Sat.Nov 30, 2024 - Fri.Dec 06, 2024

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USDA’s 10-year wheat projections

Western FarmPress

The USDA projects wheat production costs to average slightly below 2024 wheat production costs. A review of production costs for the last 10 years shows that per acre costs will vary more than USDA’s estimate.

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AI model becomes a PhD assistant in your pocket

Real Agriculture

Google and ChatGPT have been giving farmers the answers to many of their agronomy questions for a while now. Artificial intelligence (AI) programs such as ChatGPT use information that is publicly available on the internet to answer questions that are typed into the prompt. The better the prompt, the better answers a person is likely… Read More Google and ChatGPT have been giving farmers the answers to many of their agronomy questions for a while now.

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Weekend reading: FAO’s Statistical Yearbook 2024

Food Politics

Heres the announcement: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) today launched its 2024 Statistical Yearbook , offering an in-depth overview of the most significant trends shaping global agrifood systems. This years edition highlights critical challenges, including increased temperatures over land, the ongoing global struggle with food insecurity alongside increasing obesity rates, and the environmental pressures faced by agricultural production.

Pesticide 242
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A Black-Led Agricultural Community Takes Shape in Maryland

Civil Eats

Since 2012, Gail Taylor has built healthy soil, provided hundreds of local families with fresh tomatoes and turnips, and fostered community on less than an acre at Three Part Harmony Farm in northeast Washington, D.C. Along the way, she’s blazed a trail and spearheaded legislation to enable other urban farmers in D.C. to follow. And she’s done it all with a sense that—at any moment—it could all be over.

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Arla and the methane reducing feed additive

Sustainable Food Trust

Having effectively severed what should be an umbilical relationship between cows and the land they graze, Arla have now resorted to feed additives to maintain positive PR for their dairy farming industry. I have been asked what I think about Arla’s feed additive, Bovaer, which apparently has the potential to reduce methane emissions from dairy cows by up to 30%.

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Wheat School: Drought mitigation starts long before a drought hits

Real Agriculture

Weather is one of the many, but main, factors that determines yield outcomes at harvest. It’s also a factor that is completely beyond a grower’s control. Or is it? While farmers can’t make the rain fall or the sun shine, there are plenty of things that can be done to mitigate the stress that a… Read More Weather is one of the many, but main, factors that determines yield outcomes at harvest.

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Conflict of interest of the week: USDA and (lack of) control of bird flu

Food Politics

[Apologies for sending this out yesterday (in error). I’ve added a few things.] Such an odd time we live in, with politics making increasingly strange bedfellows, this time with the American Council on Science and Health, an industry front group if there ever was one. Yet here it is with two articles on the looming threat of bird flu. USDA’s Dereliction in Containing Bird Flu Could Cause Calamitous Pandemic (Part 1) An inherent conflict of interest – USDA both regulating and promoting livestoc

Livestock 189

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EKDLG Fellow Serves as Role Model for Hispanic STEM Students

USDA Blog

Blanca Acevedo is the director of Grants Administration at Malcolm X College, part of the City College of Chicago. She plays an important role in creating and enhancing academic opportunities for low-income and Latino students pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). In 2023, she was honored as a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) E.

Science 145
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The Agronomists, Ep 176: Managing the people part of agronomy with Ken Currah and Mike Palmier

Real Agriculture

Being an agronomist means knowing about plants, diseases, soil, and insects, but it also requires the ability to navigate difficult conversations, earn trust, and drive change. The people part of the agronomy equation is the topic of this episode of The Agronomists. Here to talk about personality differences, clear communication, and patience with people is… Read More Being an agronomist means knowing about plants, diseases, soil, and insects, but it also requires the ability to navigate difficu

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Finding Farmland For Your Farm

Farmbrite

There's a lot that goes into farming and there's a lot to think about before buying land for your farm. Finding the best farmland for your new farm involves several key steps to ensure you choose a location that meets your needs and goals. In this article, we're going to cover some ways to find farmland, questions to ask when at a potential farm location, and other tips and tricks.

