureau Board of Directors acted by majority vote to settle the lawsuit last month. For my part, I can say that this decision was not taken lightly, and will weigh heavily on all

involved for years to come. The decision to settle came after many

intensive, last minute negotiations between the Authority and the Attorney General’s Office, our Lead Counsel Barry Epstein, members of our co-petitioner group, and members of the MCFB Board. Although fraught with difficulties, including appealing to a very diverse petitioner group and satisfying a massive inter-governmental bureaucratic petting zoo, the resulting settlement agreement was nothing short of a precedent setting phenomenon.

The level of precedence, will depend of course on public opinion, however from a litigation perspective (and a CEQA perspective), never before in the history of agriculturally based lawsuits has agriculture been accommodated to this extent. The level of increased land owner protections provided for in the settlement

will remain unparalleled far into the future of the statewide projects –and the increased level of mitigation provided for agriculture established a record as the highest amount ever provided to this resource by a State Agency. To view the full settlement agreement, please visit our website www.maderafb.com

Although far from perfect, the settlement also provided MCFB with additional mitigation funding to offset unforeseen impacts of the high speed train. This project, with its colossal scale and far reaching indirect impacts, will undoubtedly cause effects that cannot possibly be predicted this short term. The settlement will allow the MCFB to potentially offset these damages to those affected by the project the most.

The harsh reality of the damage inflicted to the families along the alignment of the high speed train, will never be mitigated, not by any settlement –or any lawsuit for that matter. The fate of Madera County as it continues to grapple with the high speed train project –and all of the tangible truths that come with a massive technological urbanization program, will have to play out outside of a courtroom. Time will tell if history will place us soaring in the annals of diplomacy, but present day reality will hopefully place us higher up, on the leverage and negotiations ladder.

Last month, with heavy hearts and divided opinions, the Madera County Farm Bureau Board of Directors voted to settle our lawsuit with the California High Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA). This decision was undoubtedly one of the most difficult in the history of the Madera

County Farm Bureau Board, as we had to carefully consider the statistical realities of the political climate in the State, versus our own ethical compasses on our path moving forward.

Our original intention in entering this lawsuit was to stop the project or delay construction long enough for the project to implode. We did succeed in this regard to an extent –it is a forgone conclusion that had we not filed the suit, the CHSRA would have begun construction on the Project in 2012. We also were highly successful at garnering a significant amount of leverage statewide, both political and in the court of public opinion. The suit had all of the potential to cause the Project implosion –however the political climate consistently allowed a certain degree of laxity throughout every step of the legal process, ultimately

Madera County Farm Bureau news new MCFB Members

Farm Bureau Membership Benefits

InsuranceAllied Insurance, Health Net,

Nationwide Agribusiness, State Compensation Insurance Fund,

VPI Pet Insurance

News and entertainmentAgAlert, California Country Mag & T.V.

VehiclesDodge Trucks, Vans and SUV’s, Vehicle Rentals,

Avis, Budget, Budget Trucks, Hertz

do-It-YourselfGrainger, Kelly-Moore Paints,

Dunn Edwards Paints

TravelChoice Hotels, Wyndham Hotels

Business ServicesAnderson Marketing, Farm Bureau Bank,

Farm Employers Laborers Service, Land’s End Business Outfitters

Health ServicesClear Value Hearing,

Farm Bureau Prescription discount program, LensCrafters, Preferred Alliance

Contact the MCFB Office at (559) 674-8871or www.maderafb.com for details.

2012 - 2013 executive CommitteePresident: Tom Coleman

First Vice President: Al SheeterSecond Vice President: Jay Mahil

Secretary/Treasurer: Michele LasgoityAppointed by President: Michael NaitoAppointed by President: Jim Erickson

Appointed by President: Dennis Meisner Jr.Immediate Past President: Tom Rogers

directors at largeMathew AndrewH. Clay DaultonLoren FreemanNeil McDougald

Dino PetrucciPat Ricchiuti

Chris WylieRobert Cadenazzi

Stephen ElgorriagaErick Kuckenbecker

Jeff McKinneyRobert Sahatjian

California Farm Bureau - district 9 director Anthony Toso

California Farm Bureau CommitteePolicy Recommendation – H. Clay Daulton

Air & Environmental Issues – H. Clay Daulton

California Farm Bureau Commodity representativesBee – Ryan Cosyns

Beef – H. Clay DaultonGrape – Jay Mahil

Specialty Crops – Tom Rogers

Office StaffExecutive Director: Anja K. Raudabaugh

Executive Assistant: Normalee G. Castillo

Madera County Farm Bureau1102 South Pine Street

Madera, CA 93637(559) 674-8871; www.maderafb.com

advertising/PublishingMid-Valley Publishing

1130 D Street, Reedley, CA 93654

advertising SalesCheri Williams(559) 638-2244

editorNormalee G. Castillo

Periodical PostagePaid at Fresno, California 93706

POSTMaSTerSend address changes to:

Madera County Farm Bureau1102 South Pine Street, Madera, CA 93637

The Madera County Farm Bureau does not assume responsibility for

statements by advertisers or for productsadvertised in Madera County Farm Bureau.

