Overcapacity keeps fertilizer prices reasonable - AgMinute for December 30, 2013

Overcapacity in fertilizer production is likely to keep prices reasonable in 2014 compared to the high rates seen in recent years, according to an industry analyst. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Rabobank: beef supply tight, cattle prices high - AgMinute for December 27, 2013

High cattle and beef prices to continue in 2014 as beef supplies tighten due to strong global demand and herd rebuilding. Beef supplies are expected to rise only slightly globally and decline sharply in the U.S. Click here for the full story

Onion growers happy FDA will change water rules - AgMinute for December 26, 2013

Idaho and Oregon onion farmers are happy that FDA officials will significantly alter some of their proposed new food safety rules, including one that would require weekly water testing. Click here for the full story

Rabobank: Dairy outlook strong - AgMinute for December 25, 2013

Dairy producers in most exporting countries have stepped up production in response to high milk prices and falling feed costs. China, however, has mopped up those increases, and dairy product and milk prices will remain exceptionally strong at least through the first half of 2014. Several factors are expected to keep a reign on milk supply increases in the U.S., however. Click here for the full story

U.S. lamb industry seeks to re-invent itself - Ag Minute for December 24, 2013

Declining U.S. lamb consumption and competition from overseas have spurred the U.S. lamb industry into action. A collaborative effort among all sectors has identified threats to the industy's future and developed strategies to address the threats and put the industry on a path to viability. Click here for the full story

FDA to revise food safety rules - Ag Minute for December 23, 2013

The Food and Drug Administration says it will revise sweeping new food safety rules proposed earlier this year after farmers complained the rules could hurt business. Click here for the full story

Mini-helicopter will help farmers analyze crops - AgMinute for December 20, 2013

An Idaho researcher is developing an unmanned aerial vehicle that takes multispectral images that farmers can use to determine whether their plants are diseased or suffering water stress or nutrient deficiency. Visit www.capitalpress.com for more information

Beef exports on record pace - AgMinute for December 19, 2013

U.S. beef exports in October kept exports at a record-breaking pace. Beef exports were up 14 percent on a value basis over October 2012 and up 11 percent in value year to date through October. Click here for the full story

2014 outlook bright for beef producers - AgMinute for December 18, 2013

Tightening beef supplies and strong global demand will keep prices high for cattle producers. Improving pasture and range conditions in many cattle-producing areas and lower feed grain prices will incentivize herd rebuilding in 2014. Click here for the full story

Idaho spud prices drop near production cost - AgMinute for December 17, 2013

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Idaho potato prices have dipped near or slightly below the cost of production, but the market appears to have bottomed out and may be poised for an upswing, according to University of Idaho Extension economist Paul Patterson. Click here for the full story

2014 should be better year for dairymen - AgMinute for December 16, 2013

Dairy producers should have a better year ahead with the price of feed grains and hay moderating, but margins will continue to be tight and price volatility will continue to be part of doing business. Click here for the full story

Farm Bureau backs pro-agriculture legislation - AgMinute for December 13, 2013

Lobbyists for the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation plan to be involved in a host of legislative initiatives when the Legislature comes into session next month. Click here for the full story

Farm bill deal unlikely before 2014 - AgMinute for December 12, 2013

Congress remains divided about subsidy mechanisms proposed for new farm bill legislation, but appears closer to a consensus about reducing food stamp spending. Click here for the full story

rBST popularity has dropped - AgMinute for December 10, 2013

An economic study has found that in recent years dairy farmers, particularly larger ones, have discontinued using recombinant bovine somatotropin, or rBST, a synthetic hormone that boosts milk production. Click here for the full story

Wheat Foods Council defends white flour - AgMinute for December 9, 2013

The Wheat Foods Council is defending the health characteristics of enriched grains. The council says enriched grains are responsible for lowering neural tube birth defects and a primary source of folic acid. Council president Judi Adams says enriched grains make an easy target. Click here for the full story

Ethanol from beet-derived sugar - AgMinute for December 6, 2013

BURLEY, Idaho — Pacific Ethanol plants in Burley, Boardman, Ore., and Stockton, Calif., have started making ethanol for the first time utilizing beet-derived sugar. Click here for the full story

Russia is emerging market for Idaho ag - AgMinute for December 5, 2013

Following the state's first trade mission to Russia, Idaho farm leaders and state officials believe the country, with a population of 143 million people, presents a big opportunity for Gem State ag products. Click here for the full story

Officials anticipate more ring rot testing - AgMinute for December 4, 2013

Potato industry officials anticipate much greater interest in winter testing of seed for bacterial ring rot, based on another flare-up of the disease in 2013. Click here for the full story

Opponents blast Brown's tunnel plan on eve of EIR

Opponents of Gov. Jerry Brown's proposal to build tunnels to send water past the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta didn't wait for the project's key environmental documents to emerge before criticizing them.

Water experts, an environmental activist and an attorney for the Californians for a Fair Water Policy said today the tunnels will end up costing Central Valley farmers more than they benefit and that the project isn't environmentally sound. Read more at the Jefferson Journal.

