Datasets and Documents
Database: Disappearing Farmland
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Use this database to see how many farmland acres your state has lost or gained between 1997 and 2012
Datasets and Documents
Resources for investigating visas
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In 2015, the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting hosted a workshop on how to cover the U.S. visa system. Here are some key data and document resources from the event to help you cover and learn more about visas.
Datasets and Documents
Data tool: Explore USDA data on GMO petitions
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Explore USDA data on GMOs using an interactive graph and searchable database.
Datasets and Documents
USDA ag-projection highlights in one graphic
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In February, the U.S. Department of Agriculture released a forward-looking reporting on the state of U.S. agriculture. The department's Economic Research Service took the lead on the report, which outlines U.S. agricultural production and trade through 2024. Here are the highlights in one graphic.
Datasets and Documents
Farm Bill lobbying interests
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As part of a project with Harvest Public Media, the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting analyzed electronic federal lobbying reports to get a closer look at who lobbied on the 2014 Farm Bill. Access the results and data here.
Datasets and Documents
GAO report on freshwater: supply concerns continue and uncertainties complicate planning
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In May, the Government Accountability Office released a report that looked at U.S. freshwater availability. The report found that, since an earlier investigation in 2003, the state of the water supply in the United States has worsened. Furthermore, a survey of state water managers found that 40 out of 50 states will likely experience some level of water shortages within the coming decade.
Climate Change and Agribusiness
National Climate Assessment: White House assessment warns that climate change means more than drought
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A White House assessment revealed that climate change will affect the agriculture industry in several ways. Rising temperatures will cause some crops to no longer be productive, while also creating ideal conditions for insects. More extreme weather events will rapidly erode the soil and cause planting delays in some areas.
Datasets and Documents
OIG Report: USDA paid billions in improper payments
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported an estimated $6.2 billion in improper payments in 2013, according to an Office of Inspector General’s April report. Read the report here.
Datasets and Documents
GAO Report: changes needed if key EPA program is to help fulfill the nation’s water quality goals
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In December of 2013, the Government Accountability Office released a report that highlighted a flawed Environmental Protection Agency water-conservation program. It also summarized the overall state of U.S. water bodies.
The Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting used the report to jump start an investigation into how the agriculture industry affects water quality
Datasets and Documents
Farm land values continue to climb
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The average value for farm real estate climbed 9.4 percent from 2012, according to the 2013 Land Value Summary released late last week by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.