Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Impacts On California Agriculture Of A Ban On Rice Straw Burning, B. Gardner Delworth, Richard E. Howitt, Charles Goodman

Faculty Publications

The burning of agricultural residues, particularly rice straw, has long been an issue of public concern in California's Sacramento Valley. Especially during days of autumn temperature inversions, the smoke in the atmosphere from burning is regarded by some as a serious health hazard and by nearly all residents as a public nuisance. Strong pressures have resulted in stringent regulations over agricultural burning, but a growing number of voices advocate a strict prohibition on burning. The prospect of a burning ban is worrisome to rice growers since burning is not only the most cost-effective way of disposing of the straw, but …