20.08.2015

Canada - Drones could rid berry fields of pesky birds

Canada - Drones could rid berry fields of pesky birdsA University of the Fraser Valley professor is working on something that could make the regular crack of a blueberry cannon a thing of the past. An associate professor of agriculture at UFV, is working on designing a drone that can be programmed to fly over a field to keep birds away. For years, farmers have been using various methods to keep birds, specifically starlings, which professor describes as a pest, away from crops. A University of the Fraser Valley professor is working on something that could make the regular crack of a blueberry cannon a thing of the past. Tom Baumann, an associate professor of agriculture at UFV, is working on designing a drone that can be programmed to fly over a field to keep birds away. For years, farmers have been using various methods to keep birds, specifically starlings, which Baumann describes as a pest, away from crops. He said unprotected fields can see up to a 90 per cent crop loss. Farmers have invested in nets, kites, lasers and cannons, he said. Some even have model airplanes or falcons. Many of these methods can get expensive, or have generated complaints from neighbouring residents. Last year, after receiving several complaints from residents, Delta took action against the misuse of cannons, approving a new noise bylaw that gives bylaw officers and police the power to fine blueberry farmers caught contravening rules on the placement of cannons and when they are fired. Baumann said nets have proved to be the most effective method, however, the birds can get caught in them. "Blueberry netting is the one thing that works 100 per cent of the time," he said. Baumann and his team are working on developing a programmable drone that, using a GPS system, will fly on its own in a pattern over a field and then return to a charging base. Baumann said the drone would scare off birds and keep them from returning to the field. "Basically anything that moves, anything that is unpredictable, works against the birds." He said that one drone could cover up to 100 acres of plants. Baumann added the technology could work with any crop that attracts birds. It is still in development and Baumann said the team hopes to have a prototype ready by fall. Source -http://www.delta-optimist.com

20.08.2015

Spain - Heat damages up to 60% of tomatoes in Águilas and Mazarrón

Spain - Heat damages up to 60% of tomatoes in Águilas and MazarrónThe Agrarian Association of Young Growers (ASAJA) in the Region of Murcia has reported the loss of 60% of the tomatoes planted in areas of Águilas and Mazarrón. ASAJA-Murcia has stated that the damage was caused by the high temperatures on Thursday, which exceeded 40 degrees Celsius, which follow up on similar levels registered in recent weeks.The Agrarian Association of Young Growers (ASAJA) in the Region of Murcia has reported the loss of 60% of the tomatoes planted in areas of Águilas and Mazarrón. ASAJA-Murcia has stated that the damage was caused by the high temperatures on Thursday, which exceeded 40 degrees Celsius, which follow up on similar levels registered in recent weeks. Alfonso Gálvez Caravaca, general secretary of ASAJA-Murcia, said that temperatures above 40 degrees can take "a very negative toll, especially in the cultivation of tomatoes, which according to our estimates could have registered losses of up to 60 percent." For his part, Jose Martínez Quiñonero, vice president of Asaja-Murcia, expects temperatures to drop and consequently for "the climate to become more benign, since these heat waves are very harmful and negative for Murcia's entire food industry." Martínez Quiñonero stressed the need for "greater flexibility in the general conditions of agricultural insurances, as producers increasingly have to pay more money themselves and receive fewer benefits. In fact, the impact of the heat on tomatoes is not covered by agricultural insurances." Source -http://www.freshplaza.com