President’s Message

Tom ColemanPresident

NAME CITY P/C/BGiGi Ag Madera PRichard Hammers Wishon CLeonard Lara Madera CDanna Mcferrin Madera CSalvador Mosqueda Madera PTriple G Farming Co. LLC Madera PAna Vazquez Gil Madera P

MCFB welcomes the following new agricultural (producer), associate

(consumer) Collegiate, and Business Support members who joined in april & May:

To BECoME A MEMBER CALL674-8871

Pr Farms Inc.James M. Costa

Thomas H. edgintonStephen a. elgorriaga

diane Kirk

robert d. Bisheldonald l. Milburn Jr.

Sharon doshierMichele r. lasgoity

emily J. Martin

new MCFB donorsMCFB would like to thank all of our members who help support our

work through their voluntary contributions for the months of April & May.

See President’s Message; Page 3

Anja RaudabaughExecutive Director

Executive Directors Address

To BECoME A DoNoR CALL 674-8871

Madera County Farm Bureau May 2013 | 3

PrEsiDEnt’s MEssAgEContinued from Page 2

Steve Barsotti674-85361643 N. Schnoor Ave • Madera

www.fosterparker.com CA Lic. #0551757

Foster & ParkerINSURANCE

Complete Insurance Solutions

• Home • Farm • Business • Auto • Health • Life

creating a situation of the Authority skating through the red tape and public protest with minor deviations in their protocol. Weighing the indicators both political and legal, the majority of the Board saw neither outcome possible by carrying through with the current legal action.

The mission of the Madera County Farm Bureau is to preserve and protect agricultural in Madera County. Well far from being perfect, this settlement forces the CHSRA to compensate and mitigate individual land owners for the agricultural impacts that this project will have on the farming community in Madera County –for both MCFB members and non-members alike. I consider this the primary ‘win’ of this settlement. There was no legal remedy available to us, even in an outright win of our CEQA case on all points –that would have achieved the concessions negotiated in this settlement.

In conclusion, although not the only solution available to a divided Board of Directors, a majority of the Board decided that this was the best solution available under these circumstances.

If you are Interested In advertIsIng In our paper please contact: ChEri WilliAMs MiD-VAllEy Publishing

(559) 638-2244

Valley groundwater rule draws fire from both sidesBy Robert Rodriguez Fresno Bee

A far-reaching plan by the state to protect a large part of the San Joaquin Valley’s groundwater drew criticism from farmers who say it is too costly and from environmentalists who say it doesn’t go far enough.

About 75 people representing growers, community members and agriculture leaders voiced their concerns Thursday during a workshop held by the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board in downtown Fresno.

The proposed rules that have been in the works for years would create a system for monitoring groundwater and controlling discharges of contaminants such as fertilizers and pesticides. The rules cover 850,000 acres of farmland in the broad Tulare Lake Basin, the nation’s richest farming region.

But the plan to implement the rules by early next year has hit a legal snag. A tentative Superior Court ruling may jeopardize the state’s environmental studies on the contentious rules, and possibly the rules themselves.

Although some farmers complained that the state should have cancelled Thursday’s

meeting until the court issues its final ruling in July, the board went ahead.

Doug Patteson, supervising engineer of the regional board’s Fresno office, said that board is aware changes may be needed, based on the court’s final rule. But officials said it was important to hear from the public.

“And if the revisions are substantive then we may hold additional workshops,” Patteson said.

Farming representatives continued to raise objections over the potential cost. Board officials estimated the annual, per-acre cost could be about $19.45 for some farmers. But they also cautioned that the amount could vary widely depending on a farmer’s level of water management practices.

Ernest Conant, with the Kern River Watershed Coalition Authority, said the board has underestimated the costs. He says the cost could be much higher.

“Aren’t there less costly methods that can be used for the benefit of all the residents,” Conant said.

But Laurel Firestone, an attorney with the Community Water Center, said the costs to the communities who live with contaminated ground water is also high.

Water officials have said one of the

biggest causes of water contamination in the region is nitrates, a chemical that comes from fertilizers, septic tanks, animal waste and decaying plants. Nitrates can also lead to a potentially fatal infant blood disease, called blue baby syndrome, and has been connected to several cancers.

Firestone also urged the board to take a tougher approach against contamination.

“The tentative rules do not have an adequate monitoring and reporting requirement to identify violators and to take enforcement action,” Firestone said.

Several Tulare County residents say they are afraid to drink their tap water and instead spend hundreds of dollars a year for bottled water.

“We are tired of paying for water that we can’t even drink or use,” said Lucy Hernandez, a member of the AGUA Coalition, a group of community activists in Tulare County. “We are asking the water board to do its job.”

Pamela Creedon, executive director of the water quality control board, said that depending on the court’s decision, there are other regulatory tools the agency can use to protect the region’s groundwater.

“I see a need to keep moving forward,” Creedon said. “And we will.”


VALUE, SERVICE AND QUALITYSafety Glasses and Gloves

Coveralls and FootwearIgloo Products

Pole and Chain SawsTools and Equipment

Pruning ToolsPersonal Protective Equipment

Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday • 8 a.m. – Noon on Saturdays2880 Falcon Drive (in Airport Business Park) • Madera • 559-665-2300

A diverse range of products for all your farming and safety needs!

