Strong winds and wildfires affecting Oxnard, CA crops

Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 released this crop update January 23, 2025:

Please see this Markon Live video from the Fields video taken yesterday regarding strong winds and wildfires in Southern California and their effects on the Oxnard growing region.

The recent devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area had not impacted the Oxnard growing region until yesterday. The Hughes Fire, located approximately 50 miles from Oxnard in Castaic, kicked up at approximately 10:30 am on January 22.

Strong winds pushed smoke and ash into the Oxnard region by early afternoon, significantly reducing air quality. Conditions have cleared up, and there is currently no detectable smoke in the region, but some growers have canceled harvests due to these Santa Ana winds and the potential for smoke/ash to become a concern again.

Oxnard crops that have been impacted and/or are subject to falling ash:

• Celery
• Cilantro
• Kale
• Parsley
• Strawberries

As of this morning, the Hughes fire has burned over 10,000 acres and is only 14% contained. Markon inspectors are actively monitoring the situation and will continue to update with any new developments.

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for further information.