Welcome to another edition of Ag Notes Weekly!

This week, we’re exploring the economic challenges facing agricultural producers and workers, new federal efforts to support American food markets, and developments in international agricultural trade.

Across the country, we’ll also look at changing growing conditions, agricultural research, and the decisions affecting farming communities.

We’ll highlight the people and organizations preserving agricultural history, expanding educational opportunities, and strengthening connections between communities and their food systems.

From national developments to local initiatives, there’s plenty to learn, understand, and consider.

Wherever you’re joining us from, we’re glad you’re here.

Thank you for reading.

California Strawberry Grower Announces Six Farm Closures, Affecting 572 Workers

A major Southern California strawberry producer plans to close six farms in Ventura County, eliminating 572 jobs and raising questions about agricultural profitability, farmworker protections, and the future of strawberry production in the region.
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SoCal Berry Growers announced the planned closures in an October 31 letter to the city of Oxnard. The six farms, located around Ventura and Oxnard, are scheduled to close between January 11 and January 25, 2027.

Of the 572 employees facing layoffs, 459 are harvest workers.

The company grows strawberries for Driscoll’s, a major berry marketer that works with independent agricultural producers.

The announcement comes amid growing financial challenges for California’s strawberry industry and follows a successful unionization effort by the company’s workers earlier this year.

California’s Strawberry Industry Faces Financial Pressure

Strawberries are Ventura County’s most valuable agricultural crop, but high sales figures have not necessarily translated into profitable farming.

According to the county’s 2025 Crop and Livestock Report, strawberry production generated approximately $808 million in wholesale revenue.

Wholesale revenue represents the money growers receive for their products before production expenses are subtracted. It is not the same as profit.

The county’s estimated strawberry production expenses totaled approximately $816 million, exceeding revenue by about $8 million.

That means strawberry growers across Ventura County collectively recorded an estimated loss of approximately one cent for every dollar generated.

Production expenses include labor, irrigation, land, fertilizer, pest management, equipment, transportation-related services, and other operating costs.

Farm Bureau of Ventura County representatives have warned that rising expenses are placing increasing pressure on local agricultural businesses, even when crop sales appear strong.

However, these countywide figures do not establish whether SoCal Berry Growers itself was operating at a loss.

Farm Closures Follow Workers’ Unionization

The planned closures have also raised concerns because SoCal Berry Growers employees recently secured union representation.

In July, workers supported representation by the United Farm Workers (UFW), an agricultural labor organization that advocates for farmworkers’ wages, working conditions, and employment rights.

SoCal Berry Growers challenged the unionization process, alleging misconduct by the union.

On August 6, California’s Agricultural Labor Relations Board dismissed the company’s objections to certification.

Following the closure announcement, UFW Vice President Roman Pinal said the union believes the decision is connected to workers’ efforts to organize and has indicated that the organization intends to pursue available legal options.

The timing has raised questions about whether workers’ organizing activities influenced the company’s decision.

However, the union’s allegation has not been established as the reason for the closures.

SoCal Berry Growers did not provide an explanation for the decision in its closure notice and did not respond to interview requests reported by local journalists.

The relationship between the unionization effort and the planned closures therefore remains unresolved.

Why Does This Matter?

The closure announcement highlights challenges affecting both agricultural producers and the people whose labor makes food production possible.

For growers, rising production expenses can make it increasingly difficult to maintain profitable operations, even when their crops generate substantial revenue.

For farmworkers, closures can mean the loss of wages, employment stability, and opportunities to continue working within their communities.

The situation also raises important questions about agricultural labor relations and how workers’ rights are protected when agricultural businesses face financial or operational changes.

Strawberries are an economically important crop in California, which produces the majority of strawberries grown in the United States. Developments affecting its growing regions therefore deserve attention beyond the communities directly involved.

The six farms remain scheduled for closure in January, and the specific reasons for SoCal Berry Growers’ decision have not been publicly established.

As the situation develops, its consequences for workers, agricultural businesses, and the surrounding communities will be important to follow.

Sources:

• Ventura County Star — Grower Plans to Close Six Recently Unionized Farms, November 3, 2026

• Los Angeles Times — SoCal Berry Growers to Close Six Farm Locations, November 5, 2026

• Ag Alert — Ventura County’s Record Crop Values Describe Only Half the Story, November 4, 2026

• California Agricultural Labor Relations Board — 2026 Administrative Orders
  
  

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USDA Announces Plans to Purchase $472.5 Million in American-Produced Food

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced plans on October 29 to purchase up to $472.5 million in American-produced agricultural products, supporting domestic farmers and food businesses while providing food for charitable organizations and nutrition assistance programs.
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The planned purchases include dairy products, meat, grains, legumes, fruits, nuts, and seafood produced across the United States.

USDA intends to use the purchases to create additional demand for agricultural products, particularly in markets facing economic difficulties or disruptions.

The food will be distributed through federal nutrition assistance programs and charitable food networks, helping connect American agricultural production with communities experiencing food insecurity.

What Foods Will USDA Purchase?

The announcement covers fifteen agricultural product categories, representing different regions and sectors of American agriculture.

The largest planned purchase is $165.5 million in dairy products, accounting for approximately 35% of the total.

Other planned purchases include:

• Pork: $41 million

• Split peas: $37 million

• Almonds: $30 million

• Lentils: $29 million

• Raisins: $25 million

• Hazelnuts: $22 million

• Rice: $21 million

• Chicken, chickpeas, and farm-raised catfish: $20 million each

Additional purchases include Pacific whiting, a fish harvested commercially along the West Coast, as well as dried fruit mixtures, grapefruit, and oranges.

The variety of products means the announcement has potential implications for numerous agricultural communities, from dairy producers and livestock farmers to fruit growers, fishermen, and producers of legumes.

Legumes are plants that produce seeds in pods, including peas, lentils, and chickpeas. Many are important food crops because they provide protein and other nutrients.

How Does the Purchasing Program Work?

The purchases will be made through USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), using a federal authority commonly called Section 32.

Established under legislation passed in 1935, Section 32 allows USDA to support agricultural markets through activities that include purchasing domestically produced food.

When farmers and agricultural businesses face weak demand, excess supplies, or other market challenges, government purchases can create another outlet for their products.

Rather than providing direct payments to individual farmers, USDA purchases food through approved suppliers and businesses.

The department announces the products it intends to buy, then issues solicitations inviting qualified vendors to submit offers. USDA reviews those offers before awarding purchasing contracts.

The food is then distributed through participating nutrition assistance programs.

These purchases can help agricultural producers by increasing demand while also supporting businesses involved in processing, packaging, transportation, and distribution.

Supporting Communities Experiencing Food Insecurity

The initiative also aims to provide additional food to organizations serving people who may struggle to obtain enough to eat.

Food insecurity refers to difficulty consistently accessing sufficient food because of limited financial or other resources.

Federal food purchasing programs help supply food banks, charitable organizations, and nutrition assistance providers that distribute food to eligible households and communities.

Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks and food assistance organizations, welcomed the announcement.

The organization emphasized that the planned purchases would provide an additional market for agricultural producers while supplying food to people experiencing hunger.

The announcement includes a $21 million commitment to purchase American-grown rice, which Feeding America and agricultural organizations had previously encouraged USDA to support.

Rice is particularly useful in food assistance because it can be stored for extended periods without refrigeration and incorporated into many different meals.

Why Does This Matter?

The announcement demonstrates how agricultural policy can connect farm economics with the availability of food in American communities.

Farmers and other food producers depend on markets where they can sell what they grow and raise. When demand weakens or production exceeds available purchasing opportunities, agricultural businesses can experience financial pressure.

At the same time, many households face difficulties obtaining adequate food.

Government purchasing programs can address portions of both challenges by creating additional demand for domestically produced agricultural products and distributing purchased food through assistance networks.

However, the benefits will depend on how the purchases are implemented.

USDA has announced its intentions, but the full $472.5 million in purchases has not yet been completed. Contracts must be awarded, products obtained, and deliveries arranged before the food reaches participating organizations.

The announcement does not guarantee that every producer will benefit equally or that agricultural market prices will increase.

