Friday, October 30, 2015

Organic administrator faces backlash. Ag Minute for Oct. 30, 2015


Many organic groups that once praised USDA deputy administrator Miles McEvoy are now fighting his policies in federal court. Click here for full story.

Thursday, October 29, 2015

New Christmas tree checkoff prepares for fee collection. Ag minute for Oct. 29, 2015


Assessments will be collected on Christmas trees for the first time after the 2015 harvest to fund a checkoff program to promote the crop. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Stink bug may meet its match in tiny wasp. Ag Minute Oct. 28, 2015


The spread of a non-stinging Asian wasp has U.S. scientists hopeful that it could control the crop-destroying brown marmorated stink bug. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Grant will help researchers identify insects causing zebra chip. Ag Minute Oct 27. 2015


Washington State University researcher Bill Snyder has received a $2.7 million grant to research which psyllids may be causing zebra chip. Click here for full story.

Monday, October 26, 2015

Industry responds to ‘Toxic Taters’ campaign. Ag Minute for Oct. 26th


A group calling itself Toxic Taters, funded by pesticide opponents, is casting potatoes in a negative light. Click here for full story.

Friday, October 23, 2015

Organic administrator faces backlash. Ag Minute Oct. 23, 2015


Many organic groups that once praised USDA deputy administrator Miles McEvoy are now fighting his policies in federal court. Click here for full story.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Governors urge action on Cuba for ag’s sake. Ag minute for Oct. 22, 2015


Washington, Idaho and California governors support lifting trade restrictions blamed for limiting U.S. food exports to Cuba. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

ITC affirms sugar dumping claims against Mexico. Ag Minute for Oct. 21, 2015


The U.S. International Trade Commission has affirmed conclusions that the dumping of subsidized Mexican sugar hurt the U.S. sugar market. Click here for full Story.

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

TPP seen as longer term help to tree fruit. Ag Minute Oct. 20, 2015


The Trans-Pacific Partnership doesn't include China and isn't likely to push pears and apples into Japan, but it may help Northwest tree fruit exports to Southeast Asia. Click here for full story.

Monday, October 19, 2015

U.S.-Mexico apple dumping still unresolved. Ag Minute Oct. 19, 2015


Nine months after it started, a case alleging U.S. apple dumping in Mexico still hangs over the Washington apple industry. Washington hit record shipments there last season but is unlikely to this season. Click here for full story.

Friday, October 16, 2015

Idaho farm leaders happy with new ag college dean. Ag Min for Idaho Oct. 16, 2015


Idaho farm industry leaders are happy with University of Idaho's decision to appoint Michael Parrella as the new dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Click here for full story.

CPoW drops out of wolf advisory group, wants it abolished. Ag Minute for Oct 16, 2015



A cattle group drops out of Washington's wolf advisory group and calls for its abolition. Another group, the Washington Cattlemen's Association, says the advisory group is finally beginning to make progress. Click here for full story.

Thursday, October 15, 2015

Commodity groups urge extension of looming rail safety deadline. Ag Minute Oct. 15, 2015


Several lawmakers and agricultural organizations from the Northwest are advocating for a bill to extend a deadline for railroads to implement safety upgrades, hoping to avoid freight disruptions. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Ag groups cheer as appeals court puts hold on WOTUS regs. Ag Minute for Oct. 14, 2015


A panel of the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati put the regulations on hold nationwide until the court decides whether it has jurisdiction to consider lawsuits against them. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Monsanto to eliminate 2,600 jobs following 4Q loss. Ag Minute Oct. 13, 2015



Monsanto has struggled in recent quarters to deal with slumping corn prices in the U.S., which have reduced demand for its best-selling product: genetically enhanced corn seeds. Click here for full story.
http://www.capitalpress.com/Business/20151007/monsanto-to-eliminate-2600-jobs-following-4q-loss

Monday, October 12, 2015

Vilsack: TPP text available in next 30 days. Ag minute Oct. 12, 2015



U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said the text of the Trans-Pacific Partnership will be made available in the next 30 days. Click here for full Story.

Friday, October 09, 2015

WSDA studies how to keep waste from spreading apple maggots. Ag Minute for Oct. 9, 2015



The Washington State Department of Agriculture has hired three experts to study how to keep organic waste from spoiling the state's $2 billion apple industry. Click here for full story.

Thursday, October 08, 2015

Biotech developers may have duty to prevent export disruptions. Ag Minute October 8, 2015


Biotech developers may have a duty to prevent export disruptions from GMO crops, even if the products are approved by USDA, according to a court ruling. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, October 07, 2015

United States, 11 Pacific Rim countries reach trade deal. Ag Minute for Oct. 7, 2015


The Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal still has to be approved by the U.S. Congress, where opposition is widespread. President Obama has to wait 90 days after agreement before signing the pact, and only then will Congress begin to debate it. Click here for full Story.http://www.capitalpress.com/AP_Nation_World/20151005/united-states-11-pacific-rim-countries-reach-trade-deal

Tuesday, October 06, 2015

USDA proposes more scrutiny for biotech wheat field trials. Ag Minute October 6, 2015


The USDA is considering requiring permits for growing biotech wheat, which is more rigorous than the current system of notifying the agency of field trials. Click here for full story.

