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Transportation Institute and Partners Launch Food for Peace Shipment to Kenya

Transportation Institute and Partners Launch Food for Peace Shipment to Kenya

The Transportation Institute, alongside U.S.-flag American shipping companies, farmers, and the World Food Programme, has initiated a Food for Peace shipment from the Port of New Orleans to Kenya. The shipment includes 28,420 metric tons of Louisiana rice and will also pick up American-grown wheat in Houston. This initiative aims to address the severe food insecurity crisis in Kenya, where over 3.3 million people are affected. The program, administered by the USDA since 2025, highlights the collaboration between American agriculture and humanitarian efforts, providing essential food aid to those in need.
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USDA Secretary Rollins Proclaims National Farmers Market Week, Urges Support for Local Agriculture

USDA Secretary Rollins Proclaims National Farmers Market Week, Urges Support for Local Agriculture

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins has officially proclaimed August 2-8, 2026, as National Farmers Market Week. This annual event highlights the critical role of farmers markets in supporting rural communities and providing fresh, American-grown food to consumers. The proclamation is part of the USDA's celebration of America's 250th anniversary, emphasizing the importance of local agriculture. The Great American Farmers Market, a key event during this week, was held at the Great American State Fair, showcasing the diversity and excellence of American agriculture. Secretary Rollins encouraged Americans to visit local farmers markets, emphasizing that each purchase supports American agriculture and rural communities.
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USDA Reorganization Leads to Targeted Hiring Amid Legal Challenges

USDA Reorganization Leads to Targeted Hiring Amid Legal Challenges

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is undergoing a significant reorganization, which includes a targeted hiring initiative. The USDA plans to hire 15,923 personnel as part of its fiscal 2026 Annual Staffing Plan. This figure includes promotions, transfers, and new hires, primarily to fill vacancies created by retirements and voluntary departures. The reorganization aims to enhance efficiency by concentrating staffing in regional hubs rather than expanding the federal workforce broadly. The USDA's reorganization has faced legal challenges, with federal employee unions seeking a preliminary injunction to halt the process. The USDA argues that the reorganization is too advanced to be paused, as critical positions are already being filled, and significant investments have been made in new organizational structures.
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USDA Announces Crop Insurance Flexibility to Aid Farmers Facing Economic Challenges

USDA Announces Crop Insurance Flexibility to Aid Farmers Facing Economic Challenges

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), led by Secretary Brooke Rollins, has announced new measures to provide financial relief and enhance risk management options for farmers. These measures include a temporary extension for crop insurance premium payments and the reinstatement of the 5% prevented planting buy-up coverage. The extension allows farmers with premiums due between now and September 30 an additional 60 days to make payments, delaying interest charges until after this period. This initiative aims to help farmers manage cash flow during the busy production season while maintaining essential crop insurance coverage. The prevented planting coverage, which had been removed for 2026 spring crops, is now restored, offering protection against adverse weather conditions that prevent planting.
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Beignets Brew Opens in Herndon, Virginia, Offering New Orleans-Style Treats

Beignets Brew Opens in Herndon, Virginia, Offering New Orleans-Style Treats

Beignets Brew Opens in Herndon, Virginia, Offering New Orleans-Style Treats
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Soybean Prices Decline Amid Mixed Market Signals

Soybean Prices Decline Amid Mixed Market Signals

Soybean Prices Decline Amid Mixed Market Signals
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Mexico avocado group says US inspection halt unlikely to disrupt supply

Mexico avocado group says US inspection halt unlikely to disrupt supply

By Cassandra Garrison MEXICO CITY, Aug 6 (Reuters) - The Mexican Hass Avocado Association said on Thursday it does not expect the pause of U.S. export inspections to significantly hurt cross-border sales, as authorities scramble to restore operations in Michoacan state following a suspension
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USDA Reports Progress in Containing New World Screwworm Outbreak

USDA Reports Progress in Containing New World Screwworm Outbreak

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has reported significant progress in containing the New World screwworm outbreak, with only five active cases currently in the United States. The USDA has implemented extensive measures, including the release of over 600 million sterile flies and conducting more than 1,000 drone flights for surveillance. These efforts have been part of a broader strategy to prevent the pest from becoming established in wildlife populations. Despite initial concerns about a potential widespread infestation, the USDA's actions have been effective in controlling the outbreak.
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Cattle Market Faces Uncertainty Amid Herd Expansion Doubts and Legal Challenges

Cattle Market Faces Uncertainty Amid Herd Expansion Doubts and Legal Challenges

Cattle Market Faces Uncertainty Amid Herd Expansion Doubts and Legal Challenges
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Congressional Push for USDA Inspection Funding Amid CCC Borrowing Limit Concerns

Congressional Push for USDA Inspection Funding Amid CCC Borrowing Limit Concerns

Congressional efforts are intensifying to secure additional funding for USDA inspections due to concerns over the potential depletion of the Commodity Credit Corporation's (CCC) borrowing limit. The CCC, a major funding source for U.S. agriculture programs, could reach its $30 billion borrowing cap annually over the next decade, as projected by the Congressional Budget Office. This limit may restrict the USDA's ability to launch emergency programs without further legislative action. The CCC supports various farm programs, including disaster relief and trade promotion. If the borrowing limit is fully utilized, the USDA may face challenges in responding swiftly to agricultural emergencies, prompting lawmakers to advocate for increased funding.
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Saints’ new guard explains why the run game is coming together early in camp

Saints’ new guard explains why the run game is coming together early in camp

David Edwards likes the progress New Orleans has made this offseason.
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USDA Cattle Inventory Report Raises Questions on Herd Expansion

USDA Cattle Inventory Report Raises Questions on Herd Expansion

USDA Cattle Inventory Report Raises Questions on Herd Expansion