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Investor Coalition Advocates for Food Policy Transformation

Food Tank

The Food Foundation’s Investor Coalition on Food Policy is working the power of investors to engage with policymakers on issues related to food systems in the United Kingdom. The Coalition allows investors to engage with policymakers on food policy issues, supporting regulations that will lead to a healthy, sustainable, and affordable food system.

Food 119
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Census of Agriculture Reveals the Promise of Regional Food Systems

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

Joshua Cave, Cave Family Farm in Pilot Mountain, North Carolina. Photo credit: USDA The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has promoted the sale of foods locally for over two decades via business and community investments made by Value-Added Producer Grants , Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Grants , and most recently Regional Food System Partnership grants.

Food 105
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Deere demonstrates how automation can improve harvest efficiency

Real Agriculture

Farmers got their first look at new John Deere predictive ground speed automation harvesting technology this fall and they like what they’ve seen, reports Bergen Nelson, Deere’s go-to-market manager for harvesting equipment. Earlier this year, the company rolled out both predictive ground speed automation and harvest settings automation on its model year 2025 S7 combines….

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This Holiday Season, Choose a Gift that Supports a Farmer

Modern Farmer

In many cultures around the world, the winter season offers an abundance of occasions to gather, celebrate, and demonstrate gratitude or affection. While the act of gift giving is often viewed as an interaction between two people (the giver and the receiver), it’s also an opportunity to have a much broader, lasting impact. Purchasing a present is not only a chance to care for our loved ones; it can also support our communities, sustain businesses that share our values, and advocate for healthy e

Farming 88
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Friedman School’s Transformation: Advancing Equity and Impact in Nutrition

Food Tank

The Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University is undergoing a strategic transformation. Centered around the principles of equity and impact, the changes aim to make nutrition education more accessible, further research addressing current global issues, and broaden the schools reach. High-quality, evidence-based, equitable nutrition information is more critical now than ever, Christina Economos, Dean of the Friedman School, tells Food Tank.

Science 91
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Project Coordinator – Regenerative Agriculture Lab

RR2CS

Rural Routes to Climate Solutions (RR2CS) is an Alberta-based initiative shining a spotlight on the climate solutions that farmers, ranchers and communities in rural Alberta can benefit from. RR2CS is happy to announce that we are seeking a Regenerative Agriculture Lab (RAL) Coordinator to join our great team of individuals who are working together to support our Regenerative Agriculture Lab (RAL).

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Wheat Pete’s Word, Dec 4: A winter wallop, too-big canola, phosphorus availability, and killing oats

Real Agriculture

Wasn’t that a snowstorm? Well, depending on where you are in Ontario, it either was the most snow in one storm in years or hardly a flake fell. The onset of winter is the onset of learning season, but it’s always the learning season here on Wheat Pete’s Word. In this week’s podcast, settle in… Read More Wasn’t that a snowstorm? Well, depending on where you are in Ontario, it either was the most snow in one storm in years or hardly a flake fell.

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Why Are Family Farms in Trouble?

Modern Farmer

Agriculture was once a cornerstone of the American way of life. Farmers helped build the country, and most of us depended on their products for the food we eat. But times have changed. Americans now eat fast food one to three times a week on average. Between 1998 and 2023, our reliance on imported food has tripled. Because farming is so central to our nation’s identity—and its idea of itself—this future can feel fraught.

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EARTH University Aims to Increase Impact and Improve Global Food Systems through Nature-Positive Strategy

Food Tank

This is the third part of a series exploring the work of EARTH University as they provide resources and support to future food systems leaders. Read parts one and two. EARTH University in Costa Rica is using its long-term vision, EARTHShot, to expand the institution’s role in developing nature-positive, socially equitable agricultural systems. To achieve this mission, they recently launched a multi-year strategy through 2027 that is guided by the U.N.

