Here’s this week’s 04-16-10 edition of Florida Farm Bureau’s Ag Watch (pdf file) from the FFB Legislative office in Tallahassee.
Vet Shortage
Farm animal vets are still scarce, but there may be changes coming. How will it help? Everett Griner talks on it today. Download Audio
USDA Designates 11 Counties in Florida as Primary Natural Disaster Areas
WASHINGTON, April 15, 2010 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated 11 counties in Florida as primary natural disaster areas due to losses caused by excessive rainfall that occurred from Nov. 11, through Dec. 23, 2009. Download Audio
Supporters Outnumber Opponents at Additional EPA Nutrient Hearings
Supporters have turned out in force for the additional three EPA water hearings on the proposed nutrient standards for the state’s waterways. But it is not too late to be heard as the agency is also taking written comments through April 28. Visit the EPA’s Water Quality Standards website for instructions on how to submit your comments. Download Audio
USDA Extends ELAP Sign-Up
USDA announced today it will accept applications for the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program for losses that took place in calendar years 2008 and 2009. Download Audio For more information or to apply for ELAP visit your FSA county office or fsa.usda.gov
Supporting Permanent Estate Tax
There is a coalition of national organizations representing family farmers and ranchers which have come together to support permanent estate tax reform. Download Audio
New Climate Change Bill Expected in Senate Soon
Bipartisan climate change legislation is expected to be introduced in the Senate next week – on or around Earth Day. But American Farm Bureau’s Rick Krause says passage is still viewed as an uphill battle. Download Audio
AL Legislative Session Winding Down
The Alabama legislative session is set to wrap up next week, as Dr. Billy Powell with the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association has an update on what bills those in agriculture are still working on. Download Audio
FL Cattlewomen Promoting Beef
Jan Dillard, President of the Florida Cattlewomen’s Association, said they work hard at promoting beef across the state in many different ways. Download Audio
GA Beef to be at Cooking Show
The Georgia Beef Board’s Ashley Hughes talks about their involvement in this year’s Metropolitan Cooking and Entertainment Show in Atlanta. Download Audio