Agriculture

Corporations nudge farmers to help the environment
Cargill and General Mills are offering incentives to farmers who adopt the principles of regenerative agriculture. It's a set of farming practices that make growing food more environmentally friendly. And as interest grows, so does the debate over how to define and measure the new system.
In Minnesota, a growing interest in reviving the local butcher shop
Temporary food supply disruptions prompted by the coronavirus pandemic have led more consumers to look for direct connections with farmers. It’s put a spotlight on a problem that's been developing for years in Minnesota: a shortage of the small meat processing operations that are a key link between farmers and consumers.
Gene technology a 'game changer' in fight against wheat disease
University of Minnesota researchers say a breakthrough gene technology will create wheat crops with “exceptional resistance” to a disease that threatens wheat across the world.
Farmers got a government bailout in 2020, even those who didn't need it
Farmers stand out among those who got federal aid in 2020. Total payments to farmers reached $46 billion, a record. Many farmers received more than $100,000, yet didn't necessarily need the help.
Highlights of $900 billion COVID-19 relief, wrap-up bills
Congressional leaders have hashed out a massive, year-end catchall bill that combines $900 billion in COVID-19 aid with a $1.4 trillion omnibus spending bill and reams of other unfinished legislation on taxes, energy, education and health care. The huge, still-unreleased bill is slated for votes on Monday — with lawmakers having only a few hours to read it before casting their votes.
Researchers find insecticides widespread in Minnesota lakes and rivers
A widely used class of insecticides is found at low levels in Minnesota lakes and streams, according to to research from the University of Minnesota. The potential impact on aquatic life is still to be unraveled.
A fall survey of ag lenders shows concern about farm income and debt levels, but most bankers expect credit will be available to farmers next year.
Small turkeys are in demand as Americans downsize at Thanksgiving
As families across the U.S. scale back on how they traditionally celebrate the holiday, it's been a challenge for turkey producers as they figure out how to adapt to the changing market.
Key departures signal agriculture shakeup for Capitol Hill
The defeat of U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson in Minnesota and some key retirements mean a shakeup is coming for agriculture on Capitol Hill. Observers say power is likely to shift from the Midwest to the South and the coasts.