I am Wahid Rahman Afghanmal, a journalist, photographer, and videographer from Kandahar, Afghanistan. For over eight years, I have collaborated with local, national, and international media, and I continue to work as an independent journalist and content creator.

Throughout my career, I have ...

Kandahar honey production up by 40% due to basil cultivation

07 Sept 2024  |  The Kabul times, Afghanistan Trustable News Agency.  |  English  |  Basil Cultivation

Kandahar's honey production has surged by 40% this year, attributed to the increased cultivation of basil. The province is expected to harvest 80,000 kilograms of honey, doubling last year's output. Kandahar's basil honey is renowned for its quality, fetching high prices domestically and internationally. Beekeepers are advocating for more training and support to maintain bee colonies, as well as for exhibition opportunities to promote their products. The increased production is also expected to lower honey prices, benefiting both producers and consumers.

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Kandahar’s Department of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock

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Muhammad Atif is a multimedia journalist based in Washington, DC, United States of America. Currently he is associated with Voice of America where he is an anchor/reporter covering news and current affairs. Muhammad specializes in covering high profile news events as well as finding human interest ...

Commodity prices up on geopolitical risks last week

27 Nov 2024  |  medium.com  |  English  |  Inflation

Commodity prices surged last week due to geopolitical tensions and a strong US Dollar Index, with gold and silver seeing significant increases. Russia's nuclear threats over Ukraine's use of US-supplied missiles heightened demand for safe-haven commodities. UBS analysts predict continued gold price rises due to moderate monetary policies. The US Dollar Index hit a two-year high, while silver and palladium also saw gains. Base metals like aluminum and copper rose following China's export tax changes. Energy prices, including Brent crude oil and natural gas, spiked amid escalating Russia-Ukraine tensions. Agricultural commodities mostly increased, with wheat and coffee reaching new highs.

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US Department of Agriculture Federal Reserve UN

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Hi there! I'm a video and text journalist based in Portland, Oregon who specializes in news writing and videography. When I'm not covering breaking news in the Pacific Northwest, I'm looking for character-driven stories to write or film (or ideally, both!) 

I've covered racial justice protests, ...

Kroger CEO pins price increases on rising costs at trial

04 Sept 2024  |  kfgo.com  |  English  |  Retail Industry

Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen attributed rising grocery prices to increased costs for retailers during a trial defending the company's proposed $25 billion merger with Albertsons. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission and several states are challenging the merger, arguing it could lead to higher prices and reduced bargaining power for unionized workers. McMullen denied that Kroger would raise prices post-merger, emphasizing the importance of competitive pricing. The merger is seen as a strategy to compete with Walmart, while Albertsons warned of potential layoffs if the deal fails.

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U.S. Department of Agriculture U.S. Federal Trade Commission

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Andrew Byrne is a Europe correspondent based in Brussels, Belgium.

Quantifying the Molecular Properties of the Elk Chronic Wasting Disease Agent with Mass Spectrometry

16 Nov 2024  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Mass Spectrometry

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a prion disease affecting elk, characterized by the infectious protein conformations PrPSc. This study utilized mass spectrometry to analyze prions from experimentally infected elk with different genotypes (MM132, ML132, LL132). The research quantified the amount of PrPSc, its polymorphic composition, and methionine oxidation levels. Findings revealed that MM132 elk had the highest PrPSc levels, while LL132 had the least. The study also highlighted the distinct Scandinavian strains of CWD compared to North American strains, emphasizing the need for detecting new CWD strains. The research contributes to understanding prion propagation and strain characterization at a molecular level.

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United States Department of Agriculture Iowa State University National Animal Disease Center

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Gabrielle Canon is a journalist based in Oakland, CA who provides content in many formats, including print, video, broadcast, and photography. She is also available for on-air interviews and can speak on a variety of topics including prison reform, criminal justice, policies to combat homelessness, ...

Mass firings hamstring federal land agencies and wildfire response

21 Feb 2025  |  the Guardian  |  English  |  Climate Crisis

Federal agencies responsible for managing public lands and responding to wildfires are in disarray following mass firings by the Trump administration, which dismissed thousands of federal workers. The cuts, affecting the United States Forest Service and other agencies, are expected to hinder efforts to combat wildfires and manage public lands, exacerbating the challenges posed by the climate crisis. The firings have sparked fears of privatization and have been criticized by unions and legislators, who argue that the reductions will have a detrimental impact on agency missions and public safety. The situation has created a culture of fear and uncertainty within the agencies, with concerns about the future of public land management and emergency response capabilities.

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US Department of Agriculture Department of the Interior Department of Agriculture United States Forest Service National Park Service Bureau of Land Management National Federation of Federal Employees National Treasury Employees Union

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Carmela Caruso is a freelance reporter based in Asheville, North Carolina, United States of America with experience covering human rights, press freedom, and local news. She is a regular contributor for Voice of America and the Mountain Xpress.

Green Roundup: ASAP’s Farm Tour spotlights local growers

22 Aug 2024  |  mountainx.com  |  English  |  Agriculture

The Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project is preparing for its annual Farm Tour in September. Local green news includes a new solar lending program from Sugar Hollow Solar, the West Asheville Garden Stroll, and the N.C. Arboretum's Monarch Butterfly Day. The article also highlights various environmental and community initiatives, such as Warren Wilson College's new master's degree in applied climate studies, Tangled Bank Conservation's prize for combating turtle trafficking, and Hood Huggers International's new book on sustainable cultures. Additionally, the Southern Environmental Law Center and other conservation groups are preparing to sue the U.S. Forest Service over the Nantahala-Pisgah Forest Plan.

