USDA released an environmental impact statement yesterday that evaluates the effects of deregulating genetically engineered alfalfa resistant to broad-spectrum herbicide glyphosate, commercially known as Roundup. The statement lists two preferred options that take into consideration plant pest issues and how genetically engineered, non-genetically engineered and organic alfalfa production can coexist. The environmental impact statement will be available for at least 30 days before USDA publishes a decision on how it will proceed. Read the statement or review the press release.

A fungus has attacked the citrus industry in Texas, creating a possible hardship for growers and distributors. Sweet orange scab is a fungus originally thought not to be in the U.S. It was spotted earlier this year in the eastern part of Texas and in several limes from Mexico. Although it may not cause harm if ingested, it makes the fruit look bad, which impacts sales. (KRGV.com) Read more.

Sign-up for the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments (SURE) program opens next month for farmers and ranchers who suffered losses caused by natural disasters during the 2009 crop year. “This program provides a tremendous amount of assistance to producers who have suffered from natural disasters and is part of the ‘safety net’ designed to assist farmers and ranchers who feed America and the world,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. Eligible farmers can begin signing up for SURE on Jan. 10, 2011. Learn more or visit the SURE website.

Today marks the one-year anniversary of an historic agreement to help U.S. dairy producers cut greenhouse gas emissions. The agreement, which was signed Dec. 15, 2009, in Copenhagen, Denmark, allowed USDA and the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy to work toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions from dairy farms by 25 percent by 2020.

"The partnership between USDA and U.S. dairy producers to increase sustainability has achieved remarkable results over the past year," said Vilsack. "USDA has awarded funding to establish 30 anaerobic digesters, and we are assisting farmers with digester feasibility studies and energy audits to help producers reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while increasing on-farm income,” said Vilsack. Read more.

Speakers have been announced for the 2011 Agricultural Outlook Forum hosted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The annual event — held Feb. 24-25 in Arlington, Va. — will feature a six-person plenary panel along with experts in 25 breakout sessions who will discuss a broad range of topics, including renewable energy, foreign trade and domestic markets, and conservation. Review the list of speakers or register today.

The U.S. Department of Energy is seeking applications to fund projects that support the development of advanced biofuels. Up to $30 million in total funding will be given over the next three to four years to as many as five projects that aim to replace gasoline or diesel without the need for vehicle upgrades or changes to fueling infrastructure. The solicitation is part of the Obama administration’s commitment to develop a more sustainable transportation system and lower dependence on foreign oil. Applications must be submitted by Feb. 7, 2011. Learn more.

More and more farmers are working off of the farm in order to keep the farm. According to a report by USDA, farmers are taking on second jobs in order to make ends meet. Although it’s not a new trend, the figure has grown from 55 percent in 2002 to 65 percent in 2007. (Associated Press) Read more or view the USDA report.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack issued a statement regarding the suspension of term limits for USDA’s Guaranteed Farm Operating Loan Program. The suspension, which is set to expire on Dec. 31, could limit the ability of some borrowers to continue obtaining credit in partnership with the Farm Service Agency. Read the statement.