The Year in Preview
California farmers will be warily watching the Asian economic crisis, which could dampen the booming overseas market for fruits, vegetables and other crops. Statewide debates over water transfers will come to a head, with farmers fearing they will be asked to sacrifice too much for city folks. Food safety continues to be a concern, as beef producers ponder whether to irradiate. The U.S. Department of Agriculture vows to publish the nation’s first organic food regulations by year-end. Farmers wonder: Will El Nino be friend or foe?
