Author Archives: tanya brown
Ag Outlook Forum Jumps Off on Positive Note
The Agricultural Outlook Forum kicked off on a positive note today as USDA Chief Economist Joseph Glauber told attendees that despite the historic drought, the agriculture economy is very strong. Producers saw a record high in net cash income last … Continue reading
Study: Irrigating Portion of Cotton Field Could Maximize Yield
As drought continues to grip portions of the country, researchers from Texas Tech University and the USDA Agricultural Research Service are determining whether producers can maximize cotton yield by watering only a portion of their field. Results showed that watering … Continue reading
Agricultural Outlook Forum Starts Tomorrow
The 2013 Agricultural Outlook Forum will open its doors tomorrow to start a two-day conference focusing on “Managing Risk in the 21st Century. Held Feb. 21-22 in Arlington, Va., the forum will feature 25 sessions with more than 85 speakers. … Continue reading
Sign-Up for ACRE, DCP Opens Today
The sign-up period for the Direct and Counter-Cyclical Payment Program (DCP) and the Average Crop Revenue Election Program (ACRE) opens today, Feb. 19. Changes to this year’s program allow producers to choose to enroll in either program. Originally, producers who … Continue reading
Federal Workers May Soon Get Paid Parental Leave
A new bill introduced in the House will give four weeks of paid leave to federal workers upon the birth or adoption of a child. The bill — introduced Feb. 5 — also would allow employees to use annual or … Continue reading
Tough Economy Not a Problem for Agriculture Graduates
Agribusinesses are booming. With farm incomes at record highs, producers are purchasing more seed, fertilizer and equipment. The result? A massive recruiting effort at colleges and universities to find soon-to-be graduates with agriculture degrees. While many college graduates may face … Continue reading
Hispanic and Women Farmers Claims Must be Postmarked by March 25
Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers who allege discrimination by USDA in past decades have until March 25, 2013, to file a claim in order to receive a cash payment or loan forgiveness. The claims process is a voluntary alternative … Continue reading
GPS Cows and Virtual Fences Become Future of Farming
Conventional fencing can be restrictive and not allow for flexibility most ranchers need. That is why one USDA researcher is aiming to do away with traditional fencing for an invisible, high-tech version. Dean M. Anderson wants to make the land … Continue reading
Net Farm Income to Break 40-Year Record
Net farm income is expected to rise to $128.2 billion this year, the highest since 1973, according to a report by USDA Economic Research Service. Based on the report, a return to trend yields would lead to record crop production … Continue reading