News

Ag labor challenges in Michigan targeted in new survey

Ask any agricultural employer in Michigan to list their biggest concerns and there's a good chance labor ranks near the top. Attracting and retaining employees has long been a challenge for the food and agriculture industry. In an effort to addres... more

Funds to build housing for farm workers offered by USDA

The USDA is seeking applications for funding to increase the supply of affordable housing for farm workers. Luis R. García, acting state director of USDA Rural Development in Puerto Rico, said that subject to the availability of funds, the loan a... more

Help to cover costs for organic certification offered by USDA

Organic producers and handlers can now apply for USDA funds to assist with the cost of receiving or maintaining organic certification. Applications for the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) are due Nov. 1, 2021. “USDA is ... more

Extension of strawberry season eyed by Rutgers researchers

The Northeast strawberry season is the epitome of the phrase, “short and sweet.” On average, the average harvest lasts only three to four weeks, but consumer demand is strong (strawberries are the most consumed berry in the U.S.) and increasing, ... more

Green Life Farms to acquire southwest Florida greenhouse grower

Green Life Farms has reached an agreement to purchase Finn Farms, a hydroponic grower located on Florida’s West Coast. The transaction will provide Green Life Farms with full ownership of Finn Farms, including all site and equipment assets. Gree... more

Another round of produce box contracts for $3.4M set by USDA

The USDA released the contract recipients for another round of Emergency Food Assistance Program produce box program Aug. 16. A total of $3,419,049 will pay for 436,229 boxes to be delivered from October 1 to December 31, 2021. The price range of ... more

BrightFarms acquired by Cox Enterprises

Cox Enterprises announced the acquisition of BrightFarms, an indoor farming company and provider of locally grown packaged salads. The move solidifies BrightFarms’ leadership in the indoor agriculture space and provides a strong, stable foundation ... more