USDA fires more than 70 foreign researchers

More than 70 foreign researchers have been banned from working with USDA. The move follows an internal security review aimed at keeping foreign adversaries out of U.S. research projects.

The contractors worked under USDA’s research arm, and most were post-doctoral researchers. A union leader for the ag research service told Reuters that the firings took out a lot of talent that will stunt research growth.

USDA says any individuals working for countries of concern will no longer be allowed to work on USDA projects, which includes researchers from countries like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran.

Related Stories
New label rules may strengthen demand for U.S. products.
Tight red meat supplies continue supporting livestock markets.
Recent USDA reports show a steady feedlot supply despite growing consumer demand for beef, ahead of typical seasonal summer trends.
After devastating wildfires swept through Nebraska, Sen. Deb Fischer is championing a bill to expedite the relief process for farmers and ranchers. She joins us with updates on recovery efforts, conditions on the ground, and how the ag community has stepped up to help.
Lower costs improve competitiveness, but demand remains uncertain.
Corn and soybean shipments continue to move at a steady pace as spring trade flows develop.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Midwest corn and soy producers are monitoring for disease and lower yields due to the ongoing drought over the last 30 days.
Farm work is hard work, and as the harvest season brings heavier workloads, experts are urging producers to pay closer attention to joint pain and ways to prevent it.
On this week’s episode of FarmHER + RanchHER, host Kirbe Schnoor travels to Wilson’s ranch to see how she blends tradition and technology to raise elite Red Angus cattle.
Fewer placements and historically low marketings point to tighter cattle supplies ahead, with Nebraska and Kansas gaining ground as Texas feedlots face supply pressure and the threat of New World Screwworm.
Industry-wide participation in SHIP enhances biosecurity and fosters global trust in U.S. pork, says swine health expert, Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham.
A new study by the National Grains and Feeds Association found that their industry generates $401.7 billion in economic output and supports over 1.16 million jobs nationwide.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.