U.S. industrial hemp production surged in 2024, with total crop value reaching $445 million, a 40% increase over the previous year, according to the latest National Hemp Report. Planted acreage …
California’s Organic Stone Fruit Production Thriving
California’s organic stone fruit production is thriving, with apricots expected from early May to mid-July, cherries from mid-May to early July, and nectarines, peaches, and plums following suit. Plums will …
U.S. Hemp Acreage Surges, Production Value Hits $445 Million
U.S. industrial hemp production rose sharply in 2024, with total crop value reaching $445 million, a 40 percent increase over the previous year, according to the latest National Hemp Report. …
Strawberry Shipments Up in Florida
In the first two and a half months of the year, strawberry shipments were up in Florida. Florida produces strawberries during the winter and spring, and typically accounts for about …
APHIS-DHS Expanding Risk-Based Sampling Program at Ports of Entry
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) US Customs and Border Protection, is expanding its risk-based sampling program at …
Yuba Grower Named 2024 Rice Consultant of the Year
Gary Dodd has been named the 2024 Rice Consultant of the Year by Corteva Agriscience and Rice Farming Magazine. Dodd’s journey into agriculture began with a childhood interest in nature, …
California Prune Board Promoting Sustainable Farming Practices
The California Prune Board (CPB) is promoting sustainable farming practices through an educational marketing campaign, highlighting the state’s role as a leading producer of premium prunes. CPB represents 99% of …
USHBC Industry Engagement Committee Seeking Nominees
The US High Bush Blueberry Council (USHBC) Industry Engagement Committee is seeking nominees for the council’s importer number two, number three, and number four, member and alternate positions on the …
Western Tree Nut Association Submits Comments to CA DPR on Use of Paraquat
The Western Tree Nut Association has submitted comments to the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CA/DPR) on the use of paraquat, emphasizing its importance as a broad-spectrum herbicide, especially in …
USDA Seeks Nominations for Christmas Tree Promotion Board
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking nominations for four open seats on the Christmas Tree Promotion Board. These positions are for three-year terms beginning January 1, 2026. The …
North American Blueberry Council Sees Significant Growth
The North American Blueberry Council has seen significant growth with a nearly 38% increase in membership, now representing over 240 members across North America and internationally. New board members have …
Impending Ban on Chlorpyrifos for Fruit and Vegetable Growers
Fruit and vegetable growers that use chlorpyrifos have until June 30, 2025 to use it on food crops. Researchers from the University of Florida advise producers to find alternatives as …
The Growing Edge: Wet Weather Impact on Central Valley Crops
Todd Burkdoll, a field market development specialist with Valent USA, discusses the impact of recent and expected wet weather on Central Valley crops, particularly almonds, cherries, plums, and nectarines. He …
Frozen Raspberry Market Experiencing Significant Growth
The frozen fruit sector, particularly the frozen raspberry market, is experiencing significant growth, driven by its long shelf life and high antioxidant content. The global market for frozen raspberries was …