Monday, October 05, 2015

New federal pesticide regs set age limit, boost training requirements. Ag Minute for October 5th, 2015


New pesticide regulations announced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Labor will bar many children under 18 from working with pesticides and boost training and reporting requirements. Click here for full story.

Friday, October 02, 2015

Hops carryover less than last year. Ag Minute for October 2, 2015


The inventory of old crop hops is down in the U.S. from last year and this year's production is likely to be up in the U.S. and down in Europe. Click here for full story.

Thursday, October 01, 2015

Idaho moisture outlook better in south than north. Ag Minute for October 1, 2015



An Idaho hydrology expert says conditions are favoring another dry winter in Northern Idaho but the possibility of good moisture in Southern Idaho. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Willamette Egg Farms purchased by Midwest Ag giant. Ag Minute for Sept. 29, 2015


The Oregon business has been a leader in adopting cage-free egg production techniques. Click here for full story.

Monday, September 28, 2015

Farm-level organic sales approach $5.5 billion in 2014. Ag Minute for Sept. 28, 2015


The 2014 survey of organic farms in the U.S. shows the top 10 states for organic sales -- including California, Washington and Oregon -- account for 78 percent of sales nationwide. Click here for full story.
http://www.capitalpress.com/Organic/20150923/farm-level-organic-sales-approach-55-billion-in-2014

Friday, September 25, 2015

Sage grouse won’t be added to endangered species list. Ag Minute Sept. 25, 2015


Interior Secretary Jewell and others have called the public and private land collaboration a new model for conservation. Click here for full story.
http://www.capitalpress.com/Nation_World/Nation/20150922/sage-grouse-wont-be-added-to-endangered-species-list

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Price pressure to continue in cattle markets, analyst says. Ag Minute for Sept. 23, 2015


Good feed supply and lower feed prices will benefit cattle producers in the months ahead, but feed yards will continue to see losses and cow-calf producers and stockers will be dealing with lower prices for cattle. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

CRP grazing extended for fire, drought victims. Ag Minute for Sept. 22, 2015


The Farm Service Agency has extended emergency grazing on CRP lands in Washington from Sept. 30 to Dec. 15 which will help ranchers who lost fall pastures to wildfires. Click here for full story.

Monday, September 21, 2015

Idaho dry bean growers are harvesting early this year. ID Ag Minute for Sept. 21, 2015


Dry bean harvest in Idaho is about two weeks ahead of normal and growers anticipate average to above average yields and quality. Click here for full story.

Whitman County farmer can pay $100 to settle wolf shooting. Ag Minute For WA Sept. 21, 2015


Whitman County, Wash., farmer given option of paying $100 to settle charge he illegally killed a wolf. Click here for full story.

Friday, September 18, 2015

As wildfires rage in West, ranchers lose cattle, rangeland. Ag Min Sept 18, 2015


The vast majority of the 1.6 million acres — nearly 2,600 square miles — that burned in Oregon, Idaho and Washington this year are federally owned, data show, with large swaths of that public land used as rangeland for livestock grazing. Click here for full story.

Thursday, September 17, 2015

Strong dollar, port slowdown reduce U.S. potato exports. Ag Minute Sept 17, 2015


U.S. potato exports dropped for the first time in a decade, according to to new estimates. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Research opens door to new types of insecticides. Ag Minute Sept 16, 2015


http://www.capitalpress.com/Research/20150911/research-opens-door-to-new-types-of-insecticidesA Cornell University professor has demonstrated insecticides that target only specific bugs by turning off specific genes are more durable in the field than previously suspected. Click here for full story.

Monday, September 14, 2015

Apple harvest could finish early. Ag Minute for WA Sept 14, 2015


An early start may mean an early finish of the normally three-month Washington apple harvest. There's a lot of small fruit and some quality issues because of prolonged, excessive heat in June. Click here for full story.

Friday, September 11, 2015

Visiting bean industry leaders impressed with Idaho seed. Ag Minute For ID Sept 11, 2015


Mexican dry bean industry leaders on a four-day trade visit to Idaho said they were impressed with the quality of bean seed and the measures that are in place to certify it is disease-free. Click here for full story

Rain, snow dampen N. Washington fires. Ag Minute for Sept 11, 2015


Precipitation dampened large wildfires in Okanogan County, Wash., a large backburn was avoided and the U.S. Interior Department secretary visited. Locals told her forests need better management. Click here for full story.

Thursday, September 10, 2015

Transparency, education focus of dairy tour. Ag Minute for Sept. 10, 2015


A local dairyman opens up his family farm to the media with a new mind-set that transparency is key to consumer trust. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, September 09, 2015

Farm profits to fall second consecutive year. Ag Minute Sept. 9, 2015


Net farm income is expected to decline 36 percent to $58.3 billion, the USDA says. Click here for full story.

Monday, August 31, 2015

Climatologists forecast brief break in the heat. Ag Minute Aug 31, 2015


U.S. Climate Prediction Center issues two-week forecast that departs from region's summer long weather pattern. Click here for full story.

