Marathon Pundit: California Collision: Central Valley Orchards and Drought

Orchards are common sights in the northern half of California's Central Valley. Peaches, cherries, and almonds are among the many edibles plucked from trees there.

But the valley is suffering its third straight drought year. And that's not all--two years a federal judge ruled that supplies of irrigated water be drastically cut to protect a two inch minnow, the Delta Smelt.

No one is sure if the fish is doing any better, but crops and farmers are suffering. The unemployment rate in some small valley communities is approaching 40 percent.

These trees looked fine in July, but appearances can be deceptive. Trees are resilient organisms, they don't quickly whither like unwatered house plants. But they need lots of water.

California's Central Valley produces over half of the nation's fruits and vegetables are grown.

Higher food costs could be in our future, and pricier fruits and vegetables will certainly drive consumers to cheaper, but nutritionally-challenged processed foods. Which could lead to more obesity.

Next: Wind Farm

Earlier posts:

First National Bank of Oakdale Building
Strawberry Fields Forever