Below you'll find a list of all posts that have been categorized as “Specialty Crops”
Alabama Department of Agriculture Opens 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries has announced that the application period is now open for the 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, providing critical specialty crop funding in Alabama. The program supports projects that strengthen the competitiveness of specialty crops across both domestic and international markets. This …
A Lasting Figure in U.S. Agricultural History Luther Burbank holds a respected place in American agriculture history for his extraordinary contributions to plant development and crop improvement. As highlighted by Mark Oppold in an American Agriculture History Minute, Burbank’s work reshaped farming and horticulture in the United States, leaving a legacy that continues to influence agriculture today. From Limited Schooling …
Michigan agriculture stands as one of the most diverse and productive farming systems in the United States. From fruit and dairy to beans, potatoes, and wine grapes, the state consistently ranks among the nation’s top agricultural producers. This American Agriculture History Minute highlights why Michigan farmers play such a critical role in feeding the country and supporting rural economies. Over …
A Doubtful Beginning for Minnesota Apples In 1860, Minnesota was not considered a place where apples could thrive. That skepticism was famously captured by journalist and editor Horace Greeley, who wrote in the New York Tribune, “I would not live in Minnesota because you can’t grow apples there.” At the time, his assessment reflected a common belief: the state’s short …
USDA Releases Farmer Bridge Assistance Program Payment Rates The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has officially released the long-awaited payment rates for the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program, providing clarity and certainty for producers planning for the 2026 growing season. Announced late last year, the FBA Program delivers $12 billion in total assistance, with $11 billion allocated to row crop …
New Mexico’s Agricultural Significance When most people think of top agricultural states in the U.S., New Mexico might not immediately come to mind. Yet, this southwestern state plays a vital role in the nation’s farming landscape. One of its standout contributions is pecan production, where New Mexico frequently ranks among the largest producers in the country, competing with traditional leaders …
Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner Drops Again, Farm Bureau Says If you enjoyed Thanksgiving dinner yesterday—or are diving into leftovers today—there’s a bit of good news from the American Farm Bureau Federation. The organization has released its annual Thanksgiving dinner survey, showing that the cost of a classic holiday meal has declined for the third consecutive year. A 5% Drop From …
USDA Announces $30 Million Fresh Fruit Purchase to Support Farmers and Food Banks The U.S. agricultural sector is receiving a significant boost with a new USDA initiative aimed at supporting both American farmers and families in need. US Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins revealed that the USDA will purchase $30 million in fresh fruit from domestic producers, supplying food banks …
U.S. Specialty Crop Growers Urge USDA to End Buy American Waivers for School Meals A coalition of agricultural groups representing specialty crop growers and processors has sent a letter to Director Russell Vought of the Office of Management and Budget and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, requesting an end to recent waivers granted under the Buy American requirements for …
Alabama Receives $519,000 in USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Funding The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) has announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded $519,000 to Alabama through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). This funding will support 14 projects designed to enhance the competitiveness, marketing, education, and research of Alabama’s growing specialty crop sector. …
