Investigate Midwest (https://investigatemidwest.org/category/resources/)
A collection of training, story tips, and data sources
The Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting was among 15 winners to receive funding for projects that test new ways of revenue, news distribution and community engagement.
In the United States, billions upon billions of dollars go to some of the largest companies in the form of tax breaks, subsidies, loans, grants and other financial bailout packages. Those who are critical of the waves of cash flowing to corporate America call this “corporate welfare.”
One of the decade’s loudest and most visible debates has been the battle between GMO proponents and organic advocates. Here are eight starting points for reporters looking to find GMO-related stories.
The Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting, through support from the Robert R. McCormick Foundation and The Poynter Institute, is seeking applications for an all-expense paid workshop covering the U.S. visa system. Deadline to apply is March 22 (apply online).
The Minnesota Journalism Center's School of Journalism and Mass Communication – in collaboration with the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting, and Investigative Reporters and Editors – hosted the “Covering Big Agribusiness” workshop in Minneapolis on Oct. 3 through Oct. 5. Check out the session tip sheets and presentations here.
In recent years, crop insurance has become an increasingly controversial subject. While many support the program, others claim it sucks up too many taxpayer dollars. Reporters can use this guide to start their crop insurance research.
Government reports have recently found that the U.S. water supply is in jeopardy, both in terms of quantity and quality. Here are tools for reporters to research water issues.
Covering agribusiness can be difficult for reporters. Dozens of agencies and offices have their hands in agricultural affairs, and covering the industry often means also reporting on complex topics associated with climatology, economics and geology. Here are some resources to help reporters research agribusiness.
Multiple federal and state agencies have roles in the regulation of our food system. When a problem occurs, producers, consumers and even members of the media can have a hard time figuring out which agency to turn to for answers. While each specific case can have its nuances, here is a general guideline for the oversight process of domestic production and distribution of chicken and meat.
On Sept. 18, 2013, The Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting and Poynter Institute conducted a Webinar on covering agribusiness. The Webinar included information about finding documents and people for stories, along with information about coming up with story ideas in any area.