climate and weather
End of an era: 2026 Farmers’ Almanac will be its last
The 2026 Farmers' Almanac is one you’ll want to hang onto as a collector’s item. That’s because editor Sandy Duncan and editor emeritus Peter Geiger have announced this coming year’s publication will be its final... more »
Fresh Views: Cherry Choice: Successfully growing cherries
Growing cherries is both a rewarding and challenging endeavor. My family has been farming since 1935, starting with apples. However, as it became very difficult to harvest a small apple crop for profit, we shifted... more »
New markets may be required for organic growers
When Jeff and Annie Main of Good Humus Farm began farming in Yolo County nearly half a century ago, one of the first challenges they encountered was finding a market for their organic produce. “In... more »
Mississippi blueberries growing in popularity, challenges
In Mississippi, blueberries are growing in popularity, but are not without production challenges. Blueberries celebrated their one- year anniversary as the official state fruit of Mississippi, joining well- known magnolias and mockingbirds as symbols of... more »
Organic farming foundation looks to future
In an effort to encourage the improvement and widespread adoption of organic farming systems, the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) has approved a long-term strategic plan. OFRF’s 2024-2029 strategic plan sets the course for the... more »
USDA releases $2 billion for specialty crops growers disaster recovery
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has introduced programs designed to help specialty crop growers recover from natural disasters, including a trio of hurricanes that this fall struck the Southeast. The new programs are also developed... more »
Weathered But Strong: Georgia Hurricane Helene relief program started
Applications are open for Georgia growers harmed by Hurricane Helene. The Weathered But Strong fund aims to provide critical financial assistance to those in need, and growers across the affected areas are urged to apply.... more »
‘Brutal’ wine market leaves farms in peril
Steve Perrin and his family have grown winegrapes on the land around their Lodi farmhouse for four generations. Behind the house stand a towering oak, a workshop and 150 acres of grapevines, mostly zinfandel, some... more »
USDA’s $235 million to aid grower hurricane, disaster relief
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is aiding growers through more than $235 million hurricane and disaster relief. USDA is issuing payments to agricultural producers impacted by natural disasters, including $143 million in crop insurance... more »
Hurricane Helene damaged communities aided by Virginia Cooperative Extension
Virginia Cooperative Extension is helping growers and communities damaged by Hurricane Helene. Though the floodwaters have receded, the recovery for growers including one who grows organic berries will last for months and even years. As... more »
