19.08.2015

USA - Harvest of whites underway

USA - Harvest of whites underwayWhen it comes to the annual harvest of Napa Valley’s wine grapes, no generalizations apply. Vintners like Mumm and Schramsberg started bringing in grapes for sparkling wine in late July, and other growers on the valley floor are harvesting a steady stream of whites like sauvignon blanc. However, harvest still hasn’t gotten underway at some of the valley’s higher elevations. When it comes to the annual harvest of Napa Valley’s wine grapes, no generalizations apply. Vintners like Mumm and Schramsberg started bringing in grapes for sparkling wine in late July, and other growers on the valley floor are harvesting a steady stream of whites like sauvignon blanc. However, harvest still hasn’t gotten underway at some of the valley’s higher elevations. For example, Stuart Smith of Smith-Madrone Winery reports that all is quiet in the Spring Mountain District, except for some small lots coming in at Spring Mountain Winery. Low yield, high quality, and a relatively early harvest were recurring themes among this week’s reports. Here’s the first installment of the 2015 harvest report, organized by American Viticultural Areas: Calistoga – Matt Crafton, Chateau Montelena – “The hot, hazy weekend helped sell some riesling and sauvignon blanc if nothing else. While we hit the low 100s on both Saturday and Sunday, nighttime temperatures have continued to drop into the upper 40s consistently. That 50-60 degree diurnal swing has kept ripening in check for the most part. While there are a few whites still hanging, this latest heat spell and the disappearing marine layer should kick things into overdrive soon. I’d except to see the crews moving through the warmer spots in the AVA later this week as the weather returns to normal.” Howell Mountain – Pat Stotesbery, Ladera Vineyards – “The recent heat has pushed everything along. Sauvignon blanc picking will begin this week for those with SB planted, and probably be complete in the next 10 days. As for reds, other than the eastern slopes, which may be earlier, most are four weeks or more away from picking. The earliest should be malbec, and that has only now completed veraison. While things are early versus many years, they aren’t that much earlier than last year.” Chiles Valley District – Alexander Eisele, Eisele Vineyards – “Rainfall for the past season was about 23 inches in total since the end of last year’s harvest. Fortunately the spring frost was minimal and not too much water was needed. This year promises to be one of the earliest ever. The first sauvignon blanc (23.5 Brix) and semillon were harvested last week with lower than average yields though very nice quality. Several vineyards are reporting their crop to be at least two weeks earlier than normal. This week will see more sauvignon blanc and semillon being harvested. Overall yields look to be down in all varietals.” Spring Mountain District – Stuart Smith, Smith-Madrone Winery – “With 30-35 inches of rainfall, the Spring Mountain District vines are holding up very well in the heat. Bud push of chardonnay was even earlier than in 2014 due to a very warm winter and initially indicated a very early harvest. Then for six weeks our spring weather turned cold and overcast and pushed bloom back to normal timing on the red varieties, yet caused considerable shatter. Only Spring Mountain Winery is harvesting on the mountain with small lots of sauvignon blanc, semillon and pinot noir. Crop levels vary considerably from block to block, with cabernet sauvignon estimates indicating an unusually short crop.” St. Helena – Elizabeth Tangney, Winemaker, St. Helena Winery – Appellation St. Helena — “The drought makes us careful with water, but has not negatively affected the vineyard. The clusters are large with tiny berries. Some berries are maturing at different rates because of the long bloom period, but we should see inter-cluster berry variation even out. The summer temperatures are heating up; we will use our heat strategies to avoid berry damage and shrivel. Our goal is to keep the vines happy and healthy from now until harvest in order to ripen the best quality fruit. The berries are ripening quickly; intense wine flavors are beginning to come out. Harvest will be two weeks early, about mid-September. Rutherford – Kristin Belair, Honig Vineyard & Winery – “Here at Honig, we received our first sauvignon blanc of the 2015 season earlier than ever before, on Aug. 4. After a week break, a warming trend got harvest going in earnest and we have had fruit delivered to the winery every day since Aug. 12. It is setting up to be a busy, but not frantic week ahead, with a steady stream of sauvignon blanc arriving at the winery. The relatively mild growing season is providing us beautiful quality, although quantities are down. In other news, Elizabeth Vianna, winemaker at Chimney Rock Winery, says that they will be starting their harvest on Monday night (Aug. 17) with sauvignon gris from their vineyard in Rutherford. Her comment about the upcoming season: ‘Lower yields, but high quality looks like the name of the game this year!’ Happy Harvest, everyone! Monday update: “Yesterday’s unanticipated record high temperatures have kicked sauvignon blanc harvest into high gear. It is going to be a busy week! With a forecasted warm week ahead, it is quite possible that we will be wrapping up bringing in white grapes by the middle of next week!?” Oakville — Molly Hodgins, Flora Springs Winery — “Our Oakville harvest begins this week with sauvignon blanc, which is always the first grape to be picked for still wine. With most blocks and varieties we are slightly ahead of last year, another early year, in some we are way ahead, and in others we are slightly behind. Overall, this harvest is two to four weeks ahead of average. For example on Aug. 18 we picked a block of sauvignon blanc that we picked last year on Aug. 28. In an ‘average’ harvest’ we pick the same block on Sept. 8. Yields are light, which is speeding up ripening. Other varieties are starting to sweeten up as well!” Yountville – Anthony Bell, Bell Wine Cellars – “Most Yountville vineyards have completed harvest of sparkling wine grapes; growers are now patiently waiting for the still wine grapes to mature under presently ideal conditions. Sauvignon blanc is around 23 Brix and chardonnay around 20 Brix. Some shot berries in chardonnay due to the cool flowering conditions. Reds are through veraison and ripening nicely. Merlot is around 18 Brix and the final green drop pass has been completed. Some hillside cabernet sauvignon is already at 20 Brix, with developing flavors. Some growers have installed bird netting to protect against crop loss and potential botrytis due to wildlife feeding damage. Very positive harvest outlook at this time.” Atlas Peak – Jan Krupp, Stagecoach Vineyards – “Atlas Peak is preparing for an early harvest. Bloom began in mid-February with chardonnay. Periods of cool weather have slowed expected harvest from the earliest harvest on record to one that will be early but not extremely early. Bloom was kind to the early blooming varietals and appellations, but cabernet sauvignon on Atlas Peak suffered through almost four weeks of cool, cloudy weather during bloom. Consequently, many cabernet vineyards had a mediocre set at best. Cabernet sauvignon yields will be quite low in our area. However, we can hope for an intense, age-worthy vintage like 2008, which also endured very tough bloom conditions. Early varietals like chardonnay, merlot and malbec look like they will produce great and plentiful wine. This past weekend has been hot and smoky for all of Napa including Atlas Peak.” Stags Leap District – Elizabeth Vianna, Chimney Rock Winery – “In Stags Leap District last year we were surprised by how early everything was. I checked in with Michael Beaulac, winemaker at Pine Ridge, and he reports that their Stags Leap District chardonnay is in – and it was their earliest pick ever. The crop is small, with very intense flavor, and he expects great things. He predicts he might have cabernet from the hillside in by the end of the week. Marcus Notaro, winemaker at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, is busy harvesting Rutherford sauvignon blanc; no Stags Leap District red fruit is close yet. Marcus reports that they are doing one final pass to ‘groom out any remaining green berries at the Estate.’ At Chimney Rock, we are still preparing for SLD reds and we will start this evening with our Rutherford whites. The consensus seems to be that a smaller crop of very high quality is written in our stars.” Mount Veeder – Jim Caudill, Hess Collection – “Things are progressing well here on Mount Veeder. We’re wrapping up removing clusters tracking behind in our cabernet this week. Overall pleased with how quickly veraison occurred across all varieties we grow up here. Lots of discussion about the smoke the last few days but I’m optimistic that we will not see any issues with smoke taint based on the timing, but fingers crossed. Hot temps over this last weekend will move things along. Chardonnay is probably three weeks away from picking but forecast calls for mid-90s for the next week, so that one may sneak up on us. Excited to get started here on Veeder!” Oak Knoll District – John Ruel, Trefethen Vineyards & Winery – “Harvest is speeding along in the Oak Knoll District. Picking for sparkling wines started in late July and moved quickly. We are already into the first picks for still wines including chardonnay, pinot noir and some sauvignon blanc. Here at Trefethen, we picked our first chardonnay on Aug. 14, more than two weeks earlier than average but consistent with our expectations for this season, which got off to a warm and early start. Overall, yields seem a little light but flavors have been developing quite nicely.” Carneros – Lee Hudson, Hudson Vineyards – “Carneros is off and running. Harvest is early and light. It’s early due to an early bud break and a small crop. It’s light due to the three previous harvests being quite fruitful and very healthy vines. Sparkling wine harvest is more than half done with yields running 20 percent below average. Quality is fantastic. The still wine harvest will start in earnest next week. What a wonderful time of year! Onward.” Wild Horse Valley – John Newmeyer, Heron Lake Vineyard – “Our upland valley (1,100-1,400’ elevation) typically has a cooler growing season than the Napa Valley floor, and that has been the case for the 2015 vintage. Persistent mild weather stretched out the time of flowering and ‘set,’ which will reduce crop size. Veraison is just concluding.” Source -http://napavalleyregister.com

