Agriculture

The 17% tariff on Mexican tomato imports, combined with bad weather in Florida and Mexico, has caused the price of salsa ingredients to spike in recent months.

Industry stressors like commodity prices and drought conditions increase the pressure for those who work in the agriculture industry. Agrisafe Network is a nonprofit that aims to provide resources to farmers and ranchers across the U.S., including in Texas.

More farmers are showing interest in sorghum, a drought-tolerant grain. The crop is poised to expand in the U.S. – especially if Americans start consuming it.

The beef industry has been under pressure recently from market disruptions, record high beef prices and small herd sizes. The groups say the ICE operations are another challenge for the industry.

While parts of West Texas have seen some refreshing rainfall, the U.S. Drought Monitor shows more than 80% of the state is experiencing abnormally dry or drought conditions. According to a Texas Farm Bureau report, this continues to affect farmers and playa lake levels. Meanwhile, cattle industry groups in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas say U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities are affecting agricultural communities. Harvest Public Media’s Anna Pope reports they’re concerned about workforce disruptions and delays.

After trade talks between the countries fell apart last month, the Trump administration and Canada's leaders have rolled out new tariffs on everything from dairy products to machinery. Experts say farmers will likely feel the squeeze on both ends.

American farmers will likely feel the squeeze of higher tariffs exchanged with Canada on both their supply costs and sales starting this week. The import taxes will affect everything from dairy products to ag equipment. Lubbock Independent School District is accepting applications for its annual Community Leadership Academy. Our Samantha Larned reports the meetings are intended as a way for parents and community members to learn more about what goes into operating a school district. You can find more information and apply through Sept. 18 on Lubbock ISD’s website here.

Earlier this year, the national cattle herd hit a 75-year low. Now, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins says a new initiative will help grow the number of cattle in the U.S. Meanwhile, more than a million Texas voters have been placed on “voter suspense” lists. Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider reports those voters will have to update their addresses by October 5th or face additional paperwork on Election Day before they can cast their ballots.

Data centers and agriculture depend on many of the same resources, such as water, land and electricity, which has some in the industry worried about the future.

The Trump administration has tried to lower beef prices for months, but demand, drought and a parasite have foiled its efforts. Some ranchers are frustrated with the administration's latest moves.