Agriculture

Why haven’t farm animals evolved against humans? A biologist explains why there won’t be a chicken uprising anytime soon

What will it take for the chickens on the farm to stage a revolt?

From domesticated foxes to tuskless elephants, humans have directly and indirectly influenced the evolution of a wide range of animals.

Inside Big Beef’s ‘90s campaign to rewrite its climate story

Sentient reports that the beef industry's lobbying group in the '90s downplayed its climate impact and spread misinformation about livestock methane emissions, despite knowing the truth.

Three corn and soy farmers challenge the industry that raised them

Atmos reports three Iowa farmers, known as the Lobe Rangers, advocate for sustainable practices in agriculture to address soil erosion and water pollution issues.

Who shops at farmers markets in the US?

Only about 1 in 5 of the Americans surveyed shop at farmers markets because they care a lot about food and enjoy buying, preparing and eating fresh food.

Agriculture news from Around the Nation

Too few vets, too many animals: Inside the farm veterinarian shortage

Sentient reports a U.S. farm veterinarian shortage, risking animal welfare and food safety as fewer graduates choose farm work due to poor pay and conditions.

What 1,000 Iowans have to say about the impact of factory farming

Sentient reports on Iowans' mixed feelings about factory farms, highlighting water quality concerns and economic benefits, revealing a pivotal moment for change.

As family farms decline and the climate heats up, farmers weigh what to do with their land

Grist reports that as family farms decline and climate change impacts agriculture, farmers like John Boyer are grappling with land preservation amid rising pressures.

What data on 11K farms reveals about the country’s factory farm hotbed

Sentient Media reports Iowa has the most factory farms, producing 170 billion pounds of manure annually, leading to severe water pollution and health risks, including cancer.

Feral swine are found in at least 35 states in the U.S.

Controlling wild pigs can work if it’s a group effort

Teaming groups of private landowners with federal efforts yielded measurable success, at least in terms of defending cornfields.

A spreader sprays sewage sludge, which is rich in phosphorus, across a farm in Oklahoma.

Why too much phosphorus in America’s farmland is polluting the country’s water

Plants need phosphorus, and other nutrients, to grow. But soil tests can’t tell if there’s too much.

American farmers face a changing future for their businesses.

American farmers, who once fed the world, face a volatile global market with diminishing federal backing

The US government used to have American farmers’ backs, but that support has been dwindling for decades. New subsidies signal big changes for farmers.

‘Ask for help’ mental health resources and stress management tips for farmers

Communication with loved ones, neighbors and mental health professionals can be a key piece of addressing the stressors and mental health issues that affect farmers at higher rates than other professions. According to the National Rural Health Association, suicide rates are “significantly higher” in rural areas than in urban areas and farmers die by suicide […]

A biologist maintains a large population of black soldier flies for protein farming.

Genomics can help insect farmers avoid pitfalls of domestication

Considering how easily bird flu swept through chicken farms, it’s clear that domestication has downsides. Lessons from the past paired with modern genomic technology can help with farming insects.

This dairy farm in California's Central Valley has installed solar panels on a portion of its land.

California farmers identify a hot new cash crop: Solar power

Solar is helping farmers in California save water and secure reliable income in the face of drought and economic pressure.

Environmental News from around the web

The hidden mining cost of meat and seafood

Sentient reports that the environmental costs of meat and seafood extend beyond feed crops to the minerals mined for animal diets, impacting biodiversity and emissions.

Where speed goats cross the high sage seas

Atmos reports on pronghorn migration in Wyoming, highlighting their unique adaptations, conservation efforts, and the struggle to balance wildlife protection with development.

Why scientists want your photos of wildlife eating lunch

Grist reports on the Who Eats Whom project, leveraging citizen science to document complex wildlife interactions. This database aids conservation efforts amid climate change.

How to prepare your HVAC system for winter: A homeowner's checklist for reliable heating

(BPT) - Winter weather can arrive quickly, and the last thing any homeowner wants is a heating system that isn't ready when temperatures drop. Fortunately, a few proactive maintenance steps can help …

4 fall home power steps to prepare for cold weather, starting with a solar generator

(BPT) - The fall season means clocks fall back, and every November, standard time returns with a familiar set of seasonal rituals.Once you've gone around the house adjusting all your clocks, you …