Friday, August 28, 2015

Washington grower must pay $16,000 to DOL before he can sell his apples. Ag Minute Aug 28, 2015


"Basically, they had me over a barrel,” a Mesa, Wash., grower said after DOL stopped his apples from being packed. Click here for full story.

Thursday, August 27, 2015

Grant boosts IWC promotion, education efforts. Ag Minute For Idaho Aug 27, 2015



The Idaho Wine Commission will use an $88,000 grant to help fund a host of marketing, promotional and educational efforts. Click here for full story.

Grasshopper, aphid numbers on the rise. Ag Minute for Aug 27, 2015


Washington State University researchers recommend farmers monitor their fields for grasshopper and aphid activity. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Hop estimate up 5.5 million pounds. Ag Minute for Aug 26, 2015


The latest estimate of this year's U.S. hop crop is 7 percent greater than a month earlier because the crop is more mature. Demand still exceeds supply. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Pea buyers look to Eastern Idaho growers. Ag Minute for Idaho Aug 25, 2015


Growers see promise in peas as a rotation crop with wheat, though finding buyers has been a challenge. Click here for full story.

Apple price recovery may take time, expert says. Ag Minute for Aug 25, 2015


Washington wholesale apple prices should rise this season due to a smaller U.S. crop, but they still may take time to rebuild. Click here for full story.

Monday, August 24, 2015

Farmers should report fire, drought losses to Farm Service Agency, officials say. Ag Minute Aug. 24, 2015


The USDA Farm Service Agency is starting to hear from growers impacted by wildfires. State outreach coordinator Chris Bieker recommends photo documentation. Click here for full story.http://www.capitalpress.com/Business/20150821/farmers-should-report-fire-drought-losses-to-farm-service-agency-officials-say

Friday, August 21, 2015

Investment firm plans to spend $300 million on farmland. Ag minute for Aug. 21, 2015


A new REIT is looking to buy up $300 million of farm properties in the Northwest and the South. Click here for full story.

Thursday, August 20, 2015

Bad wildfire season is quickly burning through federal firefighting budget. Ag Minute for Aug 20, 2015


USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said firefighting costs are consuming an ever-greater share of the agency’s budget, taking money away from programs that could help prevent wildfires. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

China licks other nations in ice cream consumption. Ag Minute for Aug 19, 2015


China has overtaken the U.S. as the largest market for ice cream. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Wildfire claims apple packing plant. Ag Min for Aug 18, 2015


Wildfires that quickly grew out of control around Chelan, Wash., on Aug. 14 destroyed a major apple packing plant, homes and businesses. Click here for full story.http://www.capitalpress.com/Washington/20150817/wildfire-claims-apple-packing-plant

Idaho, Oregon ranchers fighting one of nation’s largest wildfires. Ag Weekly for Aug 18, 2015


A large fire in Southwestern Idaho has destroyed tens of thousands of acres of grazing land and is threatening ranches and cows. Click here for full story.

Friday, August 14, 2015

Army Corps memos disparage EPA over WOTUS. Ag Minute for Aug. 14, 2015


Internal memos by Army Corps of Engineer brass sears EPA's disregard for Corps concerns over the final WOTUS rule and its portrayal that the process represented a joint endeavor. Click here for full story.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Inslee’s trade trip to include pitches for spuds, blueberries, wine. Ag Minute for Aug 13, 2015


Potatoes, blueberries and wine to be part of Washington Gov. Jay Inslee's trade trip to Japan and South Korea. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Price rebound predicted for Washington apples. Ag Minute for Aug 11, 2015


The Washington apple industry is hoping for better prices in the 2015-2016 sales season off a 2015 crop expected to be 10.5 percent less than last year's crop. Click here for full story.

Monday, August 10, 2015

Predator control lawsuit resurrected. Ag Minute for Aug 10, 2015


An environmental lawsuit that challenges USDA's killing of predators to protect livestock has been resurrected after an earlier dismissal. Click here for full story.

Friday, August 07, 2015

Bill would allow governors to end port slowdowns. Ag Minute for Aug 7, 2015


A bill aimed at preventing massive disruptions of trade at U.S. ports, like the slow downs at West Coast ports last winter, has been introduced in the House. It's a companion to one introduced in the Senate two months ago. Click here for full story.

Thursday, August 06, 2015

Farm groups disappointed as Ag Security Act struck down. Ag Minute for Idaho Aug 8, 2015


A U.S. District judge on Monday ruled against an Idaho law passed last year to protect farmers and ranchers from activists gaining access to their operations under false pretense to secretly obtain records or make recordings with the intent to cause injury. Click here for full story.http://www.capitalpress.com/Idaho/20150804/farm-groups-disappointed-as-ag-security-act-stuck-down

Earlier drought planning needed, Ag Director says. Ag Minute for Aug 6, 2015


The state was caught "flat-footed" in drought planning this year and needs to do a better job next year, the director of the state Department of Agriculture says. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, August 05, 2015

Poll: Americans favor farmers and food during drought. Ag Minute for Aug 5, 2015


When asked to rate the importance of competing needs when water is scarce, 74 percent said agriculture should be a top or high priority. Click here for full story.