4 locations to serve our customers FASTER & BETTER

ETTLER TIRE

608 N. Gateway 8 SERVICE BAYS TIRES MOUNTED IN 30 MIN HUNDREDS OF TIRES IN STOCK HIGH TECH EQUIPMENT ALIGNMENT & BRAKES FINANCING AVAILABLE OAC

Since 1934SERVING THE LOCAL FARMERS FOR OVER 75 YEARS

22800 Ave. 181/2ACCROSS FROM PILOT TRUCK STOP

6 SERVICE TRUCKS 3 ACRES OF ROOM 24 HOUR ROAD SERVICE NEW ACCOUNTS WANTED

1539 Robertson Blvd - Chowchilla711 E. Childs Ave. - Merced

674-4678 674-6236

559-665-3704209-723-1823

SCH

Europe Bans Pesticides Thought Harmful to BeesBy David JollyNew York Times

PARIS — The European Commission will enact a two-year ban on a class of pesticides thought to be harming global bee populations, the European Union’s health commissioner said Monday.

“I pledge to do my utmost to ensure that our bees, which are so vital to our ecosystem and contribute over €22 billion annually to European agriculture, are protected,” Tonio Borg said in a statement from Brussels, where the commission is based.

Mr. Borg made the announcement after representatives of the 27 E.U. member states failed for the second time in two months to reach a binding agreement on a proposal to ban the pesticides, known as neonicotinoids. The commission had proposed the ban after the European Food Safety Authority recommended in January that use of the pesticides be restricted until scientists determined whether they were contributing to a die-off in bee colonies.

Though a simple majority of 15 nations backed the measure in committee Monday, it failed to gain the required “qualified majority,” which takes into account the relative weight of populations. Britain, which abstained last time, opposed the measure this time. Germany, which also

abstained last month, backed it. France and Poland, two of Europe’s largest farming nations, supported it.

Under E.U. rules, Mr. Borg has the authority to move ahead on his own in such cases, as his predecessor, John Dalli, did in 2010, controversially allowing the cultivation of genetically modified potatoes.

Worldwide sales of the pesticides total in the billions of dollars. Two companies that make them in Europe, the German giant Bayer CropScience and Syngenta, a Swiss biochemical company, have said they were willing to finance additional research, but that the current data do not justify a ban.

“The proposal is based on poor science and ignores a wealth of evidence from the field that these pesticides do not damage the health of bees,” John Atkin, Syngenta’s chief operating officer, said Monday in a statement. “Instead of banning these products, the commission should now take the opportunity to address the real reasons for bee health decline: disease, viruses and loss of habitat and nutrition.”

Bayer CropScience called the commission’s plan “a setback for technology, innovation and sustainability,” and warned of “crop yield losses, reduced food quality and loss of competitiveness for European agriculture.”

Europe’s struggle with the question of

neonicotinoids and bee health is being closely watched in the United States, where the pesticides are in wide use, and where a bee die-off over the past winter appears to have been one of the worst ever. Beekeepers and environmentalists are suing the Environmental Protection Agency over its approval of the products, which they claim were allowed on the market with inadequate review.

Neonicotinoids are among the world’s most effective and widely used insecticides, and there is significant disagreement as to how much — if at all — they are contributing to the crisis that has devastated global wild and domesticated bee populations.

A plant or seed treated with such a chemical incorporates it into its tissues as it grows, making it lethal to insects that bore into a stem or nibble a leaf. The neonicotinoids are also present in pollen and nectar, and two recent studies have suggested that even sublethal doses might hurt bees.

The U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization notes that 71 of the 100 crops that provide 90 percent of human food are pollinated by bees. Estimates of the value to those crops run to as much as $200 billion annually.

While there are other natural pollinators, including wild bees and flies, current agricultural practices would be impossible without honeybees, and honeybee populations have shrunk alarmingly over the last decade. In the United States, domesticated bee populations are at a 50-year low and falling, and the story is much the same in other countries. Scientists say several factors, including verroa mites and viruses, have contributed to the decline.

In some cases, commercial beekeeping operations are decimated in a matter of days as workers disappear, a phenomenon

scientists have named Colony Collapse Disorder. So badly has the bee population been diminished that in California, the important almond crop now requires more than one-third of all the domesticated bees in the United States for pollination.

Some scientists fear that if the neonicotinoids are banned the chemicals that replace them could be worse. But even those who question the linkage between the pesticides and bee deaths say the current state of knowledge is inadequate and that more study is needed.

Under the European measures, which take effect Dec. 1, there will be sharp restrictions on three neonicotinoid pesticides — clothianidin, imidacloprid and thiametoxam — for treating seeds, soil and leaves on flowering crops attractive to bees, like corn, sunflowers and rapeseed, the source of canola oil. The products may still be used on crops like winter wheat for which the danger to bees is deemed to be small. Use by home gardeners will be prohibited.

The two-year ban will allow commission officials to re-examine the scientific studies that were submitted for approval of the pesticides in the first place and “to take into account relevant scientific and technical developments.”

“This gives bees a bit of breathing space to recover,” said Paul de Zylva, an environmental campaigner in London with Friends of the Earth. The time should be used to come up with a comprehensive plan to address the bee crisis, he said, with civil organizations, governments, farmers and companies working together.

The European ban “doesn’t solve all the problems, though, we never said it did,” Mr. de Zylva added. “You’ve got to look at all the problems facing bees, it’s not just pesticides.”


