ROCKINGHAM - As part of the ongoing mission of the Richmond Observer to provide expansive coverage of current events, we offer the following links to allow ease of access to news garnering attention across the state and/or nation. These particular links relate to items of interest in conjunction with NC’s rural communities and agricultural issues as well as ongoing developments.
1- About $50 million of the $400 million in Florence recovery funding state lawmakers approved unanimously will go to help farmers recover from the storm. They set aside another $450 million for future needs. Associated Press
Legislature appropriated $850 million for Florence relief Wilmington Star-News
2- House Ag Committee Chairman Mike Conaway says he and other farm bill negotiators are still working behind the scenes and are intent on getting a new bill by the end of the year. Progressive Farmer
Farm Bureau lobbyist expects finished farm bill before end of year Brownfield Ag News
3- Organizations representing livestock, bee and fish haulers asked the federal government to give them additional flexibility on hours of service requirements for hauling their goods. American Farm Bureau
Livestock groups petitioned DOT for hours of service flexibility SFN Today
4- USDA is continuing its investment in underserved and veteran farmers and ranchers, and announced $9.4 million in grants for training, outreach and technical assistance. Morning Ag Clips
5- In Georgia, Hurricane Michael left behind an estimated $300 million in crop losses. The Packer
Cotton crop could be biggest victim of Hurricane Michael SFN Today
6- Forest City, NC-based Valley Fine Foods recalled more than 35,000 pounds of its refrigerated Simple Dishes brand pasta entrees over concerns the products might be contaminated with “spoilage organisms.” Food Safety News
7- N.C. State University will introduce an intensive, three-week industrial hemp course in May 2019. “Business and Law of Industrial Hemp” will teach law and regulations around the crop to degree and non-degree students. Morning Ag Clips
8- Carolina Farm Credit completed its 2018 director elections by mail and E. Bernard Beck of Seagrove and Joseph A. Lail of Shelby were elected to serve. Independent Tribune
9- When you’re the leader of your farm, having “sounding boards” you trust is critical. Farm Futures
10- The next NC AgTech Professional Forum will focus on blockchain technology, Nov. 14 in Durham. NC Biotech
11- Save the date: Rural Day 2019 at the N.C. General Assembly will be March 26. NC Rural Center
Editor's note: It is the policy of the Richmond Observer to print news release material in its original format, as it was received, with minimal, if any, editorial adjustments.
