Trump ‘public charge’ rule is vacated: A U.S. district judge in Chicago ordered the Trump administration to vacate its “public charge” rule, which effectively created a wealth test for immigrants and allowed the government to deny permanent residency to immigrants who might need public assistance, such as food stamps. (New York Times)
Smoke, ash and food production: Smoke and ash from California’s summer of wildfires could have lingering effects on food production, say experts who recommend washing produce in running water to mitigate any potential risks. (UC Agriculture and Natural Resources)
India and China grow more cotton: The world’s two largest cotton growers, India and China, are expanding production, helping to boost global production to 24.4 million tonnes in 2020/21, or 500,000 tonnes more than expected demand. (International Cotton Advisory Committee)
Small Midwest meat plant proposed: Local businessmen, with an eye on coronavirus disruptions at meatpacking plants last spring, proposed to open a small-scale beef and pork processing plant near the Illinois-Wisconsin border, coupled with a retail shop for a local supply of meat. (Northwest Herald)