AgrAbility e-Note

December 2016

Other News

Supporting minority & veteran farmers

"Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced $8.4 million in grants that will be used by organizations in 24 states to provide training, outreach and technical assistance for socially disadvantaged, tribal and veteran farmers and ranchers."
MorningAgClips

Supporting women, minorities in science

"The Woman and Minorities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Fields Program (WAMS) supports research and extension projects that increase the participation of women and underrepresented minorities from rural areas in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields."
MorningAgClips

Heat increases risk for farm labor

"The study is the first to estimate the risk of traumatic injury in farm workers using temperature data linked to the geographic location of the injury."
MorningAgClips

Secretary Vilsack Appoints Members to the Council for Native American Farming and Ranching

"As a discretionary advisory committee, the Council provides recommendations to the Secretary of Agriculture on changes to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations and other measures that would eliminate barriers to program participation for Native American farmers and ranchers."
USDA Office of Communications bulletin

“No Barriers” program for veterans

In partnership with its customers and the nonprofit group No Barriers USA , CoBank will sponsor up to 50 veterans from rural areas across the U.S. to participate in outdoor expeditions that challenge them mentally and physically and help them to transform their lives.
MorningAgClips

NFU on proposed rule change to estate tax

"It’s essential that our tax laws provide the necessary provisions to ensure farm families can pass on their operations to the next generation without being forced to sell valuable farm land,” said NFU President Roger Johnson."
MorningAgClips

Advocacy and Outreach – Keys to Success in Serving Farmers, Ranchers and the Future of Agriculture in Underserved Communities

"Forty-five projects from organizations representing 25 States were awarded $8.8 million in 2016. This included a second year of $400,000 for the Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Policy Research Center at Alcorn State University."
USDA Blog

Supporting rural broadband & economy

"'This funding will provide much-needed capital and bring cutting-edge technology to rural communities across the country,' Vilsack said."
MorningAgClips

Announcing Organic Farmers Association

"The new Organic Farmers Association will exist to provide a voice for organic farmers on policy issues, help organic farmers network and share information, and serve as a resource center for organic farmers to succeed."
MorningAgClips

The many health benefits of gardening

"Horticultural therapy improves physical & cognitive functions in women 70+"
MorningAgClips