Archives: News
Georgia officials warn farmers about online farm equipment scams
Buyers should first verify online equipment sellers are legitimate after reports of sophisticated scams that impersonate legitimate dealerships and steal payments surface.
USDA fertilizer access grant program taking applications through August 17
$500 million is available to expand domestic production capacity and increase fertilizer availability, according to a news release.
Reservoir Farms brings its ag tech research incubator to Yuma
The site opens Oct. 1 and provides startups with 500 acres for testing automation and other technologies in commercial desert vegetable production
UF/IFAS researchers identify gene that could boost broccoli nutrition
A gene that dramatically increases glucosinolate production could eventually improve the nutritional value of broccoli, cabbage, kale and other brassicas.
Specialty crop growers adapt harvests, crop protection during extreme heat
Fruit and vegetable growers are adjusting harvest schedules, protecting workers and investing in heat-mitigation strategies as prolonged periods of extreme weather challenge specialty crop production.
Want to grow more with less? Beneficial soil microbes are your best friend
Emerging research suggests that strategic reductions in fertilizer use could provide benefits beyond lowering costs.
CDC, FDA investigating Cyclospora outbreak across 17 states
The CDC and FDA are investigating a multistate Cyclospora outbreak affecting 17 states. Officials have not identified the source of the foodborne illness, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Michigan Asparagus Board highlights 2026 growing season wins
MAAB’s marketing campaign generated millions of impressions, supporting Michigan-grown asparagus and farmers.
Market report: Organic tomato supplies tighten, California grape season ramps up
OPN reports organic tomato pricing remains favorable for now, though markets are expected to strengthen by mid- to late July as supplies tighten.
USMCA enters annual review period after U.S. declines 16-year extension
The U.S. declined to extend the USMCA for another 16 years, triggering annual reviews while the agreement remains in force. Here’s what fruit and vegetable growers should know.
Ecorobotix launches ARA595 precision sprayer for Southwestern vegetable growers
The AI-powered system is designed for irrigated vegetable production and targeted crop protection applications in California and Arizona.
Long awaited SAWA labor reform drops, H-2A and immigration debate continues
The bill would overhaul the H-2A guest worker program while dividing agricultural organizations and immigration advocates over its approach to workforce reform.
One strategy, two pests: MSU shares cucurbit IPM tips for growers
Combining targeted insecticides with Blue Hubbard trap crops can improve control of cucumber beetles and squash bugs while reducing unnecessary insecticide applications.
White House seeks $11 billion in aid for specialty crop, Florida growers
Learn what the proposal includes and what it could mean for fruit and vegetable growers.
Michigan asparagus growers remain cautiously optimistic despite rising costs and import pressure
Michigan’s asparagus industry is under pressure, but improving market conditions and a new generation of farmers are reasons for optimism.
Good news for farm markets: Honey consumption spikes among consumers
USDA reports U.S. honey consumption nearly doubled since 1990, with imports supplying 78% of the nation’s honey demand in 2025.
SAWA ag labor reform supporters can voice opinions online
U.S. House Agriculture Committee chair Glenn Thompson has released details for the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act and is working to secure House cosponsors before its introduction in late June.
Michigan State Extension: AEWR flexibility saved growers $33 million
Michigan State University Extension experts say most certified H-2A positions were offered at the Skill Level I wage rate in 2026, resulting in substantially lower wage offers.