Tractors clog Calif freeway in water cuts protest

The Associated Press
1:34 p.m. June 16, 2009

FRESNO, Calif. — Several dozen farmers drove tractors onto a busy freeway in Central California to call attention to water shortages in the region.

Farmers are experiencing the third year of a drought. Water shortages have been intensified by federal diversions to protect salmon and other endangered fish in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

Authorities say Monday's demonstration on Interstate 5 may be linked to an accident involving two big rigs.

California Highway Patrol Officer Chris Webber said a big rig that drove upon the slow-moving tractors stopped on the road and was hit from behind by another truck. One of the drivers went to a hospital with major injuries.

Tractors are allowed on freeways to drive from field to field, but not for other reasons. An investigation is under way.

http://www3.signonsandiego.com/stories/ ... dex=117633