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
Secretary Rollins says the first U.S. calf infected with screwworm responded to treatment and is back to full health.
Questions remain about quarantines as state and federal officials respond to confirmed cases.
Trade estimates point to only modest changes in U.S. grain ending stocks ahead of USDA’s June 11 WASDE report.
Farmers may need flexible marketing plans as tighter supplies and uncertain demand heighten price risks for corn and soybeans.
Global fiber demand is growing, but cotton producers benefit only when cotton gains value and competes for market share.
Dr. Phillip Kaufman discussed sterile fly releases, release zone adjustments and steps producers can take to protect livestock.