Global Food Prices Reported Lower

Global food prices dropped in October, led by lower dairy products. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization’s monthly Food Price Index averaged 176.4 points for the month of October, down 1.3 percent from September, while still up 2.5 percent from a year earlier. The Index is a measure of the monthly change in international prices of a basket of …

John Deere to Supply Tractors in Cuba

In an agreement signed last week, John Deere is expected to be the first direct sale of U.S. machinery to Cuba in more than half a century. An agreement signed at the Havana Fair last week between John Deere executives and Cuba calls for the shipment of “several hundred tractors and associated implements” over a four-year period. Farm Equipment Magazine …

Northey Comments on Nomination Delay

Department of Agriculture nominee Bill Northey says he expects the hold on his nomination will be resolved, but in the meantime, is fulfilling his duties in Iowa. During a speech last week in Iowa, Northey said he’s not bothered by his current situation, adding that “until that political skirmish is settled, my days are, for the most part, consumed with …

TPP Deal Expected This Week

The remaining 11 Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) countries plan to remove the Gross Domestic Product requirements to allow the deal to move forward without the United States this week. The Japan News reports that with the United States abandoning the accord, negotiators appear hopeful that changing the conditions will allow the remaining 11 nations to quickly implement a new pact. A …

GAO to Investigate Pruitt NCBA Videos

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) will investigate an appearance by Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt in a video by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Pruitt appeared earlier this year in a promotional video against the EPA Waters of the U.S. rule. In the video, Pruitt called for public comments in favor of repealing the rule. The GAO has been …

Agri View: Ocean Aquaculture

Everett Griner talks about ocean aquaculture in today’s Agri View. Everett talks about some of the benefits of producing food in the ocean, and, ponders the question if the ocean can produce any food other than fish?   Sponsored ContentCIR Agriculture Harvester ProductsJuly 1, 2026FL Cattle Enhancement Board Wraps up Funding YearJune 30, 2026Florida Cattle Enhancement Board Awarded Researcher Discusses …

USDA to Re-engage Stakeholders on Revisions to Biotechnology Regulations

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced it is withdrawing a proposed rule to revise the Agency’s biotechnology regulations and will re-engage with stakeholders to determine the most effective, science-based approach for regulating the products of modern biotechnology while protecting plant health. “It’s critical that our regulatory requirements foster public confidence and empower …

ASTA Supports USDA Action

Calls for Clarity on Plant Breeding Innovation Policy The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced it was withdrawing its proposed rule to revise and update the agency’s biotechnology regulations for the purpose of soliciting additional stakeholder input. The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) is encouraged that USDA is taking steps to consider …

Enrollment Underway for ARC, PLC

Farmers and ranchers with base acres in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) safety net program are being reminded enrollment for the 2018 crop year is underway. Tyron Spearman has the details.   Sponsored ContentCIR Agriculture Harvester ProductsJuly 1, 2026FL Cattle Enhancement Board Wraps up Funding YearJune 30, 2026Florida Cattle Enhancement Board Awarded Researcher Discusses New …