USDA
USDA program assists new organic growers
As the USDA’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) nears the 1.5-year mark of its five-year mission, participation in the $100 million initiative’s mentorship program continues to grow. TOPP uses a variety of methods, including... more »
USDA overhauls Farm Loan Programs for greater financial flexibility
Fresh produce growers are set to benefit from new changes to the USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) Farm Loan Programs, which will take effect on Sept. 25, 2024. These updates aim to bolster financial viability,... more »
Central State University launches climate-smart commodities program
Central State University is recruiting 20 farmers from Ohio and southeastern Michigan to join the Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities Program, funded by a $5 million USDA grant. The Wilberforce, Ohio, university's initiative, running from fall... more »
WSU-USDA set to host Tree Fruit Research Field Day Set
The Washington State University Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center and USDA-ARS Wenatchee will host a Tree Fruit Research Field Day on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. The event will be held from 8:30 a.m. to... more »
Central State University to recruit farmers for $5M USDA Climate-Smart Initiative
Central State University is seeking 20 farmers from Ohio and southeastern Michigan to join its USDA-funded Climate-Smart Commodities Program. The initiative, backed by a $5 million grant, will support farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural practices... more »
USDA to celebrate 2026 as International Year of the Woman Farmer
As 2026 will bring global recognition of female growers through the International Year of the Woman Farmer, the USDA is announcing how it plans to participate in the initiative. The United Nations has designated 2026... more »
USDA expands insurance options for specialty, organic growers
Apples, pears, prunes and other fruits and vegetables are to benefit from changes in USDA's crop insurance options. The USDA is expanding crop insurance options for specialty and organic growers starting with the 2025 crop... more »
Fresh produce import inspection fee changes proposed
Imported produce fees may see changes. The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is proposing altering the regulations governing the inspection and certification of imported fresh fruits, vegetables and other products. The proposed changes, announced on... more »
Tree fruit, berries, grapes receive USDA market promotion funds
Apples, cherries, pears, cranberries, table grapes and watermelons are among the commodities receiving federal funds for promotion and market development funding. The funding is part of $300 million allocated to 66 U.S. organizations under the... more »
Cornell University, USDA break ground on new grape research facility
A groundbreaking ceremony was held for a new state-of-the-art USDA grape research facility on the Cornell AgriTech campus, which was hosted by USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life... more »
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