Seed E-News

March 25 , 2009

Welcome to the electronic newsletter of the American Seed Trade Association(ASTA) for members, allies and stakeholders. Please feel free to forward the Seed E-News to others you believe might wish to receive news about the seed industry. Questions, comments and your industry news are welcome — contact Gretchen Flanley at ASTA. Past issues can be viewed here .

In This Issue ASTA Feature Story ASTA News Meet Your ASTA Staff Washington Watch State of the States Global Markets Out & About Business Briefs In the News Government Reports Meetings & Opportunities

ASTA Feature Story

American Seed Research Foundation Marks 50 Years of Success

In 1959, the members of the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) recognized the changing dynamics of agriculture and the seed industry. ASTA forged new ground in all areas from moving their headquarters from Chicago to Washington, DC, to the inception of the American Seed Research Foundation (ASRF). The advances in research and the innovation of the 1950s and 1960s laid the foundation for what was later called the "Green Revolution" which delivered hardy and high yielding seeds to feed the growing and often impoverished people around the world.

ASTA remained closely involved with scientific study and advances during these times, and in 1959, the American Seed Research Foundation (ASRF) first opened its doors, starting what would become a 50-year success story. The foundation's primary purpose was to promote research in plant and seed technology that would benefit seed companies, farmers and consumers.

Basic research in seed science takes considerable investment in resources and time. Most basic research can not be justified for the individual company, regardless of its size. State and federal experiment stations do some basic research in the area of seed science, but funding and facilities are limited and often prioritized to other activities. One way to increase the knowledge in seed sciences is for the seed industry to directly offer financial support to specific projects to enhance the publicly available information on seed growth and development to be utilized by all in seed research and innovation.

The efforts of ASRF have adapted and grown over time, but the mission remains committed to encouraging research in plant and seed biology and to facilitate the transfer of resulting technology to benefit the seed industry, farmers and consumers on a global basis. ASRF has seen many successes in its 50 years. The foundation has funded 54 project proposals. The total investment of ASRF in support of basic seed research has exceeded $800,000. These funds stimulated other sources of research support, with a three to one multiplier effect, adding another $2.5 million of matching funds provided by other cooperating organizations. ASRF funds have been distributed to 32 public institutions and supported 69 individual seed researchers.

"The American Seed Research Foundation has been the catalyst for encouraging investment in basic plant and seed biology research for over 50 years," said Rob Robinson, past ASRF president. "With a 3 to 1 multiplier on dollars invested, ARSF funded research has had a major impact on our understanding of why plants behave as they do. ASRF members, the seed industry and society at large have all greatly benefited from the good work of ASRF."

ASRF has expanded its activities to reach deeper into the research community through various initiatives. Operation Student Connection (OSC) is an outreach program begun as a part of the "Re-Energyzing ASRF" strategic planning activities of 2000, which included education as one leading component of ASRF efforts. ASRF will assist and encourage graduate students majoring in seed biology or seed science and technology to attend and participate in ASTA's annual convention, thereby sharing valuable insight into the private sector of the seed industry and establishing personal contact with members of the seed trade. Students that have been selected to participate in OSC may have the opportunity to apply for the Roger Krueger Memorial Scholarship, directed toward students in agriculture - the future of the seed industry.

ASRF, in partnership with ASTA and the National Council of Commercial Plant Breeders (NCCPB), held the first American Seed Research Summit on Sept. 25-26, 2008, in Chicago, Ill. The summit brought together leaders in public and private sector seed research to outline a strategic plan to help address the various hurdles facing seed research - training and education, funding, research trends, prioritization and public-private partnerships. Finding solutions and providing resourceful partnerships is critical because seed innovation and technology play a vital role in meeting the growing demand for food, feed, fiber and fuel. Robinson remarked that the first American Seed Research Summit was a resounding success. "Some of the brightest research leaders in industry, government and academia participated in creating an action plan that promises to move American seed research forward dramatically in the years to come."

ASRF also has the legal and administrative structure to disperse such tax deductible contributions that would support research which is aimed at specific segments of the seed industry represented by the various ASTA divisions. In 1991, ASRF assumed responsibility for the administration of the Vegetable & Flower Permanent Research Fund, the Corn Permanent Research Fund, the Soybean Permanent Research Fund and the Fruit Blotch Ad Hoc Research Fund.

ASRF will commemorate its golden anniversary at the 2009 ASRF Annual Meeting held in conjunction with ASTA's 126th Annual Convention in June. Associate Professor Hiro Nonogaki specializes in seed biology at Oregon State University and will speak at the ASRF Annual Meeting. For more information, please visit the convention Web site.

