Author Archives: tanya brown

Producers interested in offering land in an effort to protect millions of acres of topsoil from erosion and improve the nation’s natural resources, have until Friday, April 15, to do so. The Conservation Reserve Program has protected the nation’s natural … Continue reading →

Soil erosion is becoming a major problem in Iowa, according to a study by an environmental group using data compiled by University of Iowa scientists. Heavy rainstorms that hit the area over the past few years have eroded more soil … Continue reading →

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack defended the use of corn for ethanol yesterday, telling critics they are shortchanging American agriculture. “We’re trapped in a debate that leads us down the road of shortchanging American agriculture rather than recognizing its enormous capabilities,” … Continue reading →

Corn planting has begun for farmers in 10 of the 18 top corn producing states, according to a USDA Crop Progress report released Monday. Based on the report, Texas is ahead of most states with 55 percent of its corn … Continue reading →

 The Texas wildfires that have reportedly burned nearly 900,000 acres are taking their toll on area farmers and ranchers. According to several USDA officials in Texas, producers have reported cutting fences to let cattle loose and putting down cattle and … Continue reading →

New Mexico has seen it smallest chile crop in nearly 37 years. About 8,700 acres of chilies were harvested across the state, a decline of 29.3 percent from last year. The crop was valued at $41.6 million in 2010. Officials blame … Continue reading →

USDA is providing financial incentives to gas stations willing to install pumps that accept a higher blend of ethanol. In an announcement made today by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, the Rural Energy for American Program will provide financial assistance to … Continue reading →

The Minneapolis zoning and planning committee has given the green light for farmers to turn vacant lots into commercial farms. The city, which is home to community gardens and farmers markets, did not have set definitions or regulations for land … Continue reading →

More than $8 million in disaster assistance is available to producers of livestock, honeybee and farm-raised fish who have suffered losses in 2010 due to disease, adverse weather or other conditions. The aid, which will come from the Emergency Assistance … Continue reading →