Speakers tout storage at packed water meeting

Northern California farmers, water district officials and other residents packed the Shasta County supervisors' chambers this afternoon to beseech an Assembly committee to include plenty of money for water storage in an updated bond measure set to go before voters next year. Read more over at the Jefferson Journal.

Idaho on pace for 3rd straight export record - AgMinute for December 3, 2013

Idaho is on pace to set a record for agricultural exports for the third straight year. Through the end of September, the value of all Idaho ag products sold to other countries was $736 million, a 7.6 increase over the $684 million total during the same period in 2012. Click here for the full story

South Korea wants to join Trans-Pacific trade talks - AgMinute for December 2, 2013

South Korea said Friday it will start negotiations to join a U.S.-led trade pact covering a dozen Pacific and Asian nations. Click here for the full story

Request made for more comments on FDA regs - AgMinute for November 29, 2013

A bi-partisan group of congressmen from both chambers is asking the FDA to submit a second set of proposed food safety rules for public comment. The Nov. 25 letter was signed by 75 members of Congress. Click here for the full story

Strategic planning critical for ag sector - AgMinute for November 28, 2013

Economics professor says strategic planning on the farm is critical for meeting the challenges of waning ag and rural wealth ahead. Having enough working capital will be a huge factor in 2014 and beyond. Click here for the full story

Organic farmers question USDA proposal - AgMinute for November 27, 2013

Organic farmers and others who rely on manure for soil fertility are worried about proposed food safety rules that would restrict the practice. Click here for the full story

Farm Credit drops non-ag lending proposal - AgMinute for November 26, 2013

A proposal to allow lenders within the Farm Credit System to invest more in rural hospitals and other facilities has been scrapped by the federal government. Opponents feared it would allow them to overstep their lending authority, which is meant to target agriculture. Proponents claimed the proposal would have strengthened the rural communities that farmers rely upon. Click here for the full story

$1 million endowment approved for bean research - AgMinute for November 25, 2013

BOISE — Idaho Bean Commission members have voted to create a $1 million endowment that will fund a bean research program at the University of Idaho. Click here for the full story

Wolf delisting plan elicits cheers, protests

A federal proposal to remove the gray wolf from the Endangered Species List elicited emotional responses from speakers on both sides of the issue during a public hearing in Sacramento this evening, as some 400 people packed a hotel ballroom to voice their views. Beforehand, about 100 wolf advocates gathered for a rally outside the Marriott Courtyard Cal Expo, where the meeting was held. In the photos, from the top: Timothy and Sameena Crofton of Fremont hold a sign during the rally; others hold signs; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officials (from left) Mike Jimenez and Gary Frazer listen as hearing officer Mike Chapel speaks; audience members listen intently to a speaker; and Beverly Williams of Merced holds up signs favoring the delisting. As could be expected when you hold a meeting like this so close to the Bay Area, a majority of speakers opposed removing protections for the wolf, and moderator Chapel had to ask them several times to stop cheering each other on and jeering those who voiced the opposite view. But there were numerous supporters of the delisting proposal, including Siskiyou County Resource Conservation District president Scott Murphy. "I've been involved in agriculture and producing food for you for 36 years," Murphy said. "As a livestock producer, I'm concerned about the impact that wolves would have on my livestock should they come to California." The federal officials made the case that wolves had recovered to the point that they no longer need protection. For my full coverage of this meeting and this issue, check CapitalPress.com soon.

Off-farm income supports U.S. farms - AgMinute for November 22, 2013

Most U.S. farms derive at least some income from off-farm employment, a USDA study found. Even large farms have a significant amount of off-farm income. Most off-farm jobs are in management and professional occupations. Click here for the full story

Bulging debt load burdens farmers - AgMinute for November 21, 2013

Farmers carry more debt than USDA surveys reveal, according to a study by a Kansas State University economist. The higher debt includes money owed to suppliers of seed and fertilizer. Click here for the full story

More green peas? Yes please! - AgMinute for November 20, 2013

Led by a large increase in green pea production in Idaho and Washington, total pulse crop production in the Pacific Northwest increased significantly in 2013. Contract prices offered by regional processors for green peas reached near-record levels earlier in the season. Click here for the full story

Free pesticide disposal gains popularity - AgMinute for November 19, 2013

BOISE — The popularity of a free Idaho State Department of Agriculture pesticide disposal program continues to increase significantly, as more farmers discover it is a safe and easy way to get rid of unusable pesticides. Click here for the full story

Health insurance cancellation notices go out - AgMinute for November 18, 2013

Nearly 400,000 people in Washington state and Idaho have been notified that their health insurance policies will be cancelled next year, an Associated Press survey has found. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

The "giant spud" may roll again - Ag Minute for November 15, 2013

The Idaho Potato Commission is checking the costs of a likely third tour of the Great Big Idaho Potato Truck. Click here for the full story

Spud estimates surprise industry leaders - AgMinute for November 14, 2013

Recent USDA estimates showing significantly increased 2013 Idaho potato yields have surprised industry leaders, though they anticipated the greater percentage of large tubers in the agency’s report. Click here for the full story

