California farmers feel more threatened by climate policy than they do by climate change, according to a new study from the University of California — Davis. The study, published in the journal Global Environmental Change, found that the greatest climate risk Yolo County farmers believe they face in the future is not drought, water shortages or temperature changes, but government regulations.

What’s happening to agricultural land values? USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service released the 2013 land values report, indicating an average 5 percent increase in farm real estate and pasture value.

Almost 50 horse owners and professionals recently attended the fourth annual Horse Forage Field Day at the University of Minnesota Department of Animal Science Equine Research Pastures. Participants rotated through four stations, including rotational grazing, extending the grazing season, reducing hay waste and how to collect a hay sample.    

Dr. Craig Sheaffer, forage agronomist, gave participants tips on how to set up a rotational grazing system.

In March 2011, 73 farmers, seed companies and interest groups filed a lawsuit against Monsanto Co., hoping to prevent the biotech seed manufacturer from suing them if their fields became contaminated with the company’s patented genetic traits products. Now – after an appeals court nodded to the company in June – the same group is appealing to the U.S. Supreme Court, according to a recent Reuters article by Carey Gillam.

One year after U.S. commodity costs hit new highs as North America suffered one of the worst droughts since the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, crop prices now are falling because of improved weather conditions.

Thinking about retiring from the farm, but want someone to continue the operation’s sustainable practices? Don't worry, there are plenty of aspiring farmers who would appreciate the opportunity to connect with you to learn more about taking over the farm.

A new publication titled “Oregon Orchardgrass” has recently been released by the Oregon Orchardgrass Seed Producers Commission. Prepared by Drs. Don Ball and Garry Lacefield, the publication focuses on production of the grass and harvesting practices.

Toro is asking for your help in recognizing those that promote sustainable practices in agricultural communities across America with its new “Ready. Set. GROW!” grant initiative, in which the company will award $15,000 to non-profit organizations to help further their efforts.

Vermeer Corp. is announcing its involvement in a nearly $6 million grant award by the U.S. Department of Energy. The department is making the investment to reduce costs associated with harvesting, handling and preprocessing biomass feedstocks.

Deciding your fall alfalfa harvest schedule is like a juggling act – you need to think about your forage inventory and needs, potential yield, risk of winterkill and even harvest cost.