ASTA News

ASTA Publishes New Guide to Assist Retailers of Lawn Seed

The ASTA Lawn Seed Division recently published a paper titled, "Retailers Guide for Proper Handling and Storage of Lawn Seed Products." The guide provides direction to the retailer on how to properly handle and store lawn seed in a retail store environment. Representatives of ASTA's Lawn Seed Division, the USDA's Seed Regulatory Testing Branch, the Association of American Seed Control Officials (AASCO) and many other regional seed associations developed the guide through a collaborative effort. This resource will assist the retailer with the regulatory requirements (i.e. labeling, lot numbers and over-stickers), as well as provide direction to the retailer when dealing with state seed control agencies (i.e. responding to Stop Sale Notices). The paper is now posted here on the ASTA Web site. Seed industry members are encouraged to utilize and promote the guide when discussing lawn seed handling and storage in a retail environment. "ASTA is excited to launch this guide as a resource for both lawn seed companies and the retailers who sell the seed directly to consumers," commented ASTA President and CEO Andy LaVigne. "This is just one of many initiatives ASTA has launched to assist companies in providing high quality seed to both growers and consumers alike."

Former Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez to Address ASTA's 126th Annual Convention

ASTA is proud to announce Carlos Gutierrez, former secretary of commerce and former CEO of Kellogg Company, as the keynote speaker for the 126th Annual Convention, being held in Scottsdale, Ariz., from June 20-24. Gutierrez will address the Opening General Session, speaking on the challenges facing American business. He will outline how leadership, diversity, innovation, values and education will ensure a continued leading role for the U.S. in the 21st century. Few people have lived out the American dream with as much success as Carlos Gutierrez. The son of Cuban immigrants who began his career selling Kellogg's cereal to small grocery stores in Mexico City, he eventually rose to become the youngest CEO in the 100-year history of Kellogg Company. In 2005, he was tapped by President George W. Bush to be the 35th secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce. With firsthand experience in the vast opportunities the U.S. has to offer, Carlos Gutierrez has a rich range of perspectives on the world of business. He provides the point of view of the salesman just starting out, the immigrant forging a career in a new country, the corporate executive steering a company with a household name and the government official working to advance American business around the world. Gutierrez' presentation immediately precedes a talk by Mike Swanson of Wells Fargo on current agricultural credit markets and how the seed industry can protect their businesses during these trying economic times. For more information on ASTA's 126th Annual Convention, please click here.

22nd ASTA Management Academy Rich with Learning and Networking

More than 55 seed industry professionals challenged themselves to think strategically and expand their knowledge base at the 22nd ASTA Management Academy, held March 3-6, at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind. "The ASTA Management Academy gave me an eagle-eye view of all business activities and how they fit into the overall picture of improving a company's profitability," says Jide Lawal, inventory manager at Pfister Hybrid Corn Company in El Paso, Ill. Participants traveled from 18 states, Mexico and Argentina to explore key topics, such as marketing, business strategy, profitability management and organizational leadership. Purdue agribusiness faculty and industry experts, including ASTA Chairman Kelly Keithly, president and CEO of Keithly-Williams Seeds, used real-world knowledge to cover objectives that included the changing agribusiness environment, implications for seed companies in the future and strategies and tools to help make decisions and keep businesses profitable and growing. "The sales and marketing session helped me to better understand different segments of the seed industry and allowed me to think of ways to apply the teachings to my everyday business ventures," says Matt Linder, area sales manager of broccoli and cauliflower for Sakata Seed America Inc. in Salinas, Calif. The ASTA Management Academy is a partnership between ASTA and the Purdue University Center for Food and Agricultural Business. More than 1,050 managers, representing about 300 seed firms worldwide, have graduated from the program. Participating organizations have represented all segments of the seed business. "We look forward to working with the ASTA members during the academy each year," says Betty Jones-Bliss, the academy's program manager. "Each participant brings a unique background and experience to the classroom that creates an environment where our faculty aren't just teaching, they're learning, too." For more information on the academy or to register for the next academy in March 2010, please click here.

Presentations from ASTA's Vegetable & Flower Seed Conference Now Available on the Web

ASTA is making available presentations given during the Opening General Session and the Division Meeting of the 48th Vegetable & Flower Seed Conference which was held Feb. 7-10, 2009. The presentations will be housed under "What's New" of the Members Only section of the ASTA Web site. Please click here to reach the Members Only section.

