California's Riverside County farmers say $8 diesel is forcing cutbacks, and grocery bills may rise

Farmers in Riverside County say diesel prices above $8 a gallon are forcing production cutbacks and could push grocery bills higher. KESQ reports the spike affects nearly every stage of farming because fuel is needed for both field equipment and hauling food from farms to retailers. AAA data cited by KESQ shows diesel at $8.06 per gallon in Riverside County versus a $6.20 national average. Farmers told News Channel 3 that crossing the $8 mark leaves them with much less profit room. With many agricultural costs fixed and work schedules non-negotiable, higher fuel over time may require trimming spending, postponing purchases, or passing some of the increase to consumers through higher food prices.