In today’s Ag News Roundup, farm to school programs are working virtually, Oregon ranchers object to brand fee hikes, Washington ag community worries about House Bill 1084, wireworm insecticide available this spring, and how to plant asparagus for decades of harvests.
Farm to School Programs Prosper Virtually
Oregon State University Extension Service’s Farm to School and School Garden programs are teaching kids how to grow nutritional food and showing them where food is grown and raised. The program is currently being offered virtually in several communities.
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Brand Fees Rising Amid Oregon Rancher Objections
In Oregon, maximum fee hikes are being proposed by the state’s Department of Agriculture to cover budget shortfalls. The fee increases are from $1 to $1.50 per head of cattle.
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Washington Ag Community Warns of Green Overreach
Washington’s House Bill 1084 being debated by lawmakers, would limit natural gas and propane use, which has farmers and ranchers worried about the effects it could have on agriculture. Impacts to farming include limitations on propane-powered machines to warm orchards as well as heating units for sheds and greenhouses.
Wireworm Management Option Identified
Washington State University Extension Service says a new insecticide called Teraxxa may be effective at managing wireworm. The product could be available this spring with an effective rate of 99.1%.
Asparagus Beds Can Produce for Decades
According to Oregon State University Extension Service, homegrown asparagus takes up to three years before it produces, but those beds can last for decades once established. The experts urge gardeners to start with year-old plants rather than seeds to speed the process.
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