19.08.2015

USA - Drought Causing $2.7 Billion Economic Hit In California

USA - Drought Causing $2.7 Billion Economic Hit In CaliforniaThe drought this year will cost California’s economy more than $2.7 billion and could result in nearly 21,000 job losses, according to a UC Davis study. The study released today shows farmers will idle more than 540,000 acres in 2015, about 114,000 more than in 2014. Almost 99 percent of the idled land is in the Central Valley. Direct agricultural costs of the drought will be about $1.8 billion and result in 10,100 seasonal job losses.The drought this year will cost California’s economy more than $2.7 billion and could result in nearly 21,000 job losses, according to a UC Davis study. The study released today shows farmers will idle more than 540,000 acres in 2015, about 114,000 more than in 2014. Almost 99 percent of the idled land is in the Central Valley. Direct agricultural costs of the drought will be about $1.8 billion and result in 10,100 seasonal job losses. But the report finds agriculture is still fairly robust. "It surprised me a little bit how slowly the deterioration of agriculture is progressing," says report co-author Jay Lund with the UC Davis Center for Watershed Sciences. He says a lot of that has to do with the use of groundwater to offset the shortage in surface water, and the increase in high-value crops. "The very good global prices for agricultural commodities from California is really helping us a lot, but I think to prepare us for future droughts, we really need to pay attention to groundwater." The study says if California’s drought continues into 2017, the effect on the economy is likely to be about six percent worse than this year. Crop revenue losses are expected to reach $902 million this year. But some regions of the state will experience a harder economic hit, particularly in areas with limited groundwater supplies. The Tulare basin has the most idled land due to its lack of groundwater. In 2014, Tulare County’s crop value reached $8 billion and is still the nation’s number one agricultural county. But the UC Davis study says it’s also likely to see its crop value decrease by about $604 million this year, the steepest decline in the state. The Sacramento region’s estimated crop revenue is expected to decrease by $289 million. Source -http://www.capradio.org

19.08.2015

Germany - German farmers hit by drought

Germany - German farmers hit by droughtGrain, fruit and vegetable harvests in Germany have been reduced by droughts in key areas this year, latest figures show. Farmers' woes have been further aggravated by falling prices and Russia's food ban. Germany's farmers' association, the DBV, released new figures on the harvesting season on Tuesday, showing that a long spell of unusually hot weather in the first half of this year severely affected crop output.Grain, fruit and vegetable harvests in Germany have been reduced by droughts in key areas this year, latest figures show. Farmers' woes have been further aggravated by falling prices and Russia's food ban. Germany's farmers' association, the DBV, released new figures on the harvesting season on Tuesday, showing that a long spell of unusually hot weather in the first half of this year severely affected crop output. "The severe drought seen in large parts of Germany since May has left its mark on the grain harvest," DBV said in its report, which showed that only 46.5 million tons of the crop staple were harvested so far this year - a shortfall of 11 percent from last year's record 52 million tons. The heatwaves also battered other crops, such as rapeseed and vegetables, the DBV said, while apple growers were expecting a harvest of not more than 885,000 tons, down 21 percent from last year. The asparagus harvest was also reduced by the dry spell, coming in 5 percent lower, DBV added. DBV President Joachim Rukewied told journalists in Berlin that regions in central Germany were hit hardest, suffering crop slumps of between 40 and 50 percent. Crop-growing regions in the North and the South suffered less due to more rainfall there. Rukewied also said that farmers expected crops to be harvested later in the year to be negatively impacted, too, as the unusual summer heat had continued this month. "The ongoing drought in August is also harming crops that are still growing such as corn and sugar beets, grazing land and forage crops. Here, irreparable damage has already been done," he said. Source -http://www.dw.com/

19.08.2015

EU - Poland and Czech Republic heavily hit by drought

EU - Poland and Czech Republic heavily hit by droughtDrought and hot temperatures are not only heavily affecting the Czech Republic, but also its neighbouring countries. In Poland, the situation has caused electricity shortages and billions of dollars of damage, not only to businesses, but also to agricultural producers. Rivers and lakes are at record low levels. Polish growers who already expect poor harvests are seeking compensation. To this end, the Ministry of Agriculture is already collecting data from across the country.Drought and hot temperatures are not only heavily affecting the Czech Republic, but also its neighbouring countries. In Poland, the situation has caused electricity shortages and billions of dollars of damage, not only to businesses, but also to agricultural producers. Rivers and lakes are at record low levels. Polish growers who already expect poor harvests are seeking compensation. To this end, the Ministry of Agriculture is already collecting data from across the country. Only in Mazoveckém Province, close to Warsaw, the authorities have estimated damage at tens of millions of zlotys. Poor harvests are already reflected in the prices of food. So far, this is mainly the case when it comes to vegetables and fruits. For example, raspberries, cherries, carrots, potatoes and cabbage have already become more expensive. For consumers, however, these higher prices will be compensated by the lower costs of meat and milk. Even this, however, may change depending on how long the drought lasts. Source -http://www.freshplaza.com/

