The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) released its third-quarter pork industry economic update covering the top pork industry issues, current trends, and marketing issues impacting U.S. farmers. Among the biggest takeaways, California’s Prop 12 creates significant challenges and market uncertainty for pig farmers across the country and has far-reaching implications beyond the pork industry. High production costs continue to be a major …
Alabama Cattlemen to Participate in Farm Bill Listening Session
U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville will be in Alabama today and tomorrow (Aug. 1-2) to take part in four farm bill listening sessions across the state. Three will be held today, with the last one taking place Wednesday morning. Alabama Cattlemen’s Association (ACA) Director of Communications and Legislative Affairs, Kayla Greer, says they will be taking part in that event. The listening sessions will …
USDA Extends Application Deadline for Organic Dairy Program
Organic dairy producers have more time to submit applications for the USDA’s Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program (ODMAP). The program was established to help mitigate several factors that have created unique hardships in the organic dairy industry. The funds will assist with projected marketing costs in 2023, calculated using their marketing costs in 2022. “We made that available earlier in …
Florida Rural and Family Lands Protection Program Application Results Released
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) has released the results of 2023 applications for the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program (RFLPP), and Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson is pleased with the response. Landowners from 181 properties, which represents over 200,000 acres, submitted applications to be considered for funding. The program, which partners with farmers and ranchers through conservation easements, is …
GATES Act Aims to Include Larger Farms in Conservation Programs
The Growing Access to Environmental Sustainability (GATES) Act seeks to reduce barriers that producers face in accessing agricultural conservation programs. Congressman John Duarte, a farmer from California, is on the coalition behind the act. He says current adjusted gross income (AGI) limitations of $900,000 disproportionately limit producers with high input costs from participating in certain USDA conservation-focused programs. “That sounds …
Southern Peanut Growers Conference Brings Industry Together
By Clint Thompson The Southern Peanut Growers Conference informed and enlightened attendees at last week’s meeting about what is required for growers to remain sustainable now and into the future. The conference, held at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida, included representatives from the Georgia Peanut Commission, Alabama Peanut Producers Association, Florida Peanut Producers Association and …
Around the State with Commissioner Pate
In this week’s “Around the State with Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture Rick Pate”, the Commissioner invites farmers around the state to attend their upcoming farm bill discussion public hearings. He and U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) are providing an opportunity for those who will be impacted by the farm bill to offer input and voice their concerns. Commissioner, tell us more about …
Supporting the Foreign Animal Disease Prevention Surveillance and Rapid Response Act
Back in May, a bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate called the Animal Disease and Disaster Prevention, Surveillance, and Rapid Response Act of 2023. The legislation is designed to boost resources for programs that help prevent and respond to animal disease outbreaks. That includes the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program and the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures …
Cattle Producers Direct Action on Cell-Cultured Products
Members of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) passed a directive to continue advocating for transparent labeling and inspection of cell-cultured protein products. While NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says cattle producers aren’t afraid of competition, he knows that consumers will continue choosing real high-quality beef over cell-cultured imitations. “Our priority is ensuring that consumers know the difference between real beef and cell-cultured …
Georgia Cotton Commission Hosts Mid-Year Meeting
By Clint Thompson The Georgia Cotton Commission’s first mid-year meeting on Wednesday in Statesboro, Georgia, educated and celebrated with those in attendance. The event at the Nessmith-Lane Conference Center at Georgia Southern University provided growers timely information as they continue to navigate the current growing season. It also celebrated the winners of the Georgia Cotton Quality Awards, which was a …