USDA launches new $700 million regenerative ag pilot program
Administered by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, the new Regenerative Pilot Program will deliver a “streamlined, outcome-based conservation model." The funding comes only months after the Trump administration canceled the $3 billion Biden-era Climate-Smart Commodities program, which incentivized farmers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through conservation practices.
Well-pad setback petition moves on to Pennsylvania DEP
The petition asks the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to consider adopting setbacks of 3,281 feet from any building and drinking water well, 5,280 feet from any building serving vulnerable populations (including schools and hospitals) and 750 feet from any surface water. Currently, the minimum statewide setback distance from homes and private wells is 500 feet.
Ohio’s oldest independent fair brings longtime locals and new visitors together for ag projects
“The Barlow Independent Fair is welcoming, and you can see there’s a community of people who come together and support each other,” said one exhibitor's mother.
Farm and Dairy Weekly Rundown: Episode 36 (12-11-25)
Reporters Liz Partsch and Paul Rowley give a rundown of the top stories in Farm and Dairy newspaper for the week of Dec. 11, 2025.
Apthorp Farms offers handicap-accessible reindeer tours in northwestern Pa.
Apthorp Farms offers handicap-accessible reindeer tours in North East, Pennsylvania in December for everyone to take part in the Christmas spirit.
Lake Erie sees mildest algal bloom in years
Lake Erie’s 2025 algal bloom was the mildest since 2020, developing late, peaking briefly and declining fast, offering a rare clean-water bright spot.
Loans available for drought recovery
USDA and SBA designate drought-affected counties in WV, OH and PA eligible for emergency loans and EIDL aid to help farms and small businesses recover.
Trump administration comes to aid of farmers with $12 billion in payments
USDA launches a $12B Farmer Bridge Assistance Program to provide short-term relief for producers hit by trade disruptions and rising costs.
Survey: One in four Pennsylvania dairy farmers preparing to retire soon
More than a quarter of Pennsylvania’s dairy farmers are considering retirement in the near future, according to the 2025 Pennsylvania Dairy Producer Survey results.
Bird flu detected in backyard flock in Jackson County, West Virginia
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a flock in Jackson County. It's only the third case in WV since the outbreak began more than three years ago.