Spokane hosts tri-state convention - AgMinute for November 13, 2013

Wheat farmers from around the Pacific Northwest converge on Spokane this week for the grain industry's annual tri-state convention. Click here for more information

Online sustainable Small Farming/Ranching course fills fast - AgMinute for November 12, 2013

University of Idaho officials encourage new small farmers and ranchers to sign up early for an online course offered in January. Click here for the full story

No E. coli risk for onion bulbs - AgMinute for November 11, 2013

Dry bulb onions grown in Idaho and eastern Oregon pose no risk of E. coli contamination, according to Oregon State University research. Click here for the full story

New Year spud drop - AgMinute for October 30, 2013

An Idaho group plans to slowly drop a giant, lit-up potato from one of Boise's tallest buildings to ring in the New Year. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

Pacific Northwest canola wanted - AgMinute for October 29, 2013

Pacific Coast Canola hopes to be 100 percent locally sourced within the next few years. The $120 million Warden, Wash., plant is working to increase farmer awareness of the agronomic benefits of raising canola. Click Here for the full story

Columbia Basin sees tough hay season - AgMinute for October 28, 2013

A leading West Coast hay exporter says the Columbia Basin produced its worst quality Timothy hay in memory because of rain and delay. He says alfalfa wasn't much better. Click here for the full story

Grass-fed beef demand on the rise - AgMinute for October 25, 2013

The USDA has started tracking domestic grass-fed beef prices, which industry organizations anticipate will lead more producers to enter the industry. Click here for the full story

GMO critics rethink strategy - AgMinute for October 24, 2013

Critics of genetically engineering crops are rethinking their strategy in the battle over biotechnology. For more information visit www.capitalpress.com

GMO wheat lawsuits consolidated - AgMinute for October 23, 2013

Class action lawsuits against Monsanto over unauthorized biotech wheat have been consolidated into one case in Kansas City. Click Here for the full story

2 Food companies have eyes on Idaho - AgMinute for October 21, 2013

Two food companies have announced plans to build new operations in southern Idaho, officials have announced. Click here for the full story

House votes to end shutdown - AgMinute for October 18, 2013

Here's how House members voted on the legislation to end the government shutdown. Click here for the full story

Judge orders barge picketing to cease - AgMinute for October 17, 2013

The longshoremen's union has been ordered to stop picketing neutral grain barges on the Columbia and Snake rivers. A federal judge found that the union was unlawfully trying to involve the barge company in its dispute with grain handlers. Click here for the full story

Federal Endangered Species Act takes some heat - AgMinute for October 16, 2013

Representatives of a wide range of interests roundly criticized the Endangered Species Act at a forum led by two members of Congress. Click here for the full story

Shutdown hinders FSA loans - AgMinute for October 15, 2013

The federal government shutdown is being felt more by some ranchers and farmers than others. With FSA offices closed, ranchers hit by the early blizzard in the Great Plains have no where to go to report losses or get advice and producers with FSA loans can't cash checks for the sale of their production without agency endorsement. Click here for the full story

10-year wealth creates ag super cycle - AgMinute for October 14, 2013

A 10-year period of wealth in the U.S. ag sector, particularly in grain production, has led to a super cycle of appreciating commodity and land assets. For more information go to www.capitalpress.com

FFA supporters request funding - AgMinute for October 11, 2013

FFA supporters will ask the 2014 Idaho Legislature for $2.24 million to help maintain and improve the state’s secondary agricultural education programs. Click here for the full story

Idaho barley back on top - AgMinute for October 10, 2013

During a year in which national barley production shrank by 2 percent to 215 million bushels, Idaho increased its crop by 4 percent and reclaimed its former status as the country’s top barely state. Click here for the full story

USDA approves increase in blueberry assessment - AgMinute for October 9, 2013

The USDA has approved an increase in the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council’s assessment, moving it from $12 a ton to $18 a ton beginning with the 2014 crop. Click here for the full story

Conference offers small farm tips - AgMinute for October 8, 2013

The Inland Northwest Small Farms Conference in Spokane Oct. 19 offers a variety of tips for new and small farm operators. Course topics include dealing with nuisance animals, effective irrigation and locations of wells and septic tanks. Small acreage coordinator Pat Munts says the conference may help small producers who are just starting out to make better decisions. Click here for the full story

Washington minimum wage climbs - AgMinute for October 7, 2013

Washington state's minimum wage, the highest in the country, will increase to $9.32 an hour in 2014, a hike of 13 cents. Click here for the full story

Spud research stalled - AgMinute for October 4, 2013

Officials involved with the tri-state potato breeding program say the government shutdown has blocked their efforts to develop new spud varieties. For more information go to www.capitalpress.com

Shutdown impact a matter of time - AgMinute for October 3, 2013

The federal government shutdown causes frustration and inconvenience to agricultural producers in the short term. If it continues for much longer, however, it will have a significant impact on their business decisions and on their pocketbooks. - Click here for the full story

Future US-Mexico spud trades? - AgMinute for October 2, 2013

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has proposed parameters for accepting imports of fresh potatoes from Mexico, representing another step forward in a decade-long effort to fully open fresh spud trade between the two countries. Click here for the full story