Nevertheless, the planned purchases represent a significant commitment involving multiple agricultural sectors and food assistance organizations.

The coming months will help determine how effectively that commitment translates into support for American food producers and greater food availability for communities across the country.

Sources:

• USDA — Announces $472.5 Million Food Purchase to Support U.S. Producers and Strengthen America’s Food Supply, October 29, 2026

• USDA Agricultural Marketing Service — Section 32 Food Purchase Announcement, October 29, 2026

• USDA Agricultural Marketing Service — How the Purchasing Process Works

• Feeding America — Response to USDA’s $472.5 Million Food Purchase Announcement, October 29, 2026
  

China Links Expanded Purchases of American Agricultural Products to Tariff Agreement

China announced on November 5 that it is willing to increase purchases of American agricultural products, but says further progress depends on the United States and China finalizing and implementing an agreement to reduce tariffs on goods traded between the two countries.
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The announcement follows several months of negotiations over agricultural trade and import restrictions.

China’s Ministry of Commerce said the two countries must move forward with reciprocal tariff reductions before additional agricultural purchases can be expanded under the proposed arrangement.

The development comes as American farmers continue navigating changing export markets, international competition, and uncertainty surrounding agricultural trade agreements.

What Are the United States and China Negotiating?

The two countries are working on an agreement that would reduce tariffs on approximately $30 billion worth of goods imported by each country.

A tariff is a tax imposed on goods brought into a country from another country.

For example, when agricultural products grown in the United States are imported into China, Chinese importers may be required to pay tariffs on those products.

Those additional costs can make American goods more expensive for Chinese buyers compared with similar products from countries facing lower import taxes.

Reducing tariffs can make agricultural products more competitive in international markets, potentially encouraging additional purchases.

The proposed agreement covers approximately $60 billion in combined trade between the two countries, with each side identifying roughly $30 billion worth of products for more favorable tariff treatment.

The $60 billion figure represents the value of goods covered by the proposal, not money the two countries have promised to spend or the amount of taxes being eliminated.

Agricultural products covered by China’s proposed tariff reductions include corn, wheat, sorghum, rice, meat, dairy, and specialty crops.

Sorghum is a grain crop that can be used for human food, animal feed, and other agricultural products. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, nuts, and horticultural products.

Whole soybeans are not included in the current tariff-reduction list because they are being addressed through separate trade arrangements.

What Has China Agreed to Purchase?

In May, the White House announced that China had agreed to purchase approximately $17 billion in American agricultural products annually beginning in 2026, separate from its soybean purchasing commitments.

However, significant questions remain about when those purchases are expected to take place.

China has described the agricultural trade arrangement as a guiding target and has emphasized that purchases depend on market conditions and the implementation of negotiated trade measures.

According to a Reuters analysis of Chinese customs data, China purchased approximately $7.2 billion in American agricultural products other than soybeans between January and September 2026.

Those imports included products such as meat and corn.

For these agricultural products, China’s purchases during the first nine months of the year were at their lowest level for that period since 2019.

Reuters also reported that China remains on track to meet a separate soybean purchasing target.

Despite the difference between the $17 billion annual figure and purchases recorded so far, it is not yet clear whether China has failed to meet its commitments.

The White House has not specified whether the purchasing timetable began with its May announcement or will begin once the proposed tariff reductions are finalized.

Why Aren’t More Agricultural Products Being Purchased?

Tariffs are one factor affecting agricultural trade, but they are not the only consideration.

International agricultural markets are influenced by production costs, transportation expenses, available supplies, consumer demand, and competition between exporting countries.

For example, China produces substantial amounts of corn domestically and also purchases agricultural products from countries other than the United States.

When domestic supplies are sufficient or another country offers a lower price, Chinese buyers may have less incentive to import American crops.

Certain agricultural products also face non-tariff barriers.

These are restrictions or requirements affecting international trade that do not involve import taxes. Examples include product registration rules, import permits, inspections, and eligibility requirements for processing facilities.

Some requirements serve legitimate food safety and animal-health purposes, while disagreements can arise over how particular rules are applied or whether they unnecessarily restrict trade.

China and the United States have established an agricultural working group to discuss these issues and identify opportunities to improve market access.

The group is expected to hold its first meeting before the end of 2026.

Why Does This Matter?

International trade provides an important market for American agricultural products, and changes in purchasing agreements can affect farmers well beyond the countries negotiating them.

American farmers produce crops and livestock for both domestic customers and international buyers.

When foreign demand is strong, exports can create additional opportunities for producers to sell their products.

When purchases slow or trade restrictions increase costs, farmers and agricultural businesses may face greater competition for available customers.

However, an announcement about future purchases does not automatically translate into increased farm income.

The outcome will depend on the final terms of the agreement, actual purchasing decisions, agricultural prices, and market conditions in both countries.

The negotiations also affect Chinese agricultural businesses, food processors, and consumers, whose purchasing decisions depend on the availability and cost of imported products.

For now, the United States and China have identified potential areas for expanded agricultural trade, but the proposed tariff reductions have not been fully implemented, and additional purchases remain uncertain.

The coming negotiations and agricultural working group discussions will help determine whether the proposed changes create meaningful new opportunities for producers and buyers on both sides.

Sources:

• Reuters — China Says U.S. Farm Purchases Hinge on Tariff-Cut Deal, November 5, 2026

• Reuters — China’s Slow Buying of U.S. Farm Goods Tests $17 Billion Trade Pledge, November 2, 2026

• U.S. Trade Representative — U.S.-China Board of Trade Recommendations, September 27, 2026

• China Ministry of Commerce — China-U.S. Board of Trade and Reciprocal Tariff Framework, September 28, 2026

• American Farm Bureau — U.S.-China Trade Framework: What We Know Now, October 18, 2026
  
  

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Around the Regions

Northeast — Maryland Awards Nearly $100,000 to Urban Farms and Community Gardens

Maryland announced nearly $100,000 in funding for eleven urban farms and community gardens on November 5, supporting food production, agricultural infrastructure, and access to locally grown food.

The awards are part of the state’s first Urban Agriculture Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to agricultural operations in cities and developed communities.

Recipients include the Farm Alliance of Baltimore, Whitelock Community Farm, Asawana Farms, and other organizations across the state.

Projects range from expanding growing equipment and improving crop protection to installing cold storage and produce-washing facilities.

Cold storage helps keep harvested fruits and vegetables fresh by slowing deterioration. Washing and packing facilities allow growers to prepare crops for distribution while maintaining food safety.

These improvements can be particularly valuable for urban farms operating with limited space, equipment, and financial resources.

Maryland expects to open another funding round in June 2027.

Source: Maryland Department of Agriculture — Urban Agriculture Grant Awards, November 5, 2026

Southeast — Heavy Rainfall Disrupts Vegetable Planting in South Florida

Heavy rainfall and flooding have delayed vegetable planting across portions of South Florida, creating additional challenges for growers preparing for the winter production season.

University of Florida agricultural Extension specialists report that saturated fields have made it difficult for farmers to operate planting equipment.

Crops affected by the delays may include sweet corn, lettuce, radishes, beans, peppers, and tomatoes.

When soil becomes saturated, the spaces that normally contain air fill with water. This can limit oxygen available to plant roots and create conditions that interfere with healthy growth.

Excessively wet fields can also prevent tractors and other equipment from operating without damaging soil structure or becoming stuck.

The South Florida Water Management District issued an emergency order on November 3 after some affected areas received more than ten inches of rain within 36 hours.

Agricultural specialists have not yet determined the full extent of the planting delays or potential crop losses.

The situation demonstrates how both excessive rainfall and drought can disrupt agricultural production, even when they occur within the same growing season.

Sources:

• Specialty Crop Grower — Florida Flooding Impacting Vegetable Plantings, November 4, 2026

• South Florida Water Management District — Emergency Flooding Response, November 3, 2026

Midwest — John Deere Announces Plans to Close Two Iowa Manufacturing Facilities

Agricultural equipment manufacturer John Deere announced November 4 that it plans to close factories in Ottumwa and Clarion, Iowa, as part of a broader restructuring of its manufacturing operations.