Judge Orders FDA to Proceed on Food-Safety RulesBy Bill Tomson

A federal judge ordered the Food and Drug Administration to move forward with enacting an overhaul of U.S. food-safety regulations that were signed into law two years ago.

The Center for Food Safety, a group concerned with human health issues, sued in August to prevent the agency from delaying enactment of the 2011 Food Safety Modernization Act. The FDA has missed most of the deadlines set by Congress to implement new food-safety rules for domestic producers and imports.

In a decision Monday, Judge Phyllis J. Hamilton of U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California said the agency shouldn’t be able to endlessly delay the process.

The FDA proposed new standards to prevent bacterial contamination of fruits and vegetables on farms and in processing plants in January, but that was when those standards were supposed to have been finalized. Other enactment deadlines have also been missed for the sweeping food-safety law.

Judge Hamilton acknowledged the FDA’s argument that implementing the food-safety law is a “complex and difficult task” and that the agency doesn’t have enough specialists to move quicker, but she said fixed deadlines are still necessary. She ordered the Center for Food Safety to work with the FDA and agree on new timelines for the rules.

The judge asked them to present the rules to the court by May 20. An FDA official declined to comment on the decision.

The FDA has implemented two new rules since the food-safety law was signed into law. One made it easier for the agency to detain domestically produced food if it believes the products are tainted or mislabeled. The second requires importers to notify the agency if the food they are bringing into the U.S. has first been rejected by other countries.

Write to Bill Tomson at [email protected]


What kind of merchandise do you sell? What Brands?

We are the largest Auto Mall in the Central Valley centrally located in Selma but also with a Kia dealership in Visalia and Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Truck in Hanford. We sell Cars, Vans, SUV’s and Trucks including RAM (Dodge) Commercial Trucks up to the RAM 5500 HD Chassis Cab that can fitted with any type of bed for almost any practical application from Farming, Packing House, Plumbers, HVAC, Mechanics, Lift, Tow Truck and more. The beds come from a variety of manufacturers and include Flat Beds, Service Utility Beds, Stake Beds, Box Vans and more. We have 10 Brands of vehicles that include Chevrolet, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Chrysler, Dodge Jeep and RAM Truck with new and pre-owned inventory of close to 1,000 vehicles at any one time to choose from.

Our target audience is anyone in the market for a vehicle from an individual that needs something to commute in or for their family, the Farmer who needs something for himself or an employee at work or

personal, the Business Person that needs a Company vehicle. We move volume and have the proven track record of being able to get it done. We can find the right vehicle at the right price and help secure financing at some of the lowest rates available.

We offer discounts every day to the public which is why we remain one of the top volume leaders, our reputation precedes us and we have sold to people from all 50 states and Canada. Don’t be fooled by companies with misleading advertising we treat every customer with honesty, integrity and respect.

Community / Economy QuestionThe Selma Auto Mall has participated

in and continues to participate in many Community Projects from Student Athlete of Week Sponsorships, FFA Scholarships, and Salute to Heroes for our Military, Police and Firefighters, Farm Bureau Rebate Programs, Winter Olympics and more.

We have made many changes to stay up with current technologies to offer a wide array of innovative solutions to our customers. From the latest Green

Technology with Hybrid Cars from Honda, Nissan including all electric like the Nissan Leaf to the RAM Truck 2500 that runs on CNG. Also by having 10 Brands to choose from and a huge selection of pre- owned we have a vehicle to fit almost anyone’s needs and most of their wants. We advertise in all media, print, radio, TV, Billboard but the best is and always will be word of mouth. When people are treated right, treated with honesty, integrity and respect they reward that behavior by telling their friends, families and co-workers. We recently changed out our huge Freeway

sign and installed a new LED technology sign that uses far less electrical power as a part of environmentally sound practices.

In January we sponsored a Breakfast Event at the Spike N Rail Restaurant with Guest Speaker Kole Upton from Families Protecting the Valley speaking about the High Speed Rail and Valley Water Issues. We followed by co- sponsoring with Fresno County Farm Bureau a Breakfast Event with Congressman David Valadao and Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims in February. We understand that the entire

Business ProfileSelma Auto Mall

See Selma Auto Mall; Page 7

6 | April 2013 Madera County Farm Bureau

BestConcreteBlocks.com559-288-7902Call For Free Estimate

BESTBESTBESTBESTBESTBESTBESTBESTBESTCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSCONCRETE BLOCKSInstant & InexpensiveInterlocking Blocks2000 and 1000lb. sizesBuilt-In hooks for easy liftingDelivery available


sElMA AutO MAllContinued from Page 6

www.americanaginc.com

• Road Dust Control •• Solution Gypsum •

• AG Lime •• Dolomite • • Sulfur •

• Organic Fertilizers •(Dry and Liquid)(Dry and Liquid)

☼ Liquid Fish Fertilizers ☼

• Sulfate of Potash •• Muriate of Potash •

• Compost •Ed Needham

(599) 977-7282

economy of the Central Valley is tied to Agriculture and if that industry does poorly then so goes the economy of the Valley and we all pay the price. The bureaucrats and politicians long ago forgot that here in the Central Valley we place a lot of credence in common sense, logic and that words mean something to us. When we use words like honesty, integrity and respect they mean something to most of us. Unfortunately, many Bureaucrats, Lawyers and Politicians see them as words needing definition and clarification rather than words to live by in

how you treat your friends and neighbors here in the Central Valley.