Food 98
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Surviving hay shortages: Ways for a successful winter

West Texas Livestock

As winter sets in, the role of hay in keeping our livestock well-fed and healthy becomes paramount. Hay, a staple and cost-effective feed, steps in to provide the necessary nutrients when pasture grass is not an option. This year, however, the hay supply is tight across the country, prompting us to think strategically about how […] The post Surviving hay shortages: Ways for a successful winter appeared first on West Texas Livestock Growers.

Pasture 97
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Beef Market Update: Christmas markets, annual reflections, and a jump in carcass weights

Real Agriculture

The Christmas holidays are almost upon us and while Christmas markets may be busy with shoppers looking for the perfect gift in the coming weeks, the cattle markets have started to slow down in the U.S., as a lot of the buying has been done for the season. Now that we have hit December its Read More The Christmas holidays are almost upon us and while Christmas markets may be busy with shoppers looking for the perfect gift in the coming weeks, the cattle markets have started to slow down in the U

Marketing 264
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Can ecotourism help promote cultural diversity and biodiversity?

Berkeley Blog

A new UC Berkeley-led study integrates biology, anthropology, music and geography to map the places in Colombia where biodiversity and cultural diversity overlap, highlighting areas with the greatest potential for sustainable ecotourism development. The post Can ecotourism help promote cultural diversity and biodiversity? appeared first on Berkeley News.

Science 78
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Complete Practical Guide on Guava Farming

Agric4profits

Guava is a tropical fruit that thrives in warm climates and is highly valued for its sweet flavor and nutritional benefits. It is a versatile crop, grown for fresh consumption, processing, and value-added products. This fruit is rich in vitamins A and C, making it a popular choice for promoting health and immunity.

Farming 64
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Farm Income Continues to Fall

Agwired

The USDA Economic Research Service 2024 Farm Sector Income Forecast shows farm income is down again this year, but not as much as it was last year. While the report compares different measures of farm income, the bottom line is that, adjusted for inflation, net farm income is forecast to decrease by $9.5 billion (6.3 percent) from 2023 to 2024. Net cash farm income is forecast to decrease by $5.7 billion (3.5 percent).

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Edible Bean School: Genetics and markets drive kidney bean opportunity

Real Agriculture

Better seed genetics and strong market prices are putting kidney beans on the radar for an increasing number of edible bean growers in Ontario. On this episode of RealAgricultures Edible Bean School, Hensall Co-op origination manager Wade Bickell looks at the evolution of kidneys and how two new varieties, Dynasty and Gallantry, have helped fuel Read More Better seed genetics and strong market prices are putting kidney beans on the radar for an increasing number of edible bean growers in Ontario

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Chilli black thrips outbreak: supporting Indian farmers to protect crops sustainably

CABI

Outbreaks of Thrips parvispinus, commonly known as chilli black thrips or Southeast Asian thrips, are causing challenges for smallholder farmers in India. These tiny, dark-coloured invasive pests are responsible for considerable economic losses, particularly for growers who rely on chilli crops as a primary source of income. Chilli black thrips are notorious for their aggressive… The post Chilli black thrips outbreak: supporting Indian farmers to protect crops sustainably appeared first on

Crop 59
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Complete Practical Guide on Grapefruit Farming

Agric4profits

Grapefruit farming is a profitable agricultural venture, known for its fresh and tangy fruits rich in vitamins and antioxidants. The global demand for grapefruit has grown due to its health benefits, making it a valuable crop for farmers. Grapefruit farming involves growing the grapefruit tree, a subtropical citrus species.

Farming 59
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Beacon Farms: Inspiration through practice on farms  

Sustainable Food Trust

We are delighted to share an update from our Beacon Farms Network, which brings together sustainable farms acting as educational platforms to inform and inspire people about the story behind their food. Our CEO, Patrick Holden, explains the origins of the network and why on-farm ‘seeing is believing’ experiences can be so transformative. In July 2024, the Sustainable Food Trust hosted an event at Bwlchwernen Fawr marking the launch of a network of Beacon Farms.