Monday, August 03, 2015

28 state AGs want WOTUS implementation delayed. Ag Minute for August 3, 2015


Nearly 30 states that filed lawsuits against EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers over a new rule defining federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act are requesting a delay in implementation to allow for judicial review of the challenges. Click here for full story.

Friday, July 31, 2015

Hop output to increase despite drought. Ag Min For July 31, 2015


While some hop varieties suffer from heat and drought in Washington's Yakima Valley, the industry anticipates a larger crop because of increased acreage. Click here for full story.

Thursday, July 30, 2015

Outlook murky for port productivity proposals. Ag Minute for July 30, 2015


Doubts have been cast on the outlook of federal legislation intended to prevent port work slowdowns. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Opportunity knocks for U.S. dairy exports. Ag Minute for July 29, 2015


The world will need an additional 45 billion pounds of milk by 2020, offering a lot of opportunity for U.S. exporters. Consistency and the ability to withstand downturns will be key factors for success. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, July 28, 2015

Mid-year cattle inventory confirms expansion. Ag Minute for July 28, 2015


USDA's July 1 cattle inventory report verifies beef herd expansion with increases in beef cow and heifer replacement numbers. Click here for full story.

Monday, July 27, 2015

U.S. House bill would prevent mandatory GMO labeling. Ag Minute for July 27, 2015


The bill scheduled for a vote Thursday is backed by the food industry, which has fought state labeling efforts around the country. So far, Vermont is the only state set to require the labels. Click here for full story.

Friday, July 24, 2015

No relief in sight for parched West. Ag Minute for July 24, 2015


The West is experiencing low stream flows but the summer dry season is far from over, so drought conditions are expected to become more severe. Click here for full story.

Thursday, July 23, 2015

Bulb onion prices have risen rapidly since winter. Ag Minute for July 23, 2015


After falling to break-even levels this winter, onion prices have increased sharply. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Judge clears barred owl removal study. Ag Minute for July 22, 2015


A barred owl removal study doesn't violate environmental laws, a federal judge ruled. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, July 21, 2015

Monday, July 20, 2015

Canadian official warns of possible retaliation for COOL. Ag Minute for July 20, 2015


As retaliatory tariffs loom, Canadian trade officials are urging the U.S. Senate to follow the House of Representatives' lead in voting to repeal mandatory country-of-origin labeling of meat. Click here for full story.

Friday, July 17, 2015

PNW wheat industry eyes possible sprout, high protein. Ag Minute for July 17, 2015


Rain forecasts have Washington State University wheat breeder Arron Carter cautioning about possible sprout damage. Click here for full story.

Thursday, July 16, 2015

EPA chief calls for conservation partnerships. Ag Minute for July 16, 2015


The regional head of the Environmental Protection Agency says he is willing to allow states or other agencies to take the lead when they have programs that are working. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Wildlife managers report on efforts to deter wolf attacks. Ag Minute for July 15, 2015


Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife updates its efforts to prevent wolf attacks on livestock the same day it confirms depredations in northeast corner of the state. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, July 14, 2015

Ag wary of park designation for Craters of the Moon. Ag Minute for July 14, 2015


Some ranchers and agricultural leaders remain concerned about a proposal to make Craters of the Moon National Monument a national park. Click here for full story.

Monday, July 13, 2015

Appropriations rider aims to save sheep research station. Ag minute for July 13, 2015


A recent vote in a U.S. House subcommittee bodes well for the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station in Dubois, Idaho. Click here for full story.

Friday, July 10, 2015

Severe drought conditions spreading rapidly in Washington. Ag Minute for July 10, 2015


U.S. Drought Monitor reports a dramatic spreading of severe drought conditions in Washington state. Click here for full Story.

Thursday, July 09, 2015

Idaho coop members overwhelmingly support merger. Ag Minute for July 9, 2015


Valley Cooperative and Valley Wide Cooperative are moving forward with details of a merger after their members recently overwhelmingly voted to support it. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, July 08, 2015

Researchers weigh winter pea option for dryland farmers. Ag Minute for July 8, 2015


Washington State University's dryland research station is considering ways farmers can add winter peas into their crop rotations. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, July 07, 2015

Farm use of drones to take off as feds loosen restrictions. Ag Minute for July 7, 2015


The Federal Aviation Administration has approved more than 50 exemptions for farm-related operations since January. Click here for full story.

Monday, July 06, 2015

Barley states respond to Idaho’s invitation to cooperate. Ag Minute for July 6, 2015


The Idaho Barley Commission has invited other barley producing states to work closely together on important issues, including research and transportation infrastructure. Click here for full story.

Friday, July 03, 2015

Thursday, July 02, 2015

Study highlights investments in Columbia River ports. Ag Minute for July 2, 2015


Businesses using the Columbia River have invested hundreds of millions of dollars since a 2010 project to deepen the 110-mile lower navigation channel from 40 feet to 43 feet, according to a study by the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association and the Port of Portland. For full story click here.

