November 2015

In response to Sonoma County Winegrape Assoc. attack on concerned citizens

A grape-growing, winery-working friend of mine has responded to the Winegrape Commission President as follows. Feel free to use these ideas in letters and in other ways. You can quote her, but the writer must remain anonymous, since if it is from an authentic small family farmer. Shepherd “Clearly, some rural residents are frustrated with …

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Sonoma Valley perspective, it’s the CUMULATIVE IMPACTS!

Tennis Wick, PRMD Staff, and the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors: I am writing to point out that we are at a tipping point. Despite studies, suggested event coordination, and added regulation, we continue to see the race to acquire and expand winery production and wineries as large event centers. The County General Plan projected …

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“Why Be A Food Farmer” by Shepherd Bliss

Got food security? Sonoma County brings in 96{5fc40a96f14c4a6aa4c2a32569b0a57dcc67c0b31eb04c341474283f11b6cdd2} of all food products in this agriculturally rich county. According to the Sonoma County 2014 Crop Report, published by our Agricultural Commissioner, Tony Linegar, we had a mere 539 acres in vegetables which produced an amazing $12,927,100 of income. That averages out to $23,983.48 per acre! At …

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