Agriculture

Farmers got a government bailout in 2020, even those who didn't need it
Farmers stand out among those who got federal aid in 2020. Total payments to farmers reached $46 billion, a record. Many farmers received more than $100,000, yet didn't necessarily need the help.
Highlights of $900 billion COVID-19 relief, wrap-up bills
Congressional leaders have hashed out a massive, year-end catchall bill that combines $900 billion in COVID-19 aid with a $1.4 trillion omnibus spending bill and reams of other unfinished legislation on taxes, energy, education and health care. The huge, still-unreleased bill is slated for votes on Monday — with lawmakers having only a few hours to read it before casting their votes.
Researchers find insecticides widespread in Minnesota lakes and rivers
A widely used class of insecticides is found at low levels in Minnesota lakes and streams, according to to research from the University of Minnesota. The potential impact on aquatic life is still to be unraveled.
Small turkeys are in demand as Americans downsize at Thanksgiving
As families across the U.S. scale back on how they traditionally celebrate the holiday, it's been a challenge for turkey producers as they figure out how to adapt to the changing market.
Key departures signal agriculture shakeup for Capitol Hill
The defeat of U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson in Minnesota and some key retirements mean a shakeup is coming for agriculture on Capitol Hill. Observers say power is likely to shift from the Midwest to the South and the coasts. 
How a backyard chicken flock and a wild turkey taught a family about unity during a week of division
This year’s tumultuous election and the country’s growing division have led some people to worry that their relationships with friends and family members on opposite sides of partisan lines may never recover. One Minnesota family thinks the country could learn an important lesson from their backyard chicken flock.
7th District voters choosing between ag clout and President Trump
Political pundits on the national level say 7th District U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson is facing the toughest election challenge of his 30 years in Congress. His challenger, former state Sen. Michelle Fischbach, is touting her support from President Donald Trump as she tries to defeat Peterson in the increasingly red district.
As biotech crops lose their power, scientists push for new restrictions
Some of the first GMOs – corn and cotton plants that have been genetically modified to fend off insects – are running into problems. Bugs have become resistant to them because they've been overused.