The company plans to relocate production of several agricultural machines to other facilities over the next few years.

Windrowers, machines used to cut and arrange crops into rows for drying, will move from Ottumwa to Des Moines by the end of fiscal year 2027.

Round baler production, involving machines that compress harvested forage into round bales, is expected to follow by the end of fiscal year 2028. The Ottumwa factory would close after those transfers.

Manufacturing of Hagie agricultural sprayers will move from Clarion to Thibodaux, Louisiana, with operations in Clarion ending by fiscal year 2029.

John Deere attributes the changes to shifting customer demand, manufacturing capacity, and efforts to improve operational efficiency.

The company estimates that approximately 300 positions could be affected at normal production levels, although the actual number will depend on staffing and business conditions.

The announcement highlights how agricultural market conditions affect not only farmers, but also manufacturing workers and communities whose economies depend on agricultural equipment production.

Sources:

• John Deere — Manufacturing Facility Updates, November 4, 2026

• Iowa Capital Dispatch — John Deere Plans to Phase Out Two Iowa Factories

Southwest — New Mexico Expands Response as Screwworm Cases Increase

New Mexico agriculture officials have expanded monitoring and animal-movement restrictions following an increase in confirmed New World screwworm cases across the southern portion of the state.

The developments represent a significant continuation of the animal-health situation covered in last week’s Ag Notes Weekly.

New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, including cattle, pets, and wildlife.

According to reporting published November 4, twenty additional cases were identified in recent days, bringing New Mexico’s confirmed total to thirty since June.

A newly confirmed case in Catron County also indicates that the pest has reached an additional part of the state.

In response, officials have expanded the designated infested zones, which are geographic areas where additional animal inspections, monitoring, or movement requirements may apply.

The updated zones now cover five entire counties and portions of three others.

Agricultural officials say the broader boundaries should make it easier for animal owners to understand which requirements apply to their properties.

The situation continues to develop, and livestock owners in affected areas are encouraged to follow current state animal-health guidance.

Sources:

• New Mexico Department of Agriculture — Updated Screwworm Response Zones, November 2, 2026

• Searchlight New Mexico — Screwworm Cases Increase and Spread to Catron County, November 4, 2026

Pacific Northwest — Oregon Report Identifies Gaps in Farmworker Protection Systems

A new Oregon legislative report identifies weaknesses in how the state collects agricultural labor information and coordinates the enforcement of protections for farmworkers.

The 75-page report, released in late October and covered November 5, examined how state agencies monitor agricultural employment and administer workplace protections.

Oregon has laws addressing agricultural working conditions, including pesticide exposure, excessive heat, wages, and worker housing.

However, the report found that information about farmworkers is spread across multiple agencies, sometimes making it difficult to track workplace complaints and evaluate whether existing protections are working effectively.

Farmworker advocates have raised concerns that workers may continue experiencing unsafe or inadequate conditions despite the state’s legal protections.

The Oregon Farm Bureau has responded that overlapping agency responsibilities are common in many industries, not agriculture alone.

The report does not establish that every farmworker complaint is mishandled. Rather, it identifies gaps in information sharing, coordination, and measurement.

The findings may inform future discussions about how Oregon oversees agricultural labor and ensures that legal protections are accessible and effective.

Source: Oregon Capital Chronicle — Report Identifies Gaps in Farmworker Data and Complaint Systems, November 5, 2026

Appalachia — West Virginia Producers Receive $804,854 to Expand Agricultural Businesses

Five West Virginia agricultural producers have received a combined $804,854 in federal grants to develop new products, expand processing, and create additional opportunities to sell farm-produced goods.

USDA announced the awards November 2 through its Value-Added Producer Grant Program.

Value-added agriculture involves transforming or improving a farm product so that it can be sold in a different form or reach additional markets.

For example, a cattle producer might sell packaged meat products rather than only selling live animals, or process byproducts into products with additional commercial uses.

Among the recipients is Mountain Steer Meat Company in Greenbrier County, which received $200,000 to expand beef processing and develop products using materials that might otherwise be discarded.

H & W Pastures in Berkeley County received $80,338 to expand meat, egg, dairy, and pet treat operations, including plans for a mobile market.

Other recipients are developing new packaging, processing, and distribution capabilities.

USDA expects the projects to support employment and increase opportunities for locally produced agricultural goods.

Those outcomes are anticipated benefits of the grants rather than results that have already been measured.

Source: USDA Rural Development — West Virginia Value-Added Producer Grants, November 2, 2026

Worth Noticing

Nationwide — USDA Awards $3.8 Million to Support Tribal Agricultural Education

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced more than $3.8 million in funding on November 4 for 37 projects supporting agricultural education, natural resource management, and community development in federally recognized Tribal Nations.
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The awards are part of USDA’s Federally Recognized Tribes Extension Program, which helps bring agricultural education and practical resources to Tribal communities.

Agricultural Extension is a system of educational programs that connects people with research, training, and assistance they can use in farming, gardening, land management, and other areas.

The funded projects support activities including farm and ranch management, youth agricultural education, natural resource stewardship, and workforce development.

Recipients include Tribal colleges and universities working with Native communities across the country, including institutions in Montana, Wisconsin, Alaska, and other states.

The 2026 awards begin a new four-year funding cycle, providing opportunities for continued educational work.

The program recognizes the importance of providing agricultural resources that respond to the distinct priorities and needs of Tribal communities.

Source: USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture — Tribal Extension Program Awards, November 4, 2026

California — Artist Preserves the Agricultural History of Punjabi-Mexican Families

Northern California artist Sarabjit Singh is preserving the history of Punjabi-Mexican families whose contributions helped shape California’s agricultural communities during the early twentieth century.
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Beginning in the early 1900s, Punjabi immigrants arriving in California established families with Mexican women, creating communities whose histories were closely connected to agriculture.

Many Punjabi immigrants came from farming backgrounds and found work in California’s agricultural regions, including the Imperial and Sacramento valleys.

These families developed during a period of discriminatory immigration and land ownership laws that restricted opportunities for Asian immigrants.

Despite those obstacles, Punjabi-Mexican families contributed to agricultural production, built communities, and passed their traditions to future generations.

Singh’s artwork depicts their family relationships, agricultural experiences, cultural traditions, and perseverance.

One illustration portrays Punjabi-Mexican families gathered on a peach farm in Yuba City, reflecting the blending of their cultural identities.

Another work, commissioned for the Sutter County History Museum, is expected to become part of the museum’s permanent collection.

Through her illustrations, Singh hopes to preserve stories that might otherwise receive limited attention in accounts of California’s agricultural history.

Sources:

• CBS Sacramento — History of Punjabi-Mexican Culture Brought to Life by Northern California Artist, October 30, 2026

• South Asian American Digital Archive — Punjabi-Mexican Families

Nationwide — Sky High Farm Opens $350,000 Grant Program for Agricultural and Food Justice Projects

Sky High Farm has opened applications for its 2027 grant program, making $350,000 in total funding available to individuals and organizations working in agriculture, food justice, and land sovereignty.

Applications opened November 1 and will remain available through December 20, 2026.

The program supports work involving food production, agricultural access, community food systems, and the ability of communities to make decisions about land and food resources.

Land sovereignty refers to the ability of communities to exercise meaningful control over the land, resources, and practices connected to their livelihoods and traditions.

Funding priority will be given to historically marginalized communities, including Black, Indigenous, Asian American, immigrant, and other underrepresented agricultural groups.

Applicants do not need to operate as a registered nonprofit organization.

During the previous grant cycle, awards ranged from approximately $1,500 to $30,000, with an average award of around $11,000. Individual funding amounts for the new cycle will depend on the applications selected.

Applications will be reviewed by an independent committee of farmers, food justice advocates, and other participants working to improve food systems.

For individuals and organizations developing community-based agricultural projects, the program offers an opportunity to pursue financial support.

Applications and eligibility information: Sky High Farm — 2027 Grant Program

Ohio — Black Forager Helps Millions Rediscover Wild Foods and Food Traditions

Alexis Nikole Nelson, widely known as Black Forager, is helping millions of people learn about edible wild plants, food history, and the relationship between people and their natural environments.

