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Report: Climate change could doom many Calif crops

Posted by: Maven on April 11, 2009 at 7:55 am

From the San Jose Mercury News:

Rising temperatures could make pears, peaches, pistachios and other crops needing a winter chill to grow unsuitable for California farms, while others would suffer lower yields, a new report says. The current issue of California Agriculture mailed to subscribers this week is devoted to peer-reviewed articles by researchers at the University of California who paint a dire picture of climate change on food production and the environment.

California temperatures are predicted to increase by 7 degrees Fahrenheit by 2095, the studies said, and as temperatures rise, winter rain in the mountains instead of snow could mean overburdened reservoirs. That, the research said, could force water managers to release runoff into rivers long before farmers need it.

Researchers studied issues ranging from the impact of cow flatulence on rising greenhouse gas levels to the ability of invasive pests to survive across a wider range.

The studies took place on California farms, mostly in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys, but can be a warning to growers everywhere. A projection covering the next 30 years—the life span of most permanent crops—shows wine grapes faring well, but table grapes, almonds, walnuts and avocados suffering declines in yields.

Read more from the San Jose Mercury News by clicking here.

April 11, 2009 · Filed Under Climate change & water supply

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