Category Archives: Features

Left picture: Robert Backus (center) was honored for assisting tornado victims. Right picture: Steve Jones (center) was recognized for saving the government thousands of dollars in fuel by minimizing the agency's fleet of vehicles. Two FSA employees were recognized last … Continue reading →

After years of working in corporate America, Relinda Walker volunteered to be laid off to come home to Georgia and take over the family farm. Being first can have its advantages and disadvantages. Relinda Walker knows that all too well. … Continue reading →

Indiana celebrated 150 years of agriculture this week as the lieutenant governor, FSA state executive director and USDA employees paid tribute to one of the state’s strongest economic engines — agriculture. According to Lieutenant Governor Becky Skillman, agriculture contributes $26 billion … Continue reading →

The Gurr family moved from a nursery at their home to a retail space near the capital of American Samoa. by Josephine Lealasola, agricultural specialist, American Samoa FSA Island Flowers by Liana opened their doors to American Samoa on May 7, … Continue reading →

The Minnesota Food Association (MFA) is working with federal and national organizations to help low-income populations and immigrants get out of poverty and stay out. MFA, a part of the National Immigrant Farming Initiative, an advocacy group in Washington, D.C., … Continue reading →

One of the worst floods to hit Vermont in nearly 83 years damaged 10,000 acres of farmland and left about 100 refugee farmers struggling to re-establish their livelihood. Tropical Storm Irene hit the area last August destroying $25,000 worth of … Continue reading →

by Latawnya Dia, FSA public affairs specialist If you didn’t attend the FSA Washington, D.C. employee third annual Spring Fling, you missed good food and a great time.  The weather was perfect and there was no shortage of food or … Continue reading →

Compost tea (a mixture of recycled organic matter soaked in water), hydroponic living basil, and organic certification are terms that, at first glance, may not have much of a connection to military veterans. Colin Archipley, a decorated Marine sergeant, and … Continue reading →

Left to right: Michael Kahn, associate director of the Agricultural Research Center; Dave Knopf, NASS state director; Sherre Copeland, NRCS partnership liaison; Dave Paul, RMA regional director; Brenton Sharratt, ARS Research leader; Dan Bernardo, Ph.D., dean, College of Agricultural, Human, … Continue reading →

Joining Gov. Nixon in his office for the proclamation presentation are (from left): Eddie Hamill, state executive director, FSA; Jon Hagler, director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture; J.R. Flores, state conservationist, Natural Resources Conservation Service; Gov. Nixon; Janie Dunning, … Continue reading →