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California Drought Forces Farmers To Adapt

Young grapevines dot an Escondido hillside in this undated photograph.
Alysha Stehly, Vesper Vineyards
Young grapevines dot an Escondido hillside in this undated photograph.
California Drought Forces Farmers To Adapt
California Drought Forces Farmers To Adapt
California Drought Forces Farmers To Adapt GUESTSEric Larson, executive director, San Diego County Farm BureauAlysha Stehly, Vespar Vineyards

The extended drought has been tough on San Diego farmers, growers and ranchers.

The dry weather, coupled with high water prices, has forced some to stop watering crops and trees. Cattle ranchers have had to sell off their herd, as pastures dried up and turned brown. And many people who work in the industry have lost their jobs.

While the situation is grim, it has pushed area farmers to adapt, by using new irrigation methods and crops that require less water — like grapes.