Concerns about increased stress and mental health problems in rural America have prompted various farm organizations to develop resources and programs to address this issue. Rod Bain has more details. Those interested are encouraged to learn more about the campaigns from the American Farm Bureau Federation and from the National Farmers Union. Sponsored ContentFlorida Cattle Industry Supports Administration of Florida Cattle Enhancement BoardJanuary …
A Cowboy’s Christmas Prayer
As we celebrate Christmas this year, Southeast AgNet’s Randall Weiseman brings back an old favorite, “A Cowboy’s Christmas Prayer” written by S. Omar Barker. A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS PRAYERby S. Omar Barker (1895-1985) I ain’t much good at prayin’,and You may not know me, Lord —For I ain’t much seen in churches,where they preach Thy Holy Word.But you may have observed …
2022 National Ag Day Activities Announced
The Agriculture Council of America has announced that National Agriculture Day will be held on March 22, 2022. This will mark the 49th anniversary of National Ag Day, which is celebrated in classrooms and communities across the country. The theme for National Ag Day 2022 is “Growing a Climate for Tomorrow.” On March 22, 2022, ACA will host a virtual …
Deadline Extended to Apply for Pandemic Support for Organic Operations
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) this week announced they have extended the deadline for agricultural producers who are certified organic, or transitioning to organic, to apply for the Organic and Transitional Education and Certification Program (OTECP). The deadline to apply for 2020 and 2021 eligible expenses was Jan. 7, 2022 but it’s been extended to Feb. 4, 2022. OTECP …
Best Uses for Using Oranges this Holiday Season
Some of the best uses for using Oranges this holiday season. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. Oranges are not only a great stocking stuffer, this traditional Christmas fruit can be used for Marmalade, candles, and so much more. Rather than throwing those orange peels away, they can be candied and dipped into a little chocolate sauce to make a …
Unique and Tasty Veggie to Consider Growing
A unique and tasty veggie you may want to consider growing in your garden. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. If you want something special that isn’t fussy in the garden, try growing common ice plant. It’s one of those veggies that chefs love because it makes a unique addition to the restaurant menu. Also known as salty …
Florida Farmers Grapple with Transportation Problems
(TALLAHASSEE/NSF/Dec. 2, 2021) — While global supply chain issues are reportedly easing, Florida farmers told lawmakers Thursday that perishable items with short shelf lives continue to struggle in being moved from fields to markets. During a meeting of the Senate Agriculture Committee, growers said the industry faces transportation and labor shortages in getting products out of the ground and to …
International Marketing Efforts for Florida Citrus
The Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC) described its 2020-21 international marketing efforts at last month’s meeting of the Florida Citrus Commission, which governs the FDOC. Katie Bruce, international marketing manager, discussed the FDOC’s past-year programs in the United Kingdom (UK), France, Japan, South Korea and Canada for fresh grapefruit and orange juice. Bruce also presented an overview of preliminary 2021-22 plans. UNITED …
Agricultural Guestworkers, the Pandemic, and Vaccinations
We’ve all heard stories of how disruptive the impacts of COVID-19 have been on the U.S. agricultural system. While they have been broad and varied, the pandemic has been a big issue when it comes to ag labor. As Rod Bain reports, farm guestworkers and their employers have really been impacted by COVID-19 pandemic, especially when it comes to vaccination …
Pandemic Assistance Heading to Poultry, Livestock Contract Producers
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Thursday they are starting to issue some $270 million in payments to contract producers of eligible livestock and poultry who applied for Pandemic Assistance. Earlier this year, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) identified gaps in assistance including in the initial proposal to assist contract growers. “We listened to feedback from producers and stakeholders about impacts …