California drought: Why farmers are 'exporting water' to China:
While historic winter storms have battered much of the US, California is suffering its worst drought on record. So why is America's most valuable farming state using billions of gallons of water to grow hay - specifically alfalfa - which is then shipped to China? Ref. Source 2
California slashes water use for upstate farmers
State officials announced major water cutbacks for Northern California farmers Friday afternoon, a historic step that could challenge claims the agriculture industry is getting a free pass during the state's epic drought. Ref. USAToday
Projects stall after feds allow fish farming
Offshore aquaculture has been struggling despite efforts to expand fish and shellfish farms. Pioneers say they have stalled or abandoned their plans because the federal permitting process is too long and expensive. About 90 percent of seafood consumed by Americans is imported. Ref. Source 2n
Almonds dropping in price
Almonds, a crop partially blamed for the state's water crisis, now is seeing the price of the crop drop significantly. A farmer who could sell a pound of almonds for nearly $5 last summer is now getting as little as $3.10. Farmers say a downturn was inevitable. Ref. Source 7z.
Drought costs California farmers $600M
A UC Davis study estimates California’s drought is costing farmers an estimated $603 million this year, although the impact is far less than the previous two years. Water shortages prompted farmers to fallow 78,780 acres this year. Ref. Source 3y.
Widow wins fights to save her beloved pepper tree
An Allied Gardens resident who fought to save her beloved Brazilian pepper tree from being uprooted won her fight with City Hall in a David and Goliath battle. It was a case in which a 91-year-old widow came out on top. Ref. Source 5k.