specialty crop

USDA Awards $25 Million to Support Specialty Crop Exports

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced over $25 million in funding for eight projects under its new Assisting Specialty Crop Exports (ASCE) initiative. The program, launched in January 2024, aims to reduce non-tariff trade barriers for U.S. specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and horticultural products. USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Alexis M. …

Alabama Cattlemen’s Foundation

Alabama Cattlemen’s Foundation Collecting Fencing Materials for Cattle Producers in North Carolina, Florida and Georgia

(ACA/MONTGOMERY, AL/Oct. 10, 21024) — The Alabama Cattlemen’s Foundation (ACF) is hosting a relief effort benefitting cattle producers in North Carolina, Florida and Georgia affected by recent hurricanes. In coordination with the North Carolina Cattlemen’s Association, the Florida Cattlemen’s Association and the Georgia Cattlemen’s Association, the effort will focus on collecting fencing materials and monetary donations. The donation window is …

usda

Alabama Farmers Helping Farmers Affected by Hurricane Helene

(ADAI/Montgomery, AL/Oct. 9, 2024) — The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) is working to assist farmers who suffered catastrophic losses caused by Hurricane Helene. Torrential rains, exceeding many rainfall records, devasted crops, livestock operations and infrastructure. “We know it will take a long time for these farmers to recover,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate. “Alabama …

programs

International Development Through USDA Programs

Two programs offered by USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service provide resources for global development focus areas such as nutrition, education, and self-sufficiency. Rod Bain has more. Sponsored ContentCIR Agriculture Harvester ProductsJuly 1, 2026FL Cattle Enhancement Board Wraps up Funding YearJune 30, 2026Florida Cattle Enhancement Board Awarded Researcher Discusses New World Screwworm OverviewJune 19, 2026Verdant Robotics Offers Growers Targeted Application of Herbicides …

nacd

NACD Launches 2025 Friends of NACD District Grants Program

The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) has opened the application period for its 2025 Friends of NACD District Grants Program. This year, NACD has partnered with Scotts Miracle-Gro to offer the sixth round of funding for this initiative. The program aims to support innovative projects by providing grants of up to $2,500 for top-ranking applicants. The Friends of NACD …

WOTUS rule

NCBA Shares Hurricane Helene Disaster Resources

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is sharing updated information about disaster relief programs available to cattle producers impacted by hurricanes – and opportunities to support disaster recovery through NCBA state affiliates.  NCBA President Mark Eisele encourages producers to utilize the relief programs available through USDA and contact NCBA if you encounter any challenges or need assistance.  Sign up begins Oct. 15, …

NFU Leaders Work to Advance Sustainable Food Systems and Global Cooperation

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew joined leaders from G7 farmers’ organizations in Sicily to stress the critical role farmers play in creating sustainable food systems. The joint declaration, supported by organizations from Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, the UK, and the World Farmers Organization, calls for greater investment in sustainable, resilient, and competitive farming. Larew emphasized the importance …

nutrition security

Food System Leaders Urge for Continued Nutrition Security Funding

At the 2024 National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) Annual Meeting, three experts called for increased support for nutrition security programs. The discussion focused on integrating local and regional food systems into these initiatives. Mark Nicholson of the Alliance for National Nutrition Incentives emphasized the success of the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP). From September 2022 to …

National Cooperative Month

National Cooperative Month

Many agricultural producers are familiar with the importance of their local coop. And Mark Oppold notes the role they play during National Cooperative Month. Sponsored ContentCIR Agriculture Harvester ProductsJuly 1, 2026FL Cattle Enhancement Board Wraps up Funding YearJune 30, 2026Florida Cattle Enhancement Board Awarded Researcher Discusses New World Screwworm OverviewJune 19, 2026Verdant Robotics Offers Growers Targeted Application of Herbicides or Beneficials …