Technology
Microscopic organisms fuel big idea
When you hear the word algae, you probably think of something green that grows on the top of a pond or needs to be cleaned out of a swimming pool. Algae, however, is also present... more »
USDA, MSU develop dual-arm fruit picking robot to drive harvest efficiency
USDA-ARS researchers, in collaboration with Michigan State University, are testing a dual-arm fruit harvesting robot to enhance harvest efficiency. According to a post on aglab.ars.usda.gov, the new robot demonstrated up to a 34% improvement in... more »
FIRA USA: Robots redefine specialty crop farming
The future of specialty agriculture is increasingly automated and driverless. As equipment manufacturers and tech startups are developing more autonomous field robots and machines than ever before, these driverless bots are making the leap from... more »
2026 State of the Fruit industry
From the Pacific Northwest’s apple orchards to the Southeast’s blueberry bushes and strawberry beds, most involved in fruit production posted stable to slightly above-average yields in 2025. Yet beneath that steady production lies a deeper... more »
Inside Pandol’s success: How a multigenerational California grower leads in table grapes
As Pandol Brothers enters its 85th year, family and worker dedication are important to the third- and fourth-generation family members who ship table grapes worldwide. Though the Delano, California, operation grows more than a dozen... more »
Spray drones: best practices for specialty crop use
Seeking to improve efficiencies, growers are turning to county Extension agents and university researchers to learn more about using drones for spraying and other chores in fields, orchards and vineyards. While drones can supply aerial... more »
Chinese drones and the FCC ban: What growers need to know
While many farmers in the U.S. were taking a break from the farm life grind and getting ready for holiday festivities, the long-rumored ban on foreign drone technology was quietly implemented by the Federal Communications... more »
Agritourism, organic and tech: 6 key themes from the 2025 Great Lakes EXPO
There’s no doubt Michigan is a hotbed of specialty crop production. A recent study coauthored by the Michigan Vegetable Council and Michigan State University confirms as much, saying the state today hosts over 3,000 fruit... more »
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Fruit growers could see stronger disaster aid, automation grants under proposed farm bill
Current Issue
Master Farmer Awards at Great Lakes EXPO
2025 Fruit + Vegetable 40 Under Forty award winners
Lakeview Hill Farm: Growing fruit — and farmers — in Michigan
Microscopic organisms fuel big idea
Fresh Views – Blueberry fruit quality: separating fact from perception
Farm Market + Agritourism: finding and keeping your CSA members
Ag Labor Review: finish the job on H-2A reform
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