Deadline Nearing for Input on RCPP Rule

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has been seeking public comments on its interim rule for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), but the deadline to make comments is April 13. RCPP helps partners develop and implement unique conservation solutions that engage farmers, ranchers and forest landowners. The 2018 Farm Bill made it a stand-alone program with its own dedicated …

Crop and Livestock Prices Plunge Under Weight of COVID-19 Uncertainty

(AFBF) — Updated analysis by the American Farm Bureau Federation shows crop and livestock prices falling to levels that threaten the livelihoods of many U.S. farmers and ranchers. Shuttered schools, universities, restaurants, bars and cafeterias are no longer buying milk, meat, fruits, vegetables and other food, causing a downward spiral in crop and livestock prices. Nearby futures prices for nearly …

Florida Watermelon Farmers Face Uncertainty Due to COVID-19

(UF/IFAS) — As fruit and vegetable farmers in South Florida decide what to do with produce once destined for now-closed schools and restaurants, watermelon farmers in North Florida have recently finished planting their crop. Given the uncertainty around the market for fresh produce, the decision to plant came down to economics, said Mark Warren, agriculture agent for UF/IFAS Extension Levy …

Drivers Should Watch For Farmers During Planting Season

(ALFA) — Alabamians are encouraged to stay home during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, farmers are still performing essential work planting crops to feed, fuel and clothe consumers. That means drivers performing essential travel, such as to the grocery store, are sharing the road with more farm machinery. “Springtime means farmers are moving equipment to and from the field as they …

FDACS Agricultural and Seafood Availability Notice

(HCCGA) — FDACS has created the attached form for producers to fill out with their product availability. Once submitted, FDACS will utilize to forward to their Fresh From Florida contacts, as well as the Florida Department of Corrections, food banks and make connections with other State Departments of Agriculture in hopes of providing market opportunities to move product during the Coronavirus …

Senators Seek Flexibility in FSA Loans

(NAFB) — Lawmakers are urging Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to make temporary flexibilities on Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans permanent for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a bipartisan letter signed by farm-state Senators, they urge Perdue to “take action to ensure the continuity of our country’s food supply and support rural areas during the coronavirus.” The senators seek …

NMPF Coronavirus Page Adds Resources for Dairy Employers, Veterinarians

(NMPF) — The National Milk Producers Federation’s (NMPF) coronavirus webpage has added new information for farm employers and employees, as well as guidance for veterinarians, to help the dairy community keep up with evolving government and marketplace responses to coronavirus. Key new documents include: An NMPF/FARM Program-created guidance for farmers if an employee tests positive for COVID-19; NMPF’s two-page “What Farm Employers Need to …

FDA Issues Temporary Policy Relaxing Egg Labeling Requirements

(NAFB) — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is relaxing egg labeling and packaging requirements to meet consumer demands. Generally, egg cartons must include a statement of identity, the name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer or distributor, nutrition labeling, the net quality of contents and safe handling instructions. However, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, consumer …