High Diesel Costs, Hard Choices for California Farmers
California farmers are feeling the pinch at the diesel pump, and some say it's changing the way they farm.
A new survey from the California Farm Bureau gathered responses from more than a thousand farmers and ranchers across the state.
And here's what stood out. About 40 percent say they've actually cut back on field work because of fuel costs.
Three out of four report increased financial stress, and more than half say lower diesel prices would help keep their operations financially viable.
But spending less time in the field isn't the only adjustment farmers are making.
According to the survey, some are putting off equipment purchases, delaying maintenance, or cutting back on other expenses.
And it's not hard to see why. Between tractors, harvesters, and trucks hauling crops, diesel is a major expense.
Farm Bureau President Shannon Douglass says the results highlight the financial pressure facing California agriculture.
And when asked what they'd do if they could save money on diesel, farmers pointed to things like employee wages, equipment repairs, and improvements around the farm.v
