Farm Bill & Organic and Federal Milk Marketing Order Talks

**As Congress hammers out the 2023 Farm Bill, growing interest in the impacts of agriculture on climate could give organic farmers more political sway as they advocate for funding and programs.

Organic farmers have long sought recognition for their role in mitigating climate change, saying their practices promote conservation and help improve soils that store carbon.

They say expanding technical and financial assistance would help further implement activities that build resilient landscapes.

**One week ago today marked the first day of a once-in-a-generation hearing on federal milk pricing.

USDA’s Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing began as dairy producers make their case for changes to the pricing program.

The industry expects five to seven weeks of testimony and discussion on proposals to modernize the FMMO system.

A vote among dairy farmers on a final proposal is likely in the second half of 2024.

**USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service announced $72.9 million in grants awarded to 55 states and territories through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.

The grants provide funding to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops and support specialty crop growers through marketing, education, and research.

States are encouraged to award funding to projects that address the needs of U.S. producers of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops.