October 15, 2009

Endangering People to Protect Fish

By Janet Levy

California, the nation’s largest producer of fruits, nuts, vegetables, livestock and dairy products, ranks fifth in the world as a supplier of food and agricultural commodities. Cash receipts totaled more than $36.6 billion in 2007. By comparison, Coca Cola’s 2008 revenue was $32 billion.

The state provides more than half of the nation’s fruits, nuts and vegetables using more than 25% of California’s landmass for agricultural production. The Central Valley accounts for more than half of that area. A paragon of conservation and modern irrigation technology, California agriculture – comprised of many small and family-owned and operated farms – is almost completely dependent on irrigation for its water needs. 

Yet, this vibrant industry and major food supplier to the nation and the world faces threats from recent, accelerated  efforts by Left wing politicians, government agencies, and extremist environmental groups who seek to limit the Central Valley farmland water supply. Using claims of questionable veracity and arguing for protection of endangered species, they are, in truth, part of a carefully orchestrated attempt to control the nation’s food supply. If they succeed, our economy, civil liberties, the American way of life and national security would be dramatically weakened.

via American Thinker: Endangering People to Protect Fish.