NOAA Reports Smallest Drought Area Since 2020
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported a sizable drop in drought areas around the U.S.
Farm Bill Odds Growing Longer, Says Analyst
According to University of Illinois Associate Professor Jonathan Coppess, there is little reason for optimism that Congress will pass the new farm bill this year.
2024 Forecasting Predicts Widespread Hurricane Activity
Colorado State University (CSU) hurricane researchers predict the 2024 Atlantic basin hurricane season will be extremely active.
Mexican Fruit Fly Quarantines Spread in Texas Citrus Zones
Mexican Fruit Fly quarantines have expanded in Texas. The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) continue to monitor the situation.
HPAI Now Detected on Ohio Dairy: Strange Bird Flu Concerns See Growth
Ohio became the sixth state where dairy cattle tested positive for HPAI, commonly known as bird flu.
USDA Makes $1.5 Billion Available to Help Farmers Advance Conservation and Climate-Smart Agriculture
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the availability of a historic $1.5 billion in fiscal year 2024 to invest in partner-driven conservation and climate solutions through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).
Dairy Cattle Entry into Nebraska Now Requires Permit Amid HPAI Concerns
The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) issued a restriction on the importation of dairy cattle due to the recent outbreak of HPAI.
All Eight Major Fertilizer Prices Higher
For the fourth week of March 2024, all eight major fertilizer prices are higher compared to last month.
Farmer Sentiment Improves as Interest Rate Expectations Shift
Farmers’ expectations for interest rate changes have shifted, which could explain why producers are looking for financial conditions to improve.
Farmers in Six States Have Started Planting Corn
The USDA says as of March 31, 2% of the 2024 corn crop has been planted in the top 18 corn-growing states.