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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Abnormally warm, dry fall in store for NW, expert predicts. Ag Minute for Sept. 30, 2015

Meteorologist Nic Loyd says the weather could turn around by mid-2016. Click here for full story.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Retailers expand dairy antitrust litigation. Ag Minute for July 21, 2015

Retailers are expanding antitrust litigation against dairy cooperatives. Click here for full story.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Drought reduces hydroelectric output. Ag Minute for July 3, 2015

Drought lowers river flows, electrical power output. For full story click here.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

High court strikes down raisin program as unconstitutional. AgMinute for Jun 23, 2015

Court says government-run program can't take raisins without paying for them. For full story click here.

Northwest wheat growers eye early harvest. Ag Minute For June 22, 2015

Pacific Northwest wheat farmers are eyeing an early harvest due to dry conditions. Click here for full story.

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.

Bird flu likely spread on equipment, workers, rodents, wind. Ag Minute Jun 18, 2015

More than 49 million birds died or were euthanized this spring. Click here for full Story.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Rules aim to protect sage grouse habitat in 10 states- AgMinute June 1, 2015

The proposal would primarily affect energy development. Click here for full Story.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Idaho officials approve plan to protect sage grouse habitat - AgMinute for April 24, 2015

The state document will be considered Thursday for approval by the Idaho Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. Click here for the full story

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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