Agriculture

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    ScienceDaily.com

  • Amaizing: Corn genome decoded

    21 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    In recent years, scientists have decoded the DNA of humans and a menagerie of creatures but none with genes as complex as a stalk of corn, the latest genome to be unraveled. A team of scientists has published the completed corn genome -- an accomplishment that will speed efforts to develop better crop varieties to meet the world's growing demands for food, livestock feed and fuel.

  • Why Israeli rodents are more cautious than Jordanian ones

    20 Nov 2009 | 5:00 pm
    Rodent, reptile and ant lion species behave differently on either side of the Israel-Jordan border. Researchers found that Israeli gerbils are more cautious than their Jordanian friends, and the funnel-digging ant lion population in Israel is unmistakably larger than in Jordan.

  • On the origin of nematodes: Phylogenetic tree of world's most numerous group of animals

    20 Nov 2009 | 8:00 am
    Scientists have published the largest nematode phylogenetic tree up until now. It contains over 1,200 species and is entirely based on the analysis of DNA sequence data.

  • How crops survive drought

    20 Nov 2009 | 8:00 am
    Breakthrough research done earlier this year by a plant cell biologist has greatly accelerated scientists' knowledge on how plants and crops can survive difficult environmental conditions like drought. In drought conditions certain receptor proteins in plants perceive ABA, causing them to inhibit an enzyme called a phosphatase. The receptor protein is at the top of a signaling pathway in plants, functioning like a boss relaying orders to the team below that then executes particular decisions in the cell. Now recent published studies show how those orders are relayed at the molecular level.

  • Sustainable farming may help maintain healthy climate

    20 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    Sustainable farming, initially adopted to preserve soil quality for future generations, may also play a role in maintaining a healthy climate, according to researchers.
 
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    Medical News Today: Agriculture

  • The Amaizing Corn Genome

    21 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    In recent years, scientists have decoded the DNA of humans and a menagerie of creatures but none with genes as complex as a stalk of corn, the latest genome to be unraveled. A team of scientists led by The Genome Center at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis published the completed corn genome in the Nov.

  • Op-Eds: HIV Travel Ban; Improving Sanitation; Counterfeit Drugs

    20 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am
    'Blot' On U.S. HIV/AIDS Leadership Removed A "blot" on U.S. HIV/AIDS leadership "ended last month when President [Barack] Obama lifted the prohibition" that kept HIV-positive foreigners from visiting the U.S. or seeking residency, according to a

  • World Summit On Food Security Wraps Up

    20 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am
    The U.N. World Summit on Food Security ended Wednesday in Rome with Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) head Jacques Diouf calling for the global community to shift the fight against global hunger from "words to action," Agence France-Press reports.

  • For World Toilet Day, News Outlets Examine Poor Sanitation Conditions Around World

    20 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am
    In light of World Toilet Day Thursday, several news outlets examine the impact of poor sanitation on health. Reuters examines the challenges of poor sanitation in Mumbai, India, "where more than half its 18 million residents live in slums and where the average ratio of people to toilets is 81:1.

  • Also In Global Health News: HIV/AIDS Grants; Africa's Water Resources; Sex Workers In Malawi

    20 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    Report Examines HIV/AIDS Grant Funding HIV/AIDS program grants made by U.S.-based foundations totaled $618 billion in 2008, an 11 percent increase from the previous year, according to a new report by Funders Concerned About AIDS, the Chronicle of Philanthropy reports.
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    USDA Agricultural Research Service

  • Time-Tunneling for Climate Change Clues

    20 Nov 2009 | 6:07 am
    Read the magazine story to find out more. ARS researchers have been studying plant reactions to changes in C02 levels, from the Ice Age—13,000 to 18,000 B.C.—to the year 2050 A.D. by growing them in long, plastic-covered "time tunnels." Why invasive plants take over   Elevated carbon dioxide spurs shrub growth   More forage, but less filling Time-Tunneling for Climate Change Clues By Don Comis November 20, 2009 If you look closely at individual plant species' responses in the past, you may find that the largest effects of high carbon dioxide (CO2) levels occurred…

  • USDA Scientists, Colleagues Sequence Corn Genome

    19 Nov 2009 | 1:12 pm
    ARS computational biologist Doreen Ware and colleagues have completed a four-year effort to sequence the genome of corn. Click the image for more information about it. Corn research unlocks basis of natural diversity   Here's one a-maize-ing website   ARS produces online databases for maize, blueberries. USDA Scientists, Colleagues Sequence Corn Genome By Dennis O'Brien November 19, 2009 WASHINGTON, November 19, 2009—U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) scientists and their colleagues have completed a four-year effort to sequence the genome of corn, an achievement expected to…

  • Microwave Meter Measures Moisture and Density of In-Shell Peanuts

    19 Nov 2009 | 7:04 am
    ARS scientists have developed a microwave meter that measures moisture and density of in-shell peanuts faster and easier, both important quality indicators. Image courtesy of Microsoft clipart. Online peanut warehouse ventilation calculator available   Technology improves peanut grading, moisture detection   Measuring peanuts' moisture—while still in the shell Microwave Meter Measures Moisture and Density of In-Shell Peanuts By Sharon Durham November 19, 2009 A microwave meter that instantaneously measures both moisture and density of in-shell peanuts has been developed by…

  • Invasive Nettle Moth Triggers Hawaii Research

    18 Nov 2009 | 5:49 am
    Nettle moth caterpillar (Darna pallivitta). Click the image for more information about it. Pesky white peach scale targeted in tropical studies   New USDA research facility to open in Hawaii   Invasive Nettle Moth Triggers Hawaii Research By Marcia Wood November 18, 2009 Like children everywhere, kids in Hawaii love to run barefoot through tall grass. But an invasive pest called the nettle moth caterpillar can take the fun out of this simple childhood pleasure, according to Agricultural Research Service (ARS) research entomologist Eric B. Jang. The sharp, spiky hairs of the…

  • Studying Fertilizers to Cut Greenhouse Gases

    17 Nov 2009 | 6:54 am
    Read the magazine story to find out more. ARS scientists have found that using alternative types of fertilizers can cut back on greenhouse gas emissions from crop production, at least in one part of the country. Click the image for more information about it. Organic dairy manure may offer fertilizer option   ARS seeks partner for new environmentally friendly fertilizer   More about no-till and greenhouse gas emissions Studying Fertilizers to Cut Greenhouse Gases By Dennis O'Brien November 17, 2009 Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists have found that using alternative types…
 
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    AWIC

  • Guidance for Industry 191 - FDA - New Animal Drug Application

    20 Nov 2009 | 11:20 am
    This guidance is intended to assist sponsors who wish to apply for approval of changes to approved new animal drugs that require FDA to reevaluate safety and/or effectiveness data. http://www.fda.gov/downloads/AnimalVeterinary/GuidanceComplianceEnforcement/GuidanceforIndustry/ucm052460.pdf

  • Keep The Worms Out Of Your Pet’s Heart! The Facts About Heartworm Disease

    20 Nov 2009 | 11:12 am
    Heartworm disease is a serious disease that results in severe lung disease, heart failure, other organ damage, and death in pets, mainly dogs, cats, and ferrets. http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/ResourcesforYou/AnimalHealthLiteracy/ucm188470.htm

  • Canine flu: How big a threat?

