Harvest Public Media

The cost of doing business in agriculture was already high before the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which spiked fertilizer and fuel prices. Now, making any money this season may require farmers to cut back on certain resources.

The news of ICE raids has quieted in recent months, but many immigrants are still living with uncertainty. Here is a look at the people and organizations who are working to assist immigrants in their communities throughout the Midwest and Great Plains.

Ornate box turtles and their kin face steep challenges in today’s world, but people can help out by raising the deck height on their mowers, allowing turtles to cross the road and not taking them home as pets.

Community-supported agriculture has been a popular way for people to buy produce from local farms for decades. There's new pressure on farmers to offer more customization and convenience – but some CSA supporters worry that may dilute the original purpose.

Farm organizations were in different stages of a grant process when the U.S. Department of Agriculture cut dozens of projects to help underserved farmers access land and capital. Agriculture leaders say the termination deals a blow to future farmers.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade passageway, remains virtually closed due to the war in Iran. That’s driven up the prices of key agricultural necessities, which could remain high into next year.

Across Nebraska, Kansas and Oklahoma, large wildfires ripped through pastures, cropland, farm structures and homes. To prevent future loss of life and property, wildfire experts say collaboration, prevention and sacrifice will be necessary.

Once considered a premium option, buying beef in bulk from a rancher has become comparatively affordable as retail prices rise. But it requires paying more upfront — and enough freezer space.

New research out of Ohio State University found the rate of bird decline was quicker in areas with more intense agricultural practices.

Across the central U.S., nitrate from crop fertilizer and livestock facilities is seeping into water underground. Many family wells are no longer safe to drink from without pricey treatment.