Category Archives: News

USDA has resolved a longstanding litigation that will give $1.25 billion to African American farmers who allege that they suffered racial discrimination when applying for farm loans. The agreement, which was reached yesterday, is contingent on appropriations by Congress. “USDA … Continue reading →

Information on organic food for producers and consumers has improved significantly in the past decade, but more work needs to be done. That was the consensus among presenters at the Agricultural Outlook Forum on Jan. 18 during a session on … Continue reading →

A second draft of the proposed crop insurance agreement was released today and includes several changes designed to protect farmers from higher costs and improve access to crop insurance. Updates to the second draft were developed after negotiations between USDA’s … Continue reading →

One year ago President Obama gave birth to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help thwart one of the worst economic conditions since the Great Depression. This week marks the one year anniversary of its signing and since that … Continue reading →

With record-breaking snowfall and temperatures dipping below zero in some areas, farmers are concerned that the unpredictable winter could stretch into spring, delaying the planting season. (The Grand Island Independent) Read more.

Rural businesses in Alabama, Iowa and Nevada are among 54 companies across the U.S. to receive part of the $144 million in loan guarantees to help rebuild and revitalize rural America. The funding, made available through the American Recovery and … Continue reading →

Animals must graze pasture at least 120 days a year in order to be considered organic, according to a final rule issued by USDA. The final rule amends the National Organic Program regulations to clarify the use of pasture in … Continue reading →

The number of milk cow operations declined in 2009, according to a report released today by the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Milk cow operations totaled 65,000 last year, down three percent from 2008. The report, which highlights farms, land in … Continue reading →

USDA is seeking comments on its new Biomass Crop Assistance Program designed to expand the use of dedicated non-food crops for renewable energy and biofuel production. According to a Federal Register notice, BCAP will assist agricultural and forest land owners … Continue reading →

Net farm income is projected to rise 11.8 percent this year to $63 billion, after a severe drop in 2009, according to a report by USDA. As the U.S. recovers from the recession, economic conditions are expected to improve but … Continue reading →