Drought Specter 2009

[SpiralHawk]

This is sobering:

"One of the critical realities of 2009 is that national and global droughts are poised to have a profound influence food cost and availability. The signals are plain, strong, insistent."

http://thecalloftheland.wordpress.com/

[Tashca]

1. Your right about the signals.

The maps links in this article present some sobering facts. I wonder what percent of the southern hemisphere is currently in drought conditions???....Based on the maps I would say it is very significant.

I have been following fairly closely the droughts in South America, China, and Australia. As well as Texas and California. The ones in Southern Africa and the Middle East I will admit I have missed somehow.

The map on China doesn't show where the drought is....I assume that is government info. It looks like if you would lay this map over major food growing areas they would match up precariously. I don't know the percentage of fresh vegetables come form Texas and California, but would assume major percentages.

Even here in Iowa there is a major feeling people need to get back to the land. Grow at least a part of their own food. Last year nearly all of our community gardens were rented. They are in three different areas of the city. I would estimate nearly two thirds ended up growing up in weeds. It was disheartening. Gardening is my favorite hobby......but it is clear to me the vast majority of people...at least in this area.....don't have a clue how to grow there own food. There are teachers out there....people need to learn to ask for help.