A November 1 feature in The Washington Post highlighted Nelson’s work connecting plant identification, cooking, and cultural knowledge.

Based in Columbus, Ohio, Nelson creates educational videos demonstrating how plants growing in forests, fields, neighborhoods, and other environments have been used as food.

Her work introduces audiences to foraging, the practice of gathering edible plants, fungi, and other foods from the environment rather than cultivating them as agricultural crops.

Foraging requires careful identification because some wild plants and mushrooms can be poisonous or resemble edible species.

Nelson also explores the historical importance of wild foods in Black and Indigenous communities, including traditions developed through agricultural knowledge, cultural exchange, and periods when access to food was restricted.

Her recently published book, Happy Snacking, Don’t Die!, combines information about wild foods with recipes and practical guidance.

Although foraging differs from conventional farming, it remains connected to broader questions about food knowledge, biodiversity, cultural traditions, and how people obtain nourishment from the land.

Nelson’s work encourages people to become more observant of the plants around them and to recognize the knowledge preserved through generations of food traditions.

Sources:

• The Washington Post — What Black Forager Wants You to Know About Wild Food, November 1, 2026

• Simon & Schuster — Happy Snacking, Don’t Die! by Alexis Nikole Nelson
  

In Closing

Thank you for spending a little of your week with us.

Agriculture is shaped by more than what we grow and produce. It’s shaped by the people who do the work, the knowledge passed between generations, and the decisions that affect communities across the country.

Every story offers another opportunity to understand the people, challenges, and possibilities within our food systems.

We’re glad to explore them with you.

Until next Friday, take care.

— Ag Notes Weekly

Welcome to another edition of Ag Notes Weekly.

This week, we’re exploring developments in agricultural production, the economic conditions affecting farmers, and efforts to protect the health of livestock and our agricultural communities.

Across the country, we’ll also look at new research, regional developments, and the people and organizations working to strengthen agriculture through education, conservation, and community involvement.

From national decisions to local initiatives, there’s plenty to discover, understand, and consider.

Wherever you’re joining us from, we’re glad you’re here.

Thank you for reading.

USDA Corrects Corn Production Estimates After Discovering Calculation Error

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has corrected previously published corn production estimates after discovering a processing error affecting figures for Kansas, Nebraska, and the country as a whole.

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The correction was announced October 23 by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), following concerns raised about differences between its September and October crop reports.

NASS is responsible for collecting and publishing agricultural statistics, including estimates of how much corn, wheat, soybeans, and other crops American farmers are producing.

These reports help farmers, agricultural businesses, and market participants understand production conditions and make decisions.

What went wrong?

The error involved how USDA combined information from irrigated and non-irrigated cornfields.

Irrigated fields receive additional water through farming systems such as sprinklers or canals, while non-irrigated fields depend primarily on rainfall.

When calculating September’s corn estimates, USDA used incorrect acreage weights to combine observations from these two types of fields in Kansas and Nebraska.

Acreage weights help account for how much farmland each set of observations represents. Using incorrect weights can cause the final estimate to give too much or too little influence to certain fields.

The mistake affected estimates of corn plant populations, ear counts, and crop yields.

Crop yield describes how much of a crop is produced from a given area of farmland. Corn yields are commonly measured in bushels per acre, with a bushel representing a standard measure of harvested grain.

What changed?

USDA’s corrected figures show a slightly different picture of September corn production.

Nebraska’s estimated corn yield increased from 177 to 182 bushels per acre. Kansas’s estimate was revised downward.

The national estimate increased from 178.5 to 178.8 bushels per acre.

Although the national change was relatively small, the correction matters because production estimates influence expectations about how much corn will be available.

USDA also reviewed its October estimates and confirmed that those figures remain unchanged.

Why does this matter?

Reliable agricultural statistics are important to decisions made throughout the food and farming economy.

Farmers use crop estimates when evaluating markets and deciding when to sell their products. Agricultural businesses, buyers, and other market participants also rely on production forecasts when planning purchases and managing supplies.

Incorrect information can create uncertainty, even when the resulting numerical changes appear small.

Following the correction, USDA announced plans to strengthen its quality-control procedures, including additional checks before future estimates are published.

The situation highlights both the importance of accurate agricultural reporting and the value of reviewing and correcting information when problems are discovered.

Sources:

• USDA NASS — Corn Data Correction, October 23, 2026

• USDA NASS — Additional Explanation, October 24, 2026

• Nebraska Corn Board — Response to September Corn Report Correction
  
  

New World Screwworm Confirmed in Arizona as Officials Expand Response

Federal and state agriculture officials confirmed Arizona’s first case of New World screwworm on October 28, prompting additional monitoring and containment efforts to protect livestock, pets, and wildlife.

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The case was discovered in Cochise County, where a veterinarian examined a dog with an infested wound on October 26. Laboratory testing later confirmed the presence of New World screwworm, a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of animals.

The affected dog is receiving veterinary care, and officials are working with the animal’s owner to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case.

What is New World screwworm?

New World screwworm is a parasitic insect that can cause serious injuries to warm-blooded animals. Adult flies lay eggs in open wounds or other vulnerable areas of an animal’s body. When the eggs hatch, the larvae, commonly called maggots, feed on living tissue.

Infestations can worsen quickly if left untreated, making early detection and veterinary care especially important.

The pest was eliminated from the United States decades ago, but new cases have been confirmed this year in Texas and New Mexico, followed by Arizona.

How are officials responding?

USDA and Arizona animal-health officials are working together to monitor the affected area and prevent further spread.

Their response includes establishing a 20-kilometer zone around the detection, implementing animal movement controls, increasing inspections and surveillance, and releasing sterile flies.

Sterile flies are insects that have been made unable to reproduce. When released into an affected area, they can mate with wild flies without producing offspring, helping reduce the population over time.

Officials are also providing information to livestock owners, veterinarians, and nearby communities about identifying and reporting suspected infestations. Animal owners in affected areas are encouraged to regularly inspect their animals for unusual wounds, swelling, visible larvae, or signs of discomfort and to contact a veterinarian if they suspect an infestation.

Why does this matter?

Protecting animal health is an important part of maintaining agricultural production and stable livestock markets.

A serious pest can create additional expenses for farmers and ranchers through veterinary treatment, preventive measures, animal losses, and restrictions on livestock movement.

The detection is significant, but it does not mean that New World screwworm is widespread throughout Arizona. Officials have confirmed a specific case and are responding with measures intended to prevent the pest from becoming established.

The situation highlights the importance of agricultural monitoring, cooperation between animal-health agencies, and early action when new threats emerge.

Sources:

• USDA — New World Screwworm Confirmed in Arizona, October 28, 2026

• Arizona Department of Agriculture — First Confirmed Case in Cochise County, October 28, 2026
  
  

USDA Selects Eight Fertilizer Manufacturing Projects Representing $1.34 Billion in Proposed Investment

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced eight fertilizer manufacturing projects on October 22, representing more than $1.34 billion in proposed investment to expand domestic production and improve fertilizer availability for American farmers.

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The projects were selected through USDA’s Fertilizer Investment & Expansion for Long-Term Domestic Supply (FIELDS) Program. Together, they represent approximately $573 million in proposed federal funding, alongside private and other project investments.

The initiative is intended to strengthen the nation’s fertilizer supply, increase competition among manufacturers, and reduce dependence on imported agricultural materials.

Why does fertilizer production matter?

Fertilizers supply nutrients that plants need to grow and develop.

Three major nutrients used in agricultural fertilizers are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These support different aspects of plant development, including leaf growth, root development, and overall plant health.

Farmers use fertilizers to help maintain productive growing conditions, but purchasing them can represent a substantial operating expense.

Fertilizer prices are influenced by several factors, including manufacturing costs, energy prices, international trade, transportation, and market competition. When those costs rise, farmers may face additional financial pressure even if the prices they receive for their crops remain unchanged.

What projects were selected?

