In today’s Ag News Roundup, OSU offers free virtual master gardener classes, trade issues continue for farmers in 2021, debt relief vital for farms and ranches, senators help ag qualify for PPP loans, and plants that produce winter berries can help feed birds.
OSU Offers Free Virtual Master Gardener Series
Oregon State University Extension Services is now offering its Master Gardener program as part of a free virtual monthly class. The series will broadcast at 3pm on the second Tuesday of each month through Zoom. Registration is required.
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Trade Issues will Continue in 2021
According to Pacific Northwest Ag Network, COVID related problems that hampered trade in 2020 will continue to be issues well into 2021. To help with the issues, the Washington State Department of Agriculture says that farmers are the agencies top priority.
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Debt Relief for Farmers Could Keep Businesses Afloat
The Department of Agriculture’s debt relief actions announced at the end of January could help farmers remain in business according to the National Farmers Union. The programs include a suspension of past-due debt collections and foreclosure for those participating in the Farm Storage Facility Loan as well as other programs.
Senators Helping Farmers with PPP Loans
From the Pacific Northwest Ag Network, two senators are requesting clarification for farmers applying for PPP loans and forgiveness in 2021. The question is whether C-FAP payments can count toward the farmers’ required 25% reduction in gross receipts from 2019 to 2020 in any one quarter to qualify.
OSU Suggests Planting Berry-Bearing Plants to Feed Birds
Oregon State University Extension Service is asking residents to plant more berry-bearing winter plants to help birds survive the colder weather. These include Oregon grape, Beautyberry, Snowberry, Himalayan honeysuckle, and Pacific wax myrtle.
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