Farm Bureau RelationshipThe value we the Selma Auto Mall

receive from our Farm Bureau membership is all of the above. It is in knowing and letting others know that WE STAND TOGETHER WITH EVERY FARMER, EVERY RANCHER, EVERY PACKING HOUSE AND EVERY BUSINESS THAT UNDERSTANDS OUR ECONOMY IS TIED TOGETHER AND WE MUST STAND UNITED TO ANY OPPOSITION THAT THREATENS WHAT OUR FAMILIES AND OURSELVES HAVE BUILT HERE.

Gov. Jerry Brown presses feds for quick review of Delta water tunnel projectBy Matt Weiser

Gov. Jerry Brown is asking federal officials to expedite review of the controversial Bay Delta Conservation Plan, his proposal to build giant water diversion tunnels in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

In a letter to the U.S. secretaries of Interior and Commerce, Brown urges that they release their environmental review and file a decision on whether the project can proceed by this summer. The goal is to ensure their process meshes with Brown’s proposed timing for completion of a state-level environmental impact report and associated planning documents.

“I stand willing to mobilize whatever resources we have at our disposal to assist the federal government in their document review,” Brown wrote in a letter dated Monday. “My office staff and the Department of Water Resources, the agency responsible for the plan, are ready and able to provide funding, staff time, consulting, or whatever else it takes to get this done.”

The proposal calls for construction of three massive intakes on the Sacramento River serving two tunnels, each 35 miles long and 40 feet in diameter. They would deliver water to existing state and federal

diversion canals near Tracy. The plumbing is projected to cost $14 billion.

The project seeks 50-year permits under state and federal endangered species laws, hence the dual processes.

The Brown administration is pressing for approvals to be completed by the end of this year.

“We just wanted to impress upon them that we’d like to stick with the current schedule,” said Richard Stapler, spokesman for the California Natural Resources Agency. “Whenever you have schedule slippages, it costs money.”

It’s not clear whether the federal government will expedite approval. Federal fishery agencies, overseen by Interior and Commerce, continue to express concerns about the project’s potential effect on wildlife, as stated in letters submitted to the state two weeks ago.

And in a joint statement issued Thursday, four House Democrats representing the Bay Area and Central Valley, as well as Rep. Doris Matsui, a Sacramento Democrat, questioned the Brown administration’s commitment to conducting a fair review of the project.

“The Brown administration continues to

fail the Delta and its residents,” said Rep. Jerry McNerney, D-Stockton.

Delta residents, along with many environmental groups, oppose the project and are skeptical of attempts to speed up the review process.

“Cutting corners is not a way to get a successful outcome,” said Doug Obegi, an attorney at the Natural Resources Defense Council. “Using sound science is, even if that means we have to take less water out of the Delta.”

Brown’s letter follows growing pressure from the water agencies funding the project, including the Kern County Water Agency, the Metropolitan Water District of

Southern California and Westlands Water District. They agreed to pay $240 million toward planning efforts. Nearly all that has been spent, and they are concerned that delays beyond this year would require still more money.

The Kern County Water Agency wrote to Brown in February, threatening to withdraw from the plan if federal agencies don’t review – and support – the project by July 1.

“Our position is, if it’s going to cost more than $240 million before the public draft comes out, we don’t have any ability to fund that for you,” said Brent Walthall, assistant general manager of the Kern County agency.


MADERA • 1901 West Cleveland Ave • 1-800-948-7228 (across from the Madera County Fairgrounds)

5115ML Low-ProfiLe UtiLity tractor

The tractor that fits your farm.

• 115 hp† PowerTech™ engine• 100 PTO hp• 2WD & 4WD models • 16F/16R PowrReverser™ transmission • 24.7 gpm hydraulic pump standard (rated flow 18.4 gpm)

0% for 48 months*

*Offer ends 7/31/13. Subject to approved installment credit with John Deere Financial. Some restrictions apply; other special rates and terms may be available, so see your dealer for details and other financing options. Valid only at participating U.S. dealers. †Manufacturer’s estimate of power (ISO) per 97/68/EC.

Approved for NRCS & Air Board

MID10X50517CFB-4c

This time of the year becomes extremely busy for Howard 4-Her’s. Regional Presentation Day was held on April 13th in Madera. Members devoted numerous hours preparing and practicing for this public speaking event. They will be competing at the State Competition on May 25th at U.C. Davis. Over the next four weeks, the 4-H members dedicate lots of time and energy into preparation for the Chowchilla fair, especially for the animal projects. The horse show kicks off the fair on April 27th.

The club held its monthly meeting on April 8th. Chairmen were selected to plan and organize the annual Club End of the Year Party. Lauren Garrison reported for the Nominating Committee and shared names of candidates who accepted nominations to run for each officer position for 2013-2014 year. They opened nomination from the floor and now have a full ballot for potential candidates. All candidates must give a campaign speech prior to elections at the May meeting. The evening program was making toiletry bags for the Madera Rescue Mission chaired by Katie and Matthew Ylarregui. The members put

together 100 bags filled with soap, wash cloth, toothbrush, and toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, razor, Kleenex and a comb. The next meeting will be held on May 6th.