USDA selected eight projects involving new fertilizer facilities and expansions of existing manufacturing operations across 16 states.

Examples include:

• Iowa and six other states: TalusAg was selected for approximately $99.8 million in proposed federal funding to install 20 smaller-scale ammonia manufacturing units across 11 locations.

• New Mexico: Intrepid Potash was selected for approximately $139 million toward a facility expected to produce 220,000 tons of potassium-based fertilizer annually.

• California, Oregon, and Arizona: True Organic Products was selected for approximately $15.3 million to expand fertilizer manufacturing using agricultural byproducts.

• Kansas and Indiana: Agriculture Project Holdco was selected for approximately $116.9 million toward facilities designed to convert dairy manure into liquid nitrogen fertilizer.

The projects would expand the production of fertilizers containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur.

USDA estimates that the selected facilities could collectively support approximately 1.08 million tons of annual fertilizer production and capacity once operational.

Will fertilizer prices decrease?

USDA projects that additional domestic production could help reduce certain fertilizer prices, but those reductions have not yet occurred.

The department estimates that the proposed projects could eventually reduce nitrogen fertilizer prices by 4.4% and potash fertilizer prices by 5.3%.

Potash is a source of potassium used in fertilizers to support plant growth.

These figures are projections based on expected production increases, not guaranteed savings for farmers.

The projects must still progress through funding arrangements, construction, and other requirements before their expected manufacturing capacity becomes available. USDA officials have indicated that project completion is anticipated primarily in 2027 and 2028.

Looking ahead

Increasing fertilizer manufacturing capacity could provide farmers with more purchasing options and greater protection against supply disruptions.

However, the actual benefits will depend on whether the projects are completed as planned, how much fertilizer they produce, and how market conditions develop.

For farmers managing rising operating expenses, greater fertilizer availability could be a meaningful development. The coming years will show how much of the proposed investment translates into additional production and lower costs.

Sources:

• USDA — Eight Fertilizer Manufacturing Projects Selected, October 22, 2026

• Iowa Capital Dispatch — Domestic Fertilizer Production Investment, October 22, 2026
  
  

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Around the Regions

Northeast — Maryland Offers New Incentives for Farm Conservation

Maryland is offering eligible farmers a $1,000-per-acre signing bonus to establish forest buffers on working farmland.

Announced October 28, the incentive is part of the state’s Conservation Buffer Initiative, which supports planting trees and grasses near streams, cropland, and pastures.

Forest buffers are planted areas that can help prevent soil erosion, filter runoff, and improve water quality. These practices can benefit nearby waterways while allowing agricultural activity to continue on surrounding land.

Farmers may also qualify for installation assistance and maintenance payments. Applications open November 1 and will be accepted through April 30, 2027, subject to available funding.

Source: Maryland Department of Agriculture — Conservation Buffer Initiative

Southeast — National Black Farmers Association Holds 36th Annual Conference

Black farmers, agricultural advocates, and industry representatives are gathering in Columbia, South Carolina, for the National Black Farmers Association’s 36th annual conference, October 29–November 1.

The conference focuses on challenges and opportunities affecting Black farmers, including access to farmland, agricultural financing, farm business management, and legal issues.

Educational sessions scheduled for October 30–31 include discussions on starting and expanding farm operations, understanding USDA programs, managing farm taxes, and protecting farmland from foreclosure.

The organization also plans conversations about agricultural technology, civil rights, and farmers’ health and well-being.

The gathering provides opportunities for farmers to exchange knowledge, access resources, and participate in ongoing discussions about their role and future in American agriculture.

Source: National Black Farmers Association — 2026 Conference Agenda

Midwest — Wisconsin Supports Food Access for Tribal Elders

Wisconsin is accepting applications for up to $1.5 million in grants to help provide food to Tribal elders while supporting agricultural producers and food processors.

The Tribal Elder Community Food Box Program connects food access with agricultural opportunity. Eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for funding to purchase food from producers and distribute it to Tribal members at no cost.

The program emphasizes culturally appropriate foods and collaboration with Wisconsin’s Tribal Nations.

Participating Tribal Nations must have a meaningful role in decisions about the food distributed through their communities. At least 80% of each project’s budget must go toward purchasing food.

Applications for the 2027 funding period close November 4, 2026.

Source: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection — Tribal Elder Community Food Box Program

Southwest — Arizona Opens New Agricultural Water Research Facility

USDA opened a new research facility in Tucson, Arizona, on October 27 to study water management, soil erosion, and agricultural productivity in the Southwest.

The Southwest Watershed Research Center will bring together USDA and University of Arizona researchers to better understand how water moves through landscapes and how agricultural land responds to changing conditions.

The 15,650-square-foot facility includes laboratories, research equipment, and collaborative workspaces.

Researchers will use tools such as rainfall simulators, drones, and field measurements to study runoff, drought, vegetation, and soil conditions.

In regions where water availability is a major concern, this research could help farmers and ranchers make better-informed decisions about conserving water and managing their land.

Source: USDA Agricultural Research Service — Southwest Watershed Research Center

Pacific Northwest — Washington Organization Expands Agroforestry Efforts

A nonprofit organization in western Washington is expanding efforts to help farmers integrate trees and other vegetation into agricultural landscapes.

Agroforestry Northwest recently received nearly half a million dollars in federal grants to support additional projects across the region.

Agroforestry combines trees or shrubs with crops, livestock, or other agricultural activities. Depending on the design, these practices can help protect soil, create wildlife habitat, and provide additional products for farmers to harvest or sell.

The organization works with farmers and conservation districts to establish demonstration sites and provide assistance with practices such as planting trees between crops and creating vegetated buffers near waterways.

Its work includes projects in Snohomish and Arlington, along with restoration efforts near regional rivers.

Source: Salish Current — Agroforestry Practices Spread in Northwest Washington

Appalachia — West Virginia Funding Supports Year-Round Agricultural Market

A $59,000 federal grant will help Braxton County, West Virginia, acquire property for a permanent, year-round market in downtown Sutton.

Announced October 28 as part of USDA’s Rural Business Development Grant Program, the project is intended to provide farmers, food entrepreneurs, and artisans with more opportunities to sell their products directly to customers.

The grant will also support an accessible launch for kayaks and canoes along the Elk River, connecting recreational visitors with local businesses.

Braxton County plans to contribute an additional $133,900 toward the project.

A permanent market could provide local producers with a more consistent place to reach customers beyond the traditional outdoor farmers market season.

Source: USDA Rural Development — West Virginia Rural Business Development Grants

Worth Noticing

Louisiana — Black Growers Explore Agricultural Research at Southern University

Thirty-eight participants from the Black Farmers & Urban Gardeners (BUGs) National Conference visited Southern University’s Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Baton Rouge on October 23.

The visit connected growers and educators with agricultural research they could bring back to their communities. Participants toured the university’s demonstration farm and research fields, learning about projects and practices being studied by the center’s agricultural team.

Among the visitors was Pamela James, a professor and leader of Life Source Systems in Buffalo, New York, who expressed interest in applying knowledge from the visit to her educational work.

The tour was part of the 2026 BUGs conference, held in New Orleans, bringing together farmers, gardeners, and agricultural advocates from across the country.

Source: Southern University Ag Center — BUGs Conference Participants Tour Demonstration Farm

New Mexico — Indigenous Communities Gather Around Native Seed Sovereignty

The Intertribal Gathering of Hope was scheduled for October 26–27 at Isleta Pueblo, New Mexico, bringing attention to traditional agriculture, Native plants, and the preservation of Indigenous seeds.

Organized by the Flower Hill Institute, the gathering was designed to bring together Tribal knowledge keepers, farmers, seed stewards, Elders, youth leaders, botanists, and community organizations.

A central focus was seed sovereignty: the ability of communities to preserve, grow, exchange, and make decisions about seeds important to their food systems and cultural traditions.

Through knowledge sharing and community connections, the gathering aimed to strengthen relationships between Indigenous agricultural practices, land stewardship, and future generations.

Source: Flower Hill Institute — Intertribal Gathering of Hope

Kentucky — Agricultural Students Receive Grants to Address Food Insecurity

Ten Kentucky FFA chapters have received a combined $15,000 to develop student-led projects improving food access in their communities.

