Category Archives: News

USDA has launched a campaign to collect information about farmers markets to include in the 2010 USDA National Farmers Market Directory. The agency has been counting the number of operational farmers markets in the U.S. for the past 15 years. … Continue reading →

Farmers in Palm Springs, Calif., are embracing innovative, environmentally safe practices to help reduce costs and save energy. Peter Rabbit Farms began washing tons of carrots before loading them into trucks heading to packing houses. The simple technique has cut … Continue reading →

USDA is seeking public comments on several proposed rules designed to increase the production of advanced biofuels and the development of biorefineries. “We view these proposed rules as part of the strategy to help meet President Obama’s goal to accelerate … Continue reading →

USDA has extended the emergency assistance application deadline for eligible producers of livestock, honeybees and farm-raised fish. Due to changes in program eligibility provisions, applications for 2008 and 2009 losses must be submitted by May 5. Review the press release. … Continue reading →

USDA is making an effort to elevate organic farming in a manner never seen before. The shifting focus to organics and small farms has long-time producers surprised and organic growers grateful. In a speech at a conference for organic farmers, … Continue reading →

  A group of 17 men and women that represent the dairy industry met at USDA headquarters on Tuesday for the first time to find a solution to the volatile pricing of milk and milk products that has decreased industry … Continue reading →

Starting this month, about 80 volunteers at USDA are lending a hand to an organic garden created by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack along the Mall at the agency’s headquarters. Last year Vilsack took a jackhammer to an asphalt parking lot … Continue reading →

Four months of stagnant gasoline demand combined with record ethanol production could mean that the corn-based fuel is close to hitting the blend wall. A sharp drop in ethanol prices has cut returns for ethanol producers dramatically, which meant the … Continue reading →

California dairies are being wooed by other states with large incentives and the promise of fewer regulations. At least eight states, including Texas and Iowa are looking to boost their revenue by bringing in dairies. Air and water quality rules … Continue reading →

USDA has confirmed the presence of a fungal disease in Florida that attacks citrus fruits and causes early fruit drop and reduces crop yields. Cuignardia citricarpa or citrus black spot — a fungal disease marked by dark, speckled spots on … Continue reading →