Wednesday, July 01, 2015

U.S. potato acreage up 1.9 percent, NASS reports. Ag minute for July 01, 2015


Fall potato acres are up in the Northwest and nationwide, according to new numbers from the USDA and United Potato Growers of America. Click here for full story.http://www.capitalpress.com/Nation_World/Nation/20150630/us-potato-acreage-up-nass-reports

Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Wildfire ravages parts of Wenatchee. Ag Minute for Jun 30, 2015



Winds accelerated a grass fire into the north end of Wenatchee, Wash., late Sunday, June 28, burning more than a dozen homes and several tree fruit industry-related businesses and causing the evacuation of hundreds of residences. Click here for full story.

Monday, June 29, 2015

Drought conditions take hold in Western Washington. AgMinute for June 29, 2015


Five Western Washington counties are in a "severe drought," according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, putting boths sides of the Cascades on course to become federal disaster areas. Click here for full story.

Friday, June 26, 2015

USDA declares drought disaster in 18 Washington counties. AgMinute for Jun 26, 2015


USDA includes 18 Washington counties in federal disaster declaration. Click here for full story.

Thursday, June 25, 2015

Expert: Approvals of antibiotics in feed won’t be automatic. AgMinute for June 25, 2015


A Kansas State University veterinary expert advises that ranchers shouldn't expect their veterinarians to automatically approve uses of medically important antibiotics under new federal guidelines that fully take effect Jan. 1, 2017. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Spotted wing drosophila detected in SW Idaho. Ag Minute for June 24, 2015


An exotic fruit fly that was first detected in Idaho in 2012 appears to have gained a tentative foothold in the state and researchers are trying to determine how widespread it is. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Monday, June 22, 2015

Friday, June 19, 2015

Farm, technology sectors agree Idaho can be a leader in agtech. AgMinute for Jun 19, 2015


Leaders in Idaho's agricultural and technology sectors met during a first-ever AgriTech Summit June 16 and discussed ways both sides could benefit from a close partnership between the top two sectors of the state's economy. Click here for full story.

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

2014 apple crop still shrinking. Ag Minute for Jun 17, 2015


Packers continue to shrink remaining amounts of Washington's huge 2014 apple crop to reduce carryover into the upcoming crop and try to improve wholesale prices. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

PNW hop acreage up 16 percent. AgMinute for Jun 16, 2015



Hop growers have increased acreage an estimated 16 percent this season in a continuing quest to meet demand of the growing small, craft brewery market. Click here for full story.

Monday, June 15, 2015

Obama announces another $110 million for drought relief. Ag Minute for June 15, 2015



President Obama announced $110 million in new drought relief after holding a teleconference with Western governors. The latest round of funding adds to the more than $190 million the federal government has already spent on drought relief this year. Click here for full story.

Friday, June 12, 2015

House votes to repeal country-of-origin labeling on meat. Ag Minute June 12, 2015



In a move to avoid trade retaliation from Canada and Mexio, House Republicans have passed a measure to repeal country-of-origin labeling. click here for full story.http://www.capitalpress.com/Nation_World/Nation/20150611/house-votes-to-repeal-country-of-origin-labeling-on-meat

Thursday, June 11, 2015

USDA computer overhaul $140 million over budget. Ag Minute for June 11, 2015



An overhaul of computer systems for managing farm programs at USDA's Farm Service Agency is way past due and over budget, an audit found. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, June 10, 2015

U.S. Ag exports expected to fall $12 billion. Ag Minute For June 10, 2015



UISDA trade analysts are expecting a $12 billion year-over-year decline in U.S. Ag exports in FY 2015, primarily due to the strong U.S. dollar. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, June 09, 2015

WSU study: Organic farming good for bank account. Ag Minute June 9, 2015



WSU professors find organic foods good for farmers' financial health. Click here for full story.

Monday, June 08, 2015

Gluten-free wheat in sight, researchers say. AgMinute June 8, 2015



Washington State University researcher Diter Von Wettstein has received further funding for his efforts to create a gluten-free wheat. Click here for full story.

Friday, June 05, 2015

Washington’s wolf experience unlike rest of the West - Ag Minute for June 5, 2015



Environmentalists hail the return of gray wolves, but ranchers say the apex predators — and the state's high goals — threaten their way of life. Click here for full story.

Mobile farmers’ market brings produce to Boise neighborhoods. Idaho Agminute for Jun 5th 2015



A new mobile farmers' market in Boise will bring fresh produce grown in the Treasure Valley directly to people who are least likely to be able to access and afford it. The city of Boise will provide a financial match on food stamp purchases. Click here for full story.http://www.capitalpress.com/Idaho/20150604/mobile-farmers-market-brings-produce-to-boise-neighborhoods

Thursday, June 04, 2015

May rains had little impact on drought Agminute for Jun 4, 2015



Despite heavy rain in May, experts say drought is still a fact of life in much of the West. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, June 03, 2015

State leases water from Olympic Peninsula farmers for fish. AgMinute for Jun 3, 2015



Olympic Peninsula farmers agree to lease water rights on 840 irrigated acres to increase flows in the Dungeness River for fish. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, June 02, 2015

Washington Apple Commission boosts its reserves - AgMinute For June 2, 2015



The Washington Apple Commission has tripled its reserves for the possibility of food safety scares, loss of federal funding and other emergencies. For full story click here.

