California’s heat waves cause problems for farmers, increases prices for consumers

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) – This summer’s repeated heat waves have caused more than high energy bills and increased fire danger.

The high temperatures are causing problems for farmers, as well.

The impact on California table grapes supplies has been harsh, with the heat causing vines to shut down, with picking crews working fewer hours.

The heat has started to damage some varieties, while slowing the growth of others, according to the California Farm Bureau .

Some fruit that didn’t get picked on time turned mush on the vine.

This means less fruit on the market, which equals better prices for growers, but higher prices for consumers.

Another fruit feeling the heat is the California clingstone peach, with at least one farmer sending crews out to pick peaches at daybreak to get the fruit in before the temperatures peak, according to the farm bureau.

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