Archives: News
2025 USDA bridge payment applications due Friday, farm bill advances
The deadline to report 2025 acreage for USDA bridge payments to producers of specialty crops and sugar is March 13. Learn more.
House committee approves farm bill with specialty crop focus
The U.S. House Agriculture Committee expects to mark up a farm bill draft following a weather-related delay. Learn more details.
Florida passes new Farm Bill: How it impacts specialty crop growers
The Florida Legislature advances a new farm bill affecting land use, equipment and safety rules. See what it means for growers.
Nominations open for Wisconsin Cherry Board seat; deadline March 27
Wisconsin cherry growers can submit nominations for a board seat through March 27. Learn how to participate in the upcoming industry election.
Florida blueberry meeting showcases smarter sampling, stronger varieties and disease defense
New insights on freeze tolerance, leaf rust and mid-season nitrogen testing can sharpen decisions. Read the takeaways and adjust your program.
Sym-Agro, Biofungitek sign U.S. distribution deal for Berezi fungicide
Sym-Agro and Biofungitek sign a U.S. distribution deal for the Berezi fungicide. Learn how it targets powdery mildew and botrytis.
Penn State offers grape, wine industry webinar series free for growers
A series of free, live webinars will be held through April for grape and wine growers. Find out which topics will be covered.
Sound off: USDA, MSU National Farm Market Survey now open
Help the USDA understand the unique realities of farmers markets in your state and region, take the survey now!
Recent fog aids Central Valley fruit tree winter chilling
Researchers say winter chill may have been more effective this year because of so many days with fog, learn more from AgAlert.
Price spreads explained: What USDA’s 2024 farm-to-retail data means for specialty crop growers
New USDA data shows where produce dollars go from field to shelf. See what crops return the most to growers and capture more value.
Ag Wage Reform Coalition urges Congress to make AEWR rule permanent
Farm groups urge Congress to codify the AEWR interim rule and provide wage stability. Learn what permanent reform could mean for growers.
SCOTUS blocks tariffs, farm advocates urge stability in trade markets
Farm groups welcomed the Supreme Court’s dUecision to block key tariffs. Learn what it means for growers and input costs.
Powerful partnership: How Jamaica’s H-2 workers weathered the Hurricane Melissa storm
Learn how a devastating natural disaster demonstrated the teamwork that powers the H-2 program partnership between Jamaica and U.S. farmers.
Mizzou researchers unlock how plants regulate root growth
A key protein controls plant root length, paving the way for more drought-resistant crops. Learn more about this research breakthrough.
Freeze fallout: Florida tallies massive losses in fruit, vegetable and specialty crops
See the full breakdown of specialty crop losses and find out why experts believe more support may be on the way for growers.
Eric Patrick tapped to head WSFC, strengthen northwest cherry and pear brands
The Washington State Fruit Commission has named its next leader. Learn more about his background as he takes office on March 2.
Master vineyard pruning: 2 day Michigan workshop welcomes global grape experts
Space is limited to 16 participants — secure your spot today and sharpen your pruning skills before the season begins.
High-density systems, PGR trials and harvest innovations headline IFTA’s Winter Tour
Attendees toured five innovative Central Valley farms in February. Read on for take-home ideas you can apply to your own orchard this season.
Fruit growers could see stronger disaster aid, automation grants under proposed farm bill
A draft farm bill has emerged from the House Agriculture Committee. See what the proposal means for your farm and follow the February 23 markup for updates.