    18 Nov 2009 | 12:05 pm
    The VIN News Service - Public interest in the dog flu shot and a heightened sensitivity among clinicians on the subject. http://news.vin.com/VINNews.aspx?articleId=14307

  • Dr. Jane Goodall - Interior Department; Secretary Salazar to Honor Her With His First Lifetime Achievement Award

    17 Nov 2009 | 12:05 pm
    Renowned Primatologist and Conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall to Discuss International Issues and Showcase New Book At Interior Department; Secretary Salazar to Honor Her With His First Lifetime Achievement Award. http://www.doi.gov/news/09_News_Releases/111209.html

  • Undercover Video Shows Pig Farm Employees Allegedly Abusing Pigs

    17 Nov 2009 | 11:24 am
    MyFoxChicago.com - A disturbing video released exclusively to Fox News by the animal rights group Mercy for Animals (MFA) shows a string of alleged abuses at one of the nation's largest pig farms, including footage of employees picking up baby pigs and tossing them like footballs. http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/news/national/Undercover_Video_Shows_Pig_Farm_Employees_Allegedly_Abusing_Pigs_27611287
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    USDA Economic Research Service - What's New

  • Feed Grains Database

    20 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm
    Interactive database that contains statistics on four feed grains (corn, grain sorghum, barley, and oats), foreign coarse grains (feed grains plus rye, millet, and mixed grains), hay, and related items. Tables previously published annually in the Feed Yearbook are available and updated continuously as data are added to the database. Custom queries also allow users to retrieve historical data.

  • Wheat Data

    20 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm
    This data product contains statistics on wheat - including the five classes of wheat: hard red winter, hard red spring, soft red winter, white, and durum - and rye. Includes data published in the monthly Wheat Outlook and previously annual Wheat Yearbook. Data are monthly, quarterly, and/or annual depending upon the data series.

  • Ethanol and a Changing Agricultural Landscape

    18 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm
    The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) of 2007 established specific targets for the production of biofuel in the United States. Until advanced technologies become commercially viable, meeting these targets will increase demand for traditional agricultural commodities used to produce ethanol, resulting in land-use, production, and price changes throughout the farm sector. This report summarizes the estimated effects of meeting the EISA targets for 2015 on regional agricultural production and the environment. Meeting EISA targets for ethanol production is estimated to expand U.S.

  • Meat Price Spreads

    18 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am
    This data set provides monthly average price values, and the differences among those values, at the farm, wholesale, and retail stages of the production and marketing chain for selected cuts of beef, pork, and broilers. In addition, retail prices are provided for beef and pork cuts, turkey, whole chickens, eggs, and dairy products.

  • Aquaculture Data

    17 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am
    Aquaculture is the production of aquatic animals and plants under controlled conditions for all or part of their lifecycle. This data product provides statistics on domestically grown catfish and trout and U.S. imports and exports of fish and shellfish that may be products of aquaculture, such as salmon, shrimp, and oysters.
 
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    Global Voices Online: Agriculture

  • Taiwan: Science park expansion dispute

    vergilyeh
    21 Nov 2009 | 6:41 am
    Recently, the Executive Yuan in Taiwan has passed a bill in favor of Central Taiwan Science Park (CTSP) fourth stage expansion. The construction plan has drawn the attention of ecologists and caused heated discussion in the Taiwan blogosphere. Jeremy explains the problem of the construction plan in a blog post “They Don't Care About Us”: 中 科四期落腳彰化二林，其附近是有台灣米倉之稱的稻米重要產銷專區，濁水溪的水資源更是灌溉出全台數一數二的西螺與溪湖果菜市場，彰雲兩縣的沿海更是有產…

  • Paraguay: Indigenous Group Sprayed Aerially with Pesticides

    Eduardo Avila
    12 Nov 2009 | 3:02 pm
    In eastern Paraguay, 217 members of the Ava Guaraní indigenous community recently came down with health symptoms that include nausea and headaches. It is believed that these individuals became sick as a result of intentional aerial spraying with pesticide, after they refused to vacate their ancestral lands. Governmental officials confirm that parts of the indigenous group's land located in the Itakyry district in the Department of Alto Paraná had been sprayed where no crops are present [es]. Many of the signs point to Brazilian soy growers as those responsible for the spraying, in part…

  • India: Women Farmers Stand Against Climate Change

    Belen Bogado
    10 Nov 2009 | 1:42 pm
    A group of women in India have demonstrated that despite the existing gender inequity and their low economic status, they can become a powerful resource to tackle climate change and reduce the emissions that cause it. In India, the most vulnerable populations to climate change — impoverished communities and women — are being affected first, and the most. For example, Oxfam India’s blog comments about the devastating impact of drought on farmers, and the direct effect on women and children. In the last 12 years, almost 50 farmers committed suicide every year, one tenth of them…

  • Sri Lanka: Tariff Protection

    Rezwan
    10 Nov 2009 | 10:00 am
    Going Global criticizes Sri Lankan government's protective tariff on some agricultural items which are increasing the prices and the cost of living.

  • Japan: Licolita-style activism

    Oiwan Lam
    4 Nov 2009 | 9:08 pm
    Martin J Frid from Kurashi blogs about an unique activism style in Akihabara, Tokyo. In those event, activists will dress as maid and perform in the street the idea of alternative lifestyle.
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    Agriculture in Van Wert County, Ohio

  • How America’s Bioeconomy Can Clean the Planet

    Andy Kleinschmidt
    20 Nov 2009 | 4:45 am
    AMES, Iowa – Agriculture’s contribution to carbon footprinting and greenhouse gasses is pointed out in headlines from the Wall Street Journal to Successful Farming. But 12 Midwest universities are collaborating to host a virtual conference that rewrites the headlines and suggests that agriculture can clean the planet. In a collaborative effort the universities are offering “Growing the Bioeconomy: Solutions for Sustainability” on Dec. 1, 2009 to share how that might be done. “This conference will be a day filled with presenters offering solutions for sustainability,” said…

  • Soil Scientists Quietly Planning a Carbon Dioxide Reduction Revolution: Biochar

    Andy Kleinschmidt
    18 Nov 2009 | 4:30 am
    From USDA-ARS website on biochar: When biomass, such as crop residue and wood wastes, are heated in the absence of oxygen in a process known as pyrolysis, the biomass is transformed into a liquid known as bio-oil and a solid known as biochar. Bio-oil is a greenhouse gas neutral renewable energy product that has the potential to replace some petroleum products. Biochar is a type of charcoal. Biochar can be burned as a substitute for coal, but using biochar as a soil amendment may have many benefits for the environment. One of those potential environmental benefits is an improvement in soil…

  • OSU Agronomists Recommend Fertilize Now, Avoid Frozen Ground

    Andy Kleinschmidt
    13 Nov 2009 | 9:19 am
    Reblogged from the November 10, 2009 OSU CORN Newsletter As you continue to harvest crops, plan on getting your fertilizer down this fall prior to frozen ground setting in or plan on waiting until spring after the thaw. Considering the number of acres that did not receive phosphorus or potassium last year with the prices we were facing, some of you may be in a situation where soil test indicates that you should make the application this year. If that describes your situation there is still time to make your applications this fall. The reason we would rather see applications made this fall is…

  • Beef Carcass Breakdown

    Andy Kleinschmidt
    11 Nov 2009 | 4:30 am
    The November 10 AgChat on Twitter brought about an interesting conversation based on the question: “Do we talk slaughter? What are good starters, how much do they really want to know & where do they get info?” This is a great question to which my answer was “I say ‘yes’, all part of transparency. I wouldn’t necessarily be advertising it, but if asked, yes.” But there were many other opinions and suggestions on how to approach the issue of animal slaughter/processing. A suggestion was made that a video may be helpful to explain the process. To that…

  • Last Minute Tips for Turfgrass Management

    Andy Kleinschmidt
    10 Nov 2009 | 4:30 am
    Since we’ve had some nice weather for November I thought I would chat a bit this morning about turfgrass management.  If you are contemplating one final lawn mowing, try to resist the urge to set the mower down and scalp your lawn for the final mowing. Older publications may have recommended mowing low late in the fall and again in the spring for Midwest lawns. But recent research has there are not many advantages to this practice.  Agronomically, mowing turf low should be avoided because photosynthesis is very high during the fall even with cool temperatures.  The higher the…
 
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    Google News: Agriculture

  • Agricultural anger: Spanish capital besieged by irate farmers - euronews

    21 Nov 2009 | 10:37 am
    AFPAgricultural anger: Spanish capital besieged by irate farmerseuronewsAs many as 100000 Spanish farmers have thronged in the capital Madrid in a mass protest against the depressed market for agricultural produce. Thousands of Spanish farmers protest low pricesAFPSpanish farmers in Madrid protestThe Press AssociationThousands of Spanish farmers protest over low pricesForexyardMonsters and Critics.com -Financial Timesall 60 news articles »

