Specialty crop producers should be aware that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced loan interest rates for July 2023, which became effective on Monday, July 3. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide access to capital to help growers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs. Operating, Ownership and …
USDA Announces July 2023 Lending Rates for Agricultural Producers
WASHINGTON – Specialty crop producers should be aware that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced loan interest rates for July 2023, which became effective on Monday, July 3. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide access to capital to help growers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs. Operating, …
Chilean Ag Trade Mission Application Deadline is July 5
The deadline is here for agribusinesses, commodity organizations and specialty crop groups interested in applying for an upcoming agricultural trade mission trip to Chile. Wednesday, July 5 is the final day for applications from anyone wanting to apply with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to be a part of its agricultural trade mission to Chile scheduled for late September. …
Incorporating Grilled Vegetables in July 4 Cookouts
This July 4 should not just be about grilling hamburgers and hot dogs. Vegetables can work just fine on the outdoor grill, says Sandy Proctor, Extension food expert with Kansas State University. She discussed the idea of cooking fresh veggies this holiday season. “I think grilled vegetables are really an opportunity to show what you can do on the grill …
USDA Provides Significant Support for American Producers, School Meal Providers and Emergency Food Operations
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the Biden-Harris Administration is providing $2.7 billion to support American farmers, students who participate in school meal programs, and emergency food operations. Through the USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation, the Department will provide nearly $1.3 billion for states to purchase foods to be distributed to schools for their meal programs and nearly $1 billion for …
USDA AMS Increasing Rates for Specialty Crop Audits
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announced the 2023/2024 rates it will charge for voluntary grading, inspection, certification, auditing and laboratory services for various agricultural commodities, including fruits and vegetables, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture The rates for regular, overtime, holiday and laboratory services will be applied at the beginning of the crop year, fiscal year or as required …
USDA Leads Trade Mission to Japan
A country known for its many purchases of U.S. agricultural products could soon become a greater buyer following an agricultural trade mission (ATM). Under Secretary of Agriculture for Trade Alexis Taylor brought almost 40 U.S. food companies and commodity groups to Japan in hopes of boosting farm and food exports to the country. “I heard a lot of real positive …
Agricultural Trade Mission to Japan
A country known for its many purchases of U.S. agricultural products could soon become a greater buyer following an agricultural trade mission (ATM). Under Secretary of Agriculture for Trade Alexis Taylor brought almost 40 U.S. food companies and commodity groups to Japan in hopes of boosting farm and food exports to the country. “I heard a lot of real positive …
Block Grant Assistance Act Passes
Rep. Scott Franklin (FL-18) announced the House of Representatives passed the Block Grant Assistance Act on June 12. This critical bill provides needed authority for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to issue block grants to growers devastated by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole. It now heads to the Senate for consideration. Those supporting the Block Grant Assistance Act include Florida Commissioner of …
USDA Assisting Small Businesses and Individuals in Identifying Procurement Opportunities
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the release of a tool to assist industry and small disadvantaged entities in identifying potential opportunities for selling their products and services to USDA. USDA’s Procurement Forecast lists the types of anticipated solicitations that small businesses, small disadvantaged businesses, women-owned businesses, HUBZone businesses, service-disabled veterans, and other businesses may be able to participate …