Exotic fruit attacking fly reaches Idaho - AgMinute for October 1, 2013

“They’re out there. They’re in the valley,” said Chad Henggeler, field manager for Henggeler Packing Co. in Fruitland, one of Idaho’s largest orchards. “We are very concerned about the situation and we’re … monitoring it all the time.” Click here for the full story

Mexican Craft Brewing is Hopping - AgMinute for September 30, 2013

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Mexico’s growing craft beer industry sent its first delegate to Idaho barley country, as part of a trade team that left Sept. 26 following an overnight visit. Click here for the full story

US & Japan make organic trade - AgMinute for September 27, 2013

The United States and Japan have agreed to make it easier to import each other’s organic products, the latest step in a global effort that could give consumers access to more — and cheaper — organic food. Click here for the full story

Judge rules "The other white meat" is okay - AgMinute for September 26, 2013

For more information go to www.captialpress.com

Roadtripping Longshoremen - AgMinute for September 25, 2013

Longshoremen are reaching out to farmers to try to gain support for their position in a labor dispute with several Northwest grain handlers. They've also picketed grain elevators owned by the handlers. Click here for the full story

Organic review faces resistance - AgMinute for September 24, 2013

The National Organic Program changes its procedures for sunset provisions, which it says will increase transparency in determining what substances are allowed on the national list. Opponents say it does the opposite. Click here for the full story

WA, ID in top 3 for western production - AgMinute for September 23, 2013

Washington retained the No. 2 spot in 2012 for total agricultural production among the 11 western states. While Idaho ranks third, it is unchallenged when it comes to farmgate receipts on a per capita basis. Click here for the full story.

Milk prices high and stable - AgMinute for September 20, 2013

The average monthly all-milk price in Idaho through August has been higher and significantly more stable than the past three years. But dairymen say they're more interested in the difference between price and their cost of production. Click here for the full story

Stein and Potatoes — Ag Minute for September 19, 2013

Ben Stein will headline the Potato Expo 2014 in San Antonio. The pop culture icon was an economist at the Department of Commerce, a poverty lawyer, a university adjunct, and a speech writer for presidents Nixon and Ford.

Food stamp savings — AgMinute for Sept. 18, 2013

The House is expected to consider a bill this week that would cut food stamps by an estimated $4 billion annually and allow states to put broad new work requirements in place for recipients.

Read about innovative farmers in Western Innovators, a new Capital Press ebook available on iPad.

Potato growers mashed — AgMinute for Sept. 17, 2013

Potato growers fear new EPA requirements for fumigation may make chemigation of nematicides too difficult to continue. The new rules take effect this fall.

Read about innovative farmers in Western Innovators, a new Capital Press ebook available on iPad.

Seeding organic independence — AgMinute for Sept. 16, 2013

Workshops being held in Idaho, Oregon and Washington are encouraging organic farmers to grow their own seed. The workshops cover the challenges and benefits organic producers face when growing their own seed.

Read about innovative farmers in Western Innovators, a new Capital Press ebook available on iPad.

Eye of the potato — AgMinute for Sept. 13, 2013

The Idaho Potato Commission has new leadership. Dan Moss became chairman on Sept. 1, and Boyd Foster assumed the role of vice chairman. Both raise spuds for the fresh and processing markets.

Read about innovative farmers in Western Innovators, a new Capital Press ebook available on iPad.

Unstoppable COOL — AgMinute for Sept. 12, 2013

The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia has denied plaintiffs' request for a preliminary injunction that, if granted, would have blocked the Department of Agriculture from implementing and enforcing its revised country of origin labeling regulations until a lawsuit filed July 8 is concluded.

Read about innovative farmers in Western Innovators, a new Capital Press ebook available on iPad.

A warmer winter is coming — AgMinute for Sept. 11, 2013

Winter temperatures in the Pacific Northwest will increase during the next several decades, and the best climate estimates show “this will be a different place,” according to Nicholas Bond, Washington state climatologist.

Read about more innovative farmers in Western Innovators, a new Capital Press ebook available on iPad.

Idaho truffle shuffle — AgMinute for Sept. 10, 2013

Idaho’s fledgling truffle industry is starting to show signs of promise. Five of the valuable truffles — they fetch from $400 to $1,200 a pound — were found in Paul Beckman’s orchards last year, the first truffles ever discovered in Idaho.

Read about more innovative farmers in Western Innovators, a new Capital Press ebook available on iPad.

Rain and drought — AgMinute for Sept. 9, 2013

Heavy early September moisture has come at an opportune time for southern Idaho agriculture. Most of the region, however, was dryer than normal during August.

EPA delays bacterial agent — AgMinute for Sept. 6, 2013

The release of a biological pesticide effective against a host of pathogens and even potato virus Y has been delayed at least a year by new EPA requirements to evaluate effects of pesticides on beehives.

Exports fail to keep pace — AgMinute for Sept. 5, 2013

Lower U.S. energy prices, a depreciating dollar and more available credit are positive factors for the U.S. agricultural trade outlook in FY 2014, but U.S. ag exports are forecast to slip by $5 billion from FY 2013’s record $140 billion.