Meet Your ASTA Staff

ASTA's Vice President of Finance and Administration Ann Jorss is another long standing member of the ASTA staff. In 1991, she started in the Financial Department and was later promoted to her current position where she has overall responsibility for the financial management of the association and administrative functions including human resources. She is also the staff liaison for several associated organizations, including the American Seed Research Foundation, the National Council of Commercial Plant Breeders and the First the Seed Foundation, as well as the ASTA Management Skills Committee and several other committees focused on research funding. Ann also has oversight for the ASTA departments of membership and meetings. Prior to ASTA, Ann held a variety of payroll and accounting positions which included employment with the Marriott Corporation while in college, Guest Quarters as part of their "opening team" for the hotel and Advantage International, a sports marketing firm. A native of New York, Ann moved to the Washington area to attend American University where she received her Bachelor of Science in marketing. She currently resides in Virginia with her husband and son. For more information on any of these organizations or ASTA activities and committees, please contact Ann Jorss by email or at the ASTA office.

Washington Watch

ASTA Advocates Genetic Enhancement of Maize (GEM) Project Funding

On March 17-18, Tom Hoegemeyer, Hoegemeyer Hybrids, Natalia De Leon, University of Wisconsin, and Walter Trevisan, Monsanto Company, visited Capitol Hill to meet with congressional members and staff on the merits of the Germplasm Enhancement of Maize (GEM) project. Each year ASTA and the Corn and Sorghum Basic Research Committee review the activities and successes to date as well as advocate for funding for this unique project. Team members were accompanied by Leslie Cahill, vice president for government affairs. In total, the group met with or dropped off project summaries to the full Appropriations Committee member offices for the House and the Senate. GEM is currently funded at $1.551 million. At the conclusion of the congressional outreach, the group met with USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Administrator Ed Knipling. The GEM Project aims to increase the diversity of U.S. maize germplasm from exotic maize that will improve agronomic productivity, disease and insect resistance and contribute value-added grain characteristics. The project is a collaborative effort between ARS and both public and private research scientists.

Conservation Workshop Continues to Build on Successes

The 7th ASTA-USDA Conservation Workshop, held March 9-10, brought more than 20 seed professionals to Washington, DC, to participate in a series of briefings at USDA and Congress. This seventh workshop included presentations from various agencies and departments in the federal government and offered a forum to discuss farm bill implementation, seed procurement, seed testing and energy and conservation programs. ASTA members met with Ranking House Member Frank Lucas of Oklahoma who provided his firsthand perspective on the recent stimulus package, future agricultural issues to be addressed by Congress and the need to constantly review government programs as they relate to taxpayer value. Representatives from Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson's staff also met with the group. ASTA members shared their support of the current conservation programs outlined in the 2008 farm bill and expressed their concern that the seed industry can be most helpful if there is a continued dialogue on program expectations, sign-ups and funding discussions. These ASTA representatives successfully reinforced that the seed industry is positioned to provide continued customer support and quality seed for all types of conservation, reclamation, restoration and related projects for farmers, ranchers, and government agencies. Moreover, the seed industry is mindful of the need to be good stewards of taxpayer money when seed is procured for federal projects. A highlight at the conclusion of the workshop was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between ASTA and USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The MOU, first signed in 2004, stipulates coordination, communication and partnerships between ASTA and NRCS and was signed by ASTA President and CEO Andy LaVigne and NRCS Acting Chief David White.

ASTA Seeks Members to Participate in Seed Industry Washington Fly-in

Elected and appointed leaders in Washington, D.C., are facing unprecedented challenges and uncertainties. Now, more than ever before, it is vital for these leaders to be aware of the priorities of the seed industry. ASTA members are in the best position to convey these priorities by speaking of the issues facing member companies. ASTA's success in representing its members is directly related to the contact individual members make with their elected officials. Partnerships among state, regional and national levels are critical for seed industry issues to be heard by the individuals making daily decisions that affect individual businesses. As a result, ASTA is sponsoring the Seed Industry Washington DC Fly-in to provide the opportunity for ASTA members, as a constituent, to visit with their respective government officials to educate and inform them of the multiple issues facing the seed industry. To register, send an email to Pat Miller with the interested participant's contact information. ASTA staff will make appointments with appropriate representatives and senators. Preparatory meetings and lodging will be held at the Lorien Hotel in Alexandria, Va., conveniently located to the Metro and Ronald Reagan National Airport. To make room reservations at the Lorien Hotel (www.lorienhotelandspa.com), contact Mr. Mauricio Quiroga directly at 703-842-2737 during business hours and ask for the American Seed Trade Association rate for April 24-28 ($199 single/$219 double). The discounted rates are available until March 27.

