President's Message
President’s Message - September 2009
If you’ve found the time to read this message, it is most likely you’re on a short break from the busiest time of the year. Harvest is nearly in full swing and we are seeing signs of the drought situation in many areas of the county. Some almond growers are noticing lower numbers in tonnage or smaller nuts due to lack of water. Almond growers will see another change in the market this year due to our relationship with the dairy industry. As you know, dairy prices are down, and that affects our returns on sales of hulls and shells for dairy cow feed. I guess that’s just part of being in the farming business: we gamble from year to year.
"I guess that’s just part of being in the farming business: we gamble from year to year."
Please be alert out on your ranches and even on main roads. Recently, one of our own Ag Crime Detectives took fire from an unknown vehicle without provocation. He was followed by two vehicles and when pulled over, shots were fired from a shotgun. The important thing to know in this instance was that the sheriff was in an unmarked pickup and was not wearing a uniform – he looked like a farmer. After shots ceased, the sheriff (unharmed) chased the individual until the shooter crashed into a vineyard. As it turns out, the shooter was a known gang member.
Communities in Fresno County have been applying a considerable level of pressure on gangs within the city limits, and unfortunately, it is pushing gang presence out to the outlying and nearby county spheres. Calling 911 is not as effective, for reporting problems on your farm properties, as it will send you to the California Highway Patrol. Instead, call the Sheriff’s Department at 675-7770 if you see any suspicious behavior on your Farm or Ranch as it takes you directly to dispatch.
Lastly, the Madera Arts Council will host the Annual Ag in the Arts Event on Thursday, September 17, 2009 from 5:30pm - 7:30pm. As we have done in past years, Madera County Farm Bureau will Sponsor an award for a deserving artist.
Best wishes for a productive and profitable harvest!