As Virginia s farms continue to cope with unstable economic markets, one operation is blazing a new trail for a more equitable and economically stable agricultural model. Established in 2019, the West Virginia-based New Roots Community Farm aims to provide resources and opportunities, both for producers and consumers. Susanna Wheeler, farm director of New Roots, said the group develops and transfers land to the Agrarian Commons, a nonprofit which permanently preserves land and leases it out to other farmers. .
The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for grants through the Independent Processor Assistance Program. Johnathan Hladik, policy director at the Center for Rural Affairs, said the agency is expected to distribute nearly $10 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to Nebraskans, in an effort to improve and expand the state s meat-processing capabilities. "The program is designed to help our small and mid-sized meat lockers expand in the state," Hladik explained. " .
Congress wants to know what Americans would like to see in the next Farm Bill. Producer advocates in North Dakota say it is something everyone should pay attention to, while warning about talk of major cuts. The Farm Bill usually lasts five years and is currently set to expire in September 2023. .