ASTA Extends Welcome to Michael Michener as FAS Administrator

On March 23, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack named Michael Michener as administrator of USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). "ASTA congratulates Michael Michener on his appointment," said ASTA President and CEO Andy LaVigne. "His extensive experience overseas representing U.S. interests will benefit U.S. agriculture through his leadership at the helm of FAS. We look forward to working with the new administrator as ASTA addresses various seed issues internationally." ASTA participates in the USDA's Cooperator Programs including the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program which are administered by FAS. Through ASTA membership dollars and these program funds, ASTA's International Executive Committee directs goals and activities in priority countries to address specific constraints to the trade of U.S. seed into each country. These issues range from intellectual property rights, phytosanitary regulations and biotechnology, specifically in regard to low-level presence. For more information on the secretary's announcement, click here to read USDA's press release.

State of the States

Seed Sales Fee Still Possible in New York State Budget

On March 24, the New York State Assembly version of the state budget did not include the $0.25 per $100 in gross seed sales fee originally outlined in the governor's proposal. This particular legislation has been the focus for New York agribusiness since January; however, the victory was short. The Senate immediately put the fee back in their version. ASTA encourages those with seed interests in New York, including downstream customers of the seed industry, to contact the Senate Agricultural Committee leadership to convey the detrimental effect of this fee. The proposed fee is unnecessary and burdensome and would be an onerous levy on New York State agricultural producers. The fee provides no additional benefit for New York agricultural industries. The added fee stresses the business community and the consumer in this tough economic period. The seed industry must be very outspoken on this issue, or the fee could quite easily become a reality. For more information, please contact ASTA Director of State Affairs Pat Miller. For contact information for New York Senate Agriculture Committee leadership, please click here.

State Legislation Getting Down to the Wire

Bills under consideration by most state legislatures will be under a time constraint to move through the system to have any chance of passage. If a bill has not yet been voted out of a committee, there is little time left in sessions for procedural consideration. Various bills filed earlier that were especially onerous for the seed industry have been halted as a result of industry efforts. However, a few bills warrant a watchful eye. ASTA tracks a variety of legislative bills and policies at the state level. To find out the latest information in a specific state, please click here for an interactive map.

• New Mexico SM 58 (a memorial) requests the New Mexico Department of Agriculture to evaluate issues related to genetically engineered seed crops and to the liability exposure of New Mexico farmers to genetically engineered seed manufacturers. This bill is a response to another bill (SB 560 - the Farmer Protection Act) that was voted down. If passed, the language would remain a "request," which would limit its power. However, it does project an anti-genetic engineering sentiment that could assist future debate. The session adjourned before the bill could move.
• Oklahoma SB 453 provides damages for wrongful injuries to crops and livestock. On the surface, this bill does not seem to affect the seed industry. However, after legal consultation, the Oklahoma Seed Trade Association believes the bill could require triple damages for crop losses that are determined to be caused by inadequate seed.
• South Dakota SCR 9 (a resolution) opposes certain practices by corporations engaged in genetic engineering of seed. The bill was full of erroneous information and suppositions and would have set a poor precedent if passed. The seed industry worked together, and the bill was voted down.

Global Markets

ASTA's International Executive Committee (IEC) Continues to Tighten Strategy

The IEC met March 17-19 in Alexandria, Va. In addition to the official two-day meeting, the IEC hosted members of all ASTA priority country working groups ( Argentina, Brazil, China, India and Mexico) to attend external meetings with U.S. government officials and priority country embassies. Attendees also met with the U.S. Patent Trade Office-Intellectual Property Policy, the Plant Protection and Quarantine Office of USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, and the Office of Trade Programs, the Office of Science and Technology Assessment and the Office of Negotiations and Agreements, all part of USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service. This exchange with U.S. government officials and embassy representatives was complimentary to the focus of the IEC business meeting to discuss priorities and activities in ASTA's key international markets. Country Working Groups for each of these markets address specific constraints to the trade of U.S. seed into each country. These issues range from intellectual property rights, phytosanitary regulations and biotechnology, specifically in regard to low-level presence. The central focus of the IEC meeting this month was the status of 2009 USDA Cooperator Programs and the United Export Strategy (UES) application for 2010. ASTA's overall international strategy was also discussed, such as the upcoming International Seed Federation (ISF) World Seed Congress in May and the Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Low-level Presence Project. The next face to face meeting of the IEC and Country Working Groups will be held in October 2009. Members of the IEC include chairman from various ASTA committees, including International, Intellectual Property Rights, Phytosanitary, Biotechnology and Seed Industry Relations. ASTA representatives on ISF committees and sections also serve on the IEC. If you would like to be involved in ASTA's international programs through one of the Country Working Groups, please contact ASTA Director of International Programs Lisa Nichols.

