Climate and weather
Fresh Views: Sustainability helps farming
As the global population continues to grow and concerns for the health of the environment increase, the pressure on farmers to adopt sustainable growing practices has never been greater. Sustainability is about developing systems to... more »
Veg Connections: Cellulose mulch shows promise for sustainable agriculture
As growers face increasing pressure to reduce plastic use while maintaining productivity, researcher Tian Li and her team at Purdue University have developed a new Janus cellulose mulch (JCM) that matches the performance of traditional... more »
Organic growers may require new markets
When Jeff and Annie Main of Good Humus Farm began farming in Yolo County nearly half a century ago, one of the first challenges they encountered was finding a market for their organic produce. “In... more »
Brussels sprouts nab more acreage as demand grows
The Brussels sprouts that farmers grow today no longer taste bitter, thanks to breeding efforts through the years to produce sweeter varieties. The trendy vegetable has become a culinary superstar, with farmers ramping up production... more »
USDA aid to help growers recover from natural disasters
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has introduced programs designed to help specialty crop growers recover from natural disasters, including a trio of hurricanes that this fall struck the Southeast. The new programs are also developed... more »
Georgia Hurricane Helene relief program started
The Weathered But Strong: Georgia Hurricane Relief Fund partners have opened applications for growers harmed by Hurricane Helene. The Weathered But Strong fund aims to provide critical financial assistance to those in need, and growers... more »
Thanksgiving organic vegetable prices expected to be higher in 2024
Lower-than-usual supply means consumers may be paying more for organic celery and other favorite November ingredients—with a few ‘sweet’ exceptions. Prolonged summer heat in the West has stunted early winter vegetable production, resulting in higher... more »
Florida strawberry growers aided by new varieties
New strawberry varieties are assisting Florida growers. Through hard work and efficient problem-solving, Florida growers have planted the fruits consumers enjoy from December through April. Kenneth Parker, executive director of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association,... more »
USDA to construct ag research center in Davis, California
The USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) broke ground on the Agricultural Research and Technology Center (ARTC) in Davis, California, marking a new phase in agricultural innovation. The modern facility will centralize ARS labs currently at... more »
Strategic plan released by organic farming foundation
Working to foster the improvement and widespread adoption of organic farming systems, the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) has approved a long-term strategic plan. OFRF’s 2024-2029 strategic plan sets the course for the next five... more »
















