USDA
Focus on the Farmer webinar features transition to organic
As part of USDA’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), Compass Natural’s Focus on the Farmer educational series will offer a free webinar to support farmers transitioning to organic. The Sept. 28 webinar, the second... more »
Fresh produce advisory committee accepts comments
The USDA's Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee (FVIAC) will be taking comments in person and virtually at its November meeting. The committee, which advises the USDA on industry issues, will be meeting from 8... more »
Anti-corporate farming group pushes lessening ag trade deficit with specialty crops
Domestic production of high-value, nutrient-dense crops has long been on the decline in the U.S., with the majority of acreage shifting to livestock feed and fuel production, according to Farm Action, an activist organization working... more »
USDA appoints ag advisory committee members
The USDA and U.S. Trade Representative’s Office have appointed 130 representatives to serve four-year terms on seven agricultural trade advisory committees, including the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for Trade in Fruits and Vegetables. There are... more »
Specialty Crop Block Grant Program receives $72.9 million from USDA
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announced $72.9 million awarded to 55 states and territories through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). The grant program provides funding to enhance the... more »
Growers’ organic transition webinar scheduled
A series of webinars will tackle how growers can transition to organic production. The first one, scheduled for Aug. 29, Navigating the Transition to Organic: A Roadmap for Success, is scheduled for. The event, scheduled... more »
MSU studies potato early die complex
Growing up on her family’s farm in Rancagua, Chile, Marisol Quintanilla became an astute observer of nature. She took note of the plants, insects and other flora and fauna essential to life on the farm,... more »
Rural Voices criticizes Congress’ USDA funding blocking
Rural Voices USA, an organization that promotes the interests of rural Americans, is expressing opposition to Republican efforts delaying passage of the U.S. Department of Agriculture FY24 funding bill. Lawmakers must meet a Sept. 30... more »
Resource on Strengthening Organic Enforcement available
Consumer confidence in the USDA organic seal has fueled industry growth and market expansion, according to the agency’s National Organic Program (NOP), which is tasked with ensuring rules protect the organic market as it grows.... more »
USDA annual survey seeks info from potato processors
Potato producers and agribusinesses are encouraged to respond to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service annual potato processing survey. The results of the survey will be used to establish final USDA statistics about the 2022... more »
