President Donald Trump has announced a slate of undersecretary nominees for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Via social media, Trump announced that he will nominate Richard Fordyce as Agriculture undersecretary …
Decline in the Citrus Harvest in the Central Valley
The California Farm Bureau Federation has reported a decline in the citrus harvest in the Central Valley due to the absence of migrant farm workers, who are concerned about deportation …
American Agriculture History Minute: What State is the Grass Seed Capital of the World?
I’m Mark Oppold with an American Agriculture History Minute. We begin today with a question. What state is referred to as the grass seed capital of the world? That would …
Voices of the Valley: Connecting Community to Farms and Fields
In this episode, we talk to Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) and explore how the organization inspires a deeper connection to the agricultural industry by promoting a greater understanding …
Richard Fordyce Appointed Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation
Richard Fordyce has been appointed as the Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation, marking his return to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Fordyce, a Missouri farmer, previously served in …
Interim Rule on Technical Guidelines for Climate-Smart Agriculture Crops Used as Biofuel Feedstocks Announced
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced (see the USDA announcement below) the publication of an interim rule on Technical Guidelines for Climate-Smart Agriculture Crops Used as Biofuel Feedstocks. The …
USDA Reminds Producers to Apply for Assistance to Cover Food Safety Certification Expenses
The USDA reminds specialty crop producers to apply for assistance to cover food safety certification expenses by January 31, 2024. The program aids in costs related to developing, maintaining, or …
Beagle Brigade Secures the Nation’s Agricultural Gateways
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Beagle Brigade continues to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the country’s farms and crops from invasive pests. Deployed at major airports, border crossings, and …
Vilsack Finalizes Third Rule Under the Packers and Stockyards Act
USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack has finalized a third rule under the Packers and Stockyards Act aimed at leveling the playing field for farmers who contract with meat and poultry processing …
NFU Prioritizes Maintaining Viability of Farming Operations
The National Farmers Union (NFU) prioritizes maintaining the viability of farming operations amidst economic challenges, emphasizing the need for a robust safety net, strong crop insurance, and continued investment in …
California Wildfires Also Affecting Agriculture
Although you’re hearing a lot about how the wildfires are affecting populated areas in Southern California, they are also affecting agricultural areas in the hilly areas just outside of Los …
USDA Announces Grants and Technical Assistance Funding
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced it is providing a total of $14.4 million in grants and technical assistance through two separately funded projects to support urban agriculture …
Rebuilding Cattle Inventories Remains Ongoing Question
The process of rebuilding U.S. cattle inventories will remain an ongoing question well into 2025. Texas A&M extension livestock economist David Anderson says coming into 2024, the beef cow herd …
Craig Denounces Proposed Cuts to Farm Bill Programs
House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig released a statement criticizing a new Republican proposal she says would reduce funding for essential farm bill programs in order to pay for …