Juggling coverage — AgMinute for Sept. 4, 2013

An insurance expert says upcoming health care reforms could lead farmers to drop coverage of their workers.

Milk surveys rise again — AgMinute for Sept. 3, 2013

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will resume milk production quarterly producer surveys in the new federal fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. NASS suspended the surveys in April of this year to meet the budget reductions required by sequestration.

Fighting over fire blame — AgMinute for Sept. 2, 2013

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack largely defended the federal government's management of national forests amid criticisms that massive buildups of hazardous fuels have added to wildfires' intensity.

Up, up and organic — AgMinute for Aug. 30, 2013

Sales of organic foods grew by 25 percent between 2008 and 2011, a period of economic downturn in much of the world.

The early farmer gets the premium — AgMinute for Aug. 29, 2013

Idaho potato growers starting early harvests say yields appear to be about average, and most are pleased by the size profile and quality of their crops. Several growers throughout the state have begun their early harvests a few days ahead of the usual schedule, motivated by limited water supplies and the opportunity to capture high prices before the general harvest floods the market.

The Wheat State — AgMinute for Aug. 28, 2013

The Kansas State University Wheat Genetics Resource Center is improving production and disease resistance of wheat and other crops.

Burning frustration — AgMinute for Aug. 28, 2013

Livestock ranchers suffering significant cattle losses and more than 280,000 acres of burned out grazing land in the rugged Boise National Forest are frustrated with the U.S. Forest Service and BLM, claiming the devastation they are experiencing could have been avoided.

Dredging delayed — AgMinute for Aug. 26, 2013

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is postponing the environmental impact assessment of its sediment management plan on the lower Snake River. The Walla Walla, Wash., district of the corps is also delaying proposed dredging of the lower Snake River in Lewiston, Idaho.

Stressing out new breeds — AgMinute for Aug. 23, 2013

Victor Raboy, a research geneticist with the Agricultural Research Service in Aberdeen, sees potential to breed desirable traits in crops by exposing them to stressful environments, based on a modern field of science that challenges traditional notions of genetics.

Bulking up delayed — Aug. 22, 2013

The loss of a beef weight-building drug may be disruptive for some feedlots but the effect will probably be a wash for the cow-calf producers who supply them, experts say. The pharmaceutical company Merck recently suspended sales of its Zilmax drug.

Defending COOL — AgMinute for Aug. 21, 2013

A court has allowed farm groups that support the U.S. Department of Agriculture's mandatory country-of-origin meat labeling regulations to intervene in a lawsuit challenging the rules.

Irrigation rules threaten specialty crops — AgMinute for Aug. 20, 2013

Opposition to the Food and Drug Administration's proposed produce safety rule has been led by the Idaho-Oregon onion industry and FDA officials' recent visit to the Pacific Northwest centered around that sector. But onions are only one of an estimated 200 commodities that would have to meet the proposed standards, which include limits on how much bacteria could be detected in irrigation water.

Wooing Asia and Mexico — AgMinute for Aug. 19, 2013

Washington businesses are invited to participate in an upcoming visit with prospective buyers from Asia and Mexico. The Washington State Department of Agriculture will sponsor meetings Sept. 9 and 10 in Seattle.

I'd like to buy the world a glass of milk — AgMinute for Aug. 16, 2013

Dairy exports in the first half of the year totaled a record-high $3.17 billion, up 16 percent from $2.74 billion in the first half of 2012, pushed by increasing global demand.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Can't stop the water — AgMinute for Aug. 15, 2013

Food and Drug Administration officials visited farms, packing sheds and irrigation systems in Idaho, Oregon and Washington this week to get a first-hand look at how their proposed produce safety rule could impact farmers.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

To get wheat is glorious — AgMinute for Aug. 14, 2013

Members of a Chinese trade team visiting Oregon and Idaho Aug. 3-8 said they're interested in buying more soft white wheat from the Pacific Northwest, a class they haven't historically imported.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Open fields doctrine — AgMinute for Aug. 13, 2013

A federal judge has ruled that the constitutional prohibition against unreasonable searches doesn't apply to U.S. Labor Department investigators who want to enter farm fields.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

The vegetable whisperer — AgMinute for Aug. 12, 2013

Vegetable growers mystified by something going wrong with their crops can take the first step toward solving the problem by consulting a website managed by scientists at the Northwest's three land-grant universities.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Idaho seeks another AVA — AgMinute for Aug. 9, 2013

A petition to create another American Viticulture Area in Idaho has been accepted for formal review. An AVA is a specific wine grape growing region designated by the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

A is for average — AgMinute for Aug. 8, 2013

Wheat farmers across the Northwest have taken to their fields amid concerns that drier-than-normal weather would reduce yields and prices would slip lower.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Flooded with concern — AgMinute for Aug. 7, 2013

A top Food and Drug Administration official is visiting the Pacific Northwest to hear directly from farmers about their concerns regarding the agency's proposed food safety rules for agricultural water.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

A paragon of potatoes — AgMinute for Aug. 6, 2013

The U.S. Potato Board has chosen a veteran in the produce industry to serve as its new president and CEO. The Denver-based board, which serves as the nation's marketing organization and central organizing force, has chosen Blair Richardson.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

