Agri-Pulse staff

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced $11.8 million in additional financial and technical assistance to help crop and livestock producers in 22 states apply conservation practices that reduce the impacts of drought and improve soil health and productivity.

Nebraska Senator and former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Johanns and Former Iowa Lieutenant Governor and former State Secretary of Agriculture Patty Judge squared off in an event held as part of the opening session of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Convention

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) increased the biodiesel volume requirement for next year under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) today.

In absence of a new five-year farm bill, 60 senators and representatives requested House and Senate leaders to adjust a key dairy pricing program today.

The House passed a six-month continuing resolution last night to keep the government funded through March 2013. The Senate is expected to approve the bill next week.

Without more pressure from constituents, a new five-year farm bill will not pass through the House this year, said House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Collin Peterson, D-Minn. at a rally near the Capitol reflecting pool today.

Rep. Bruce Braley, D-Iowa, filed his discharge petition to force the House farm bill to the floor today.

Beef Products, Inc. (BPI) announced its suit against ABC News today for defamatory coverage of the product, lean finely textured beef (LFTB).

Beef Products, Inc. (BPI) announced its suit against ABC News today for defamatory coverage of the product, lean finely textured beef (LFTB). The beef company is suing for “knowingly and intentionally publishing false and disparaging statements” regarding BPI and LFTB.