Around Washington

Obama Set to Strengthen Federal Role in Clean Water Regulation New York Times

The Obama administration is expected in the coming days to announce a major clean water regulation that would restore the federal government's authority to limit pollution in the nation's rivers, lakes, streams and wetlands.

Senate Ag Committee Approves Grain Standards Bill Agri-Pulse

The Senate Agriculture Committee unanimously approved a bill reauthorizing the Grain Standards Act, including a provision that would ensure export grain inspections continue during labor disputes.

Around the Country

LSU AgCenter Rice Field Days Begin May 28 Delta Farm Press

The LSU AgCenter will host a series of rice field days across Louisiana during the growing season. Topics will include variety development updates, control of weeds, insects and disease, fertilization and soybean production.

Weather, Prices Depress Planting Estimates for Arkansas Delta Farm Press

Weather and declining prices are putting a dent in the expected total of rice and corn acres planted, said Scott Stiles, Extension economist for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

Science and Technology

Data Farming. Literally. Mashable

Two years ago farmer Keith Larrabee began inserting probes five feet deep into the soil of his nut orchards to measure the water concentration foot by foot. Every 15 minutes, readings from the 25 sensors are fed into a network of solar-powered information-gathering stations scattered through the orchard

What You Can Do to Improve Soil's Health Delta Farm Press

MSU soil scientists put a lot of effort into research that addresses the questions of how to achieve healthy soil and produce abundant crops.

Tariffs and Trade

Senate Takes 'Major Step Forward' on Trade Bill Agri-Pulse

The fast-track trade bill cleared another hurdle as the Senate voted to move ahead on the legislation, 62-38, after a deal was reached to vote separately on the Export-Import Bank.