USDA working to address farmer challenges

USDA is taking steps to address two major challenges facing farmers. Deputy Ag Secretary Xochitl Torres Small tells Brownfield high input costs and a lack of available workers continue to cause problems. “The USDA has been working hard on both of those fronts. So we have the fertilizer program where we’re investing in domestic production…… Continue Reading

Illinois ag pest survey sees pockets of pressure

The coordinator of the Illinois Cooperative Agriculture Pest Survey (CAPS) says this summer’s preliminary results show pockets of insect pressure. Kelly Estes and her team of students have been sampling random fields across the state for a variety of insects, especially western corn rootworm. “Overall, I think the trend again with western corn rootworms is…… Continue Reading

The stigma surrounding food insecurity programs

One in five children in the U.S. are food insecure.  In 2022, one in six people relied on food assistance programs – which includes the use of food banks or charitable donations.  Jonathan Toms with Smithfield Foods says there is a misconception from the general public. Smithfield Foods has made significant contributions to address food…… Continue Reading

Urban 4-H membership increases

A 4-H leader says the organization has seen a rise in members from urban areas. Emily Saveraid, executive director of the Iowa 4-H Foundation, says program expansion has helped attract a newer audience. “Our roots are in agriculture, and certainly our county fairs and livestock programs are very strong,” she said. “But we’re seeing more…… Continue Reading

Grassley continues push for Prop 12 solution

U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley says the next farm bill needs to include a provision that would push back against California’s Proposition 12 law. “The House Agriculture Committee has it in the House five-year farm bill,” he said. “The Senate, it seems to me it’s going to be difficult for us to get it through committee.”…… Continue Reading

UNL climatologist assesses current crop conditions

A climatologist says growing conditions have been favorable across most areas of the Corn Belt. “Generally speaking, most of the Corn Belt has remained drought-free for the entire summer,” said Eric Hunt with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Hunt says precipitation has been above average the last 90 days in several key U.S. growing states. “We…… Continue Reading

K-State College of Ag progressing on facilities overhaul

The dean of the Kansas State College of Agriculture says the new Global Center for Grain and Food Innovation will be a hub for research in food safety and security. Ernie Minton tells Brownfield… “We need to advance our capabilities in food production, safe food processing, etcetera, to keep a stable, safe, affordable food supply…… Continue Reading

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