Advances in hybrid seed reproduction, varroa mite control. Revised WOTUS clarified.

2019 begins with encouraging results of two agricultural studies. UC Davis researchers have been able to clone hybrid varieties of rice, which would be a major benefit to third world country farmers who can’t afford to buy fresh seed every year. And another study shows that a major pest of the honeybee population, the varroa mite, might be controlled by extracts from commonly found mushrooms. We have the details. Sacramento Valley farmers are taking action to make sure they will have access to Sacramento River Water by heading off any possible action by the State Water Resources board to curtail availability. We clear up the water, specifically, what’s included in the revised Waters of the United States rules to make it easier for California’s farmers to do what they do best…farm. Happy New Year, from the KSTE Farm Hour!