Agriculture

Some of the world’s biggest markets for U.S. crops aren’t buying as much as usual this year.

Last week’s Beige Book noted the effects of poor growing conditions and stricter loan practices, among other things.

A study by a Bay Area think tank suggests California’s key industries would suffer without undocumented immigrant workers.

Over half of California farmworkers are undocumented. Recent raids have put the industry on edge.

“Trade is hugely important to agriculture, and consistency is important to agriculture,” said Brian Duncan, president of the Illinois Farm Bureau. “We need some signed agreements that provide some certainty and some security.”

With many workers staying home, farmers are worried about how to get crops off the fields.

Concerns about farmland loss have sparked opposition to solar, from local advocates to the White House.

Undocumented workers form a key part of the economy in a number of industries.

You’re more likely to see work boots than Patagonia vests, but technology is also transforming this farming region near Silicon Valley.

China is the biggest international market for U.S. soybeans and many other crops.