May 21, 2010, is the deadline for Alabama producers to apply for 2010 funding designed to help agricultural producers transition to more energy efficient operations. For more information visit your local NRCS field office or visit them on the web. Download Audio
AL State Veterinarian on New Livestock Law
House Bill 561, passed and signed into law during the 2010 Alabama Legislative session, deals with livestock care and handling standards in Alabama. Their state veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier said the basis of this new law is the right thing to do. Download Audio
AL to Host Poultry Workshop
A public workshop will be held May 21st at Alabama A&M University in Normal, Alabama as the event will explore competition and regulatory issues in the agriculture industry, focussing on the consolidation and contracting practices of the poultry sector. Download Audio
Accepting Veterinary Program Applications
The new program which addresses veterinary shortages in rural America is now taking applications from those wanting to participate in the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program. Download Audio More than 150 shortage areas have been designated throughout the U.S. and a map of all of those areas and more information is available at www.nifa.usda.gov
Popular School Menu Items Targeted
Some popular items often seen on school lunch menus have been specifically targeted for removal by some of the 801 adults who responded to a poll commissioned by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Download Audio
McDonalds Urging a No Vote on Proposal
The board of Directors for McDonalds is recommending a “no” vote during its next stockholders meeting May 20th on a proposal by PETA that it require its suppliers to switch to controlled-atmosphere killing of chickens within 5 years. Download Audio
Message Backfires
A Governor’s intentions rile some farmers, and Everett Griner tells us just what caused this. Download Audio
Last Call for Public Comments on EPA Nutrient Standards
With the recently released study indicating that the costs of meeting EPA’s proposed numeric water nutrient standards for Florida waters will be significantly higher than federal estimates, Ag Commissioner, Charles Bronson is urging residents and stakeholders to voice their concerns as the public comment period for the proposed rule closes Wednesday, April 28. Written comments can be submitted several ways: …
Good News and Bad News Regarding Food Borne Illnesses
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports good news and bad news in efforts to control illnesses from food borne pathogens. The good news is that efforts to reduce illnesses caused by one of the most dangerous foodborne bacteria, E. coli, appear to be paying off. However, the bad news is, sickness caused by other pathogens is rising. Download …
Stronger than Expected Meat Animal Prices
Cattle, hog, and broiler producers are all seeing higher prices than had been expected. Download Audio