Author Archives: tanya brown

The number of milk cows decreased for the first time this year, dropping 8,000 heads from July to August, according to USDA Livestock Analyst Sayle Shagam. But the drop has not affected output. Milk production is up almost three percent … Continue reading →

A Pennsylvania district judge temporarily halted a state measure that would have given more than 7,000 dairy farmers added premium payments — totaling nearly $6 million — on out-of-state milk sold in Pennsylvania. The state Milk Marketing Board, which introduced … Continue reading →

Farmers soon may have to control the tiny dust particles kicked up by tractors and other farm machinery. The Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing its current standards for dust, soot and other microscopic particles and is considering tougher restrictions. Supporters … Continue reading →

USDA has awarded 54 grants totaling $55 million to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in the marketplace. Specialty crops are considered to be fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops. The grants will fund 827 projects … Continue reading →

Two new breeds of soybeans may produce oil that is more beneficial to the heart, according to scientists at the USDA Agricultural Research Service. The new genetic lines have an 80 percent concentration of oleic acid compared to 20 percent … Continue reading →

Farmers in 26 states may be eligible for a portion of the $630 million in disaster aid announced yesterday by the USDA to help producers re-establish purchasing power. The aid fulfills a campaign promise by the Obama administration to Arkansas … Continue reading →

Volunteers in Vermont spent Tuesday gleaning produce from area farms as part of the USDA People’s Garden initiative. City Market’s Eat Local Week in Burlington, Vt., gives farmers an opportunity to open up their fields for volunteers to pick up … Continue reading →