Farming 59
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Grain markets trying to work through the wrong kind of uncertainty

Real Agriculture

The grain market doldrums arent a demand problem, but a production problem but that production success is cold comfort for farmers looking for a bump in crop prices to reward those extra bushels, says Jody Lawrence, founder of Strategic Trading Advisors. Farmers are and should be very proud of the great work theyve done Read More The grain market doldrums arent a demand problem, but a production problem but that production success is cold comfort for farmers looking for a bump in crop prices t

Grain 254
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DTN Forecast System: Precision Weather Intel for Smart Decisions

DTN

The DTN Forecast System delivers unparalleled weather forecast accuracy through advanced modeling, machine learning, and blending techniques. It provides real-time updates and customizable alerts to help businesses stay ahead of changing conditions. With industry-specific insights across over 280 parameters, DTN transforms raw weather data into actionable intelligence tailored to operational needs.

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Complete Practical Guide on Currants Farming

Agric4profits

Currants farming involves the cultivation of currant shrubs for fruit production. These plants thrive in cool climates with well-drained soil. Farmers must manage their crops carefully, ensuring proper soil health, pest control, and pruning for optimal yield. The demand for currants has grown in recent years due to their health benefits.

Pruning 59
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Sowing impact: Latest crop of LAMP awards continue to bolster farm economies

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition

Photo Credit: USDA The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced $33.5 million in awards that will strengthen and improve access to local and regional food markets by investing in a diverse range of businesses, organizations, markets, and communities. This latest announcement of funds for 113 projects across 43 states is a part of the Agricultural Marketing Service’s Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) and is funded by a combination of mandatory funds from the farm bill and annu

Farming 52
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Geringhoff draper head designed to float “over the ocean”

Real Agriculture

No two pieces of land are the same. Geringhoff had this in mind when they designed the XtremeFlex Razor (XFR) Draper Head. As Lucas Haas of Geringhoff says in this interview from Agri-Trade at Red Deer, the XFR Draper Head was engineered in Germany with the North American market in mind. The head works on… Read More No two pieces of land are the same.

Marketing 270
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FP Next: What do farmers think about climate change?

Western FarmPress

Ep. 30: Southwest Farm Press editor and Texas farmer Shelley Huguley talks water availability, resiliency, changing farm practices and her farmer perspective on climate change in this Shop Talk episode.

Farming 130
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Complete Practical Guide on Apple Farming

Agric4profits

Apple farming involves the cultivation of apple trees for the production of fruits. It is a profitable venture that requires knowledge of soil conditions, climate, and proper care techniques to achieve high-quality yields. Apple farming thrives in temperate climates where winters are cold enough to allow the trees to enter dormancy.

Farming 59
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Advancing Organic Agriculture: Sharing Fire Blight Research with Rep. DeLauro’s Office

Organic Farming Research

Dr. Quan Zeng is a plant pathologist, focusing on bacterial plant pathogens, specifically Erwinia amylovora, the cause of fire blight. Federal funding for organic agricultural research is crucial to continue this type of research, which equips farmers with solutions to production challenges that threaten their economic viability. The post Advancing Organic Agriculture: Sharing Fire Blight Research with Rep.

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RealAg Shops, Ep 7: Inside the Kadylack Farm shop with Steve Terpstra

Real Agriculture

When you hear the name Kadylack Farm you may think that Atwood, Ont., farmers Steve Terpstra and his fiancee Dianne De Jong spend their time cruising around in a big automobile. But as it turns out, the farm name is more about family than fancy cars. As Terpstra explains in our latest episode of RealAg… Read More When you hear the name Kadylack Farm you may think that Atwood, Ont., farmers Steve Terpstra and his fiancee Dianne De Jong spend their time cruising around in a big automobile.

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