USDA

Disaster, Covid assistance released by USDA

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is releasing revenue-based disaster and pandemic assistance programs designed to help growers. On Jan. 23, the USDA publicized programs that agricultural producers can begin the application process. The two new... more »

USDA to reimburse specialty crop food safety costs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds specialty crop producers of available assistance to help cover certain costs of complying with regulatory and market-driven food safety certification requirements. Applications for the Food Safety Certification for... more »

$73 million in specialty crop grants boost competitiveness

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is awarding $72.9 million through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) to fund projects designed to support the expanding specialty crop sector and explore new market opportunities for U.S.... more »

N.J. celebrates school produce snack program

New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture representatives presented Nicholas LaCorte-Peterstown School No. 3 in Elizabeth with the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program VIP Award recently. The award program highlights schools... more »

USDA releases funding for climate projects

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is advancing climate-related projects by releasing more funding for projects by growers and others. The USDA is providing an additional $325 million for 71 projects in the Partnerships for Climate-Smart... more »

USDA’s Census of Agriculture depends on you

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is conducting the 2022 Census of Agriculture. Every five years, the USDA seeks information from producers in all 50 states. The department issued survey codes to all known agriculture producers... more »

USDA specialty crop, organic insurance expands

Through upgrades and expansions of current U.S. Department of Agriculture crop insurance policies, including policies for specialty crop and organic crops, there have never been better or more reasonable opportunities for growers to manage their... more »

Field worker wages up 6%, signaling hike for H-2A pay

Field workers at U.S. farms received an average of $17.04 per hour in October, an increase of 6% from the same month in 2021, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Labor Survey. The... more »

USDA seeks nominations for NASS advisory committee

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is seeking nominations to the Advisory Committee on Agriculture Statistics. Members of this committee advise the secretary of agriculture on the scope, timing and content... more »

USDA funds produce prescription programs across U.S.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has invested almost $60 million in programs across the country that “prescribe” produce to encourage consumption and make fresh fruits and vegetables more accessible. The $59.4 million supports the Gus... more »

Current Issue

VGN April Cover

Insect Eavesdropper allows growers to “hear” what’s happening in fields

Managing wildlife on the farm

Southwest Florida’s Worden Farm manages challenges

Pennsylvania Vegetable Growers Association says farewell to leader

Southeast Regional Show recognizes leaders

Veg Connections: Biopesticides and beneficial insects

Business: Why do most succession plans fail?

60 years of advocating for agricultural employers

Keeping CSA members engaged and loyal

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