agricultue

Under the current system, agriculture producers must be the sole owner-operator of their farm or ranch to qualify for loans from the federal government. A bipartisan bill would allow those with just a 50% stake to apply — something lawmakers, farmers and lobbying groups say is a much-needed modernization.

University of Illinois researchers analyzed traces of DNA in rivers and streams to learn how strips of trees near water — called riparian buffers — impact land species.

Missouri public school students could see more agriculture-based science lessons starting in kindergarten through high school under bills prefiled in both state legislative chambers that would establish a new statewide program.

Managing alpha-gal syndrome can be hard for anyone, but for farmers who are in close contact with mammals — the allergy can be ruinous and, sometimes, life-threatening.

Most of the package is earmarked for row-crop producers. It aims to help farmers – especially those who grow soybeans – balance out losses from high costs and a trade war with China.

Crop insurance provides some coverage for some farmers, but can often be an obstacle to sustainability.

The quarterly Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade used to include data tables of imports and exports, plus a written analysis. But the last two reports have only included the data, leaving readers to do guesswork on the trends behind the numbers.

Over 94% of the state is facing drought conditions, which could affect soybean harvests and maintain high beef prices.

A plan to disperse Washington-based USDA jobs to five hubs, including Kansas City and Indianapolis, is making waves across agriculture. Critics say the shakeup could hobble the agency, while proponents say it will move staff closer to farmers and save money.

Hay is used to feed cattle during winter, when grass grows slower. Making it takes time, requires expensive equipment and degrades soil.