America's Rural Breadbasket: California's Central Coast

California is home to the greatest, and least well-known garden in the world. The 400-mile-long Central Valley supplies fully one-quarter of the food America eats.

1 minute read

November 13, 2002, 9:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


This four-part, in-depth radio series on "All Things Considered" examines the 400-mile long Central Valley -- California's "backstage" rural breadbasket. Part One looks at the Valley's identity crisis against thebackdrop of rapid population growth. Part Two investigates theconsequences of the region's excessive use of pesticides. Part Three looks at the move toward and the long-term viability of large-scale organic farming. Part Four reports on the Valley's labor force, including the role of illegal immigrants. According to the segment, immigrant farmers typically endure less-than-minimum wages and hazardous working conditions. Note: The series is available from NPR in streaming audio. This audio file requires RealAudio or Windows Media Player.

Thanks to California Policy Forum

Thursday, November 14, 2002 in National Public Radio

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