  • Uganda's miserable showing at the 2009 Food Summit - Daily Monitor

    21 Nov 2009 | 9:40 am
    Voice of AmericaUganda's miserable showing at the 2009 Food SummitDaily MonitorAs Agriculture Minister Hope Mwesigye tried to convince the world leaders attending the 2009 Food Summit in Rome that Uganda was improving the sector Gaddafi to FAO Summit: those Who Robbed Our Wealth can Run but Cannot HideTripoli PostThe quest for food securityIndian ExpressFAO summit on hunger ends in disappointmentfnbnews.comCanada.com -AllAfrica.com -Voice of Americaall 117 news articles »

  • Aid for struggling dairy farms is slow to arrive - Brattleboro Reformer

    20 Nov 2009 | 9:15 pm
    Vermont Public RadioAid for struggling dairy farms is slow to arriveBrattleboro ReformerThe US Department of Agriculture this week announced that it had scheduled a public workshop to look at competition and market transparency in the dairy Federal immigration officials target Vermont farmsThe Associated PressFeds hit farms looking for illegal immigrantsBurlingtonFreePress.comImmigration Officials Investigating Vt. Dairy FarmsVermont Public RadioNashua Telegraph -Addison County Independent -WCAXall 108 news articles »

  • Speakers: Sustainable agriculture necessary for Indian River County - Vero Beach Press-Journal (subscription)

    20 Nov 2009 | 4:36 pm
    Speakers: Sustainable agriculture necessary for Indian River CountyVero Beach Press-Journal (subscription)INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — It will take more than just soil and water to support sustainable agriculture in Indian River County, and more »

  • Agriculture futures mostly fall, livestock higher - The Associated Press

    20 Nov 2009 | 10:08 am
    Agriculture futures mostly fall, livestock higherThe Associated PressCHICAGO — Agriculture futures were mostly lower early Friday on the Chicago Board of Trade. Wheat for December delivery lost 5.5 cents to $5.57 a bushel, Agriculture futures prices higher in early trading on the Chicago Board of TradeThe Canadian PressCBOT Corn Outlook: Lower As Export Demand Remains WeakCattleNetwork.comall 113 news articles »
 
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    Zibb.com

  • Dutch minister of Agriculture Gerda Verburg visits VanDrie Group ...

    21 Nov 2009 | 2:51 pm
    15-10-2007 : Dutch minister of Agriculture Gerda Verburg visits VanDrie Group during Anuga in Cologne On Saturday 13 October, Dutch Agriculture Minister Gerda Verburg was present for the opening of the Anuga trade fair in Cologne and paid a visit to

  • Cattle Market Notes: Fed Prices Slip, Corn Higher - CattleNetwork...

    21 Nov 2009 | 11:35 am
    Fed cattle prices continued to slip lower this week. Moderate trade commenced on Wednesday in most regions, and prices were generally steady to $1 lower according to USDA Agricultural Marketing Service reports. In Texas, live basis prices were $1 lower than last week at $84.

  • Alpacas - TB inter herd spread.

    21 Nov 2009 | 10:23 am
    It was only a matter of time before 'bovine' TB, now entrenched in a well protected but exploding population of badgers, spilled into non-bovine species. And if our Minister for (some) Animals' Health does not turn a hair at the slaughter of thousands of cattle annually, he may just have a fight on

  • The Price of Cattle is at an All Time Low - myFM Radio News

    21 Nov 2009 | 8:09 am
    The price of cattle is at an all time low - this from the Canadian Cattleman's Association. Locally, the President of the Renfrew County National Farmers Union, Dave Mackay (Mac-eye) says it's a blow to free trade.

  • Sarkley production sale reaches 25,000gns high spot

    21 Nov 2009 | 6:01 am
    Today's sale of Limousin females from the Sarkley sale has certainly seen the sparks fly with a top call of 25,000gns the high spot of what sounds like a resoundingly strong trade throughout. Hading the sale was Sarkley Dalola, a Fieldson Alfy daughter.
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    Medworm.com

  • Giant Snails Could Address Malnutrition

    20 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    A nutritionist in Nigeria says that malnutrition and iron deficiency in schoolchildren could be reduced in her country by baking up snail pie. In a research paper to be published in the International Journal of Food Safety, Nutrition and Public Health, she explains snail is not only cheaper and more readily available than beef but contains more protein. (Source: Nutrition/Agriculture News From Medical News Today)

  • World Summit On Food Security Wraps Up

    20 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    The U.N. World Summit on Food Security ended Wednesday in Rome with Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) head Jacques Diouf calling for the global community to shift the fight against global hunger from "words to action," Agence France-Press reports. (Source: Nutrition/Agriculture News From Medical News Today)

  • Sports Nutrition And Dietary Supplements Discussed At Congressional Dietary Supplement Caucus Briefing

    20 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    Sports nutrition continues to be a hot topic both in Congress and the news. Because the physical stress from intense exercise increases an athlete's nutrient needs and depletes electrolytes, vitamins and other supplements play a vital role for athletes. However, legal dietary supplements, which are used by more than 150 million Americans, should not be confused with illegal anabolic steroids. (Source: Nutrition/Agriculture News From Medical News Today)

  • New Antioxidant Compounds Have Been Identified In Foods Such As Olive Oil, Honey And Nuts Using Two Analytical Techniques

    20 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    Scientists at the University of Granada have identified and characterized for the first time different antioxidant compounds from foods such as olive oil, honey, walnuts and a medicinal herb called Teucrium polium. They have used two new techniques, capillary electrophoresis and high resolution liquid chromatography, that have enabled them to identify and quantify a great part of the phenolic compounds contained in these foods. (Source: Nutrition/Agriculture News From Medical News Today)

  • Thanks, But No Thanks: Avoiding Food Poisoning At Thanksgiving

    20 Nov 2009 | 1:00 am
    Thanksgiving is an opportunity to share a meal with loved ones, but it is also a time when small mistakes in the kitchen can lead to foodborne illness. Dr. Ben Chapman, food safety specialist and assistant professor of food science at North Carolina State University, can offer suggestions to ensure your Thanksgiving meal is a safe one. The U.S. (Source: Nutrition/Agriculture News From Medical News Today)
 
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    NYT: Agriculture

  • The Rooftop Garden Climbs Down a Wall

    18 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    A new technology along the lines of green roofs, called edible walls, grows vegetables, fruits and herbs on the outside walls of urban buildings.

  • In Brooklyn, Her Farmer’s Heart Is Happy

    16 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    Kristen Schafenacker wanted to be a farmer and she wanted to live in a city. She proves those aren’t mutually exclusive desires.

  • A Farm on Every Floor

    23 Aug 2009 | 9:00 pm
    With climate change and population growth threatening the viability of traditional farming, the time is right for the world to build the first vertical farm in an urban center.

  • Firm Brings Farming to the Masses

    23 Aug 2009 | 9:00 pm
    The British company Omlet has seen sales of the Eglu, its chicken hutch, roughly double each year since it came to the market in 2004.

  • Street Farmer

    4 Jul 2009 | 9:00 pm
    Can Will Allen make the inner city the next front in the good-food movement?
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    ANR News Blog Feed

  • Olive harvest underway in Sonoma

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:26 am
    The Sonoma Press-Democrat ran a brief story today about the beginning of the olive harvest in the Northern California County better known for vineyards. Although olive production in the area is no match in size for the long-established grape industry, the crop's novelty and quality attract attention. “There are about 600 acres and 150 growers,” the story quoted Paul Vossen, UC Cooperative Extension farm advisor in Sonoma County. By comparison, the county boasts 60,000 acres of......

  • Sterile light brown apple moths released in Carneros

    18 Nov 2009 | 8:27 am
    USDA scientists released 3,000 sterile light brown apple moths yesterday in a Carneros vineyard, according to an article in the Sonoma Index-Tribune. The scientists hope that flooding the environment with sterile moths will prevent females from mating with normal moths and producing offspring. Reporter Emily Charrier-Botts wrote that UC Davis entomologist James Carey does not expect the program to be successful. He said releasing sterile insects has eradicated only one pest in history - the......