Madera County 4-H Youth program is a non-profit organization for youth who are 9 years old or who have completed 3rd grade and up to 19 years of age. All youth and adults in Madera County are invited to participate in the 4-H Program regardless of race, creed, religion, color, national orgin, sex, mental or physical handicap.

Pictured from left to right: Mackenzie Camacho, Matt Ylarregui, Bryce Poore, Abby Poore, Autumn Pecarovich, Katie Ylarregui, Kendall McKinney & Isaiah Barboza. Not pictured: Angelina Anguiano.

hOWArD 4-h brings hOME thE gOlD At rEgiOnAl PrEsEntAtiOn DAy

5 thingsContinued from Page 1

chemically different than non-GMO food.The facts - All GMO foods are still

exhaustively assessed for safety by groups like the Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). In the 12-plus years that modern biotech crops have been commercially grown, there has not been a single documented case of an ecosystem disrupted or a person made ill. GMO foods are nutritionally and chemically identical to food grown from non-biotech crops.

HORMONES IN MEATMore than half of moms in the survey

said they believe it is important to feed their families hormone-free poultry and pork - even though it may cost more to do so.

The facts - There’s no need to pay extra for poultry or pork that’s labeled hormone-free. USDA prohibits farmers from using hormones to raise chickens and pigs.

All-NaturalALL-NATURAL FOODSMore than half - 53 percent - of moms

surveyed said it’s important to purchase food labeled “all natural,” whenever possible, because it is a more nutritious choice for their family.

The facts - All-natural doesn’t mean nutritional benefits. As required by USDA, meat, poultry and egg products labeled as “natural” must be minimally processed and contain no artificial ingredients. However, the natural label does not include any standards

regarding farm practices and only applies to processing of meat and egg products.

LOCAL FOODSMore than half of moms surveyed said

locally produced foods are always better for the environment.

The facts - Purchasing locally grown food is a great way to support farmers in your community but does not always benefit the environment. Sometimes it takes more energy to grow and harvest local food than it does to grow it elsewhere and have it shipped.

FAMILY FARMSSeven out of 10 moms surveyed believe the

family farm is dying in the United States.The facts - Between 96 and 98 percent of

the 2.2 million farms in the United States are family farms.

Seven out of 10 moms in the survey agree that farmers should be a key resource for individuals seeking information related to food and farming, yet only one out of five moms surveyed seeks information from farmers.

“The CommonGround program grew out of a new demand from consumers for food information,” said Kentucky CommonGround farmer-volunteer Ashley Reding, who raises soybeans, corn and winter wheat in Howardstown, Kentucky.

“The goal of CommonGround is to be a resource to provide moms with facts and information that can help them make informed food choices. As a farmer and a mother, I want individuals to feel empowered to make food choices based on facts and not fear.”


We know Mother Naturedoesn’t wait.

Together, we’ll help keep California working.statefundca.com

Stat

e C

ompe

nsat

ion

Insu

ranc

e Fu

nd is

not

a b

ranc

h of

the

Stat

e of

Cal

iforn

ia.

The weather starts to change and it brings a whole new list of chores.We understand you’ve got a schedule to stick to – that’s why we’re dedicated to getting those in California ag back to work as soon as

possible through our careful processing of claims. Plus, we o�er eligible Farm Bureau members a 6 percent discount on premiums.

It’s all part of our commitment to California agriculture. Because Mother Nature doesn’t stop, and neither do we.

Stat

e C

ompe

nsat

ion

Insu

ranc

e Fu

nd is

not

a b

ranc

h of

the

Stat

e of

Cal

iforn

ia.

Yellow frog, yosemite toad close to EsA protectionBy Tracie ConeAssociated Press

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- The Yosemite toad and the Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog share some critical mountain habitat and now an unenviable distinction: both are being proposed for federal Endangered Species Act protection.

Yellow-legged frogs, which live throughout the Sierra Nevada, have declined in numbers in recent years due to habitat destruction, predation by non-native trout in mountain waterways, the drifting of pesticides to the mountains from farm fields and climate change.

Yosemite toads are threatened primarily by livestock grazing, climate change and pesticides, according to the Center for Biological Diversity, which has pushed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to speed up protection decisions.

“Not too long ago, yellow-legged frogs and Yosemite toads were a common and popular sight in the high Sierras,” said the center’s Jeff Miller in a release. “Their declines are a warning of the failing health of our high Sierra ecosystems, which are being hurt by habitat loss, rapid climate change, introduced species, pesticide contamination and an amphibian disease epidemic.”

The proposal, announced Wednesday, includes designating 2 million acres of critical habitat for the amphibians.

The listings could impact some federal permits on grazing land, a situation that is frustrating members of the California Cattlemen’s Association.

“Ranchers are disappointed in this proposed action, as University of California research has shown that frogs and grazing cattle can coexist together without having negative impacts on habitat or forage,” said spokeswoman Stevie Ipsen in an email.

The proposal for listing opens a two-month public comment period. If approved the listing would be made final in 2014.

The Center first petitioned to have the yellow-legged frog listed in 2000. In response to a lawsuit the wildlife service added frogs to the candidate list in 2003.

Working with the Pacific Rivers Council, the Center petitioned to protect the frog in 2000 and it became a candidate in 2002.


Free ClassifiedsTo advertise in our classified section, please fill out the form below.