The organic buzz — AgMinute for Aug. 5, 2013

Fences don't stop bees, so a farmer can't manage them organically the same as they would livestock. That's something the USDA's National Organic Standards Board must take into account as it develops organic standards for bees.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

The House talks timber — AgMinute for Aug. 2, 2013

A package of legislation is moving through the U.S. House of Representatives that seeks to improve forest management and reduce the threat of wildfire on federal lands.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Wheat prices rebound — AgMinute for Aug. 1, 2013

Japan's decision to lift its ban on purchasing U.S. western white wheat will boost wheat prices, but other factors such as corn prices will have more impact, analysts say.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Japan resumes wheat imports — AgMinute for July 31, 2013

Japan’s top agriculture official said that his nation will resume the import of U.S. western white wheat in the wake of the discovery of GMO wheat in an Oregon field.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

On the wheat beat — AgMinute for July 30, 2013

USDA officials say they are continuing to work as quickly as possible to determine how genetically engineered wheat wound up in a northeast Oregon field.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Japan mulls wheat imports — AgMinute for July 29, 2013

Japan is still deciding whether to resume purchasing U.S. western white wheat. The official Japanese position is that no decision has yet been made, said Steve Mercer, vice president of communications for U.S. Wheat Associates.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

China wheat — AgMinute for July 26, 2013

Weather damage to China's wheat crop has opened export opportunities for wheat producers in the Pacific Northwest and throughout the U.S., according to wheat industry sources.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

CRP slips in Idaho — AgMinute for July 25, 2013

Much more acreage is set to expire Sept. 30 from the federal Conservation Reserve Program than was awarded during the recent general signup period, according to the Farm Service Agency.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Making hay with oats — AgMinute for July 24, 2013

USDA projects Idaho's oat crop, at 1.8 million bushels, will be 85 percent larger than last year. Oat farmers say the majority of the crop will be cut for hay, rather than grown for grain, due to a shortage of alfalfa.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Baker's favorite — AgMinute for July 23, 2013

Officials with the Idaho Wheat Commission believe key factors are finally aligning to make hard white winter wheat a more viable option for the state's growers.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

FDA reaches out — AgMinute for July 22, 2013

The Food and Drug Administration has announced it will expand its outreach effort to farmers to address questions relating to the agency's proposed produce safety rules.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Splitting the farm bill — AgMinute for July 19, 2013

Agricultural groups hope legislation that includes both farm and nutrition policy with a defined expiration date emerges when Senate and House farm bills go to conference.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Naturally biotech — AgMinute for July 18, 2013

A federal judge has asked the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to determine whether food made with genetically engineered crops can be labeled as "natural."

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Machinery sales roar — AgMinute for July 17, 2013

Farm machinery sales have soared during the first half of 2013, exceeding last year's strong levels and surpassing manufacturer expectations.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Celebrate the onion — AgMinute for July 16, 2013

The Idaho-Eastern Oregon Onion Festival returns this year after a seven-year absence. It will be held Aug. 3 during the Malheur County Fair and include cooking contests, tasting demonstrations and an onion dressing competition.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," available at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Biotech wheat talks — AgMinute for July 15, 2013

Japanese customers will meet with Northwest wheat industry representatives next week in Portland to discuss genetically modified wheat found in a field in northeast Oregon earlier this year, according to the chair of the Washington Grain Commission.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Farmers and energy — AgMinute for July 12, 2013

Gov. Butch Otter has appointed a Caribou County dryland grain farmer and a Washington County rancher to a reconstituted board assigned to regulate oil and gas exploration and drilling in the state.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," at http://bit.ly/BiotechBacklash

Cautious optimism for wheat exports — AgMinute for July 11, 2013

Japan may be opening the door for more wheat purchases from the United States, but the U.S. wheat industry is exercising cautious optimism.

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Japan returns to wheat — AgMinute for July 10, 2013

A top Japanese agricultural official says that his nation plans to resume purchases of U.S. soft white wheat this week. The announcement follows South Korea's re-entry into the market on Tuesday.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," a free ebook from Capital Press.

Local livestock conundrum — AgMinute for July 9, 2013

A lack of coordination with meat packers is often a bigger barrier to success for "local" livestock producers than insufficient slaughter capacity, a USDA study finds.

Read about how farmers are confronting controversy over biotechnology in "Surviving a Biotech Backlash," a free ebook from Capital Press.

Labor costs loom — AgMinute for July 8, 2013

Farmers who aren't directly subject to national health care reforms for employees may still end up with higher labor costs from the overhaul, experts say.

Flag smut inspection — AgMinute for July 2, 2013

Kenyan agricultural regulators said during a recent tour of Pacific Northwest grain facilities they've seen no evidence of flag smut, a crop disease that has posed a trade barrier.

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Paring down potatoes — AgMinute for July 1, 2013

Potato growers in the Northwest and throughout the U.S. have significantly reduced their acreage this season following a 2012 crop marked by overproduction and low prices, according to a USDA report released June 28.

