The high cost of livestock feed and fuel is making it difficult for some agricultural universities to keep animals.
Some schools are getting rid of their dairy herds even though they are seeing an increase in enrollment in agriculture programs.
The herds are mainly used for faculty research.
The University of Vermont, is selling 255 Holsteins.
It plans to have faculty do research on private farms, a change that the school thinks will provide access to more cows, and reap more research.
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Rural crime detectives report theft of metal and copper wire is on the rise again.
The California Farm Bureau reports there was a brief decline in metal theft following passage of a state law to stop it.
Recyclers must observe a three-day waiting period before paying for scrap metal. Take a picture of the material being recycled, and get an ID and a thumbprint from sellers.
Sellers must also declare where they got the scrap metal.
But law enforcement agencies say some scrap yards are not enforcing the law and its encouraging thieves.
Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to periodically check equipment and lock up property.
Farmers should also make a note of suspicious vehicles or people and send the information to the local sheriff's office.
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Do you know a farmer or ag professional who is a symbol of the central valley's agricultural industry?
The Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce is taking nominations for this year's agriculturist of the year.
Nominations are also being accepted for the annual BP&F Ag Business Award.
For more information, or to apply, contact the Fresno County Farm Bureau at 559-237-0263.
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Each year dozens of people show they give a fig about a valley treasure.
The annual fig fest is August 7 at the Ag East Lawn at Fresno State.
Enjoy the food samplings by area restaurants and learn why so many people are crazy about figs.
Tickets are $6 in advance and $8 at the gate.
Buy yours now by calling the fig advisory board at 559-243-8600.
Proceeds will benefit the Fresno State Ag One Foundation, Slow Foods Madera and the Bulldog Pantry.
