Already preparing for the 2027 Census of Agriculture, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will conduct the National Agricultural Classification Survey (NACS) starting Jan. 24. The survey, an important step in determining who should receive a 2027 Census of Agriculture questionnaire, will go to approximately 250,000 recipients to ask if they conduct agricultural activity. The results of the survey will ensure that every U.S. producer, no matter how large or small their operation, has a voice and is counted in the highly anticipated and influential agricultural census data. NASS encourages recipients to respond securely online at www.agcounts.usda.gov, using the unique survey code mailed with the survey. Completed questionnaires may also be mailed back in the prepaid envelope provided. NASS requests that each person who receives the survey respond promptly.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative are accepting applications for new members to serve on agricultural trade advisory committees.
The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) announced U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt will headline a panel at the 63rd Annual Vegetable & Flower Seed Conference. The conference, set to take place January 26-30, 2024, in “America’s Salad Bowl” of Monterey, California, will bring together roughly 1,000 seed professionals from more than 30 countries for an unparalleled educational and networking experience.
Frank Lucas (R-Okla.) and former Iowa Farm Bureau President Craig Hill are the recipients of the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2024 Distinguished Service Award and Farm Bureau Founders Award, respectively. The DSA and Founders Award are the highest honors presented by AFBF. Lucas and Hill will be recognized during the 2024 American Farm Bureau Convention, Jan. 17-24, in Salt Lake City, Utah.
The Board of Directors has named Dr. Joseph W. Ward as the Executive Director of the Distillers Grains Technology Council effective January 1st, 2024.
Two major agricultural companies, Informa Markets’ Farm Progress and Valent BioSciences, have signed on as sponsors of benchmarking research focused on the use of agricultural biologicals on specialty crops. The two new sponsors join three original sponsors for the study, “Biologicals: Specialty Crop Growers’ Perceptions, Values, and Potential.” Conducted by Stratovation Group, the study will ask growers their sentiments regarding the use, benefits, and future applications of biological inputs in specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, stone fruits, and nuts.
Bayer is applying several key changes to the Executive Leadership Team of its Crop Science Division. The new setup will support the company to shape agriculture for farmers, consumers, and the planet, and to deliver against the ambition of becoming the leader in regenerative agriculture.
In the segmented industry of food and agriculture, Nathan Laudan stands out as a hands-on connector, making tangible links between urban and rural. Recently honored with the 2023 Agriculture Future of America (AFA) Bridge Builder Award, the Director of Education for the American Royal Association is actively laying the foundation for a more vibrant future in agriculture. The honor, presented at AFA Leaders Conference in November, spotlights an outstanding AFA Alumni making a positive impact in world of food, agriculture and natural resources.
RiceTec announced the appointment of Kay Kuenker, Chief Executive Officer, Advanced Agrilytics, LLC., to its Board of Directors. In addition to her role with RiceTec, Kuenker will also serve on the Board of the Liechtenstein Group, the parent company of RiceTec. As a member of the board, Kuenker will provide valuable insight and support as RiceTec furthers its mission to lead innovation for sustainable rice agriculture.
Two college students pursuing degrees in agriculture that will benefit the wheat industry will be awarded $2,500 scholarships this semester. Thanks to a great partnership with BASF, the National Wheat Foundation is pleased to award these annual scholarships to undergraduate college students.
The Georgia Peanut Commission seeks eligible peanut producers who are interested in serving on the National Peanut Board. All eligible peanut producers are encouraged to participate. Eligible producers are those who are engaged in the production and sale of peanuts and who own or share the ownership and risk of loss of the crop.
