Dennis Meisner makes it forever
Our friend, and farmer, Dennis Meisner Jr. worked with CFT and the California Department of Conservation to place a conservation
easement over his family’s three properties, two of which are adjoining. The easement will forever protect 161 acres of prime and statewide important farmland soils by prohibiting development of the land.
The Meisner properties grow Thompson Seedless Grapes and some Ruby Cabernet grapes which are sold to a nearby winery. Many of the vines are 50 years old and a treasure to the landowner and winery.
“This easement assures that this land, that has been in my family for generations, will remain in agriculture and continue to provide products for Californians,” said Mr. Meisner.
His land sits approximately two miles from the proposed High Speed Rail development along Highway 99. Now that it has been freed of development pressure, the land helps to offset impacts from the development of the proposed transportation system.
“Any farmer or rancher living near a large city, like Madera, can see the pressure to develop their land on the horizon,” said CFT Executive Director Charlotte Mitchell. “This project represents a partnership among the landowner, CFT, and our state agencies to ensure that this land is forever protected from development.”
Why grapes? They love it here, like us!
The gold rush may have ended, but the grape rush continues. Today, over 99 percent of grapes commercially grown in the United States come from California.
Grapes love the California climate and thrive throughout the central valley and surrounding areas.
Wine Grapes hold the highest share of acreage for the state with over 600,000 acres. California is the No. 1 wine producer in the nation and the No. 4 wine producer in the world behind Italy, France and Spain. Raisins, which are almost exclusively grown in the Central Valley, are grown on almost 200,000 acres. Table grapes, mostly grown in Fresno, Tulare, and Kern County, held about 125,000 acres.
Hey California, all your grapes are local and they are super healthy, quick and easy to eat – go out and eat’ya some!
“Grape” News for Your Health!
Science is now revealing what we’ve perceived intuitively for centuries: Grapes are very, very good for us. Research has shown that grapes of all colors—red, green and black—are a natural source of beneficial components called polyphenols, which help promote antioxidant activity and can influence cell communications that affect important biological processes.
A 3/4 cup of grapes contains just 90 calories with no fat, no cholesterol and virtually no sodium. Grapes are also a good source of vitamin K. Grapes of all colors are a natural source of antioxidants and other polyphenols.
Scientific research in both human and animal populations shows grapes have a positive effect on blood pressure, brain function in early onset dementia patients, colon health, healthy eyes, and a healthy heart by relaxing blood vessels to maintain blood flow and function.
Recipe: Fun twist on salad with grapes – and its quick to make!
Roasted Squash, Grape & Tahini Salad
Source: https://www.grapesfromcalifornia.com
