The UK government is reconsidering the allocation of its Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), with plans to exclude the wealthiest farmers from receiving post-Brexit environmental funding. This move aims to ensure better distribution of resources to smaller farmers who play a crucial role in conservation. While some argue that limiting access to the richest farmers could hinder the UK’s climate goals, others believe it will create a fairer system. As the review unfolds, debates continue over the balance between sustainability efforts and economic fairness in British agriculture.
Drought conditions pummel SA farmers, growers and families
South Australia is facing its worst drought in decades, with record-low rainfall devastating farmers, communities, and water supplies. Rural residents relying on rainwater tanks are experiencing extreme shortages, while farmers struggle to sustain livestock and crops, forcing many to sell off animals and purchase expensive feed.
Compact Tractors: A Guide for Junior Farmers
Introduction to Compact Tractors A small John Deere compact tractor with a front loader being used to gather debris on a small farm. Compact tractors are essentially scaled-down agricultural tractors that pack useful power and versatility into a smaller frame. They…
AI making its way to vineyards
AI is transforming regenerative agriculture by enhancing soil health monitoring, optimizing crop management, and improving supply chain efficiency. Advanced AI-driven tools analyze data from satellites, drones, and soil sensors to support sustainable farming practices while reducing chemical usage. Additionally, AI-powered forecasting minimizes waste by aligning production with demand, making agriculture more resilient and eco-friendly.
China imposes retaliatory tariffs on Canadian farm and food products
China is imposing steep tariffs on Canadian agricultural imports, including a 100% duty on rapeseed oil and peas, in response to Canada’s tariffs on Chinese goods. The move escalates trade tensions, adding uncertainty to global markets.
USA puts tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is working urgently to reinstate key employees who were mistakenly dismissed as part of a federal workforce reduction effort. These employees played a crucial role in managing the ongoing avian influenza outbreak, which has led to the culling of over 160 million birds since 2022. The layoffs, part of a government efficiency initiative, have raised concerns among lawmakers and industry experts, as the outbreak continues to drive up egg prices and threaten poultry farmers nationwide.
USDA Forecasts More Corn and Wheat, Fewer Soybean Acres for 2025/2026
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is working urgently to reinstate key employees who were mistakenly dismissed as part of a federal workforce reduction effort. These employees played a crucial role in managing the ongoing avian influenza outbreak, which has led to the culling of over 160 million birds since 2022. The layoffs, part of a government efficiency initiative, have raised concerns among lawmakers and industry experts, as the outbreak continues to drive up egg prices and threaten poultry farmers nationwide.
USDA Scrambles to Rehire Key Staff Amid Bird Flu Crisis After Accidental Firings
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is working urgently to reinstate key employees who were mistakenly dismissed as part of a federal workforce reduction effort. These employees played a crucial role in managing the ongoing avian influenza outbreak, which has led to the culling of over 160 million birds since 2022. The layoffs, part of a government efficiency initiative, have raised concerns among lawmakers and industry experts, as the outbreak continues to drive up egg prices and threaten poultry farmers nationwide.
UK Soil Breakthrough Promises Reduced Fertiliser Use
Researchers at the John Innes Centre in Norwich have identified a genetic mutation that enhances the symbiotic relationship between plants and soil microbes, potentially reducing the need for artificial fertilisers. This discovery could lead to more sustainable agricultural practices by improving nutrient uptake in crops like wheat.
EU’s New Farming Strategy Sparks Controversy
The European Union has introduced a major overhaul of its farming strategy, aiming to reduce bureaucracy, increase financial support for farmers, and enforce stricter import standards. While the move has been welcomed by the agricultural sector, environmental groups warn that it neglects critical green reforms. Key proposals, such as shifting subsidies away from large-scale farms and funding pollution cleanup, were excluded. Campaigners argue that without stronger sustainability measures, Europe’s food security and climate resilience remain at risk.