Name:

Address: City:

Phone:

Email:

Ad Copy:

o YES! I am a Madera County Farm Bureau MemberMember #:(see address label) Send ads directly to: Mid Valley Publishing, 1130 G Street, Reedley CA 93654 or fax 559-638-5021.

MCFB MEMBER RATES: Classified ads are FREE to all Madera County Farm Bureau members and must be of a NON-COMMERCIAL nature. Ads are limited to five lines per member, for a maximum of THREE MONTHS. Send ads directly to: Mid Valley Publishing, 1130 G Street, Reedley CA 93654 - Cheri Williams 559-638-2244 or fax 559-638-5021.

NON-MCFB MEMBER RATES: Classified ad rates are $25 for 20 words. Each additional word is $1. Ads must be paid in advance and sent directly to Mid-Valley Publishing, 1130 G Street, Reedley CA 93654 - Cheri Williams 559-638-2244 or fax completed form to 559-638-5021.

Madera County Farm Bureau reserves the right to reject, edit or cancel any advertisement at any time in accordance with its policy. Submission of an advertisement to a sales representative does not constitute a commitment to Agriculture Today to publish the advertisement, nor does publication of an advertisement constitute an agreement for continued publication. All ads must be checked for errors the first day of publication by the advertiser. All advertising is subject to the terms of the current rate card. Classified Ad Deadline for the June issue is Friday, May 31, 2013.

for sale for sale for saleVINeYard TO leaSe wIll provide all Equipment. Terms Negotiable. Call Kelly Duley 559-709-7540 11/12

Farm Bureau Member?Run your free classified ad on this page every month.

6572 12/12 8 FT. Pull SCraPer Good tires, $800 Call Eric Prieto at 559-458-8396 12/12PICKerS FIeld readY $75K ea. Call 559-647-7995 10/12

2002 MaSSeY FurgeSON FOr Sale! Model #MF4355-SA. 2,342 hrs, 85 HP No longer need. Asking $18,500 o.B.o Call Jim at 559-281-3880 4/137120 CIH TraCTOr MFWD, good condition, $20,000 Call 559-260-

VINeYardS FOr 2012-2013 season, Short or long-term leases, Any size is acceptable. • Excellent lease rates • Professionally farmed • Will consider lease/purchases Call: Diamond West Farming, Co., Inc. 559-970-0125 And let’s talk 10/12

wantedlOCal FarMer Seeking Raisin, Wine Vineyards or orchards to lease. Long or short term. Please call Kelly Duley 559-709-7540

wanted

Deadline nears for farmers to create their oil spill plans Ag Alert

In just one month, affected farmers face a May 10 deadline to prepare or amend and implement an oil spill prevention plan, or Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure plan, to implement in case of an accidental discharge of oil that may affect nearby water sources.

California Farm Bureau Federation Legislative Policy Analyst Andrea Fox said misinformation has circulated that farmers and ranchers are exempt from having to prepare an SPCC under both the state Aboveground Petroleum Storage Act and the federal Environmental Protection Agency SPCC rules. This is false, Fox said.

“Despite what you may have heard, there are no exemptions from preparing a SPCC plan under the federal EPA SPCC rule,” Fox said. “Also, you may have heard that Congress has passed a 180-day delay in meeting the deadline, but that is simply a stay from enforcement of the SPCC requirements; the May 10 deadline is still in effect. “

A key element of the SPCC rule requires farms and other facilities to develop, maintain and implement an oil spill prevention plan, called an SPCC plan. These plans help farms be prepared to prevent and control an oil spill, should one occur.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the SPCC program

applies to a farm that stores, transfers, uses or consumes oil or oil products; stores more than 1,320 gallons in aboveground containers or more than 42,000 gallons in completely buried containers; and could “reasonably be expected” to discharge oil to waters of the U.S. or adjoining shorelines.

A farmer whose farm has a total oil storage capacity between 1,320 and 10,000 gallons and no tank larger than 5,000 gallons in aboveground containers and has a good spill history may prepare and self-certify his or her own plans. If the farm has oil storage capacity of more than 10,000 gallons, the SPCC plan must be certified by a professional engineer.

Farms in operation on or before Aug. 16, 2002 must maintain or amend their existing plan by May 10. Any farm that started operating after Aug. 16, 2002 must prepare a plan on or before May 10.

Growers were referred to their local Certified Unified Program Agency, which represents local agencies certified by the state to consolidate six hazardous materials and hazardous waste regulatory programs to improve coordination and consistency in enforcing the regulations. A listing of local CUPA agencies is available online at http://cersapps.calepa.ca.gov/Public/UPAListing.

For more information, see the CFBF website at www.cfbf.com/issues/ index.cfm and look for Oil Storage Tank Requirements.


RAISIN PAPER ROLLSRAISIN GROWERS

GuaranteedQuality & Pricing!

