From the Fields makes debut

From the Fields, a firsthand report by California farmers and ranchers, makes its debut on Page 4 of this issue of Ag Alert®.

This new column, which will run twice a month, features brief reports by farmers and ranchers from throughout the state who will provide information on a variety of subjects relating to their operations, as well as marketing and price outlook.

In this week's issue, farmers report on almonds, avocados, citrus, grapes, rice and walnuts. In addition, a dairyman, a beef cattle producer and a beekeeper are featured.

Crop reports cover crop condition; cultural practices such as planting, cultivating, fertilizing, applying farm chemicals, irrigating and harvesting; disease and/or pest problems; the weather; and yields. Livestock reports include information about the growth stage of animals; feeding schedule; veterinary services; disease and/or pest problems; and the weather.

Any other observations will be provided by the participating producers, each of whom will provide reports on a rotating basis. Over the coming months, it is our objective to represent the full range of agricultural commodities produced in California.

Farmers and ranchers are being sought to participate in From the Fields. For more information, contact Managing Editor Robyn Rominger at (916) 561-5580 or rrominger@cfbf.com.