19.08.2015

Spaine - 30% of Murcia's fruit and veg producers threatened by drought

Spaine - 30% of Murcia's fruit and veg producers threatened by droughtASAJA-Murcia has warned that the severe drought that Murcia is currently suffering will affect over 50 percent of the growers in the region. The entity said that if water does not reach the Murcian agricultural sector, more than 30 percent of Murcia's fruit and vegetable producers may have to give up. As explained by the general secretary of ASAJA-Murcia, "the technical services of the organization have estimated that if water does not reach Murcia, more than 50 percent of producers could be severely affected and they may thus abandon their crops."ASAJA-Murcia has warned that the severe drought that Murcia is currently suffering will affect over 50 percent of the growers in the region. The entity said that if water does not reach the Murcian agricultural sector, more than 30 percent of Murcia's fruit and vegetable producers may have to give up. As explained by the general secretary of ASAJA-Murcia, Alfonso Gálvez Caravaca, "the technical services of the organization have estimated that if water does not reach Murcia, more than 50 percent of producers could be severely affected and they may thus abandon their crops." He has also underlined the need to "receive the necessary water resources to ensure an optimal fruit and vegetable harvest this autumn, to which end the Tajo-Segura transfer is essential; basic for the social and economic development of the Region as a whole." In the same context, the spokesperson of Asaja-Murcia also pointed out: "We continue to strongly believe that the undertaking of the National Hydrological Plan is a priority, as it is the only way to correct the structural water shortage of the Segura basin and put an end to the drought that is affecting our fields." Source -http://www.freshplaza.com

19.08.2015

USA - Drones tested in cherry harvest

USA - Drones tested in cherry harvestWashington State University researchers are now experimenting with how to use unmanned helicopters in agriculture — namely in blow drying rain-soaked cherry trees.Each year, cherry growers in Central Washington spend at least a few days scrambling to protect their ripening cherries from the rain, which can damage the skin of the fruit and leave it unmarketable. Orchardists use empty sprayers and wind machines, but sometimes they hire helicopter pilots to hover low over their trees to let the downdraft do the work.Washington State University researchers are now experimenting with how to use unmanned helicopters in agriculture — namely in blow drying rain-soaked cherry trees.Each year, cherry growers in Central Washington spend at least a few days scrambling to protect their ripening cherries from the rain, which can damage the skin of the fruit and leave it unmarketable. Orchardists use empty sprayers and wind machines, but sometimes they hire helicopter pilots to hover low over their trees to let the downdraft do the work. In the past four years, Central Washington’s cherry orchards have seen four helicopter crashes, three of them fatal, according to the Capital Press. WSU demonstrated the experimental chopper, a Yamaha RMAX about the size of a go-kart, to 15 fruit growers at the university Irrigated Agricultural Research and Extension Center last month in Prosser. Source -http://www.freshplaza.com

