In this report, USDA Radio’s Gary Crawford (photo) talks with Meteorologist Brad Rippey about the potential for an El Nino weather pattern to develop, and if it does, what the impacts on various areas of the U S may be.
Preventing Nutrient Loss
Growers are well aware that Nitrogen is a vital component to the success of many crops but Dave Schwartz, national products manager for SFP, says each year growers lose up to 50 percent of the applied nutrient.
Immigration Legislation Important to FL Agriculture
As a light on an immigration bill flickers to life, Florida Farm Bureau Assistant Director of Agricultural Policy, Joshua Craft, says immigration and labor are top priorities to the state of Florida.
FL NRCS Organic Deadline Approaching
Florida Natural Resources Conservation Service extended sign up for the new Organic Initiative is coming up on June 12, 2009. The 2009 Organic Initiative is a nationwide special initiative to provide financial assistance to National Organic Program (NOP) certified organic producers as well as producers in the process of transitioning to organic production.
Purpose of Organic Survey
Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan explains the purpose behind USDA’s first ever organic production survey.
Predatory Mite Found to Control Chilli Thrips
Chilli thrips threaten many of the Sunshine State’s most important crops, but University of Florida research shows a predatory mite that could help Florida growers with the invasive pest.
Good Food Garden
USDA has joined forces with the non profit organization Share Our Strength and the Food Network to bring healthy and fresh foods to children in underserved communities.
Growth of Farmer’s Markets
The number of farmer’s markets in the US has grown by seven percent in the last two years. If your interested in finding a farmers market in your area, The Florida Department of Agriculture has a list of local markets.
Tomato Viruses
In these two reports we look at Tomatoes and two separate issues that are currently affecting them.
Food Safety Legislation Proposed
In the latest attempt to move all-encompassing food safety legislation, the House Energy and Commerce Committee proposed a bill that would give the Food and Drug Administration new enforcement tools.