Midwest
MSU researches drones to control vineyard pests
At the annual Viticulture Field Day in late July at Michigan State University’s (MSU) Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center in Benton Harbor, winegrape growers assessed autonomous tools for tasks including pest management. “One of... more »
Harvests start with high hopes for apple season
Apple growers in Washington, Michigan and New York are optimistic for the 2023-24 fresh apple season. With weather described as “near-perfect,” Washington dodged the heat and cold from the past two seasons. The U.S. Apple... more »
Michigan offers $3.6 million to fight invasive species
Michigan’s Invasive Species Grant Program is now accepting proposals for the 2023 funding cycle, with an anticipated $3.6 million available to applicants. The program — a joint effort of the Michigan departments of Natural Resources;... more »
Midwest food companies offered export assistance
The Food Export Association of the Midwest USA (Food Export–Midwest) is offering assistance for food companies wanting to export their products. Food Export–Midwest is a private, non-profit organization that promotes the export of food and... more »
Michigan State organic grower training program registration opens
Michigan State University (MSU) is accepting applications for the 2024 Organic Farmer Training Program (OFTP). The registration deadline is Feb. 21 for the MSU Department of Horticulture’s program. The OFTP brings together farmworkers, aspiring farmers,... more »
U.S. apple crop forecast at 256 million bushels
The U.S. apple crop for 2023-24 is expected to top 256 million 42-pound bushels, according to the U.S. Apple Association. USApple’s forecast is about 6 million bushels over the USDA’s annual forecast. The USDA released... more »
Organic Grower: Apple growing profitable, but challenging
It's all in the details when growing organic apples. Growers saw the challenges firsthand during the International Fruit Tree Association’s 66th annual conference and tours in Grand Rapids, Michigan. At a stop during the February... more »
Another large Michigan apple crop expected
This fall should another large crop of Michigan apples. Michigan’s official crop estimate is 32 million bushels or 1.34 billion pounds, similar to last season. The estimate was released on Aug. 18 during the USApple... more »