As it becomes more expensive to ship produce far distances, farmers all over the country are re-discovering how valuable local markets for fresh farm products can be, both for the farmers and consumers. Florida is the fourth most populous state in the nation, yet it remains a top ten state in ag production. This story from USDA explores the trend …
HCCGA Outgoing President Barben on Challenges, Highlights
Highlands County Citrus Growers Association (HCCGA) held its annual banquet Thursday evening in Sebring, at which Southeast AgNet’s Ernie Neff spoke briefly with outgoing HCCGA President Bobby Barben (photo) about the highlights of his tenure and the challenges left on the plate. Hear his comments in these reports.
U S Cattle on Feed Down 6 Percent
USDA NASS released their monthly Cattle on Feed report this afternoon which shows on-feed numbers in the U.S. are down six percent from last year at this time. To read more of the report click Here
A Single Federal Food Safety Agency
With the recent Salmonella scare ongoing, there is the familiar call for a single Federal Food Safety Agency instead of the Agriculture Department handling meat and poultry and the FDA overseeing the remainder. However, up till now every Secretary of Agriculture for the past 30 years has rejected that notion. That is until Secretary Vilsack had these comments.
Uses for the Census
According to Joe Prusacki of USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, one of the unique features of the recent 2007 Census of Agriculture is its ability to be customized by its users. USDA NASS
Sugar Production in FL Down, Dynamics of Sugar Market Changing
Florida sugar production is shorter than earlier expected, and coupled with the changes in values of the Mexican peso, the dynamics of the sugar market are changing. Hear more about it in this report from USDA radio.
COOL Review Concerns Cattlemen
USDA’s Country of Origin Labeling final rule is in the middle of a 60-day review something that Colin Woodall, Executive Director of Legislative Affairs for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, said concerns them.
No Change to Peanut Posted Price
Tyron Spearman has this weeks peanut posted price information.
Feeding Low Income Families
The Government program has a new name. Everett Griner tells us what this is.
Farm Bureau to Hold Hazmat Regulations Meeting
There has been quite of bit of discussion lately regarding the interpretation and enforcement of hazardous materials regulations and Dan Buchanan, Florida Farm Bureau’s Assistant Director of Field Services for District II, says that their will be a meeting at the Madison County Extension office Tuesday, February 24 at 6:00 where farmers can voice their opinions.