  • Good job outlook attracts students to ag schools

    17 Nov 2009 | 10:15 am
    The Associated Press this morning reported that enrollment in agriculture schools across the nation is growing, even though the number of farms tumbles. Reporter David Mercer provided statistics from a survey of ag schools by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Enrollment in bachelor's degree programs in agriculture, the survey said, increased 21.8 percent from 2005 to 2008, from about 58,300 students to nearly 71,000. The story gave specific information about the UC Davis College of......

  • Desert farmers face a new pest threat

    16 Nov 2009 | 7:26 am
    Farmers growing vegetables in Southern California and Arizona deserts had to contend with a new pest this fall. The Bagrada bug - a native of East and Southern Africa, Egypt, Zaire and Senegal - made its first appearance in the area, posing especially significant problems to organic farmers, according to an article in Capital Press. Bagrada bugs were introduced to California last year in Los Angeles and San Diego counties. This past August, farmers began seeing the pest in broccoli,......

  • The California NPR affiliate reports on Small Farm Program closure

    13 Nov 2009 | 10:03 am
    The fate of UC's Small Farm Program was the center of a nearly five-minute story on this morning's California Report radio news program. Central Valley bureau chief Sasha Khokha opened her story on the east Fresno farm of strawberry grower Chang Fong. He and his family have for years worked with Fresno County UC Cooperative Extension farm advisor Richard Molinar and his assistant Michael Yang, cooperating on research and gleaning information on farm safety, plant diseases, pests and other ag......
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    Mongabay.com

  • Deforestation emissions should be shared between producer and consumer, argues study

    Jeremy Hance
    19 Nov 2009 | 3:49 pm
    Under the Kyoto Protocol the nation that produces carbon emission takes responsibility for them, but what about when the country is producing carbon-intensive goods for consumer demand beyond its borders? For example while China is now the world's highest carbon emitter, 50 percent of its growth over the last year was due to producing goods for wealthy countries like the EU and the United States which have, in a sense, outsourced their manufacturing emissions to China. A new study in Environmental Research Letters presents a possible model for making certain that both producer and consumer…

  • Prime Minister of Kenya urged to ban lion-killing pesticide after child dies from ingestion

    Jeremy Hance
    10 Nov 2009 | 8:46 am
    On Monday October 26th a three-year-old girl mistakenly ate the pesticide Furadan (also known as carbofuran) in western Kenya. Her father, a teacher at a primary school, said that he had no knowledge of how dangerous the pesticide was, which he had purchased to kill pests in his vegetable garden.

  • EU is 2nd largest source of peat emissions after Indonesia, finds global peat survey

    Rhett Butler
    4 Nov 2009 | 5:14 am
    The EU is the world's second largest source of carbon dioxide emissions from peatlands drainage, after Indonesia, reports the first country-by-country assessment of peat stocks. The study, conducted by Wetlands International and Greifswald University, found that drainage of wetlands for agriculture, forestry and peat extraction causes 1.3 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year. Emissions from fires and peat mining (for horticulture and fuel) amount to another 700,000 million tons per year.

  • Impasse over palm oil emissions at RSPO meeting

    Rhett Butler
    3 Nov 2009 | 4:58 pm
    Environmentalists and palm oil producers meeting at the annual Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) were locked in an impasse over how to account for emissions from converting forests and peatlands to oil palm plantations, report conference attendees.

  • European companies not supporting 'greener' palm oil

    Rhett Butler
    29 Oct 2009 | 9:23 am
    Most European consumers of palm oil are failing to buy eco-certified palm oil, undermining efforts to encourage producers to reduce their impact on the environment, reports WWF.
 
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    National Agricultural Library

  • Turkey by the Numbers

    maleonard
    20 Nov 2009 | 7:18 am
    T minus six and counting. Today's theme: Do the Math Need to know how much turkey to buy for your feast? Or how long to defrost a frozen turkey? If so, you've come to the right place. The quantity question is easy. When buying a whole bird, figure one pound per person, whether the turkey is fresh or frozen. Those quantities go down if you're opting for a turkey breast instead of a whole bird: 3/4 pound per person with the bone in, 1/2 pound boneless. These estimates should allow for as much as two servings per person and leftovers, so don't be tempted to round up too much, even if your big…

  • Thanksgiving Shopping, Round 1

    maleonard
    19 Nov 2009 | 9:27 am
    T minus seven and counting. After yesterday's off day (or catch up day, if you'd prefer), we're rolling again. Things get underway today with a live Facebook chat at 3 p.m. ET. USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service is making one of its experts available to answer questions about how to have a food safe holiday, from defrosting the bird through storing the leftovers. Submit questions now or interact live. (Goofy turkey hat optional.) Aside from the chat, today's theme is Shop Early! Sure, there are lots of things you shouldn't buy yet, but now's the time for taking that list of…

  • Live Chat: Holiday Food Safety

    maleonard
    17 Nov 2009 | 6:26 am
    T minus nine and counting. We're all about getting you ready for Thanksgiving here at InfoFarm. Since I know you're already working your way through yesterday's to-do list, I'm giving you just three simple tasks tied to today's theme of Keeping Food Safe First, mark your calendars for USDA's live Facebook chat this Thursday, November 19 at 3 p.m. ET. A holiday food safety expert from the Food Safety and Inspection Service will be tackling your questions about how to prepare your holiday meal safely. Then, think of questions you have regarding holiday food preparation or storage and submit…

  • Thanksgiving Countdown Begins

    maleonard
    16 Nov 2009 | 11:45 am
    T minus ten and counting. Yes, time is flying, and Thanksgiving will be here before you know it. With a little forethought, however, the meal planning and cooking need not make you crazy. (Of course, those of you who prefer their holidays with a mix of insanity might want to stop reading. I don't want to ruin anything for you.) This week and into next, InfoFarm is going to give you day-by-day tips that will make your holiday preparations a breeze. Today: Laying the GroundworkPlan your menu and gather recipes.Check your pantry to see what you have. Verify that dried herbs and spices are not…

  • On the USDA Farm Team

    maleonard
    13 Nov 2009 | 7:52 am
    Most interns at USDA don't get a lot of attention outside their assigned areas, but this guy's different. He grew up on a ranch in Texas, branding cattle and tracking market prices. He then went on to graduate from Princeton with a degree in operations research and financial engineering. It's an impressive ag and academic pedigree, but it isn't what gets Ross Ohlendorf noticed. What does is that he's a young, hard-throwing major league pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, one who intentionally sought out Ag Secretary (and Pittsburgh native) Tom Vilsack when Vilsack threw out the ceremonial…
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    ScienceDaily.com

  • Sustainable farming may help maintain healthy climate

    20 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    Sustainable farming, initially adopted to preserve soil quality for future generations, may also play a role in maintaining a healthy climate, according to researchers.

  • Protection of Organic Products taken to Next Level

    17 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    Ready-to-eat, organic processed pork products look similar to conventionally cured meats. The organic versions have become popular among consumers as processors work to meet the demand. Although the natural and organic processed meat products are manufactured to simulate traditionally cured meat products as closely as possible, they're not exactly alike.

  • Organic Weed Control Options For Highbush Blueberry; Pine Needle Mulch Most Effective

    3 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    Weeds are a widespread problem for the blueberry industry, particularly in young plantings when bushes are not fully established and most susceptible to competition. Weed control is even more of a challenge for growers of organic products, including organic highbush blueberry. Researchers investigated using mulches of pine needles, manure--sawdust compost, and seafood waste compost for weed control. Results indicate pine needles were the most effective mulch in suppressing weed growth.

  • Hot Microbes Cause Groundwater Cleanup Rethink

    24 Sep 2009 | 8:00 am
    Australian researchers have discovered that micro-organisms that help break down contaminants under the soil can actually get too hot for their own good.

