For Immediate Release
Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2004

Media Contact :
Jeannette E. Warnert
Sr. Public Information Representative
UC Ag and Natural Resources
(559) 241-7514
(559) 240-9850 cell
jwarnert@uckac.edu

Media Advisory
 
Shredding equipment demonstration for ag burning alternative in Madera Nov. 10
 
With dates set for implementation of bans on agricultural burning, growers are showing great interest in equipment that can be used to dispose of excess organic matter on the farm.  To meet this need, University of California is hosting a field day in Madera County from 9 a.m. to 12 noon Wednesday, Nov. 10, where five types of shredding and chipping machines will be demonstrated.
 
Next year, the law suspends burning of leftover materials from apples, apricots, cherries, nursery operations, olives, peaches, pears and many other crops.  Although almond growers won't be subject to the first ag burn ban, the nut farmers unique harvesting system in which the nuts are swept up from the ground presents special challenges.  In 2010, almond and walnut growers may no longer conduct ag burns.
 
The Nov. 10 program includes an overview by UC Cooperative Extension farm advisor Brent Holtz of the benefits of adding shredded organic matter to the soil.  San Joaquin Air Pollution Control District compliance manager Wayne Clarke will go over the regulations in SB 705, the law sponsored by State Senator Dean Florez that severely restricts ag burning.  An official from the Central California Almond Growers Association will cover the consequences of chipping or shredding from the hullers perspective.
 
The following individuals will demonstrate their machinery on the farm:

•  Joe DiAnna, DiAnna Custom Shredder

•  Keith Bursey, Rears Self-Powered Pull Shredder

•  Cory Edwards and Frank Roque, Jack Rabbit Wood chipper

•  Bert Walters , Flory Industry Powr Trak Shredder

•  Jeb and Bob Headricks, Termite 275 Self-Propelled Shredder

The field day will be at Andrews Farms, 14507 Avenue 7, Madera County. The program is free to the public and advance reservations are not necessary.

A web site for news media: http://news.ucanr.org

#  #  #