ASTA Sponsors Successful U.S.-Mexico Phytosanitary Workshop

On March 23-23, a joint U.S.-Mexico Phytosanitary Workshop, sponsored by ASTA, was held in El Paso, Tex. This workshop brought together a variety of stakeholders including U.S. and Mexican seed company representatives plus officials from USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection and their Mexican regulatory counterparts to discuss how seed consignments are inspected and why some are held or rejected. Numerous issues were discussed including seed re-export, movement of organic seed into Mexico, seed sampling, problems with export certification, status of de-regulating sorghum ergot in Mexico and the value of North American Plant Protection Organization's (NAPPO) standards to harmonize actions at the border to clear seed consignments. Both APHIS and Mexican regulatory officials committed to address and seek solutions to the issues identified through bilateral meetings between the two governments. Ric Dunkle, ASTA's senior director for seed health and trade, is compiling a list of the issues discussed to be formally submitted to both U.S. and Mexican government officials through the respective seed associations. A tour of the El Paso port facility was also included in the workshop. "This workshop was one of the best I have had the opportunity to have attended," said Jerry Monk, ASTA's first vice chairman. "We really made some terrific progress in understanding how land border ports work and how we can work together to improve the orderly movement of seed between the two countries."

Out and About

March 11. ASTA Vice President of Science and International Affairs Bernice Slutsky attended a reception hosted by the AgBiotech Planning Coalition for agricultural attaches from key embassies in Washington, D.C. Embassy representatives from Europe, South America and Asia attended the reception.

March 12. Leslie Cahill, ASTA's vice president for government affairs, participated in a luncheon to kick-off the celebration of National Ag Week on Capitol Hill. Each year, activities are held across the nation to educate all Americans, particularly young people, of the importance of American agriculture. Other high-profile events are held in Washington to highlight agriculture's impact among legislators and other leaders. National Ag Day is organized by the Agriculture Council of America (ACA). ACA is a nonprofit organization composed of leaders in the agricultural, food and fiber community, dedicating its efforts to increasing the public's awareness of agriculture's role in modern society.

March 20. ASTA President and CEO Andy LaVigne and Vice President for Government Affairs Leslie Cahill met with senior representatives of the Agricultural Retailers Association to discuss items of mutual concern with President Jack Eberspacher and Richard Gupton, vice president legislative policy and counsel. ASTA is in the process of reaching out to a number of trade associations and organizations to increase communications and identify opportunities to collaborate.

Business Briefs

Former ASTA President Newlin Suffers Personal Loss

Janet R. Newlin, daughter of former ASTA President Owen Newlin and his wife, Doris Jean Newlin, passed away peacefully at her home on Feb. 27 after a long and courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Born Oct. 3, 1956, in Des Moines, Iowa, she was previously married to Steven Oransky and has three children; Eric Oransky, David Oransky, and Karin Oransky. Memorial donations may be made to the Freeport Aspirations Partnership, 17 West St., Freeport, ME 04032; or the Ocean Classroom Foundation, 29 McKown Street, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538. ASTA and its members extend our condolences to Janet's family for their loss.

SBC Spearheading Economic Survey of the California Seed Industry

TheCaliforniaseed industry is one of the most vibrant and diverse in the world. However, the current value of the industry is not known. With the support of the California Seed Association (CSA) and the California Seed Advisory Board, the Seed Biotechnology Center (SBC) is collaborating with the University of California Agricultural Issues Center to determine the economic impact of the state's seed industry. The goal of the study is to develop a detailed and accurate economic description of the industry, while gaining a better understanding of the important role it plays in adding value to California's overall economy. Compilation of these results will aid the state's industry in communicating the impact of the seed industry to stakeholders, regulators, legislators, and ultimately, consumers. However, this industry is very international in nature and the health of California seed impacts seed professionals well beyond the state's borders. "The importance of the California seed industry survey in the face of sweeping changes in the economy and our government cannot be overstated," says John Palmer, president of CSA. "Our association strongly encourages all seed companies that do business in California to respond to the survey as soon as possible. The results of the survey are critical in informing our legislators and regulators as they make decisions affecting the industry." Over 275 surveys have been sent out to a broad cross section of seed companies that do business within California. Every effort has been made to ensure the confidentiality of the respondents. A very good response has been attained thus far and with maximum participation throughout all sectors of the industry, the most accurate results will be achieved. Completed surveys should be returned by April 7, 2009, to aid in analysis of the data. Questions or comments about the survey? Contact Jamie Miller at jkmiller@ucdavis.edu or 530-752-9985.