Announced October 27, the Better Days Through Better Ways grants provide $1,500 to each participating chapter.

The projects include school and community gardens, poultry and egg production, hydroponic growing systems, composting, and community food distribution.

At Hopkinsville Middle School, students plan to grow vegetables for families through a community food box. South Warren FFA members will raise chickens to provide eggs and poultry, while students at Barren County High School will use hydroponics—growing plants in nutrient-rich water rather than soil—to produce vegetables for a school food initiative.

The projects demonstrate how agricultural education can connect classroom learning with practical community needs.

Source: Kentucky FFA Association — Ten Chapters Awarded $15,000 to Fight Food Insecurity

Nationwide — New Grant Fund Opens Opportunities for Young Farmers

The National Young Farmers Coalition opened applications October 28 for a new grant program supporting farmers and ranchers aged 40 and younger.

The Next Generation Farmer Fund plans to provide grants of $10,000 to $50,000 for projects improving soil health, water management, energy use, and biodiversity on working farms.

The initiative represents more than $1 million in planned support, combining financial assistance with technical guidance to help recipients carry out conservation projects.

The coalition particularly encourages applications from farmers of color, beginning farmers, veterans, small-scale producers, and other historically underserved agricultural communities.

Eligible applicants must be actively farming or ranching during the 2027 growing season. Applications close December 1, 2026.

Source: National Young Farmers Coalition — Next Generation Farmer Fund

In Closing

Thank you for spending a little of your week with us.

Agriculture is shaped by the knowledge we share, the challenges we face, and the people working to build stronger communities. Every week brings new opportunities to learn from one another and better understand the world around us.

We’re glad to explore those stories with you.

Until next Friday, take care.

— Ag Notes Weekly

Welcome to the second issue of Ag Notes Weekly.

This week, we’re exploring the economic challenges facing farmers, opportunities for rural cooperation, and new research revealing how human activity influences our water supplies.

Across the country, we’ll also look at changing agricultural conditions, new initiatives, and the people and organizations making meaningful contributions to their communities.

From national developments to local efforts, there’s plenty to learn, consider, and celebrate.

Wherever you’re joining us from, we’re glad you’re here.

Thank you for your time.

USDA Announces $8 Billion in Harvest Fuel Relief for Farmers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced $8 billion in one-time assistance for American farmers facing rising production costs and market challenges during the 2026 harvest season.

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The new Harvest Fuel Relief program was announced October 19. It aims to help farmers manage increased expenses, particularly fuel costs, while agricultural markets remain under pressure.

The program will be administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). Payments will be calculated using reported planted acreage, estimated production costs, and crop yield and price data.

What should farmers know?

Payment details are still being finalized. USDA expects to announce payment rates for major commodity crops in November. Commodity crops are widely produced agricultural products, such as corn, soybeans, wheat, and cotton, that are commonly traded in large markets. Details for other eligible crops will follow later.

Farmers will not need crop insurance to participate. Eligible producers are encouraged to prepare for the application process by creating a Login.gov account connected to USDA.

Specialty crop growers and fishermen may also submit information about increased fuel costs to help USDA determine appropriate assistance. Specialty crops are a distinct category of agricultural products, generally grown for food or horticultural markets rather than as large-volume staple field crops.

The application period has not yet been announced.

Why does this matter?

Fuel is essential to many farming operations, from running equipment to transporting harvested crops. Higher fuel expenses can place additional pressure on farms already managing changing prices and other operating costs.

The $8 billion announcement represents a significant federal response, although the amount individual farmers will receive—and when those payments will arrive—remains to be determined.

Source: USDA — Harvest Fuel Relief Program announcement, October 19, 2026

USDA Announces $8 Million to Support Rural Cooperatives

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced an $8 million investment to help cooperatives grow, strengthen rural businesses, and create economic opportunities in communities across the country.

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The funding was announced October 19, during National Cooperative Month, through USDA’s Rural Cooperative Development Grant Program. The investment will support 17 organizations working to develop and strengthen cooperatives and other shared-ownership businesses.

A cooperative is a business or organization owned and controlled by its members, who work together to meet shared needs. In agriculture, cooperatives can help farmers purchase supplies, market their products, share equipment, or access services that might be difficult to afford independently.

How will the funding be used?

The grants support organizations that help cooperatives succeed. These organizations provide training, business development assistance, and other resources to help cooperatives start, expand, and improve their operations.

One recipient, the Montana Cooperative Development Center, will receive approximately $525,000 to expand its services, strengthen cooperative leadership, and support locally owned businesses.

The funding is being administered through a partnership between USDA Rural Development and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA).

Why does this matter?

Cooperatives offer communities a way to build businesses through shared ownership and decision-making. For farmers and rural residents, this can mean improved access to markets, stronger local businesses, and greater opportunities to keep economic activity within their communities.

The $8 million investment is intended to strengthen the organizations that provide this support, rather than provide direct payments to individual farmers.

By helping cooperatives develop and remain sustainable, these grants may contribute to stronger rural economies and more opportunities for the people who live and work there.

Source: USDA Rural Development — $8 Million Investment in Cooperatives, October 19, 2026

NASA Research Reveals How Human Activity Is Changing Water Supplies

New NASA research reveals how farming, irrigation, and water management are influencing water supplies around the world. While some activities are linked to declining water reserves, others are associated with increases, highlighting the importance of how people manage land and water.

The research was highlighted October 20 by NASA’s Earth Observatory. Using more than two decades of satellite observations, scientists examined changes in water stored underground, in soil, lakes, and rivers.

The researchers identified 40 regions where changes in water storage were strongly associated with human activity, including irrigation, reservoir management, and changes in land use. Irrigation is the practice of supplying water to crops through methods such as sprinklers, pipes, or canals rather than relying entirely on rainfall.

What did researchers discover?

Different approaches to farming and water management were associated with different outcomes.

In agricultural regions such as California’s Central Valley, the southern High Plains, and northern India, heavy reliance on groundwater for irrigation has contributed to declining water reserves. These areas depend significantly on pumping underground water to support crop production, particularly during dry conditions.

Groundwater is water stored beneath the Earth’s surface, where it can be accessed through wells and used for farming, drinking, and other needs.

Groundwater irrigation itself is not necessarily harmful. It provides an important source of water for agriculture, particularly in regions where rainfall alone cannot reliably support crop production. The concern arises when water is withdrawn faster than natural processes can replace it, gradually reducing the amount available underground.

However, researchers also observed increases in water storage in regions with different agricultural conditions.

In parts of sub-Saharan Africa, underground water levels rose where rainfed millet cultivation expanded into areas previously covered by native savanna. These increases occurred despite below-average rainfall during the study period.

Rainfed farming is the practice of growing crops primarily with natural rainfall rather than supplying additional water through irrigation systems.

In northern Brazil, increases in water storage were also observed where soybean fields replaced forests and shrublands. Researchers suggested that differences in how certain plants use water, along with Indigenous water-management practices that help direct water underground, may partly explain these changes.

These observations highlight the complexity of how land use affects water supplies. They do not establish that rainfed farming always increases groundwater or that irrigation necessarily reduces it. The outcomes depend on factors such as existing vegetation, water use, local conditions, and management decisions.

These findings do not mean every increase in water storage represents an environmental improvement. Replacing natural ecosystems with farmland can have other environmental consequences, even where underground water levels rise.

Instead, the research shows that different land uses, water sources, and management decisions can influence how water moves through the landscape.

Can farming help protect water resources?

How farmland is managed can make an important difference.

Separate agricultural research has shown that practices such as reducing soil disturbance, growing cover crops, and maintaining healthy soil can improve water infiltration and retention.

Cover crops are plants grown primarily to protect and improve the soil, rather than for harvest. Reducing soil disturbance means limiting activities such as frequent plowing that break apart soil structure.

Water infiltration describes how water enters the soil rather than flowing across its surface. Healthy soil can absorb more rainfall, reduce runoff, and retain moisture that crops can use during dry periods.