  • Golf Course Putting Greens Show Their Age: Researchers Seek To Maintain Healthy Greens, Reduce Construction Costs

    13 Sep 2009 | 11:00 pm
    Just like the rest of us, golf courses show their age -- especially on putting greens, which experience more foot traffic than anywhere else on golf courses. Putting greens, which comprise 1.6 percent of the total area on most courses, require more intensive management than any other part of the course. To keep putting greens in top form, turfgrass experts study ways to provide proper nutrients to the root zone, a critical area for maintaining healthy turf.
 
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    Ed's World : Grain Marketing

  • 2009 post-harvest marketing plan for corn

    usset001
    18 Nov 2009 | 7:38 am
    The last of my 2009 post-harvest marketing plans can now be found on the Center for Farm Financial Management website (click here). “To store or not to store” is the ultimate question at harvest, along with “to sell the carry or not to sell the carry.” For me, the choices in corn is straightforward. The carrying charges from the nearby December futures contract to the deferred March, May and July contracts are very large – the market is sending a very strong signal to store grain and sell the carry. That’s exactly what I did. Selling the carry with a…

  • Are you ready price more of your 2010 corn, soybean or wheat crop?

    usset001
    17 Nov 2009 | 2:15 pm
    The harvest of 2009 is not over but I’m thinking of next year’s crop. Dec’10 corn futures are trading close to $4.50 per bushel - the best prices since the second week of June. Ditto for Nov’10 soybean futures, which closed today at $10.30 per bushel.We have to go back to January to find a higher quote for 2010 soybeans. While still $1 off early summer levels, Sep’10 spring wheat futures at $6.35 per bushel are more than $1 higher than the lows set in early October. I wrote my 2010 pre-harvest marketing plans for corn, soybeans and spring wheat in June (posted…

  • On the road again; Ed Usset speaking engagements in December and early January

    usset001
    13 Nov 2009 | 11:47 am
    I am quickly approaching the time of year when most people think holidays, but I think travel. If you are interested in what I have to say, you can call the contacts noted below and ask to be invited to the session. Tuesday, Dec 1: Winning the Game: Launch and Land your Post-harvest Plan, Little Falls, MN  contact Galen Janson 612-702-6707     Thursday, Dec 3: Winning the Game: Launch and Land your Post-harvest Plan, Franklin, MN  contact Joel Harmoning 507-557-7000 Monday, Dec 7: Tool Time Post Harvest, Willmar, MN, contact Curt Fettig 320-222-5267 Tuesday, Dec 8: Grain Marketing is…

  • 2009 Soybean Post-Harvest Marketing Plan

    usset001
    11 Nov 2009 | 6:58 am
    My post-harvest strategy for soybeans this year is straightforward; sell every bushel at harvest. You can find a written version of my post-harvest plan here. Here’s my thought process. First, there is no carry in the market and, therefor, no market incentive to store grain. Second, the harvest basis is very good, 30-40 cents under the November contract in many parts of Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa (and we should be thrilled that the 100-150 cents under stuff of recent years is gone). Finally, I was an aggressive in pricing soybeans before harvest. I estimate an average cash…

  • Corn carrying charges at harvest

    usset001
    10 Nov 2009 | 1:08 pm
    Dec'09 - Jul'10 carrying charges Corn harvest is in full swing in Southern Minnesota and producers are facing the ultimate in post-harvest marketing question; to store or not to store? I received this from a farmer earielr this week…  I have a question on market carry and storage risk. I have my unsold 2009 corn bushels covered with December puts at a very healthy profit. There is about a 28 cent carry to next July [it's actually over 32 cents per bushel]. It seems that in the past you’ve said a 25 cent carry [from December to July] is good. I’m unsure if this 28 cents is worth…
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    FBlog

  • Truth or Tale?

    Justin Ellis
    13 Nov 2009 | 1:56 pm
    I used to wonder if there were really people out there that thought this way. This article was posted in a San Francisco newspaper and just this portion was sent to me in an email: "To all you hunters that kill animals for food, shame on you; you ought to go to the store and buy the meat that was made there, where no animals were harmed." It's amazing to me how quickly people forget about the food chain and the fact that animals exist to be a part of it. We still have a lot of educating ahead of us!

  • Learning Something New Everyday

    Justin Ellis
    12 Nov 2009 | 9:29 am
    I was moving cattle the other day and my wife came with the truck and trailer to pick me up. She shared a quote with me from one of the weekly ag papers that we receive. It said "Environmentalists are standing in the way of feeding humanity through their opposition to biotechnology, from chemicals, and nitrogen fertilizer... The fact is, we need both productivity and sustainability - and there is no reason we can't have both." This is a quote by Bill Gates at the World Food Prize Symposium in Iowa. I thought this was a pretty valid quote. I got to thinking though, why is Bill Gates talking…

  • Do We Really Need to Engage With Consumers?

    Chris Chinn
    11 Nov 2009 | 12:02 pm
    How do you explain to someone who has never left the city what a grain bin is? I have never contemplated this question until today. I received a phone call this morning from a truck driver who had a delivery for our family feed mill. He needed directions and was hoping I could help him. I quickly realized this gentleman was directionally challenged as he had no idea which way was East or West, North or South. He was in the wrong town and had missed the road leading to our town. After what seemed like hours, I finally got him on the right highway coming towards our mill. I told him to turn…

  • American Farm Raised Christmas Trees!

    Steve McShane
    11 Nov 2009 | 8:36 am
    When considering the Christmas Season this year, consider the purchase of a "real" Christmas Tree for your home or office. Did you know that more than 95% of Christmas Trees are recycled? Millions are grown each year employing near 100,000 people connected to near 20,000 farms. This is exciting stuff. The season is coming quickly and the purchase of a real tree is just one reminder of the many ways we can support farmers.

  • A Dairy Crisis Synopsis

    Heath Eisele
    10 Nov 2009 | 9:35 pm
    In this time of crisis many farmer’s livelihoods are on the line. Everyday farmers are turning on the lights in their barns knowing that they may not be able pay their electric bill. The question of selling the farm pervades dinner conversations, and families are being ripped apart by the stress and anxiety that only seems to mount. Lending institutions are cutting off lines of credit as I write this blog, and some farm families, ironically, are looking into social programs as a means of putting food on their tables. Unfortunately, other farmers have had to make the hard decision to…
 
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    FarmPolicy.com

  • Climate Issues; Trade; Ag Economy; Crop Insurance; Rural Broadband Hearing; and the Corn Genome

    Keith Good
    20 Nov 2009 | 3:33 am
    Climate Issues Elisabeth Rosenthal reported in today’s New York Times that, “With less than three weeks remaining before negotiators gather in Copenhagen to hammer out a global response to climate change, a rapid-fire succession of countries are unveiling national plans that serve as opening bids for reining in heat-trapping emissions. “‘The list of what is on the [...]

  • Climate Legislation; Food Safety; Food Security; Trade; Biofuels; Animal Agriculture; and CFTC Issues

    Keith Good
    19 Nov 2009 | 3:17 am
    Climate Legislation Ben Geman reported yesterday at The Hill Online that, “White House climate czar Carol Browner downplayed the idea that the absence of a domestic emissions law would hinder U.S. leverage in Copenhagen and said the U.S. could tout major accomplishments heading into next month’s international climate talks. “ In wide-ranging remarks at a climate conference [...]

  • Climate Issues; Sen. Ag. Committee Hearing: Nutrition Programs; and CFTC Issues

    Keith Good
    18 Nov 2009 | 3:21 am
    Climate Issues Reuters writers Chris Buckley and Alister Doyle reported yesterday that, “U.S. President Barack Obama said on Tuesday next month’s climate talks in Copenhagen should cut a deal with ‘immediate operational effect,’ even if its original aim of a legally binding pact is not achievable. “About 40 environment ministers meeting in Copenhagen made progress toward a [...]