Call Chad Today!Ph: 237-3819

IRRIGATING THE VALLEY SINCE1967

DESIGN THROUGH INSTALLATION559-637-4261559-674-0490

19170 HWY 99MADERA, CA 93637

Valley Feed

Tree & Vine Supplies

121 N. Gateway DriveMadera, CA 93637

Ph: (559) 674-6735 • Fax: (559) 661-7200

1300 S. Gateway DriveP.O. Box 1263Madera, CA 93639

• Fuels• Lubricants• Propane

(559) 673-3597(800) 421-3370(559) 673-6608 fax

Royal Construction“Quality that allows pride in our product”

James B. CuddLicense No. 669259

673-4804 • Cell 479-0571

royalconstructionmadera.com

METAL BUILDINGS

at your Service

YOur ad HerereaCH OVer 1,100

Madera COuNTY FarM Bureau MeMBerS FOr JuST $45 a MONTH

Call CHerI aT 638-2244TO PlaCe YOur ad

YOur ad HerereaCH OVer 1,100

Madera COuNTY FarM Bureau MeMBerS FOr JuST $45 a MONTH

Call CHerI aT 638-2244TO PlaCe YOur ad

Serving Kings & TulareCounties Since 1963

ROCHE OIL INCAgriculture • Commercial

Industrial • Bulk Pricing

, INC.

GASOLINE • DIESEL FUEL • BULK OIL LUBRICANTSFILTERS • FOOD GRADE LUBRICANTS

GREASE, SOLVENTS, KEROSENE

1120 E. Paige Ave. • PO Box 89 • Tulare, CA 93274www.rocheoil.com

We Deliver

686-5837Commercial Cardlock System

AN INDEPENDENT FRANCHISE OF

Serving San Joaquin Valley Agriculture Since 1963

Kern watershed runoff just a trickle of normalBy Lois HenryBakersfield Californian

This year is shaping up to among the driest in more than a century for the Kern River.

“Historic is the nicest way to put it,” said Tom Moore, owner of Sierra South Mountain Sports in Kernville.

The driest year on record for the Kern River was 1961 when the river flowed into Lake Isabella at 19 percent of normal.

The latest survey reported inflow as 20 percent of normal.

If the area experiences below-normal rainfall in the next few months, inflow could be the lowest in the 120 years records have been kept on the Kern.

Ag interests in the San Joaquin Valley that rely on the river are all bracing for a hard irrigation season, particularly as state allocations have dropped to 35 percent of

contracted amounts and federal allocations have dropped to 50 percent.

“We’re relying almost exclusively on groundwater wells this year,” said Richard Diamond, general manager of North Kern Water Storage District.

Last year was fairly dry, he said. But this year’s lack of moisture has created “a pretty bad situation.”

It’s the same up and down the state.Snow surveys have reported snow/water

equivalent at 19 percent of normal for the northern Sierra Nevada, 28 percent of normal for the central and just 11 percent of normal for the southern Sierra, the Kern River’s watershed.

At this point, Moore said, he is clinging to the hope that the state’s snow sensors and aerial surveys won’t prove totally accurate as the melt revs up.

“Even 1 percent more would be better than what we’re looking at,” he said.

Do you have a story to tell?Personal Memoir p Family History p Genealogy

Company History p Business Manual

Publish your own book!Linden Publishing custom publishing services will help

you publish your personal story in a beautiful, long-lasting published book.

Contact Richard Sorsky at (559) 233-6633 or [email protected]

or visit www.QuillDriverBooks.com

Since 1978


Beer will be available in lieu of wine donated by: Donaghy Sales / Stella Artois

Catering by:

Scholarship & Wine Tasting EventSUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 • 2:00PM-5:00PMAPPELLATION CALIFORNIA - 32749 AVE 7 MADERA, CA

LIVE MUSIC, LIVE AUCTION & FABULOUS HORS D’ OEUVRES

ADVANCED TICKETS $50; AT THE DOOR $60 RESERVE TICKETS WWW.MADERAFB.COM/STORE OR CALL (559) 674-8871

Benefiting Madera County Farm Bureau Scholarship Fund

Agajanian VineyardsConstellation Winery

Engelmann Cellars

Quady WinerySan Joaquin Wine Company

The Wine GroupAnd many more…

Participating Wineries

Lead SponsorCHESTER & TERRY ANDREW FAMILY LP

GEORGE AND GLADYS ANDREW LIVING TRUSTGEORGE ANDREW & SON LP

MADERA PUMPS, INC.MORDECAI RANCH

Private Reserve SponsorAGRI-VALLEY IRRIGATION, INC.

DUARTE NURSERYPRIMEX FARMS LLC

RABOBANK, N.A.WESTERN AG & TURF, INC.

Scholarship Recipients

MCFB Scholarship Fund Tax ID #20-651-6696

MADERA COUNTY FARM BUREAUFOUR YEAR SCHOLARSHIPDaphne Norman, Yosemite High School

FRANKLIN B. SECARAFOUR YEAR SCHOLARSHIP

Taylor Helton, Madera South High School

MADERA COUNTY FARM BUREAUSINGLE YEAR SCHOLARSHIP

Michael Angell, Madera High SchoolEmily Capehart, Chowchilla High School

Joshua Dowell, Minarets High SchoolOlivia Fernandez, Sierra High School

Derek Johnston, Chowchilla High SchoolTaylor Schmiederer, San Joaquin Memorial High School

MADERA COUNTY FARM BUREAU STUDENTS OF A FARM LABORER FAMILY

SINGLE YEAR SCHOLARSHIPAngel DeLeon, Madera High School

Cristina Soares, Chowchilla High SchoolSoledad Vega, Madera High School

A

NNIVERSA

RY

2003-2013

Chateau Lasgoity

madera county farm bureau - maderafb.com newspapers/may 2013/mcf… · while one-fourth of the moms...

Documents