Friday, May 29, 2015

Administration won’t seek high court review in immigration case - May 29, 2015



The Justice Department will instead focus on defending the merits of the executive action in an appeal that will be argued the week of July 6 before the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Click here for full story.

Thursday, May 28, 2015

Fight over Clean Water Act rule enters new phase-AgMinute May 28, 2015


The fight over EPA's Clean Water Act rule is likely to heat up on the political and legal fronts now that the regulation is final, experts say. Click here for full story.

Wednesday, May 27, 2015

Northwest farmers wary about Obama’s expected water rule - AgMinute for May 27, 2015


The rule has also drawn criticism from property rights groups and praise from environmentalists. Click here for full story.

Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Wal-Mart presses meat suppliers on antibiotics, treatment. AgMinute May 26, 2015


Wal-Mart is the first major retailer to take a stance to limit the use of the antibiotics. Click here for full story.

Monday, May 25, 2015

Idaho ag exports set record for fourth straight year Ag Minute May 25, 2015


Idaho set another record for total agricultural exports in 2014, despite a slowdown in sales of dairy products, which are the state's top farm export. Click here for full story.

New Ag director moves over from Ecology Department AgMinute May 25, 2015


Washington Gov. Jay Inslee has chosen a new agricuture director from the state Ecology Department. Click here for full story.

Friday, May 22, 2015

Early crop gives NW cherry growers high hopes-Ag Minute May 22, 2015


Pacific Northwest cherry growers are just starting to harvest a lighter crop with more defects but are delighted by the prospect of record June volume and good prices. Click here for the full story.

Thursday, May 21, 2015

Organic checkoff draws supporters, detractors - AgMinute for May 21, 2015


The Organic Trade Association has petitioned USDA for a checkoff program for organic after more than 5,000 organic farms and businesses weighed in on the proposal and supported it 2 to 1. Click here for the full story.

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Governor, farm leaders say trade mission will benefit producers AgMinute for May 20, 2015



Members of an Idaho governor's trade mission to Mexico and Peru said they're hopeful more Idaho farm commodities will be sold in those countries as a result of the trip. For full Story Click here.

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

WTO rules against country of origin labels on meat - AgMinute for May 19, 2015


The ruling is a victory for the U.S. meat industry, which has said the labels are burdensome and challenged them in court. Click here for the full story

Monday, May 18, 2015

USDA researcher has hope for new insect deterrant - AgMinute for May 18, 2015


Since appearing in West Coast fruit fields and orchards several years ago, the spotted wing drosophila has forced growers to increase their chemical usage. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Friday, May 15, 2015

Analysis shows COOL costs outweight benefits - AgMinute for May 15, 2015


An analysis by university ag economists contracted by USDA has found that the economic benefits of mandatory country of origin labeling would be insufficient to offset the cost of the requirements. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Thursday, May 14, 2015

Online sales disrupt grocers, profit farmers - AgMinute for May 14, 2015


Grocers are expecting a disruption from online sales in coming years, but experts say the shift will likely profit farmers and food processors. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Study predicts Ag jobs available, not enough graduates to fill them - AgMinute for May 13, 2015


The USDA study predicts nearly 58,000 job openings annually through 2020 in food, agriculture, natural resources and environmental fields – and not nearly enough college graduates to fill them. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Apple growers on fire blight watch - AgMinute for May 12, 2015


Washington state may escape its fire blight danger zone relatively unscathed, but growers in New York are on the bubble, a tree fruit specialist says. Click here for the full story

Monday, May 11, 2015

Youths learn life lessons raising livestock - AgMinute for May 11, 2015


Pacific Northwest youths learn life lessons raising animals for the Junior Livestock Show of Spokane. Click here for the full story

Friday, May 08, 2015

Whole Foods targets budget-conscious shoppers with new chain - AgMinute for May 8, 2015


In an attempt to attract younger shoppers, Whole Foods is planning to open a new chain of stores geared toward budget-conscious millennials. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Thursday, May 07, 2015

USDA seeks input on new GMO rules - AgMinute for May 7, 2015


The USDA wants the public to weigh in on its authority to regulate biotech crops, possibly setting the stage for newly proposed genetic engineering rules. Click here for the full story

Wednesday, May 06, 2015

Reps say wolf management should be turned over to states - AgMinute for May 6, 2015


A bill introduced by Oregon, Washington and Utah congressional representatives would turn wolf management over to their states. Click here for the full story

Tuesday, May 05, 2015

USDA to make $18.3 million bonus apple buy - AgMinute for May 5, 2015


The USDA is making its largest bonus buy of apples and processed apple products in history to help out with an oversupply of apples from the 2014 harvest. Click here for the full story

Monday, May 04, 2015

East Coast braces for bird flu - AgMinute for May 4, 2015


Bird flu appears to have subsided in the Pacific Northwest, but its most virulent form is ravaging chicken and turkey operations in parts of the Midwest, leading to the deaths of 13 million birds in Minnesota, Iowa, North and South Dakota and Wisconsin. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Friday, May 01, 2015

