Harvest Public Media

Food and farm programs historically persist through the farm bill. Packaging multiple cross-party issues into one bill ensures rural and urban legislators come together to pass it. But that coalition has been fracturing over past farm bill cycles, creating uncertainty on the farm and in grocery stores.

As farmers face financial uncertainty, the Trump administration has moved to end protections on gray wolves that sometimes prey on livestock. But experts question if it's the right move for the species.

The Trump administration is narrowing longstanding interpretations of what it means to harm plants and animals protected under the Endangered Species Act. Conservation experts say the change will pose greater challenges for already-vulnerable populations, and several groups have sued the administration.

Researchers recently traced the birthplace of the world's dominant cotton species to the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Their sleuthing also uncovered a treasure trove of genetic diversity in wild populations, which could eventually make the crop more resilient.

A decade ago, a federal task force announced a plan to help monarch butterflies along their great migration. The six-state effort along Interstate 35 didn't take off as expected, but some roadsides are blooming anyway.

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.

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.

More farmers are opting to repair old tractors, combines and other machinery instead of buying new upgrades. A tough farm economy and historically-high equipment prices are at least partly to blame.

Fewer people are buying cotton thanks to the rise of synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester. Now, the U.S. cotton industry wants to boost demand for American-grown cotton with tax credits and marketing campaigns.

Passing on the family farm to the next generation is typically an involved process, both financially and emotionally. A turbulent agricultural economy the past few years has made that transition even more difficult.