Category Archives: Agriculture News

Groups Unite on Labeling of Lab Meat

The Hagstrom Report says it’s rare for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Center for Food Safety, and the National Chicken Council to be on the same page. However, all three groups are asking the USDA to clearly label meat and poultry products that contain lab-grown animal cells. The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service…MORE

Almond Conference Returns

The Almond Conference Returns to Sacramento December 7-9 at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. According to the Almond Board of California, the conference will focus on expanding the industry through strategic marketing development, innovative research and accelerated adoption of industry best practices. The Almond Conference features numerous speakers, a trade show, educational sessions and…MORE

USDA Improves Hemp Crop Insurance

The Department of Agriculture is making improvements to crop insurance for hemp. USDA’s Risk Management Agency is adding flexibilities around how producers work with processors as well as improving consistency with the most recent USDA hemp regulation. RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger says, “RMA has worked to expand and refine our offerings to be responsive and…MORE

DWR First State Water Project Allocation Is Zero

The Department of Water Resources says its initial State Water Project allocation is zero percent. Given the unprecedented drought conditions according to DWR, the initial allocation will focus on the health and safety needs for 2022 of the 29 water agencies that contract to receive SWP supplies. And the DWR says it will not plan…MORE

Inquiry into Supply Chain Disruptions

The Federal Trade Commission is ordering nine large retailers, wholesalers, and consumer good suppliers to provide detailed information on supply chain disruptions. The information will also show how disruptions are causing hardships for consumers and harming competition in the U.S. economy. The orders are being sent to Walmart, Amazon, Kroger, C&S Wholesale Grocers, Associated Wholesale…MORE

Natural Products May improve Honeybee Health

USDA Agricultural Research Service researchers from the Bee Research Laboratory found some natural products’ medicinal properties reduced virus levels and improved gut health in honeybees. Among the study’s results, researchers found a significant reduction in virus levels in bees fed raw cacao and hesperidin, a plant chemical commonly found in citrus fruits and other fruits…MORE

Rural Broadband Applications

The USDA is now accepting applications for up to $1.15 billion in loans and grants to help rural residents get access to high-speed internet. The announcement comes shortly after the recently approved Bipartisan Infrastructure Law earmarked another $2 billion in additional funding for the ReConnect Program. “High-speed internet is the new electricity,” says Ag Secretary…MORE

Lasers Possible Future of Weed Control

Carbon Robotics based in the state of Washington, is working on what may be the future of weed control in agriculture. They’re building a rectangular vehicle a little smaller than a compact sedan, which rolls across farmland. While it’s moving, the vehicle shoots concentrated bursts of infrared light into the rows. Observers hear audible crackles…MORE

Dairy Industry to Meet

Dairy Industry groups will meet next week in Las Vegas for their annual joint meeting. The National Milk Producers Federation, National Dairy Promotion and Research Board, and United Dairy Industry Association will meet November 14-17. Attendees will hear how the dairy industry groups are working to “Make Every Drop Count” for U.S. dairy farmers. Key…MORE

Farm Families Receive Economic Impact Payments

In 2020, U.S. family farm households received $4.3 billion in federal assistance during the Coronavirus pandemic from Economic Impact Payments. Researchers at USDA’s Economic Research Service say the estimated average was $924, $2,408, and $2,466 for single, head of household, and joint filers, respectively. The disparity partly reflects the lower income thresholds for single households,…MORE