Tyson Foods hopes to rid chicken of antibiotics by 2017 - AgMinute for May 1, 2015


Tyson will also begin looking at ways to reduce antibiotic use in cattle, hogs and turkeys. Click here for the full story

Thursday, April 30, 2015

International food aid training building spud demand - AgMinute for April 30, 2015


The U.S. Potato Board hosted a training in Idaho Falls to teach food aid organizations how to use dehydrated potatoes in their programs. Click here for the full story

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

EU approves more GM food as controversy simmers - AgMinute for April 29, 2015


The EU’s executive commission said Friday that it has approved 10 GM foods and two types of GM flowers. Click here for the full story

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Idaho: The Silicon Valley of Ag technology? - AgMinute for April 28, 2015


Idaho Department of Commerce Director Jeff Sayer wants to make Idaho a Silicon Valley of agricultural technology. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Monday, April 27, 2015

Obama’s trade agenda draws GOP support in House - AgMinute for April 27, 2015


Democrats said the legislation didn’t go far enough to assure labor standards and environmental protections strong enough to avoid placing American companies at a disadvantage. Click here for the full story

Friday, April 24, 2015

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Idaho lawmakers approve rule lifting elk import restriction - AgMinute for April 23, 2015


Idaho lawmakers have approved a rule that will lift certain import restrictions on domestic elk. The rule was supported by commercial elk breeders but opposed by sportmen's groups. Click here for the full story

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

U.S., Japan say no deal on farm trade but end in sight - AgMinute for April 22, 2015


Japan has identified five categories of agricultural products as “sensitive,” given its longstanding protections for politically powerful farm interests. They include beef and pork, wheat and barley, sugar, rice and dairy products. Click here for the full story

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Increased dyed diesel enforcement looms in Idaho - AgMinute for April 21, 2015


Idaho lawmakers intend to discuss greater enforcement of the state's dyed fuel laws next year. Click here for the full story

Monday, April 20, 2015

2015 expected to bring more record-breaking cattle prices - AgMinute for April 20, 2015


While cattle prices are expected to soften in the last half of the year, average annual prices for feeder and fed cattle in 2015 are expected to be even higher than the record-breaking 2014. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Friday, April 17, 2015

Rise in Idaho farm deaths concerns OSHA - AgMinute for April 17, 2015


Fatal accidents in agriculture have risen significantly recently in Idaho, prompting concerns by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Click here for the full story

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Consumers buying more organic products, new data show - AgMinute for April 16, 2015


Organics now make up 5 percent of total food sales in the United States, but much of the growth is also in nonfood items like textiles and personal care items. Click here for the full story

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Foreign markets loom large in GMO litigation - AgMinute for April 15, 2015


Litigation over China's rejection of a biotech trait could set an important precedent, experts say. Click here for the full story

Tuesday, April 14, 2015

Company to roll out "GreenHarvest" paper products - AgMinute for April 14, 2015


A company plans to roll out a new line of tissues and paper towels this month that incorporates wheat straw and bamboo, which it hopes will provide a rapidly renewable and environmentally friendly source of fiber for its products while giving farmers a new market for what remains after the grain is harvested. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Monday, April 13, 2015

Rural communities vie for prize to revitalize - AgMinute for April 13, 2015


Nearly 20 rural communities in the Pacific Northwest and California are competing to win $10 million in funding to revitalize their communities. Click here for the full story

Friday, April 10, 2015

WSU researcher considers prickly lettuce as rubber source - AgMinute April 10, 2015


A Washington State University researcher wants to explore possible production of the weed prickly lettuce to make rubber. Click here for the full story

Thursday, April 09, 2015

Expert says shooting or trapping wolves and coyotes is a bad idea - AgMinute for April 9, 2015


Indiscriminate shooting or trapping of wolves and coyotes is a bad idea, and producers should strive for balance in the rangeland ecosystem, says Temple Grandin, the Colorado State University livestock handling and animal welfare expert. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Wednesday, April 08, 2015

Western hay growers face challenges - AgMinute for April 8, 2015


Western hay growers see challenges ahead for this year's crop. Early spring and water concerns in some areas are making the season hard to predict. Click here for the full story

Tuesday, April 07, 2015

Idaho farmers and Ag industry leaders will soon meet finalists - AgMinute for April 7, 2015


Idaho farmers and Ag industry leaders will soon have a chance to meet the finalists for the dean position at the University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Monday, April 06, 2015

USDA expects more barley out of Idaho in 2015 - AgMinute for April 6, 2015


USDA expects Idaho farmers will plant more wheat and barley this season, following a disastrous 2014 harvest affected by widespread late-season sprout damage. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Friday, April 03, 2015

Mink prices drop as global production rises - AgMinute for April 3, 2015


Mink pelt prices have plummeted recently, following years of sustained growth, according to Fur Commission USA Executive Director Michael Whelan. Click here for the full story

Thursday, April 02, 2015

Critics challenge World Health Organization's conclusion on glyphosate - AgMinute for April 2, 2015