These practices do not automatically restore depleted underground water reserves, but they demonstrate ways agricultural management can help conserve water and strengthen the land’s ability to handle changing conditions.

Why does this matter?

Agriculture depends on water, but farming practices can also influence how that water is managed and protected.

NASA’s findings help researchers identify where human activity is contributing to water losses or gains. Additional soil-health research offers practical examples of how people can improve the way farmland handles water.

Together, these findings offer an important perspective: human activity is not limited to placing pressure on natural resources. Thoughtful land and water management can also help protect and improve them.

Understanding these relationships gives farmers, researchers, and communities more information to make decisions that support both agricultural production and long-term environmental health.

Sources:

• NASA Earth Observatory — The Human Fingerprint on Earth’s Water Cycle, October 20, 2026

• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service — Soil Health for Water Quality and Quantity

• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service — Soil Health on Cropland
  
  

Around the Regions

Northeast — Pennsylvania Unveils 10-Year Agriculture Plan

Pennsylvania has introduced its first statewide, 10-year strategic plan for agriculture, announced October 16 by Governor Josh Shapiro. The plan focuses on supporting agricultural careers, modernizing farms, expanding market opportunities, and helping farmers access and protect land.

Pennsylvania’s agriculture and food industries contribute more than $153 billion annually to the state’s economy. The new strategy outlines priorities intended to strengthen that economic contribution while addressing challenges facing current and future farmers.

Source: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Southeast — Heavy Rain Brings Drought Relief and Harvest Challenges

Recent heavy rainfall has improved drought conditions across much of the Southeast, including portions of Florida, Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas.

The October 13 U.S. Drought Monitor reported widespread improvement following Hurricane Isaias, although some areas also experienced flooding.

For farmers, the rain has brought mixed conditions. Additional moisture can benefit pastures and replenish dry soils, while overly wet fields can delay the harvesting of crops such as cotton and peanuts.

The developments highlight a familiar agricultural challenge: rainfall can provide much-needed relief while creating new difficulties depending on its timing and intensity.

Sources:

• U.S. Drought Monitor — October 13, 2026

• University of Georgia Extension — Agronomic Row Crops Update

Midwest — Minnesota Corn Harvest Trails Seasonal Average

Minnesota’s corn harvest is progressing more slowly than usual, according to USDA crop progress figures for the week ending October 18.

Farmers had harvested approximately 38% of the state’s corn, compared with a five-year average of 53% for the same point in the season.

Harvest timing can be influenced by rainfall, soil conditions, crop maturity, and the number of days suitable for fieldwork. Although falling behind the usual pace does not automatically mean a poor harvest, delays can create additional challenges as colder autumn weather approaches.

Source: USDA Crop Progress data, reported by AgriNews

Southwest — New Mexico Prepares for Livestock Border Reopening

The Columbus, New Mexico, border crossing is scheduled to reopen for cattle imports from Mexico on October 26, as part of a gradual restoration of livestock trade.

Imports had been restricted over concerns about New World screwworm, a parasitic fly whose larvae can cause serious injuries to livestock and other warm-blooded animals.

USDA says the reopening will involve additional inspections and animal-health safeguards. The goal is to support livestock trade while limiting the risk of introducing the pest into U.S. herds.

Source: USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

West Coast — California Highlights Farm-to-School Progress

California celebrated the reach of its Farm to School program during a statewide summit on October 16, highlighting efforts to connect students with locally produced food and agricultural education.

Since 2021, the state’s Farm to School Incubator Grant Program has invested $86 million in 375 projects benefiting approximately 4.2 million public school students.

These projects support partnerships between schools and food producers while helping students learn where their food comes from. The program also creates opportunities for local farmers to supply school food systems.

Source: Governor of California

Appalachia — West Virginia Awards Funding for Specialty Crop Projects

Eight West Virginia projects will share more than $360,000 in federal specialty crop funding, announced October 19 by the state’s Department of Agriculture.

The projects include research into new food products made from pawpaws, hands-on herb-growing education for veterans and community members, and agricultural business education for young people.

The grants are intended to strengthen West Virginia’s specialty crop sector through research, education, and marketing, helping producers explore new products, growing methods, and business opportunities.

Source: West Virginia Department of Agriculture

Worth Noticing

New York Farm Recognized for Conservation and Land Stewardship

Ben Wever Farm, near Willsboro, New York, received the 2026 New York AEM-Leopold Conservation Award on October 16, recognizing its commitment to protecting soil, water, and wildlife habitats.

Operated by Shawn and Linda Gillilland, the farm raises livestock while incorporating woodland management, rotational grazing, and other conservation practices. Rotational grazing involves moving livestock between grazing areas, allowing previously grazed land time to recover.

The award recognizes agricultural operations demonstrating responsible care for natural resources while maintaining productive working landscapes.

Source: Sand County Foundation — Ben Wever Farm Receives Conservation Award

Ohio Celebrates Community Gardeners and Urban Agriculture Leaders

Franklin Park Conservatory’s Growing to Green program recognized community gardeners and urban agriculture leaders during its 2026 Harvest Awards, held October 8 in Columbus, Ohio.

Among those honored were April Shelton of Four Seasons City Farm, who received the Bill Dawson Gardener of the Year Award, and Sharif Ibrahim of South Central Community Garden, who received the Paul Redman Youth Gardener of the Year Award.

The celebration also recognized longstanding community gardens and highlighted the contributions of residents working to create growing spaces, educational opportunities, and stronger neighborhood connections.

Source: Franklin Park Conservatory — 2026 Harvest Awards Highlights

Florida Dairy Farmer Named Southeastern Farmer of the Year

Woody Larson of Okeechobee, Florida, was named the 2026 Southeastern Farmer of the Year at the Sunbelt Ag Expo on October 20, recognizing more than five decades of agricultural work and community involvement.

Larson serves as president of Larson Dairy Inc. and operates several cattle ranches. His career began working in his family’s dairy business before expanding into farm ownership and leadership.

Beyond his agricultural operations, Larson has contributed to his community through volunteering, mentoring, and involvement in agricultural organizations.

The annual award recognizes farmers for their accomplishments in agriculture, leadership, and service.

Source: Sunbelt Ag Expo — Woody Larson Named 2026 Southeastern Farmer of the Year

Black Farmers and Urban Gardeners Gather in New Orleans for National Conference

The 14th Annual Black Farmers and Urban Gardeners (BUGs) Conference begins today, October 23, at Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana, bringing together growers, educators, organizers, and agricultural advocates from across the country.

Running through October 25, this year’s gathering centers on the theme “Soil as Sanctuary: Cultivating Culture, Community and Change.”

The conference features workshops, farm tours, discussions, and community activities exploring subjects such as soil health, land stewardship, seed saving, and food sovereignty. Food sovereignty refers to the ability of communities to shape and control their own food systems.

The gathering offers opportunities to exchange knowledge, strengthen relationships, and celebrate the people working to shape the future of agriculture and their communities.

Source: Black Urban Growers — 2026 BUGs Conference

In Closing

Thank you for spending a little of your week with Ag Notes Weekly.

Agriculture is shaped by the decisions we make, the knowledge we share, and the communities we build. We’re glad to explore those stories with you.

Until next Friday, be well.

Welcome to the first issue of Ag Notes Weekly.

There’s a lot happening in agriculture, and keeping up shouldn’t feel like homework.

This week, we’re covering federal decisions affecting farmers, harvest updates from across the country, new research, and community efforts worth knowing about.

Whether you’re in agriculture or simply curious, I’m glad you’re here.

Let’s get into it.

EPA Proposes Changes to Protect Demand for Farm-Based Fuels

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed changes on October 13 that could help maintain demand for corn, soybeans, and other crops used to make fuel. The proposal would make up for exceptions previously granted to smaller oil refineries, helping preserve the amount of renewable fuel expected to be used in 2026 and 2027.
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Many drivers already use renewable fuels without thinking much about them. Ethanol, commonly made from corn, is blended into much of the gasoline sold in the United States. Biodiesel, which can be made from soybean oil and other materials, is another example.