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Immigration pressure — AgMinute for June 28, 2013

The House and its conservative majority are coming under pressure to act after the Senate passed a landmark immigration bill opening the door to U.S. citizenship to millions while pouring billions of dollars into securing the border with Mexico.

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Is it a sabotage? — AgMinute for June 27, 2013

Experts say it seems unlikely eco-terrorists would have purposely sown restricted biotech wheat in an Oregon field, discounting Monsanto's claim that the release was an act of sabotage.

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No-GMO logo — AgMinute for June 26, 2013

The USDA has approved a label that verifies the absence of genetically modified products in some foods. The Non-GMO Project, a nationwide organization based in Bellingham, Wash., has sought the approval for the past year.

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Seed potato leaders — AgMinute for June 25, 2013

The Idaho Crop Improvement Association has chosen Alan Westra as the new southeast area manager who will oversee seed potato certification for the state. He replaces Gary Smith, who retires July 1 after a year in the position.

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Between a rock and a dry year — AgMinute for June 24, 2013

The dim outlook for the irrigation supply this season has brightened somewhat. But many farmers in the Pacific Northwest will still have to get by on a lot less and the tight situation has already altered many planting decisions.

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Biotech wheat fears recede — AgMinute for June 21, 2013

Taiwanese wheat buyers purchased 85,550 metric tons of wheat from the U.S. this week and did not exclude wheat from the Pacific Northwest.

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Give the world some sugar — AgMinute for June 20, 2013

Global sugar consumption is projected to increase from 166 million tons to 203 million tons in the next seven years, according to a report released this week by Rabobank's food and agribusiness research and advisor team.

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Sugar rush — AgMinute for June 19, 2013

USDA officials expect temporary incentives to help move a glut of domestic sugar will save taxpayers $282 million in prevented government farm loan forfeitures.

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Biotech release called isolated incident — AgMinute for June 18, 2013

Department of Agriculture officials said that investigators have found no evidence that the discovery of unauthorized genetically modified wheat in an Oregon field was anything but an isolated incident in a single field.

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Dry bean versus soybean — AgMinute for June 17, 2013

Idaho dry bean growers are concerned that non-inspected soybean seed entering the state could negatively impact their industry and have asked state officials to address the issue.

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Searching for answers — AgMinute for June 14, 2013

USDA investigators have taken samples from more than one seed dealer as part of a probe to discover the source of unauthorized genetically modified wheat discovered in an Oregon field.

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Biotech wheat investigation — AgMinute for June 13, 2013

USDA investigators have taken samples from a Washington wheat seed supplier and some of its customers in the ongoing probe into the source of unauthorized genetically modified wheat found in an Oregon field.

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EPA sued — June 12, 2013

Two environmental groups have revived a lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over pesticides, though the new version has been scaled back.

The Capital Press ebook "Keen on Quinoa" is free this week at http://bit.ly/KeenOnQuinoa

Canadian trade war — AgMinute for June 11, 2013

The Canadian government on June 7 signaled it may impose retaliatory tariffs on more than three dozen American commodities, including beef, pork, rice, corn, apples, cherries and wine, as a result of the U.S.' mandatory country-of-origin labeling law.

The Capital Press ebook "Keen on Quinoa" is free this week at http://bit.ly/KeenOnQuinoa

Pygmy rabbit appeal — AgMinute for June 10, 2013

The federal government was justified in refusing to expand Endangered Species Act protections for the pygmy rabbit, according to a federal judge.

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Roundup Ready test — AgMinute for June 6, 2013

The Monsanto Co. says extensive tests of wheat varieties grown in the Northwest have uncovered no contamination from a biotech variety of the crop recently found in an Oregon field.

Lawyering up — AgMinute for June 5, 2013

A Kansas wheat farmer has filed a legal complaint against the Monsanto Co. over an unauthorized release of biotech wheat, claiming it was negligent in developing the crop. Plaintiff Ernest Barnes of Morton County, Kan., seeks damages of more than $100,000 from the biotech developer, claiming he and other growers "have been injured significantly ... as the price for their wheat drops and markets close previously open doors."

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Biotech litigation looms — AgMinute for June 4, 2013

Farmer litigation against Monsanto will hinge on whether the unauthorized release of the company's biotech wheat depresses prices for the crop, legal experts say. So far, though, the price reaction has been muted because little is known about the extent of the problem.

A beef with BSE fears — AgMinute for June 3, 2013

American beef industry representatives hope a world body's upgrade of the United States' risk status for bovine spongiform encephalopathy to "negligible" will expand existing markets while removing barriers in places such as China.

Biotech wheat fallout — AgMinute for May 31, 2013

Japan has suspended its regular purchase of soft white wheat after genetically modified wheat was found in an Oregon field, an industry representative says.

Sheep versus bears — AgMinute for May 30, 2013

Several environmental groups have filed a legal complaint claiming that USDA sheep research in Idaho disrupts the recovery of threatened grizzly bears. The environmentalists allege that the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station near Dubois, Idaho, has become a "black hole for carnivores."

Saving lives — AgMinute for May 29, 2013

Farm groups have teamed up with Gov. Butch Otter to create a canal safety campaign designed to help prevent the canal-related deaths that occur in Idaho each year.