  • Climate Legislation; Food Security: UN and U.S.; and the U.S. Ag Economy

    Keith Good
    17 Nov 2009 | 3:28 am
    Climate Legislation Lisa Lerer reported yesterday at Politico.com that, “Shortly after Democrats took office last January, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) vowed the Senate would pass climate change legislation before the start of the international climate talks in Copenhagen. “But less than a month before the eyes of the world turn to Denmark, it’s clear that [...]

  • Climate Issues; UN Food Summit; and the U.S. Agricultural Economy

    Keith Good
    16 Nov 2009 | 3:36 am
    Climate Issues The AP reported on Friday that, “President Barack Obama is calling on all nations to accept responsibility for fighting climate change. “But he says he’s not expecting that it will be easy to reach an agreement at a climate change summit next month in Copenhagen. “Speaking in Tokyo, Obama said nations that are the biggest [...]
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    Ranch Partners News

  • A conversation about protecting land, farmers and ranchers

    Since good quality farmland is indeed a finite, non-renewable resource, we can’t let what the current situation in agriculture or current farming dictate our decisions for the future. There are many options and opportunities out there that we aren’t even thinking about. If we somehow destroy that land or the land is destroyed through development or poorly planned development, then we’ve completely lost the resource. It’s not like we’re just going to re-create that land somewhere else.

  • CWCB may have to wait for instream flow appropriations

    During the public meeting, Baessler said, “[CWCB] is here to balance the needs of mankind with a reasonable protection of the natural environment.” The appropriations that CWCB is proposing are based on studies by the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW), Forest Service and BLM scientists, who have asked for instream flow appropriations to protect several elements of riparian habitat along the lower San Miguel River. Currently, the stream segments being considered for instream flow protection are Red Canyon Creek, North Fork Tabeguache Creek, San Miguel River, and Tabeguache Creek,…

  • Federal agency settles wolf lawsuit

    The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and environmentalists reached an agreement Friday that scraps a rule the agency had used to kill or permanently remove any wolf that killed three heads of livestock in a year.

  • Women take reins of agricultural enterprises

    Although not all of them are the chief operators of their agriculture enterprises, the following women represent a sampling of the hundreds of women involved in agriculture in the county, and were suggested to The Tribune by people involved in agriculture-related organizations

  • Wyoming, Montana ranchers change techniques to ‘ranch for profit'

    In 1998 Glen Barlow, of Gillette, Wyo., was running his cattle operation the traditional way - calving in early spring, feeding cow-calf pairs until the pasture grass came in. After weaning in the fall, they would feed the cows through out the winter. Then Barlow participated in a Ranching for Profit School with Dave Pratt.
 
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    EurakAlert!: Agriculture

  • New method to measure snow, vegetation moisture with GPS may benefit farmers, meteorologists

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    (University of Colorado at Boulder) A research team led by the University of Colorado at Boulder has found a clever way to use traditional GPS satellite signals to measure snow depth as well as soil and vegetation moisture, a technique expected to benefit meteorologists, water resource managers, climate modelers and farmers.

  • NSF awards $7.5M grant to University of Oklahoma for plant genomics

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    (University of Oklahoma) A decade ago, a group of University of Oklahoma researchers were sequencing the first human chromosome as part of the human genome project. Today, the OU Advanced Center for Genome Technology is contributing to an international effort to sequence the tomato genome with a $7.5 million grant awarded by the National Science Foundation for plant genomics.

  • It's a gas: New discovery may lead to heartier, high-yielding plants

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    (Genetics Society of America) In a research report in the November 2009 journal Genetics, scientists show how a family of genes (1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase, or ACS genes), in the weed Arabidopsis thaliana, are responsible for production of ethylene. This gas affects many aspects of plant development, and this information, which will be applicable to other plants, lays the foundation for future genetic manipulation that could make plants disease resistant, able to survive and thrive in difficult terrain, and increase yields.

  • U of M plant scientist uncovers clues to yield-boosting quirks of corn genome

    18 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    (University of Minnesota) The offspring of two inbred strains tend to be superior to both of their parents. Characterizing the gene-level variability that leads to this phenomenon, known as heterosis or hybrid vigor, could boost our ability to custom-tailor crops for specific traits, such as high protein content for human consumption or high glucose content for biomass fuel.

  • Public University of Navarre draws up first map of chromosome terminals of higher fungi

    18 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    (Elhuyar Fundazioa) A doctor in biology from the UPNA, Gúmer Pérez Garrido studied and described for the first time how the telomeres and adjacent sequences of the oyster fungus are organized.
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    AgWired

  • You’ve Got To Love Farmers

    Chuck
    21 Nov 2009 | 1:35 pm
    Annalisa Clarke manages I Love Farmers, They Feed My Soul. In the AEM AGCONNECT Expo booth at the NAFB Trade Talk I spoke with her about the campaign. She says they’ve started a new media campaign they’ve started to promote agriculture. It’s targeted to individuals 14-24 years old who she calls “digital natives.” She says they’re allowing them to communicate where their food comes from, how it’s produced and who produces it via social media platforms like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, text messaging as well as their website. Annalisa says progress has…

  • Harvest Photos From U.S. Grains Council

    Chuck
    20 Nov 2009 | 1:06 pm
    If you’re looking for some photos of the harvest then look to the U.S. Grains Council Flickr set of 2009 Harvest Photos. The USGC is collecting photos from U.S. farmers all over the country. Thanks to all of you that submitted photos. Remember that we are still accepting photos until Dec. 1, 2009. This photo is of Dave and Sue Roehm who make farming a family affair in Leesburg, Ohio.

  • Soybean Growers Can Ask Questions of USB Experts

    Chuck
    20 Nov 2009 | 12:11 pm
    This is the next installment in our series about Expert Advice from the United Soybean Board. While attending the National Association of Farm Broadcasting Convention I spoke with USB Treasurer Marc Curtis who farms in Mississippi. Marc serves on the USB Production Committee so he’s especially happy that the organization can offer Expert Advice to soybean growers via a regular column on their website which allows registered growers to read, comment and ask questions and get answers. There are several regular Expert Advice columnists who Marc says are covering various topics like…

  • Zimfo Bytes

    Melissa
    20 Nov 2009 | 6:27 am
    Syngenta announced that its genetically modified corn traits MIR162 and Bt11xGA21 are now fully approved for cultivation in Brazil. Van Beek Natural Science, L.L.C. has hired Steve Schumacher as a Territory Sales Manager for Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, New York, and western Pennsylvania. When faced with the challenge of preparing for next year’s crop, weed control planning done now can help growers get the most out of next year’s acre. New solutions, like Kixor herbicide technology from BASF, are designed to control the toughest broadleaf weed control challenges facing growers…

  • BIVI Vision is Value Through Innovation

    Chuck
    19 Nov 2009 | 3:12 pm
    The President of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, George Heidgerken (pictured on left), attended today’s media event and spoke with reporters about changes in the company after the acquisition of Ft. Dodge Animal Health. He says the purchase is a big deal for BIVI here in the United States and globally since it essentially doubles their business including their ability to innovate in the future. While merging the two company cultures he says they will maintain the BI vision and mission and how they achieve them. George says they can take the best of both companies, put them together and…
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    Food and Farming Canada

  • New bioproducts resource for soybeans

    Lilian
    18 Nov 2009 | 5:40 am
    Industrial Uses and Opportunities for Canadian Soybeans, a new brochure highlighting industrial market opportunities for Canadian soybeans, is now available. The goal of the 16-page resource, produced by Soy 20/20, is to generate awareness of the many new soy-based products and applications being developed, as well as those already commercially available. “Bio-products are an emerging [...]

  • Do we or don’t we talk about it?

    Lilian
    16 Nov 2009 | 6:14 am
    In a society where less than two percent of the population farms, there’s a real knowledge gap when it comes to food. It exists on many levels – nutrition and preparation come to mind – but especially on the production and origins end. So it’s no surprise that one of the main missions of many [...]

  • A house made of soy

    Lilian
    12 Nov 2009 | 5:58 am
    Believe it or not – it’s possible to live in a house built from soy. And you can see one for yourself if you head down to the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto. Ok, so it’s not a house built from actual soybeans, but many soy-based products were used to construct and decorate the 1200 [...]

