State grants could bring high-speed internet access to nearly 15,000 Washingtonians. The State Broadband Office is awarding $121 million to 19 projects largely designed to ensure broadband for rural communities. Director of the Washington State Broadband Office Mark Vasconi said an even greater number of communities will need to be served after this round of grants. .
Young farmers in the United States face extensive structural barriers affecting their mental health, according to a new survey from the National Young Farmers Coalition. A lack of affordable health care and housing as well as access to land is taking a toll on farmers just starting their career, as well as farmers of color. Jac Wypler, farmer mental-health director for the National Young Farmers Coalition, said mental decline can lead to poor decision-making and higher risk of injury. .
Congress is gathering input as it looks to reauthorize the Farm Bill. Voices from Minnesota s agricultural sector hope independent family farms get a fair shake. The Farm Bill covers a range of components tied to the nation s food system. .
North Carolina farmers are calling on lawmakers to address manufacturer-imposed repair limitations on tractors, and minimize disruptions on their farms. A report by the North Carolina Public Interest Research Group reveals that broken equipment costs farmers $3 billion, with an additional $1 billion spent on repairs annually. For NC farmers, that cost is $103 million. .