Critics say the World Health Organization’s conclusion that glyphosate “probably” causes cancer runs counter to what numerous other studies have found and should be withdrawn. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Wednesday, April 01, 2015

2015 could be a break-even year for Idaho dairy farmers - AgMinute for April 1, 2015


During a presentation to lawmakers by United Dairymen of Idaho officials, most of the questions from legislators centered around Fairlife, a new premium milk product being distributed by the Coca-Cola Co. Click here for the full story

Tuesday, March 31, 2015

U.S. Potato Board unveils new price elasticity tool - AgMinute for March 31, 2015


A new tool developed for the U.S. Potato Board analyzes how the price fluctuations of fresh potato products affect demand. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Monday, March 30, 2015

Congress in no hurry to pass meat-labeling fix - AgMinute for March 30, 2015


Congress is apparently waiting for the outcome of the U.S.' appeal of a World Trade Organization ruling against its mandatory meat-labeling rule before crafting a bill to avert potential trade sanctions by Canada and Mexico, which complain the rule creates a competitive disadvantage for their livestock. Click here for the full story

Friday, March 27, 2015

Perennial rice coming soon, perennial wheat? - AgMinute for March 27, 2015


Perennial rice may soon be available to farmers in China and Australia, but researchers are mixed on how long it will take a perennial wheat to make its way to U.S. farmers. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Thursday, March 26, 2015

Bill would create organic-type labels for non-GMO foods - AgMinute for March 26, 2015


The proposed government-certified label would allow companies that want to advertise their foods as GMO-free to do so, but it would not be mandatory for others. Click here for the full story

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Northwest hop acreage continues to grow - AgMinute for March 25, 2015


The March 1 inventory of hops is slightly down but acreage is expected to keep growing this year as the craft brewing industry drives demand. Click here for the full story

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

Canadian government approves GM apples - AgMinute for March 24, 2015


Two Canadian agencies have approved genetically modified apples that were developed in British Columbia. They have also been approved in the U.S. Click here for the full story

Monday, March 23, 2015

Federal lawsuit takes on Idaho's Ag Security Act - AgMinute for March 23, 2015


The dairy group that authored Idaho’s Agricultural Security Act will not be allowed to intervene in a federal lawsuit against the law. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Friday, March 20, 2015

OSU scouting program confirms onion thrips - AgMinute for March 20, 2015


An Oregon State University scouting program has confirmed onion thrips — tiny, winged insects that spread iris yellow spot virus in onion fields — are reproducing in Western Idaho and Malheur County, Ore., nearly a month early. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Thursday, March 19, 2015

Bird flu strikes third California poultry farm - AgMinute for March 19, 2015


Bird flu has struck a third commercial poultry farm in Central California, according to a report posted Wednesday by the World Organization for Animal Health. Click here for the full story

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Dairy price outlook not as rosy as futures market - AgMinute for March 18, 2015


Dairy analysts warn U.S. dairy suppliers and milk producers against putting too much faith in current futures pricing, which they say is presenting a false "slope of hope." Click here for the full story

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

U.S. Potato Board boosts salad bar program - AgMinute for March 17, 2015


The U.S. Potato Board has approved a proposal to match industry donations to buy salad bars for school cafeterias. Click here for the full story

Monday, March 16, 2015

Meat industry fights new dietary proposal - AgMinute for March 16, 2015


A government advisory committee relegated the health benefits of lean meat to a footnote in its dietary recommendations. Click here for the full story

Friday, March 13, 2015

Sheep industry fears loss of herder H-2A visa provisions - AgMinute for March 13, 2015


Sheep producers are concerned that a rule proposed by the U.S. Department of Labor regarding special provisions for open-range livestock herders through the H-2A visa program could make open-range operations unviable. Click here for the full story

Thursday, March 12, 2015

Study shows potential health benefits of GM potato - AgMinute for March 12, 2015


A new study out of Iowa State University suggests the potential health benefits of J.R. Simplot's genetically engineered Innate potato may outweigh consumer concerns about biotechnology. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Firefighting plan aims to protect Western habitat - AgMinute for March 11, 2015


The intent is to protect greater sage grouse habitat while contending with fires that have been especially destructive in the Great Basin region of Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Oregon and California. Click here for the full story

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Deadly bird flu strain confirmed in Missouri, Minnesota - AgMinute for March 10, 2015


The virus is the same highly pathogenic H5N2 strain of avian influenza that’s been confirmed in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Minnesota. Click here for the full story

Monday, March 09, 2015

USPB fills new research director position - AgMinute for March 9, 2015


The U.S. Potato Board has created a new position to coordinate industry research efforts. Click here for the full story

Cuba looks north to U.S. farmers for help with food crisis - AgMinute for March 6, 2015


Cuba spends roughly $2 billion a year to import about 80 percent of its food and a long-standing humanitarian exception to the trade embargo allows U.S. farmers to fill some of that demand. Click here for the full story

Thursday, March 05, 2015

U.S. firm buys Canadian GM apple company - AgMinute for March 5, 2015


The Canadian company that developed a genetically modified apple is being purchased by a U.S. firm. The transaction is to be completed in the first half of this year. Click here for the full story

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