  • Grow your own pasta – virtually

    Lilian
    11 Nov 2009 | 4:59 am
    When I came across a website that mentioned it would let me grow my own wheat online and follow it through right to my dinner plate, I have to admit I was intrigued. I went to www.howwheatworks.com and signed myself up so I could get started. Faced with several different wheat types I could plant, [...]

  • Speaking champs crowned in Toronto

    Lilian
    10 Nov 2009 | 5:49 am
    They’re young, they’re smart and they’re passionate. And this past Saturday afternoon, they were strutting their stuff as finalists in the Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture competition at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto. These six presenters spoke to an assembled crowd in the fair’s cafe on everything from unsung heros of agriculture, what they [...]
 
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    ANR@MSU

  • People I love: Joy Landis

    natalieebigscott
    13 Nov 2009 | 11:40 am
    Lately, the only certain thing around here is uncertainty. The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, MSU Extension and the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station are restructuring, but no one is sure if and how they will play a role in a more nimble ANR@MSU. What I do know is this: I work with amazing people. Brilliant people. People that make me proud of ANR@MSU and any shape or form it takes in the future. One of those people is Joy Landis. How do I love Joy? Let me count the ways: Crop Advisory Team Alerts: During the growing season, fruit, vegetable, field crop and landscape…

  • MSU Extension tapped to support H1N1 flu vaccination program

    natalieebigscott
    28 Oct 2009 | 6:13 am
    EAST LANSING, Mich. — Michigan State University Extension will support Michigan’s H1N1 inoculation program by mobilizing its statewide network to reach the most vulnerable residents across Michigan. The Michigan Department of Community Health called on MSU Extension, with offices in 82 counties, to help quickly spread the word about the importance of vaccination. “The MSU Extension plays a very important role in educating our public about the seasonal and H1N1 flu and how people can help prevent the spread of the virus,” said Janet Olszewski, director of the Michigan…

  • MSU research, service programs to close if funds vetoed

    anrmsu
    26 Oct 2009 | 9:02 am
    EAST LANSING, Mich. — Scores of Michigan State University Extension offices and research stations across the state are jeopardized by a potential funding cutoff, if Gov. Jennifer Granholm blocks appropriations from reaching them. That’s the assessment of Jeffrey Armstrong, dean of MSU’s College of  Agriculture and Natural Resources, who faces shutting down 82 Extension offices, 15 agricultural and biological research stations and other bioeconomy-based research and Extension programs. If a gubernatorial line-item veto is issued for state funding of the Michigan Agricultural…

  • Michigan State University Extension 4-H Event Fuels Interest in Science

    mlavra
    20 Oct 2009 | 1:14 pm
    Would you like to make your own biofuel? During the “4-H Science Blast,” youth and families can try their hand at biofuel production and several other science-oriented activities from 9 a.m. to noon, October 31 at Michigan State University’s (MSU) Agriculture Hall Atrium. Rocketry is just one of the 4-H SET programs in which youth can participate. In addition to turning common substances into biofuel, visitors will also use wind and leg power to create electricity (and learn about energy conservation), command a robot and learn how they are built, learn how a group of Saginaw…

  • Michigan State University Product Center Teams with L&L Food Centers to Reward Michigan Entrepreneurs

    natalieebigscott
    15 Oct 2009 | 2:11 pm
    Local food will take center stage during the Making it in Michigan conference, presented by the Michigan State University (MSU) Product Center on Nov. 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lansing Center. Two winning food entrepreneurs will earn more than bragging rights at this year’s event. L&L Food Centers will award two Michigan food products coveted shelf space in their eight mid-Michigan grocery stores as part of the third annual MSU Product Center specialty food show. “L&L is a Lansing company,” said Rick Zahm, L&L Food Centers general manager.  “We’ve been here…
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    Cooking Up A Story

  • Homemade Pie Crust

    Cooking Up A Story
    20 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am
    The baking season is upon us, with Thanksgiving just ahead. In this video, Catherine Schon, of Sassafras Catering, demonstrates how to make a tasty homemade pie crust. Now for some of you this will be old hat, but for many who are rediscovering the baker within, this will be very useful to watch. Actually, even as a seasoned home-baker, you might pick up some tips – I did! Ms. Schon was kind enough to also share her Home Made Pie Crust Recipe. Catherine Schon, Sassafras CateringTraditionally folks will make pumpkin pie for their Thanksgiving meal. Or, you might want to consider apple…

  • The Organic Community, the USDA, and the Morning After

    Cooking Up A Story
    18 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am
    Our previous look at the history behind organic agriculture delved into the grassroots community’s courtship of federal recognition and the consummation of that relationship with the Organic Foods Production Act (OFPA) in 1990. Today’s discussion will pick up in the light of the morning after and the reservations – felt to this day – whether hooking up with Uncle Sam turned out to be as advantageous as hoped. A healthy match between the two has always been a tricky proposition, given the USDA’s top-down approach to decision making and the organic community’s commitment to…

  • Genetic Engineering: Road to Paradise or Paradise Lost?

    Cooking Up A Story
    13 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am
    This video from the political advocacy group Greenpeace, provides an overview of the contentious issues of biotechnology (genetic engineering) as it applies to food production. In some ways, biotechnology is the equivalent of the abortion rights issue of the agriculture world. Both sides of the debate hold entrenched views; those in opposition to its use in foods are often referred to as being “anti-science” or “anti-technology”. GMO proponents are often accused of representing the vested interests of a few global conglomerates that derive billions in revenue from the…

  • Manual Fruit Tree Pollination -Part 2

    Cooking Up A Story
    11 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am
    Ashley Terry (right) and Rachel (wife) This is the second installment of my three-part series on manual pollination in Japan from the upcoming feature, “WWOOF! The Movie”. It reveals the way in which pollen is extracted from the anthers of the apple (or any other fruit) flower through a special grinding mechanism. Grandmother Sifts This video features Mari (our host’s niece-in-law) and Grandmother. Kazusan said to just call her Grandmother, because she may be embarrassed if we call her by her given name. Grandmother would go on and on to us during tea time as though one day we would…

  • Commercial Composting: Why One Restaurant Recycles

    Cooking Up A Story
    9 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am
    Cooking Up a Story: Stories Saving the planet may well stem from the small act of many, than bigger actions undergone by the few. One restaurant chooses to participate in a city-wide program, recycling its food waste into reusable garden compost—the owner explains her reasons for doing so. I started composting much of my food scraps last year. I wanted to start a vegetable garden and I felt the two go hand in hand. I always struggled with the first steps of composting. How do you do it? Yes, I have a container, but what’s the ratio between food and grass cuttings? What about the smell?
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    Alpaca Farm Girl

  • Fiber Arts Friday – Needlefelting

    Katy
    20 Nov 2009 | 6:21 am
    Quick Announcement: On Black Friday (next week) – we will be having you link your store, Etsy or otherwise, to Fiber Arts Friday. While I love promoting blogs, this will give fiber artists who don’t blog a chance to participate in Fiber Arts Friday, and for us to be able to promote buying handmade for the holidays. Spread the word! Needle Felting When I attended the Southeastern Fiber Fair I took a class called “Painting with Wool”. It was awesome! I love the technique, and the results. I’m not much of a 3-D thinker so the “in the round” needlefelting is…

  • Kitty Plays Dress Up

    Katy
    18 Nov 2009 | 3:59 am
    But Mom...isn't that what this shirt is for? Participating in Wordless Wednesdays.

