Monday, October 11, 2010

Globe In the Valley: Hadley Hothouse

Smoke 'em if ya got 'em!

"Mass. tobacco crop bounces back

After two disastrous years, western Massachusetts tobacco farmers are enjoying a bumper harvest this summer. More than 90 percent of the region's crop was destroyed by disease last year. The 2008 crop was severely damaged by storms.

Related: Massachusetts a Disaster Area

Farmers tell The Daily Hampshire Gazette that this summer's hot and dry weather has been nearly ideal for the region's tobacco, which is primarily used to make high-quality cigar wrappers.

According to federal agricultural officials, Hampshire County has more than 500 acres of tobacco....

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You see why I'm pro-freedom and anti-tyranny when it comes to smoking?  

"Warm spring brings early apple harvest

Apple-picking season is starting early this year. The New England Apple Growing Association says the season’s first McIntosh apples may be available in some orchards this holiday weekend — about a week to 10 days earlier than usual. Unusually warm spring weather resulted in an unprecedented early apple blossom, but some later frost damage reduced the crop. Still, the association is predicting a flavorful apple crop with good color and size (AP)."  

Also see: Apples of My Eyes