Category: policy-regulations
California avocado industry pushes seasonal tariff-rate quota proposal
The California Avocado Commission has launched an advocacy campaign supporting a seasonal tariff-rate quota on Mexican avocado imports during California’s peak harvest season as federal officials review the USMCA trade agreement.
USMCA enters annual review period after U.S. declines 16-year extension
The U.S. declined to extend the USMCA for another 16 years, triggering annual reviews while the agreement remains in force. Here’s what fruit and vegetable growers should know.
White House seeks $11 billion in aid for specialty crop, Florida growers
Learn what the proposal includes and what it could mean for fruit and vegetable growers.
California lawmakers seek $32M in emergency USDA funds to fight glassy-winged sharpshooter pest
Officials discovered GWSS-infested nursery stock had been distributed to Costco locations in 24 California counties.
The Produce Coalition emerges to support USMCA, tariff-free food trade
A newly formed produce industry coalition plans to advocate for continued tariff-free agricultural trade under USMCA as the agreement undergoes its six-year review.
Ag labor groups applaud SAWA proposal, urge its passing
Learn why the coalition believes the legislation addresses many of the workforce challenges that have threatened the domestic fruit, vegetable, horticulture, nursery and other labor-intensive agricultural sectors.
USDA unveils $1.625B relief program for specialty crop farmers
USDA has launched the $1.625 billion ASCF Program to help specialty crop growers offset rising costs and market disruptions. Apply by Aug. 7.
Midseason update: Apple growers face ‘critical inflection point’ as prices fall, costs rise
The U.S. apple industry is facing falling wholesale prices, rising labor costs, and weather-related production challenges as growers warn current economics are becoming unsustainable.
Rising labor, volatile markets: The cost disconnect growers can’t control
NCAE head John Hollay says It’s time for farm labor policy that better aligns wages with market realities.
Frost survey: Help PA Farm Bureau grasp April freeze impacts
Take Pennsylvania Farm Bureau’s short farmer survey to help quantify the impact of April’s frost.
Deadline extended: USDA moves SDRP due date to Aug. 12
Disaster relief payments for 2023–24 losses increase to 70% coverage. Growers are encouraged to check eligibility and submit or update applications by Aug. 12.
How to apply: specialty crop growers can tap into $100M+ in USDA grants
Apply through your state department of agriculture or Grants.gov before the June 8 and October 2026 deadlines.
Dicamba is back: What specialty crop growers need to do now
Dicamba drift is once again a concern for Midwest fruit and specialty crop growers. Find out how to protect your operation this season.
Farm Bureau study: H‐2A use hits record levels
The latest ag labor data highlights ongoing challenges in finding domestic workers. Get updated insights into H-2 program usage.
Deadline extended: Growers get more time to report 2025 acres
USDA’s reopened reporting window gives farmers another chance to qualify for aid. Submit accurate acreage data before April 24.
USDA: 2026 fruit, tree nut outlook signals cautious optimism for growers
A new USDA outlook points to steady consumer demand but rising costs and increasing import competition. Here’s how it impacts your farm.
Rollins targets high input costs as USDA, DOJ investigate fertilizer companies
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins is pressing for relief while investigators examine potential price collusion. See what changes lie ahead.
USDA eyes new sweet cherry size, Mexican strawberry industry calls for calm amid ongoing ITC probe
A proposed rule would raise sweet cherry size standards while a separate ITC probe targets Mexican strawberry imports — here’s what you need to know.
54 farm groups press Trump Administration for more grower support amid rising costs
Advocacy groups warn of mounting financial strain and urge federal action. Read the full letter and learn what it requests for specialty crop growers.