  • Spinner’s Alpaca Herd for Sale

    Katy
    17 Nov 2009 | 4:05 pm
    Lewis This holiday season, add some alpacas to your wish list! You may have heard of a Spinner’s Flock. Well, this is a Spinner’s Herd – of alpacas. This package includes three male huacaya alpacas for only $2400. These weanling alpacas have MANY years of exquisite fiber production ahead of them. Three colors are represented – grey, light fawn, and brown. To sweeten the pot I am also including three additional fleeces from our 2009 shearing so you can work with alpaca fiber even before your boys are shorn in 2010! (if you are just dyeing to have a white alpaca, we have…

  • What Lies Within Us

    Katy
    15 Nov 2009 | 6:06 am
    What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson Participating in Sunday Citar

  • Solving Rejecto-Dam

    Katy
    13 Nov 2009 | 11:49 pm
    This article reprinted with permission from author Ian Lutz of Cas-Cad Nac Farm Alpacas. It was originally published in the Autumn 2009 Cas-Cad-Nac Farm Chronicles. If you birth out enough crias sooner or later you will run into a female [alpaca] who wants nothing to do with her newborn. Often times, though not always, these are first-time moms who having just gone through a rather painful experience, just don’t grasp right off that they need to nurture that floppy looking wet thing that keeps humming at them. The good news though, in our experience, is that in the vast majority of…
 
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    Advocates for Agriculture

  • MT Producers on Billboards

    20 Nov 2009 | 8:03 am
    Montana Farm Bureau's billboard campaign: A new face for agricultureBy TERRI ADAMS, The Prairie StarWednesday, November 18, 2009 3:52 PM CST Tired of the negative image being portrayed regarding animal agriculture, the Montana Farm Bureau Federation is fighting back - one billboard at a time.The billboards, with a photo and slogan, are part of a year-long campaign by the MFBF to put a face on agriculture and show that producers really do care for their animals.The newest billboard was unveiled in Missoula, Mont., on Nov. 9, just in time for the MFBF Convention held there.Using funding…

  • Researching Animal Welfare

    20 Nov 2009 | 7:54 am
    Researchers ask: Are caged chickens miserable?'Researchers ask: Are caged chickens miserable?';By MICHAEL J. CRUMB Associated Press WriterPublished: Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 4:11 a.m. Last Modified: Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 4:11 a.m.DES MOINES, Iowa - Are cramped chickens crazy chickens?Researchers are trying to answer that question through several studies that intend to take emotions out of an angry debate between animal welfare groups and producers.At issue are small cages, typically 24 inches wide by 25 1/2 inches deep, that can be shared by up to nine hens. About 96 percent of…

  • Another Reckless Vegan Advocate

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:20 am
    Drop That BurgerMatthew Herper, 11.12.09, 12:20 PM ESTForbes Magazine dated November 30, 2009Biotech whiz Pat Brown makes the global-warming case against animal farming.Patrick O. Brown, a Stanford University biochemist, has changed science twice by giving stuff away. In the early 1990s Brown invented the DNA microarray, a tool that measures how cells make use of their DNA; he then showed researchers how to make their own, transforming genetic research. In 2000 he was one of three scientists who launched a free, online scientific journal called the Public Library of Science (PLOS); it has…

  • Food Safety Involves Everyone

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:10 am
    November 19, 2009Senate Bill Would Require E. Coli TestingBy MICHAEL MOSSCiting public concern that meat companies and federal regulators are not doing enough to make ground beef safe, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Democrat of New York, has introduced legislation that would require companies to test for a deadly E. coli strain.The bill, the E. Coli Eradication Act of 2009, is focused on the slaughterhouse trimmings and other meat components commonly used to make ground beef. It would require testing at the slaughterhouses and then at grinding facilities before the trimmings are mixed.A few…

  • Biotech's Contributions

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:05 am
    Biotech crops making important contributions to food production & sustainable farmingWednesday, 18 November 2009 22:44PG Economicswww.pgeconomics.co.ukIn the light of ongoing world food security, agricultural sustainability and climate change debates, PG Economics has released three summary documents of the yield, income and environmental effects of biotech crops . These summaries are supplemented by more detailed examinations of these impacts in the latest report on the global socio-economic and environmental impacts of the technology 1996-2007 .The three summaries document the real…
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  • PAVA promo-actions ensure continued success

    19 Nov 2009 | 11:40 pm
    Proceeding with a sales promotion programme in the regions, in autumn 2009 PAVA conducted a “yellow price-sticker” promo-action in one of the largest Moscow retail networks. It focused on the flour product of the “Altay-Batyushka” line, in a 2-kilo package. Pallet layout and yellow stickers are the most favoured techniques, often used by the Altay grain processor to encourage retail distribution growth. They invariably meet the initial projections and justify the cost. This time, the company said results outstripped expectations several times. Earlier this season, the promo campaign…

  • PAVA manufactures flour under private label

    15 Nov 2009 | 8:35 pm
    In October 2009 OJSC PAVA concluded its first contract for production of private-label flour. The Altay grain processor started co-operation with a large retail network that consists of about 180 shops operating in the Siberian federal region. High quality flour, manufactured by PAVA, will be distributed as a store-brand product within the category of economically priced items. The project is led by PAVA Achinsk mill (the Krasnoyarsk Territory), that supplies consumer-size flour to shops of the network on a regular weekly basis. To reinforce the product image, the company has developed…

  • PAVA reports results of consumer-size product sales in October

    11 Nov 2009 | 12:23 am
    PAVA specialists estimate October of the current year as a stable period in terms of consumer-size flour sales. The company kept up the solid volume of shipments achieved in September, also showing a growth rate of slightly more than 1%. Rebrikha mill (the Altay Territory) became the leader in total shipments (57%), Achinsk mill (the Krasnoyarsk Territory) accounted for 27%, and Mikhailovsky plant (the Altay Territory) ranked third in October showing the result of 16% in the total consumer-size product sales. “Altay-Batyushka” trademark remains the major part of the company flour sales,…

  • PAVA summarizes October results

    9 Nov 2009 | 8:19 pm
    In October of the current year, Russian grain processor PAVA continued to implement transition to a vertically integrated agroholding and seek new partnership opportunities. PAVA was invited to participate in SCO forum in China during which the company was able to meet representatives of Russian Chamber of Commerce in East Asia, and gain additional exposure for its strategic plans. As part of an ongoing management process, PAVA enhanced collaboration with baking plants regarding control of flour quality, and consultation from the company technologists on innovative products use. The grain…

  • Russian Grain Union accredited PAVA enterprises

    9 Nov 2009 | 1:15 am
    In 2009, major Russian grain processing company PAVA put forward an initiative to obtain certificates according to the System of voluntary certification of grain warehouse services applied by the Russian Grain Union. Certification of grain warehouse services is conducted on the optional basis, following the respective decision of the management. In November of the current year, after checking the technical, technological and HR potential of PAVA structural units, Russian Grain Union gave a positive approval. PAVA obtained the Certificate of conformance and the Conformity mark from the…
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  • Permanence is Fiction

    Daniel Schellenberg
    29 Oct 2009 | 9:11 pm
    We tend to seek a false sense of security. The idea that all things will be permanent in our lives is fiction.  There must be countless examples in your life where you desired for something to be permanent; perhaps a relationship, a job or plain happiness.  The facts are what we want requires hard work and even then there is no guarantee for permanence. You might be thinking, “Hey Daniel, why are you getting all philosophical on us?  Aren’t you supposed to be informing us about food, farming and the environment?”  What does permanence have to do with agriculture…

  • Rancher Jeff Fowle Speaks

    Daniel Schellenberg
    6 Oct 2009 | 5:00 am
    Jeff Fowle is a fourth generation family farmer and rancher from Etna, California. His latest blog post entitled “Endangered Species Act: Are We In Need Of Protection Now?” is a great summation of the impact public regulations have on private landowners. Protection for threatened and endangered species is important but, regulations often make it difficult to do the right thing. Jeff is explicit in his position that regulations designed to protect certain species do not consider the impact on the rural economy and can lead to unintended consequences. “Even though…

  • Hello Readers

    Daniel Schellenberg
    1 Oct 2009 | 3:00 am
    Can you believe it is October already?  The summer is long gone and the smell of autumn is in the air.  Now is definitely the time to visit your local farmer’s market and bring home the bounty of the season. I want my readers to know that I will transition to different newsletter software powered by AWeber.  The service is opt-in only so, you will have to sign up and confirm to avoid missing any great articles and commentary on food, farming and the environment. Click on agroguru.org/signup to get started.
 
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