18.08.2015

Philippines - Armyworms attack rice fields in Bohol

Philippines - Armyworms attack rice fields in BoholArmyworms have raided rice fields in four towns in Bohol province, the rice bowl of Central Visayas, and authorities have directed farmers to immediately notify them of the insects’ presence to reduce crop losses. Acting head of the Provincial Agriculturist Office (PAO), said damage to crops on Carlos P. Garcia Island (CPG) and in Mabini, Loon and Batuan was still being assessed, but added that the situation was manageable. Similar infestation was reported in rice farms in several towns in Pangasinan province last week.Armyworms have raided rice fields in four towns in Bohol province, the rice bowl of Central Visayas, and authorities have directed farmers to immediately notify them of the insects’ presence to reduce crop losses. Larry Pamugas, acting head of the Provincial Agriculturist Office (PAO), said damage to crops on Carlos P. Garcia Island (CPG) and in Mabini, Loon and Batuan was still being assessed, but added that the situation was manageable. Similar infestation was reported in rice farms in several towns in Pangasinan province last week. Armyworms (Mythimna separata) or cutworms, which are actually caterpillar larvae of northern or oriental armyworm moths of the Noctuidae family, travel in multitudes, destroying any kind of vegetation, including grasses and grains, on their path. Once the food supply is exhausted, the entire “army” moves to the next available food source. They feed on rice by cutting off leaves and young seedlings at the plant’s base, according to a fact sheet provided by the PAO. They attack at night and hide during the day. Pamugas could not explain why the armyworm outbreak occurred at this time of the year, saying the insects usually appear after a dry spell. The pests were also found in rain-fed areas. Their presence was first observed a month ago in CPG and Mabini and they spread to other areas, Pamugas said. In Batuan, the armyworms have swept farms in Barangays Poblacion Sur, Cantigdas and Santa Cruz. Eusebio Tinay, 65, a farm worker of Cantigdas for over two decades, said he would use insecticide supplied by his landlord to control the infestation. Tinay said he would harvest 60 sacks of palay from his 1-hectare farm, but after the armyworm attack, he was expecting only 20 sacks. “It will be a large financial loss,” he said. For Romnick Dabas, 20, a farmer in Poblacion Sur who cannot afford to buy insecticide, said he picks out the inch-long worms by hand from his half-hectare field. “The rice crop is severely damaged, that’s why I don’t hope for a better harvest,” he said. Dabas seemed resigned to what happened to his farm. No matter how good you handle the preparation, pests and diseases are inevitable, he said, pointing out that he also contended with other predators, such as the “pingajaw” or “pyangaw” (rice black bug), “ilaga” (rat), “maya” (bird), “kuhol” (golden snail) and “suhong” (mole cricket). Julito Gumapac, Batuan municipal agriculturist, said in a letter to Mayor Francisco Pepito on Tuesday that he had already asked for chemicals from the Department of Agriculture, but his office could not serve all areas affected due to limited supply. “This worm infestation, if not stopped, would likely spread, causing a major pest outbreak in areas planted with rice and other crops,” Gumapac said, as he asked the mayor to use the municipality’s general funds to purchase pesticides and sprayers. Bohol produces 66 percent of the total rice output in Central Visayas. Of the total area of rice farms placed at 47,375 hectares, 23,041 ha are irrigated and 24,336 ha are rain-fed. The nonprofit Sibol ng Agham at Teknolohiya, in its climate change and rice reports in 2011, said an armyworm outbreak damaged almost all of the rice areas of Ubay town in 1985. Another attack was recorded in 1999, destroying 40 percent of new rice farms, it said. The provincial government has sent farm technicians to the affected towns to help farmers contain the infestation through the Assistance for Barangay Agricultural Growth, a collaborative project of the provincial agriculturist’s office and a partner organization. Source -http://newsinfo.inquirer.net

18.08.2015

USA - Hot, dry conditions continue colorado

USA - Hot, dry conditions continue coloradoHot, dry conditions continued during the week with several areas impacted by locally heavy precipitation for the week ending Aug. 16, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Colorado Field Office, Aug. 17. Field accessibility was generally ideal, allowing producers to maintain a moderate pace in the harvest of mature crops. Heat units have accelerated crop maturity rapidly, although dry pockets continue to emerge as a result of recent high temperatures.Hot, dry conditions continued during the week with several areas impacted by locally heavy precipitation for the week ending Aug. 16, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Colorado Field Office, Aug. 17. Field accessibility was generally ideal, allowing producers to maintain a moderate pace in the harvest of mature crops. Heat units have accelerated crop maturity rapidly, although dry pockets continue to emerge as a result of recent high temperatures. Crop conditions either held steady or showed slight declines. Stored feed supplies were rated 1 percent very short, 2 percent short, 81 percent adequate, and 16 percent surplus. Sheep death loss was rated 63 percent average and 37 percent light. Cattle death loss was rated 1 percent heavy, 71 percent average, and 28 percent light. Source -http://www.hpj.com/

18.08.2015

USA - Crop-insurance claims jump after weather curbs planting

USA - Crop-insurance claims jump after weather curbs plantingInsurance claims filed by U.S. farmers for crops they couldn't plant have jumped 48 percent this year, government data show, the latest indication of how adverse weather is curbing production of corn and other crops. Total claims so far in 2015 related to 6.45 million acres, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency said Monday in a report. Corn farmers filed claims on 2.301 million acres, compared with 1.608 million acres a year earlier. Insurance claims filed by U.S. farmers for crops they couldn't plant have jumped 48 percent this year, government data show, the latest indication of how adverse weather is curbing production of corn and other crops. Total claims so far in 2015 related to 6.45 million acres, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency said Monday in a report. Corn farmers filed claims on 2.301 million acres, compared with 1.608 million acres a year earlier. Soybean-farming claims more than doubled to 2.17 million acres. Corn and soybean futures prices rose in early Chicago trading. "This reduction in acres takes production down," Michael McDougall, senior vice president at Societe Generale in New York, said in an email. "This caused the early morning firming in prices." Harvests in the United States, the world's largest grower and exporter, are heading for a decline after two successive record years. The growing season began with higher-than-normal moisture in parts of the Midwest, followed by unusually dry weather in other areas. While there's agreement that output will be lower in 2015, estimates differ over the extent of the decline. Last week the USDA unexpectedly raised its corn and soybean output estimates from a month earlier, citing higher yields than those seen previously. Corn for December delivery was 0.1 percent lower at $3.75 a bushel at 9:18 a.m. on the Chicago Board of Trade after earlier rising as much as 1.1 percent. Soybeans for November delivery rose 0.3 percent to $9.19 1/4 a bushel at 9:17 a.m. in Chicago, erasing earlier losses. The record payout to farmers who didn't sow crops took place 2012, according to USDA data. Growers are required to file a report on all cropland eligible for benefits. Source -http://www.stltoday.com/

