This Month in The Vegetable Growers News

December 2003

Solar panels collect the sun’s energy to power the irrigation system in a San Joaquin Valley farm. (Photo courtesy WorldWater)
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Sunlight Powers Efficient Irrigation
Air quality concerns and soaring utility rates plague California’s agriculturally-rich San Joaquin Valley. Coupled with the 2001s Golden State power shortages and outages, the concept of generating one’s own electricity using photovoltaic or solar cell technology has caught on. Demand for this environmentally friendly and energy-efficient technology is skyrocketing. What’s more, photovoltaic technologies aren’t limited to residential, industrial and commercial applications. Enter the solar-powered irrigation pumping system.

Farm Market Teaches Young Grower About Tourism
Cindy Lulich’s agricultural experience has taught her about growing crops, marketing, merchandising and tourism. The 19-year-old Ashland FFA member, who operates a fall farm market near Wisconsin’s northern tip, was one of four finalists for the National FFA Proficiency Award in Vegetable Production this fall.

Universities, Industry Groups Hash Out Licensing
At universities across the country, breeders are working to develop new varieties that not only improve a grower’s productivity but also help ensure the continuation of the breeding program. These programs are sponsored through university funding as well as by some commodity groups. But what happens when the variety performs well and is sold to an outside company?

Marketplace of Ideas

Activist Group Misuses Facts to Mislead Public