The USDA Commodity Credit Corporation, which helps stabilize, support and protect farm income and prices, released interest rates for March 2011. The borrowing rate-based charge is 0.250, which is unchanged from February 2011, while the 1996 and subsequent crop year commodity and marketing assistance loans dispersed during March is 1.250, unchanged from last month. Interest rates for Farm Storage Facility Loans and discount rates for the Tobacco Transition Payment Program also are available. Read more.

Three major problems plague the world today and what happens in agriculture will help shape the resolution of these issues, according to former President Bill Clinton.

The president — speaking before a crowd of 2,000 attendees at the 2011 Agricultural Outlook Forum held last week in Arlington, Va. — said that agriculture will play a major role in aiding the world during troubled times, but serious decisions need to be made, not just “happy talk.” View the video.

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In an effort to resolve all claims of past discrimination, USDA has set up a claims process for Hispanic and women farmers who can show that they were denied a loan or loan servicing due to discriminatory practices. The process offers a streamlined alternative to litigation and provides at least $1.33 billion in compensations, plus up to $160 million in farm debt relief to eligible Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers. Producers can register to receive a claims package by calling 1-888-508-4429 or by visiting the website.

A series of snow storms that hit just about all of the U.S. this winter has one agricultural bright spot. The white stuff not only provides entertainment for kids, but is beneficial for soil and the water table. Ultimately, this year’s snow pile-up will make plants grow greener, add nitrogen to the soil, replenish farm ponds, underground streams and aquifers. All of this adds up to an increase in farm income. Read more (Courier-Post).

West Virginia farmers near the Chesapeake Bay watershed have turned to several conservation programs in order to comply with clean water regulations. The state has been told by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that it must reduce the amount of farm run-off that goes into streams that feed the bay. About 60 percent of its goals must be accomplished by 2017. Area farmers have joined the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP), along with other local conservation programs to help the state meet its goals. Read more (West Virginia Public Broadcasting).

A new web-based mapping tool that captures a range of demographic, economic and agricultural data on rural America is now available. The Atlas of Rural and Small-Town America provides county-level information and allows users to geographically compare select states and regions using data regarding population trends, economic health, employment and agricultural well-being. “The new atlas will complement USDA’s efforts in promoting rural development and well-being by helping policy makers pinpoint the needs of particular regions, recognize their diversity, and build on their assets,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. View the Atlas of Rural and Small-Town America.