H5N1 in dairy cows: Bird flu has been reported in 46 dairy herds across nine states, including 13 herds in Texas and a dozen in Michigan. (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service)
USDA water, electric projects: The USDA announced $671 million in loans and grants for 47 projects in 23 states to improve access to reliable electric service and clean drinking water. (USDA)
Bayer ag sales decline: Sales of seeds and ag chemicals fell by 3 percent in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, mainly due to lower herbicide and fungicide volumes, though the company said its “Crop Science Division outperformed in a difficult market.” (Bayer)
War damages Gaza agriculture: Nearly half of agricultural land in Gaza has been damaged during the Israeli invasion, diminishing local food production to the brink of collapse, according to sources that include photo, video, and satellite imagery. (Washington Post)
From wastewater to snow: A ski resort in Montana asked state officials to let it use treated wastewater to create artificial snow on 85 acres during the early winter season. (Montana Free Press)