USDA Determination Document Explains Assessment Methods for the Tobacco Transition Payment Program

Randall Weiseman Alabama, Field Crops, Florida, General, Georgia

WASHINGTON, Nov. 18, 2011 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Bruce Nelson announced today that FSA is making available a determination document, also referred to as a statement of position, regarding tobacco payment funding. The document states the current methods used to calculate manufacturer and importer assessments that fund the Tobacco Transition Payment Program …

US Congress Places Restrictions on Implementation of GIPSA Rule

Randall Weiseman Alabama, Cattle, Florida, General, Georgia, Livestock, Poultry

WASHINGTON (Nov. 17, 2011) – Congress voted Nov. 17, 2011, on a $19.8 billion 2012 agricultural spending bill that includes language blocking the U.S. Department of Agriculture from implementing controversial reforms to livestock and poultry marketing. The so-called GIPSA rule, proposed last year by the USDA’s Grain Inspection Packers and Stockyard’s Administration, would have wreaked havoc on the U.S. cattle …

Research Suggests Orange Juice Evokes Positive Emotions

Tacy Callies Citrus, Florida

Americans have been enjoying the great taste of orange juice for decades, and now research suggests they may turn to this refreshing beverage for how it makes them feel. A new study from the Florida Department of Citrus found drinking orange juice actually made participants feel positive, carefree and rejuvenated.

Florida Cattlemen-NCBA Lawsuit against EPA Continues

Randall Weiseman Cattle, Citrus, Florida, General, Livestock, Specialty Crops

While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has given preliminary approval to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s new state rules concerning fresh water quality standards, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Ashley Lyon said EPA has yet to actually accept what the Florida DEP will be doing and thus the Florida Cattlemen’s Association-NCBA lawsuit challenging EPA’s determination letter and final rule establishing …