Agriculture was the seventh most targeted industry for ransomware attacks in 2023. It is a topic researchers at Purdue University have been watching closely.
They warn risks are becoming greater, potentially impacting supply chains and financial security. Economists say farms are especially vulnerable because there is not a lot of IT investment. There is also a lack of training, with many agribusiness employees unaware attacks are happening.
They suggest having employee trainings and performing equipment upgrades as needed, including firewalls and encryption tools.
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The USDA is working with 14 different states, including Georgia, to develop and implement block grants to address the unique disaster recovery needs for each state.
The USDA’s August Cold Storage report shows shifting stock levels across major dairy, meat, and poultry products.
The total value of the U.S. potato crop was $4.60 billion in 2024, representing an 8% decrease from the previous year.
Crop-specific shifts and strong prices highlight the variability of this year’s fruit and tree nut harvest, according to USDA data.
The decline in production marks the second consecutive year of contraction in the U.S. turkey industry.
The USDA noted that peanut edible utilization season-to-date is down 3% on the year, despite overall stocks increasing.
