Pesticide Data Program

USDA Releases 2022 Pesticide Data Program Annual Summary

Dan Cooper Pest Management, USDA

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the 2022 Pesticide Data Program (PDP) Annual Summary, which shows that over 99% of the samples tested had pesticide residues below benchmark levels established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The tests were conducted on 10,665 samples from 23 commodities including fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, dairy, nuts and grains.   The PDP …

georgia pecan

Pecan Prices Remain Low

Web Admin Georgia, Pecan, USDA

Georgia pecan producers will remain frustrated at the current market prices being offered for this year’s crop. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service, a few Desirable varieties, with a nut count of 45 to 46 and 53% meat yield, sold for about $1.85 per pound. Elliotts, with a nut count of 71 to 74 and 50% …

Florida Citrus Growers Vote to Amend Federal Marketing Order

Web Admin Citrus, USDA

Florida citrus producers voted to amend the federal marketing order regulating the handling of oranges, grapefruit, tangerines and pummelos grown in Florida, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on Aug. 29. In a referendum held April 1–May1, all amendments met the requirement of being favored by two-thirds of the producers voting or by two-thirds of the volume represented. The …

USDA AMS Increasing Rates for Specialty Crop Audits

Web Admin USDA

The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announced the 2023/2024 rates it will charge for voluntary grading, inspection, certification, auditing and laboratory services for various agricultural commodities, including fruits and vegetables, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture The rates for regular, overtime, holiday and laboratory services will be applied at the beginning of the crop year, fiscal year or as required …

USDA Seeks New Members to Serve on Fruit and Vegetable Advisory Committee

Web Admin Florida Grower

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it intends to renew the charter of the Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee (FVIAC). It is also seeking nominations from specialty crop stakeholders to serve on the FVIAC. The deadline for nominations is May 31, 2022. USDA is set to reestablish the committee’s charter for two years as required by the Federal Advisory …

$250 Million Investment to Support Innovative American-made Fertilizer

Web Admin Industry News Release, USDA

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is announcing it will support additional fertilizer production for American farmers to address rising costs, including the impact of Putin’s price hike on farmers, and spur competition. USDA will make available $250 million through a new grant program this summer to support independent, innovative and sustainable American fertilizer production to supply American farmers. Additionally, …

PACA Information Related to COVID-19 Impacts

Web Admin Uncategorized

(USDA/AMS) — Q.        I have been contacted by several customers that purchased produce from me requesting extensions to our payment terms or to make partial payments as a result of the economic turmoil relating to the COVID-19 emergency. I understand the predicament my customers are facing and am willing to try and help, but I am afraid I could jeopardize …