Archives: News
USDA, MSU develop dual-arm fruit picking robot to drive harvest efficiency
ARS and Michigan State University researchers developed a new dual-arm harvesting robot. Watch a short video showing the robot in action.
New on-demand webinar explores labor challenges and opportunities for growers
Labor challenges continue to create uncertainty for specialty crop operations, and rules are changing fast.
USDA, MSU develop dual-arm fruit picking robot to drive harvest efficiency
ARS and Michigan State University researchers developed a new dual-arm harvesting robot. Watch a short video showing the robot in action.
Farm labor outlook improves, H-2A wage rules stabilize
Labor attorney Chris Schulte outlined regulatory wins and looming deadlines. Get the key takeaways and learn how growers can stay ahead of evolving labor requirements.
California pear growers seek trade relief as Argentine imports surge
Family-owned farms are battling the effects of Argentine pear imports. Find out what the industry is doing to help stop the flood.
U.S. Apple joins farm groups in letter to Congress detailing farm economic crisis as losses mount
A coalition of 56 farm and specialty crop organizations urged Congress to address the ongoing rural economic crisis. Read the letter.
How cold is too cold? MSU experts say tree fruit buds should be safe
Learn which crops MSU says are most vulnerable, what temperature thresholds matter and how to assess potential damage after the cold passes.
Cherry Industry Administrative Board seeks 2026 board member nominees
The Cherry Industry Administrative Board is seeking 2026 board nominees and alternates. Learn which seats are open and how to qualify.
California Avocado Commission confirms farmer Rachael Laenen as first female chair
California Avocado Commission has appointed fresh leadership for 2026, with its first woman chairperson. Learn about farmer Rachael Laenen.
WAFLA expands footprint with Washington Growers League merger
The move improves efficiency and enhances support for Pacific Northwest farms. Read on to learn how it will deliver greater value to members.
Agritourism to organic: 5 takeaways from the 2026 Southeast Fruit and Vegetable Conference
Attendees explored organic systems, value-added products, agritourism models and emerging technologies. Read on for takeaways from the show.
Aid update: Congress considers $15 billion carveout that includes specialty crop growers
Find out where the current specialty crop grower aid situation stands and who is working to get payments to farmers.
Organic certification draws grower interest as margins tighten, import pressure mounts
Organic demand is growing, but certification takes planning. Learn the steps and support programs available to growers considering organic.
USDA announces $80 million section 32 purchases of U.S. fruit and nuts
USDA plans to buy almonds, grape juice, pistachios and raisins for food programs. Learn how Section 32 purchases will impact specialty crops.
AppleTracker: Holdings reach 147 million bushels as fresh stocks fall and processing supplies grow
U.S. fresh apple holdings fell 7% year over year while processing inventories climbed. See the full USApple January 2026 AppleTracker report.
Mexico opens antidumping investigation on U.S. apples amid rising USMCA trade tensions
Mexico has opened an antidumping investigation into U.S. apple imports following grower complaints. Learn what it means for growers.
Inverting the pyramid: New dietary guidelines reset USDA nutrition policy
USDA’s new federal nutrition policy emphasizes protein, dairy and fresh fruits and vegetables. Read the new guidelines for a healthy diet.
Michigan State expert: Heed these food safety tips for u-pick agritourism fun all year long
There are a handful of general practices to follow during a visit to a u-pick farm. Read on for top food safety recommendations from MSU.
California farms face new rules in 2026, from wages to waste disposal
A handful of new regulations will affect farms throughout the Golden State. Find out what’s changing from wages to immigration enforcement.
Trade petitions filed over Mexican winter strawberry imports
A fruit industry group filed a petition requesting a fair trade investigation into cheap Mexican winter strawberry imports. Learn more here.