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Ag News

Ag News Roundup

November 16, 2016

In today's Ag News Roundup, a Hermiston couple starts their own creamery, the U.S. Army Corps take comments on changes to the Columbia-Snake River System, a Northwest grain company files a lawsuit against the state of Washington, how Trump could affect food policy, and frivolous lawsuits.

Comments Being Collected on Columbia-Snake River System

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and Bonneville Power Administration are colleting comments from farmers, ranchers, and others with thoughts on changes and possible improvements to the Columbia-Snake River System and its many dams. Additional dates and locations for input run through December 8, 2016 in Pasco, Boise, Seattle, The Dalles, Portland, and Astoria.

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Couple Start Tiny Farm Creamery

A Hermiston, Washington couple has decided to start their own creamery. The wife and husband team of Belinda and Bob Smith hope to be making cheese in just a few months. Smith’s Tiny Farm will start with five milking cows and grow according to demand. Smith stated, “There’s just not a lot of creameries around. It seemed totally reasonable and practical to us.” The couple plans to sell their goods at local farmer’s markets and other specialty locations.

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Grain Company Files Claim Over Diminishing Wheat Quality


The Washington Department of Agriculture Grain Inspection Program has been hit with a $7,869.55 tort claim. The claim filed by Glacier Grains, Inc. states that the state agency is not following federal procedures when monitoring levels of an enzyme that degrades starch and diminishes what quality.

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How Might the Trump Administration Affect Food Policy

Farm Journal and Associated Press take a look at the potential changes the Trump administration could bring to food policy and regulations. Specifically, in the areas of school meals, food safety, nutrition facts and labeling, calories on menus, trans fats, sodium guidelines, and antibiotic use.

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Oregon Rancher Ordered to Pay $13,700 for ‘Frivolous’ Lawsuit

Federal judge John Acosta ordered William Holdner, a Columbia County rancher to pay $13,700 to the Oregon Department of Agriculture for what he termed a ‘frivolous’ lawsuit against the agency. Holden has filed several lawsuits over the years in regard to water rights, which have all been rejected by federal judges.

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