No rain could ruin the festivities at the Friends of the National Arboretum, Dinner under the Stars. Research, Education, & Economics Undersecretary Scott Hutchins was honored to acknowledge Dr. Richard Olson for 20 years with ARS and incredible work with the National Arboretum.
🌱 Strengthening America’s food future starts with seeds. USDA’s new $180M Seed Sovereignty Initiative will help sequence major crops, protect plant genetic resources, and unlock innovations for farmers nationwide.
We’re expanding the promise of seeds—for farmers, consumers, and the future.
🔗 https://t.co/LmKxPaT3Y9
The National Agricultural Statistics Service is delivering data for smarter decision-making with the interactive data tool, AgInsights. Now, anyone can access agricultural data in less time than it takes to pour your next cup of coffee. Give it a try today!
💡 USDA just launched AgInsights - a new data tool that brings modern, streamlined data access to producers nationwide! This new tool will serve as a key component of @usda_nass' ongoing modernization strategy. 👇 https://t.co/vGkbfyyqec
Under Secretary Scott Hutchins, @USDAscience Chief Scientist, took the stage today to share the organization’s research priorities, updates on the @usda_nass, and how his team is working to move the dial for agriculture. Thank you to Dr. Hutchins for joining our members today.
Thank you @RepAdrianSmith for your support of agricultural research and innovation. The new @USDA investments at USMARC and the National Center for Resilient and Regenerative Precision Agriculture will help us continue strengthening Nebraska’s top industry!
Nebraska is a world leader and agricultural powerhouse. Thanks to decades of research, our producers continue to lead the way in innovation and productivity.
With @USDA’s recent announcement of new investments at USMARC and the new National Center for Resilient and Regenerative Precision Agriculture coming to Lincoln, I look forward to continuing to work with @SecRollins and Under Secretary Hutchins to strengthen Nebraska’s number one industry!
https://t.co/qxr5W5BGZA
USDA’s Data Modernization Plan puts Farmers First by cutting burdensome red tape and improving the data reporting experience. The result: faster, more accurate, and more useful ag data that supports producers and strengthens American agriculture. https://t.co/UNxSbqA9a3
ARS researchers are soon launching an exciting new product that will boost the market for America’s rice growers. Sallah is a mid-season conventional rice that holds firm with good flavor. It is also resistant to diseases that often reduce rice crops. Learn more about this rice newcomer--expected to be available to U.S. growers in 2027. https://t.co/1pqGGc0bh1
#nationalricemonth #ScientificDiscoveries
🚨 NEW: @SecRollins announced USDA’s Data Modernization Plan at the Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa. Bringing agricultural data collection into the 21st century.
Shaped by DIRECT feedback from producers, the plan will:
✅ Reduce duplicative reporting and red tape
✅ Improve acreage and yield estimates
✅ Modernize USDA technology and data systems
✅ Protect producer privacy and strengthen transparency
Farmers deserve timely, accurate data — and a USDA that respects their time.
https://t.co/8TvyQGKoBz
Thank you @SenMcConnell for your support and efforts to help USDA-REE secure $26.7M to build the Forage–Animal Production Unit at the @universityofky. This funding strengthens research that supports farmers and advances innovation in U.S. agriculture. https://t.co/8WK37Y8bjg
Thank you @SenatorFischer for your support and efforts to fund the development of a world-class facility that will strengthen ag research impact for farmers, producers, and communities nationwide!
Dr. Lauren Stump, USDA’s Deputy Undersecretary for Research, Education, and Economics recently visited Madison, Wisconsin and toured @USDA_ARS’ U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center and Vegetable Crops Research Unit.
There she highlighted the department’s key research initiatives and emphasized the major role research plays in advancing agriculture in the United States.
ICYMI: USDA’s Research Facilities Act Program application deadline is now Fri, July 24. Updates include clearer eligibility details, expanded applicant guidance, and a broader definition of “parent institution.” Learn more:https://t.co/pdEJQSUIdc
Today, I toured @USDA’s Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and received a briefing on the New World screwworm response.
The scientists and researchers there are doing critical work to protect Texas ranchers, livestock, and our food supply.
As New World screwworm cases continue to rise, we will continue working with USDA to stop its spread and ensure we have the resources and support needed to combat it.
July is #NationalWatermelonMonth. Did you know that the classic watermelon variety, known as the Charleston Gray, was developed by USDA-ARS Scientist Charles Frederick Andrus? The Charleston Gray cultivar was introduced by ARS to consumers in 1954. Learn more about the history of the Charleston Gray at: https://t.co/dXKl2qzWqE
George Washington's cellar revealed a surprise: bottled cherry pits preserved for 200+ years. To celebrate, the USDA will give away cherry tree saplings linked to these pits at the Great American State Fair, June 27–28. Take home a piece of American history!