Voters reject genetically modified food labeling initiative
With just over 35 percent of precincts reporting statewide, Proposition 37, an initiative to require labeling of genetically modified foods, appears headed for defeat.
Agriculture
Serving Justice – new food label certifies workers’ rights on U.S. farms
A Food Justice label will be hitting markets soon, catering to shoppers who are both environmentally and socially conscious. Two Pescadero farms will be the first to carry it in California—but will the label catch on?
Stanford scholars find clues for sustainable farming in ancient Hawaiian techniques
Stanford researchers are re-creating farming techniques ancient Hawaiians used in hopes of learning how the islands supported such huge populations before Europeans arrived.
More than 2 million Californians exposed to nitrates in tap water (VIDEO)
Reports show that millions of Californians have been exposed to unsafe levels of nitrates and other chemicals in their tap water. For low-income or rural communities, the remedy is often too costly.
Growing out of poverty – Food policy expert says agriculture can jump-start Africa’s economy
Dr. Ousman Badiane, an international food policy expert, told students at a Stanford symposium that African nations need to improve agricultural productivity in order to support new industrial enterprises.
128 San Mateo County landowners must farm natural land or pay higher taxes
For decades, the Williamson Act kept taxes low for property owners who protected open land from development. Now, as state faces budget crunch, some landowners must farm or see tax rates nearly double.
Santa Clara County Christmas tree growers sell only 15% of trees they sold in 1990s
Many locals don’t realize Santa Clara County is home to about two dozen Christmas tree farms. But with the growing popularity of artificial, pre-lit trees, tree farmers’ sales drastically decreased in last 20 years.