…flat over the last decade. By comparison, competing countries such as China, India, and Brazil have been steadily increasing investment in ag research and development. “The importance of robust funding…
Bond Legislation Introduced to Improve California Food System
…area of funding support would be directed at sustainable agricultural practices that combat climate change. A total of $1.135 billion would be invested to support conservation efforts, improve healthy soil…
USDA to Provide $75 Million for Alternative Practices for Conservation
…Regional Conservation Partnership Program’s (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA). The AFA program prioritizes conservation solutions at multiple levels that emphasize a non-traditional approach. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will…
USDA Makes Additional Funding Available for Value-Added Produce Grant Program
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced that additional funding will be made available for the Value-Added Producer Grant Program this year. The additional funding is being made possible through the Consolidated…
Comment Period for Regulating Animal Biotech Reopened by USDA
…have been considered new animal drugs by FDA, triggering a rigorous regulatory process. “It has been difficult for the animal biotech industry to get private funding and also even public…
Safe Line Speeds During COVID-19 Act Reintroduced
…implementation of the New Swine Slaughter Inspection System. USDA would also be prohibited from using federal funding for anything that would increase line speeds at meat and poultry establishments. “It…
Industry Groups Call for Funding to Support Ag Export Markets
A coalition of industry groups is calling on lawmakers to support ag export markets. More than 100 industry groups are pushing for full funding of marketing programs under the U.S….
President Biden Ready to Sign Latest COVID Relief Legislation
…bill into law sometime on Friday at the White House. The bill includes individual stimulus payments, extended unemployment benefits, funding for ag and nutrition programs, and healthcare support for rural…
Budget Hearings to Consider UC Funding Restoration
Conversations are continuing regarding the potential for a full UC funding restoration. For UC Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), it would mean the nearly 13 percent funding reduction for…
American Rescue Plan Act Moving Forward with Senate Approval
…history if it gets passed. The legislation includes substantial funding support for the agricultural industry. “I am grateful to the U.S. Senate for passing the American Rescue Plan today to…
Partnership Looks to Enhance Organic Conservation Practices
…be applied in organic or conventional systems in all regions nationwide. Increased funding support and NRCS technical assistance is needed to help support more widespread implementation of conservation practices in…
American Rescue Plan Legislation Moving Through Congress
…with stimulus checks and additional support for vaccination efforts, the legislation includes important amendments related to agriculture. “The measure primarily provides additional funding for nutrition and feeding programs. But it…
New Manual Available for Non-Chemical Weed Control
…weed control techniques. It also provides information about biological control agents for 18 different weed species and species groups. Funding for the manual was made possible through the California Department…
New Form Required for Certain NRCS Customers
…conservation programs will need to complete form CCC-902. “In California, this new form will be needed for customers who are selected for funding in both EQIP batch periods ending March…