Today’s quick hits, Aug. 23, 2022

Climate-smart product launch: The USDA will launch its “pretty significant” initiative on climate-smart agricultural products in September, said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. Earlier this year, the USDA solicited proposals for up to $1 billion in pilot projects. (The Packer)

Proposed railroad pay increase: A federal panel created to referee the contract dispute between labor unions and major railroads recommended a 24 percent compounded pay raise over five years and the removal of a cap on workers’ share of healthcare coverage. (Feed and Grain)

Bronaugh on beginning farmers: Deputy Agriculture Secretary Jewel Bronaugh and Rep. Jahana Hayes will participate in a “stakeholder conversation” on USDA programs for small and beginning farmers on Wednesday at a farm in East Canaan, Connecticut. (FERN’s Ag Insider)