18.08.2015

EU - Unprecedented drought worsens situation for veg

EU - Unprecedented drought worsens situation for vegEuropean vegetable canners and freezers are warning that the situation is critical for this year’s spring-sown, summer-harvested crops. The warning comes one month after announcing concerns over drought related crop shortages, and concludes that the situation for this year has worsened significantly. The intensity of the drought increased in July, with some regions only experiencing 5% of their average rainfall for the first two weeks of the month. European vegetable canners and freezers are warning that the situation is critical for this year’s spring-sown, summer-harvested crops. The warning comes one month after announcing concerns over drought related crop shortages, and concludes that the situation for this year has worsened significantly. The intensity of the drought increased in July, with some regions only experiencing 5% of their average rainfall for the first two weeks of the month. A deficit of around 60% of early summer rainfall has been recorded in a number of the sector’s main vegetable production areas, whilst temperatures have remained higher than normal. Light spring rains in April and May, followed by the prolonged dry period in June and July, have caused irreversible damage to the majority of spring planted crops. Problems have been exacerbated by high temperatures and strong winds, which combined to increase evaporation rates, leading to reduced yields and crop shortages in the North, West and since the end of July also in the East of Europe, for virtually all vegetable crops grown for processing. Concerns voiced in early July over potential shortages of up to 20% for a number of crops, have now become a reality. Major problems are reported for peas and broad beans, for which this year’s harvest is virtually finished, and green beans/flageolets, for which the harvest is already at its halfway point in Eastern Europe, where there is a shortfall of between 40 and 50%. Baby carrot yields are also well down, and even if rain falls in the second half of August, the later harvested crops such as cauliflower, broccoli and sweetcorn, will not recover from the damage already caused. Source -http://www.freshplaza.com

18.08.2015

India - Rains ruin tomato crops, prices likely to soar

India - Rains ruin tomato crops, prices likely to soarThe continuous rains have hit the tomato crop in Uttarakhand with cultivators finding it difficult to even meet the costs of seeds, manure and pesticides. The farmers in Rawain valley and Henvel valley are afraid that if the rains continued in this manner, the other vegetables like cabbage could be affected as well. According to farmers, more than half of their crop had been affected. This was also likely to hit the tomato supply next season, resulting in price hike.The continuous rains have hit the tomato crop in Uttarakhand with cultivators finding it difficult to even meet the costs of seeds, manure and pesticides. The farmers in Rawain valley and Henvel valley are afraid that if the rains continued in this manner, the other vegetables like cabbage could be affected as well. According to farmers, more than half of their crop had been affected. This was also likely to hit the tomato supply next season, resulting in price hike. The rains in the last few days in Henval valley has caused patches and rot in tomato being cultivated on large scale in villages of Nangani, Jaddhar, Khadi, Palas, Bhatusen, Bhandar. The farmers used to get a good price for their produce of over 800 metric tonne tomato in the area. According to farmers in Henvel, they were hoping for a bumper crop this year but the rains have ruined around half of their crop. Similar is the case with tomato growers in Rawain valley. Due to continuous heavy rains, tomato crop worth hundreds of thousands had become rotten in dozens of villages including Puraula, Chandeli, Arakot, Kuphara, Pujeri, Khaladi, Netri, Chhibala and Naugaons Banal Patti and Mori.The fruits on their plants show pale, small tomatoes marred with black patches. Environmentalist Vijay Jadhdhari has expressed concern over the loss and blamed the climate change for the problem. There was a spell of intense sun, then suddenly there are heavy rains for a long spell, causing a rot in the plants. Many plants have shriveled because of this, he said. Mr Jadhdhari also stressed that farmers must be trained in making the best of scientific as well as traditional farming to meet the challenge of changing weather. Source -http://www.freshplaza.com

18.08.2015

Egypt - 50,000 acres of fruit hit by water shortage

Egypt - 50,000 acres of fruit hit by water shortageIn an area 25 kilometres from the Suez Governorate, located in Eyes of Moses, a major crisis is underway due to water cut offs, which have caused the destruction of some 50 thousand acres of fruit crops. The area contains more than 5 thousand farms devoted to the cultivation of different types of fruits and vegetables, such as pomegranates, lemons, mandarins, oranges, grapes, mangoes and others.In an area 25 kilometres from the Suez Governorate, located in Eyes of Moses, a major crisis is underway due to water cut offs, which have caused the destruction of some 50 thousand acres of fruit crops. The area contains more than 5 thousand farms devoted to the cultivation of different types of fruits and vegetables, such as pomegranates, lemons, mandarins, oranges, grapes, mangoes and others. Abdul Rahman Ahmad, a grower from the area, said that there is a real disaster because of the lack of water, which has resulted in the loss of all fruit that was yet to be harvested. Awad Fathi, another producer, pointed out that the reason for the disaster is that the Sheikh Zayed canal line, which was supplying the area with water for agriculture, has been broken during excavation works, so water has been cut off from the region for more than 45 days. The problem is that the water present in the region is unsuitable for agriculture because of its high degree of salinity. Source -http://www.freshplaza.com

17.08.2015

India - Has crop insurance scheme failed farmers?

India - Has crop insurance scheme failed farmers?As many as 10,676 growers paid the premium to avail themselves of the benefits of the insurance scheme. As per the data obtained from Joint Director of Agriculture Department, the total premium paid by farmers in 2014 was Rs. 35.1 million. An equal amount was contributed by the government as subsidy. Altogether, Rs. 70 million ($1 million USD) was paid as premium to cover 8,228.4 ha of land to the Agriculture Insurance Company of India. The insured amount was Rs.As many as 10,676 growers paid the premium to avail themselves of the benefits of the insurance scheme. As per the data obtained from T. Ramachandraiah, Joint Director of Agriculture Department, the total premium paid by farmers in 2014 was Rs. 35.1 million. An equal amount was contributed by the government as subsidy. Altogether, Rs. 70 million ($1 million USD) was paid as premium to cover 8,228.4 ha of land to the Agriculture Insurance Company of India. The insured amount was Rs. 58.06 crore. As many as 10,698 farmers, in return, got Rs. 16.7 million ($256,000 USD) in the form of claims. On an average, each farmer got around Rs. 1,500. Source -http://www.freshplaza.com

17.08.2015

USA - Cold snap shrivels Colorado apple crop

USA - Cold snap shrivels Colorado apple cropColorado’s apple orchards are bearing less fruit. Growers are projecting an 80 percent drop in apple production for 2015. The state’s peach producers are facing an average year. Being a fruit grower on the state’s Western Slope can be precarious. You’re one late season frost away from major crop damage -- which is exactly what happened to apple growers. A warm spell in the North Fork Valley, where a big portion of the state’s fruit is grown, caused apple, peach, apricot and pear trees to bloom early.Colorado’s apple orchards are bearing less fruit. Growers are projecting an 80 percent drop in apple production for 2015. The state’s peach producers are facing an average year. Being a fruit grower on the state’s Western Slope can be precarious. You’re one late season frost away from major crop damage -- which is exactly what happened to apple growers. Think back to March 2015. A warm spell in the North Fork Valley, where a big portion of the state’s fruit is grown, caused apple, peach, apricot and pear trees to bloom early. A poorly-timed cold snap in April froze the tiny apple blossoms, leaving them stunted the rest of the season. Fast forward and apple orchards are more bare than they should be. The state’s apple crop is projected to be 1.8 million pounds. In 2014, growers picked 8.9 million pounds. Peach blossoms in the nearby Grand Valley weathered the late season cold snap, says Greg Litus, a researcher at Colorado State University's Western Colorado Research Center in Orchard Mesa. Production figures for those fruit crops are fairly average. Palisade peach stands have started popping up along the Front Range, selling early season clingstone varieties. Even though peach growers in and around Grand Junction were able to withstand the temperatures swings the state’s peach production overall is forecasted to be slightly down. For 2015, it’s projected at 13,000 tons, down 2 percent from 2014. Source -http://www.freshplaza.com