Too cheap fertilizer — AgMinute for May 28, 2013

The federal government has decided to keep high tariffs on Ukrainian exports of ammonium nitrate even though the fertilizer is now cheaper to produce in the U.S. The U.S. International Trade Commission has ruled that dropping the tariffs would likely cause "material injury within a reasonably foreseeable time" to domestic fertilizer manufacturers.

Struggling after getting 'slimed' — AgMinute for May 27, 2013

The beef-processing company that makes the product that critics call "pink slime" continues to struggle more than a year after the initial stories on the lean bits of beef that Beef Products Inc. makes.

Stuck on eggs — AgMinute for May 24, 2013

Federal standards for the welfare of egg-laying hens suffered a defeat when they failed to make it into the farm bill legislation voted out of the agriculture committees in the U.S. House and Senate.

Slaughterhouse fie! — AgMinute for May 23, 2013

The USDA hasn't taken proper enforcement measures against slaughterhouses that violate food safety and animal welfare laws, according to an internal agency audit.

Whither wheat? — AgMinute for May 22, 2013

After increasing significantly in 2012, Idaho wheat exports to Mexico dropped considerably during the first quarter of 2013. The drop was caused by very high corn prices last year that resulted in a lot of Idaho wheat being sent through feed channels.

No drone, no spy — AgMinute for May 21, 2013

A new Idaho law that takes effect July 1 will prevent people from using drones to spy on farmers and ranchers. A bill that has been signed into law by Gov. Butch Otter restricts people from using drones to spy on anyone but it was crafted specifically with agriculture in mind.

Celiac-friendly spuds — AgMinute for May 20, 2013

A new Idaho Potato Commission recipe promotion seeks to capitalize on a sharp increase in Americans who report suffering from gluten intolerance.

Aid anger — AgMinute for May 17, 2013

U.S. farm groups are alarmed by the president's proposal to eliminate the country's international food aid program, which purchases U.S. commodities and ships them abroad, and switch to a new cash-based system that can buy food overseas closer to where it's needed.

Up and up — AgMinute for May 16, 2013

Oil prices have shot up in recent weeks despite abundant production, pushing up prices for gasoline and diesel in the West, experts say.

Roaring exports — AgMinute for May 15, 2013

The value of Idaho agricultural exports continued to increase during the first quarter of 2013 despite a reduction in dairy sales, which drove the state's record farm export totals in 2011 and 2012.

Monsanto triumphant — AgMinute for May 14, 2013

The U.S. Supreme Court has unanimously rejected a farmer's claim that patents on biotech seed are "exhausted" once the crop is sold to a grain elevator.

Restoring history — AgMinute for May 13, 2013

The University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Science recently unveiled its restored John Deere Model AW tractor, as part of a celebration of the history of agriculture.

Farm bill sightings — AgMinute for May 10, 2013

Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., said today that she plans to hold a mark up of a new farm bill in May, and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., signaled that he intends to bring it to the Senate floor.

Hamburger Ho! — AgMinute for May 9, 2013

Little or no profits in the milk-production sector in the second half of 2012 and strong cull prices drove dairy cow slaughter to its highest level in 26 years.

ACRE awaits — AgMinute for May 8, 2013

Growers have until June 3 to sign up for the USDA's ACRE program for 2013. It is designed to provide revenue insurance for loss of production or price decreases.

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Easing fertilizer prices — AgMinute for May 7, 2013

Increased global production of urea is reducing prices for nitrogen fertilizers, with the downward trend likely to continue through the summer, experts say.

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Innate taters — AgMinute for May 6, 2013

Simplot Plant Sciences has introduced a new line of biotech potatoes using a patented technology that incorporates desirable traits from wild potato DNA into common commercial varieties.

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Pesticides pondered — AgMinute for May 3, 2013

An eagerly awaited report about endangered species has managed the rare feat of pleasing both environmentalists and the pesticide industry. The National Academy of Sciences report examines processes used by federal agencies to evaluate the risk that pesticides pose to protected species.

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Scuse nominated — AgMinute for May 2, 2013

The White House has named Michael Scuse as the Department of Agriculture's acting deputy secretary effective May 4, replacing Kathleen Merrigan, who is leaving the USDA.

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Court blasts deal — AgMinute for May 1, 2013

A settlement deal between government agencies and environmentalists over forest species sidestepped the public rule-making process, according to a federal appeals court.

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Shrinking farm bill — AgMinute for April 30, 2013

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Frank Lucas, R-Okla., told Capital Press on April 26 that he is planning a farm bill that will cut $38 billion in spending over 10 years, with $20 billion coming from the food stamps account and $18 billion from the rest of the bill.

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Easy organic — AgMinute for April 29, 2013

In response to producers' concerns about the amount of recordkeeping required for organic certification, the USDA's National Organic Program has begun to lighten the load.

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Newest farm bill — AgMinute for April 26, 2013

Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., said today that she plans to hold a mark up of a new farm bill in May, and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., signaled that he intends to bring it to the Senate floor.

This podcast is sponsored by Western Innovators, the latest ebook from Capital Press: http://bit.ly/WesternInnovators2012