Federal rules require certain fuel companies to meet targets for renewable fuel use. These requirements help create a market for crops used to produce those fuels.

However, some smaller oil refineries can receive exemptions if meeting the requirements would cause economic hardship. When those exemptions are granted, the amount of renewable fuel required under the program can decrease.

In August, the EPA granted exemptions to 29 small refineries. The exemptions covered more renewable fuel requirements than the agency had expected when setting its targets for 2026 and 2027.

That’s where the new proposal comes in.

The EPA wants to account for the unexpected exemptions by adjusting requirements for other fuel companies. The adjustment involves 770 million renewable fuel credits, which are used to track whether companies have met their obligations.

The agency is considering two options: spreading the adjustment across 2026 and 2027 or applying it entirely to 2027.

Why does this matter for agriculture?

Corn, soybeans, and other agricultural products are used to manufacture renewable fuels. When fuel companies need more of those fuels, that can support demand for the crops used to make them.

The EPA’s proposal aims to prevent the additional refinery exemptions from weakening that demand. Biofuel producers and agricultural organizations have supported this approach, while smaller refineries have raised concerns about the cost of meeting fuel requirements.

What happens next?

The changes are not yet final. The EPA will hold a public hearing on November 4 and accept public comments through December 4, 2026.

Sources: EPA proposal · Federal Register, October 16

USDA Awards $86.6 Million to Support Fruits, Vegetables, and Other Specialty Crops

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced $86.6 million in funding on October 13 to support about 609 agricultural projects across 56 states and territories. The money will help improve how fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other crops are grown, protected from pests and diseases, and brought to market.
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The USDA calls these specialty crops, a category that includes familiar foods like apples, blueberries, and potatoes, as well as plants like herbs and flowers. They’re classified separately from major field crops like corn, wheat, and soybeans, which are commonly grown on very large areas of farmland. Despite the name, specialty crops aren’t necessarily rare or unusual.

Growing and selling these crops comes with challenges. Farmers may face plant diseases, damaging insects, production costs, or difficulty finding buyers. Some growers also need better information, equipment, or research to help their businesses succeed.

The new funding is intended to address challenges like these.

How does the funding work?

The money comes through a federal program called the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.

Rather than giving the entire amount directly to individual farmers, the USDA distributes funding to state and territorial agriculture departments. Those departments then support approved projects that benefit specialty crop growers and the wider industry.

The projects can involve developing improved crop varieties, researching ways to control pests, teaching growers new production methods, improving food safety, or helping businesses reach more customers.

Where is the money going?

Different states will use their funding to address different agricultural needs.

For example:

• Florida will receive more than $4.3 million for projects involving crops such as mangoes, blueberries, sweet corn, and muscadine grapes.

• Michigan will receive more than $2.64 million to support crops including apples, blueberries, mushrooms, herbs, and grapes.

• Texas will receive more than $2 million for projects supporting crops such as watermelons, pecans, onions, spinach, and grapes.

• Georgia will receive more than $1.7 million for research, education, and marketing projects involving crops such as peaches, pecans, blueberries, peppers, and Vidalia onions.

These are examples of the nationwide funding, not a complete list of recipients.

Why does this matter?

Specialty crops are an important part of American agriculture, from small farms and local markets to large commercial growing operations.

Research, education, and improved access to markets can help growers address problems that affect their crops and businesses. The grants are intended to support that work, although the results will depend on how individual projects are carried out.

For farmers, researchers, and agricultural organizations, the announcement also highlights the kinds of projects receiving support across the country.

Source: USDA announcement, October 13, 2026

Around the Regions

Southwest | Texas

Drought Reduces Pumpkin Harvests by Up to 40%

Extreme summer drought has reduced pumpkin harvests in Floyd County, one of Texas’s leading pumpkin-growing areas. Growers reported yields roughly 30% to 40% below normal, even though their fields were irrigated.

The problem began before planting. Soil held unusually little moisture, and irrigation alone could not make up for the lack of rainfall. Farmers are finishing their harvest earlier than usual, with substantially fewer pumpkins produced on affected acreage.

Source: Texas pumpkin harvest reporting

Midwest | Iowa

Corn and Soybean Harvests Pick Up After Heavy September Rain

Iowa farmers made progress harvesting corn and soybeans after warmer, drier weather gave them more time in their fields. However, unusually heavy September rainfall has left both harvests behind their typical schedules.

As of October 11, farmers had harvested 14% of the state’s corn and 31% of its soybeans. Normally, about 34% of corn and 59% of soybeans would have been harvested by this point. Wet fields remain a challenge, but improved weather has helped farmers resume work.

Source: Iowa Department of Agriculture, October 13

Southeast | Arkansas

New Online Tool Helps Southern Farmers Compare Crop Insurance

University of Arkansas researchers have developed an online tool to help farmers compare federal crop insurance options across 13 Southern states. The tool was created in response to farmers struggling to navigate an increasingly complicated range of coverage choices.

Crop insurance helps protect farmers financially when poor harvests or other covered losses affect their operations. The new Southern Integrated Risk Management Tool lets users compare estimated insurance costs, coverage options, and possible payments under different conditions. It is designed to support decisions, not guarantee financial outcomes.

Source: University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, October 15

Northeast | Pennsylvania

Penn State Releases Final Apple Harvest Report of the Season

Penn State Extension released its final 2026 apple maturity report this week, providing growers with information about when different apple varieties are ready to harvest.

Researchers track factors such as firmness, color, and sugar levels to help farmers determine the right picking time. The October 13 update focused on the closing stages of the season, including late-ripening varieties such as Pink Lady and GoldRush. Although regular testing has ended for the year, some apples still need additional time to mature.

Source: Penn State Extension, October 13

West Coast | California

Warm October Weather Pushes Walnut Harvest Ahead of Schedule

California walnut growers are harvesting earlier than usual as unusually warm October weather changes conditions in their orchards. One grower reported that the industry was running approximately seven to ten days ahead of its normal schedule.

The heat has also increased the need for irrigation at a time when growers would typically begin reducing water use. Farmers are balancing the immediate needs of their walnut harvest with preparing trees for winter. The effects on next year’s growing season remain uncertain.

Source: KCRA, October 6

Mountain West | Montana

Montana Researchers Receive $1.5 Million to Study Grazing Practices

Montana State University researchers have received a $1.5 million state grant to study how ranchers can manage grazing land while maintaining healthy soil, plants, and livestock.

The project will involve 10 to 15 Montana ranches and examine how different grazing practices affect the land and animals. Researchers will also explore tools such as drones, satellite imagery, and flexible fencing to help ranchers make decisions about where cattle graze. The project begins this fall and continues through 2029.

Source: Montana State University, October 12

Worth Noticing

Black Farmers and Urban Gardeners Gather in New Orleans Next Week

The 14th annual Black Farmers and Urban Gardeners (BUGs) Conference will take place October 23–25 at Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana.

This year’s theme, Soil as Sanctuary: Cultivating Culture, Community and Change, brings attention to the connections between agriculture, land, culture, and community. The gathering will bring together farmers, gardeners, educators, organizers, and others for workshops, discussions, farm tours, and opportunities to share knowledge.

The conference will also feature a seed swap, where participants can exchange seeds and growing knowledge with others from across the country.

Source: Black Urban Growers — 2026 Conference

New York Workshops Help Communities Grow More Trees

Cornell Small Farms and its partners are hosting hands-on workshops across New York this October to teach people how to grow and care for young trees.

The sessions focus on air-pruned raised beds, elevated growing containers designed to encourage healthy root development before trees are transplanted. Participants learn how to care for seedlings, prepare them for winter, and move them into new growing spaces.

Following workshops in Brooklyn and Manhattan on October 15–16, additional sessions are scheduled for the Bronx on October 17 and Staten Island on October 22.

The program offers practical skills for people interested in growing trees in their neighborhoods and communities.

Source: Cornell Small Farms — October Workshop Series

In Closing

Thank you for spending a few minutes with Ag Notes Weekly. I hope you found something useful, interesting, or worth sharing.

We’ll be back next Friday with more from across US agriculture.

Until then, take care.