Agribusiness Sales Management and Leadership Seminar Offered at Purdue University

The seminar will allow an assessment of your current management skills and learn techniques to become a more effective sales manager. Being held May 28-29, 2009, at Purdue University, the Sales Management and Leadership Seminar will use interactive lectures and real-world case studies in a collaborative learning environment. Participates will receive inspiration to develop and implement people-empowering strategies in their organizations to achieve a competitive advantage. Learn more or register today at www.agecon.purdue.edu/cab. The early bird discount expires March 30!

Enroll in Precision Selling Seminar at Purdue University

Explore the complexities of working with large growers and farmers at the Precision Selling Seminar, offered June 11-12, 2009, at Purdue University. This seminar guides you through the process of establishing a framework for handling key sales accounts. You will discuss the ways in which these customers are distinctive and how managing these key accounts requires a more diverse skill set - skills often more closely aligned with management than with a traditional sales position. Learn more or register today at www.agecon.purdue.edu/cab.

In the News ...

• AFBF to Obama Mexico Sanctions for Trucking Hurt U.S. Agriculture
• Rice Trade Issues for New USTR Kirk
• Forbidden Fruit
• More Farmers Transition to Organic
• More than $500,000 Slated for Leafy Greens Research
• New Wheat Disease Could Spread Faster than Expected
• Plants Use 'Genetic Bag of Tricks' to Reinvent Themselves, Research Shows
• Safety Rules Burden Smaller Farmers
• Soybean Seed Quality Outstanding
• Another First Lady Plants a Garden
• Organic is More Nutritious ... and Other Food Myths
• Farmers Benefit from Technology
• Drug Industry Advocates Join Chorus to Split FDA
• Eating Food That's Better for You, Organic or Not
• Uneasy Farmers Wait for Fertilizer Price Drop
• Seed Swap Held at Fare Share
• Buying Vegetable Seeds
• GMA Urges Congress to Fully Implement Cross Border Pilot Trucking Program with Mexico
  
  

Government Reports

USDA

• Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces Top Staff Appointments at U.S. Department of Agriculture
• Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Selects Dave White as NRCS Chief
• Vilsack Discusses How Recovery Act Will Benefit Minnesota, Rural America
  U.S. Department of Agriculture and Treasury Combine Forces to Combat Payment Fraud
• Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces National Forest Stimulus Projects to Protect Public from Wildland Fires
• President Obama Announces Under Secretaries for Agriculture Department

USDA/AMS

• USDA Launches Toll-Free Line to Fresh Products Branch Services
• National Organic Standards Board to Meet May 4-6
• USDA Announces Fourth Year of Farmers Market Promotion Program Grants

USDA/ARS

• Need Wild Bees? Plastic Totes Make A Superb Bee "Nursery"
• New Approach Could Improve Safety Assessments of Biocontrol Pathogens
• Company Expands ARS Technology to Save Water, Energy
• Conservation Tillage and Cotton: The Bottom Line
• New Ornamental Peppers Heading to Market
• ARS, Australian Researchers Team Up against Fruit Bugs
• A Burning Issue in Winter Wheat Production

USDA/CREES

• CSREES Announces Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Funding Opportunities
• New Law Modifies Specialty Crop Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program

USDA/ERS

• Consequences of Higher Input Costs and Wheat Prices for U.S. Wheat Producers
• Exploring Alternative Farm Definitions: Implications for Agricultural Statistics and Program Eligibility
• Fiber Use for Textiles and China's Cotton Textile Exports
• Oil Crops Yearbook Data tables
• Wheat Data
• Feed Grains Database
• U.S. Agricultural Trade Data Update
• Latest U.S. Agricultural Trade Data (summary)
• Feed Outlook
• Wheat Outlook
• Cotton and Wool Outlook
• Oil Crops Outlook
• Rice Outlook
• Agricultural Outlook Statistical Indicators
  
  

Click here for a schedule of additional industry events

ASTA prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact ASTA at (703) 837-8140.