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Asheville Police Department Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project Warren Wilson College Tangled Bank Conservation Hood Huggers International Southern Environmental Law Center MountainTrue Sierra Club Wilderness Society Defenders of Wildlife Center for Biological Diversity U.S. Forest Service Firefly Gathering Sweeten Creek mental health facility UNC Asheville Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Color My Outdoors Food Connection

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Wen is a documentary filmmaker and journalist based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She has over ten years experience working as a producer, director, writer, videographer and editor in various formats: TV broadcast, digital platform and feature documentaries. She has worked on documentaries for Netflix,...

Assessment and Application of Multi-Source Precipitation Products in Cold Regions Based on the Improved SWAT Model

06 Nov 2024  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Glacier Melt

The study evaluates the applicability of multi-source precipitation products in the Yarkant River Basin using an improved SWAT model that incorporates a dynamic glacier melt module. The research identifies CMA V2.0 as the most suitable precipitation dataset for the region, effectively capturing spatial and temporal precipitation patterns and improving runoff simulation accuracy. The study highlights the significant role of glacier meltwater in river runoff and the importance of accurate precipitation data for hydrological modeling in cold regions. The findings have implications for water resource management in high-altitude, data-scarce areas.

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Agricultural Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture North China Electric Power University Chinese Academy of Sciences

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Stephania Corpi was born in 1984 in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. She is a Mexican-French journalist who focuses on migration, human rights, gender equality and other under reported issues. She obtained her Bachelor's Degree in International Relations from the Tecnológico de Monterrey and after ...

U.S. halts avocado imports from Mexico after inspectors caught up in violence

21 Jun 2024  |  TPR  |  English  |  U.S.-Mexico Relations

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has halted the inspection of avocados and mangoes from Michoacán, Mexico, following an incident involving USDA inspectors caught in violence. This decision may lead to higher prices and potential shortages in the U.S., as 89% of avocado imports come from Mexico. The halt also exacerbates challenges for Mexican farmers, who are already dealing with drought and extortion by criminal gangs. The avocado industry, valued at $3 billion, has been a target for cartels, with previous incidents of threats and violence disrupting trade.

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United States Department of Agriculture Association of Producers and Export Packers of Mexico

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Jéssica Cruz is a journalist/fixer/producer based in São Paulo, Brazil.

First case of bird flu detected without contact with animals in the USA

07 Sept 2024  |  heraldodepuebla.com  |  Spanish  |  Public Health

In Missouri, the first human case of bird flu without contact with infected animals has been detected, marking the fourteenth case in the U.S. this year. The H5 virus was identified through Missouri's seasonal flu surveillance system, with the CDC indicating a low risk to the general population. The patient, hospitalized in August, has recovered after antiviral treatment. While no H5 outbreaks in livestock have been reported in Missouri, there have been poultry outbreaks. The USDA confirmed earlier outbreaks in 51 livestock herds across various states, prompting protective measures for agricultural workers.

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United States Department of Agriculture Department of Health and Senior Services of Missouri Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Hello, I am a freelance journalist based in Montevideo, Uruguay. I have worked for a number of news publications across three continents. Though I specialize in print and online journalism, I can also produce professional-level broadcast packages for television and radio.

California Table Olive Yield Projected to Increase for Second Consecutive Year

16 Sept 2024  |  Olive Oil Times  |  English  |  Labor Issues

California's table olive production is set to increase for the second consecutive year, with a projected yield of 40,000 U.S. tons in 2024, attributed to favorable weather conditions and increased precipitation. Despite this growth, the long-term trend shows a decline in production due to factors such as labor shortages, rising costs, and competition from cheaper imports. Liz Tagami of American Olive Farmer highlights challenges including restrictive immigration policies and economic pressures. The U.S. International Trade Commission's decision to extend tariffs on Spanish olive imports offers some relief to local producers.

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United States Department of Agriculture American Olive Farmer U.S. International Trade Commission

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Jonathan Gilbert is a journalist based in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Argentina Seeks Its First Wheat Shipments to China in Decades

29 Nov 2024  |  Yahoo Entertainment  |  English  |  Economic Policy

Argentina is aiming to secure its first significant wheat sales to China since the 1990s, following China's authorization of Argentine wheat shipments. This development coincides with Argentina's expected bumper wheat harvest and potential trade opportunities arising from US tariff threats under President-elect Donald Trump. The southern Buenos Aires province is projected to produce 3.9 million metric tons of wheat, contributing to a national crop forecast of 17.5 million tons. Argentine exporters are lobbying for reduced export tariffs to enhance competitiveness, though President Javier Milei's budget goals may hinder these efforts.

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US Department of Agriculture Ciara-Cec Bahia Blanca Grain Exchange

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Erin Hale is a journalist based in Taipei.

Cars to fruit: The goods set to get pricier under Trump’s tariff plans

29 Nov 2024  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Economic Impact

President-elect Donald Trump plans to impose tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, citing issues like undocumented workers and drug flows. Economists warn these tariffs could raise prices on goods such as vehicles, fruits, vegetables, meat, alcohol, crude oil, and electronics. The tariffs may lead to a trade war, affecting US consumers and companies like Stellantis, General Motors, Ford, and retailers like Walmart and Best Buy. The article highlights the potential economic impact and concerns from industry experts and trade organizations.

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US Department of Agriculture Economist Intelligence Unit US Census Bureau UN Comtrade Produce Distributors Association Distilled Spirits Council of the United States US Energy Information Administration Atlantic Council

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Mark Johnson is a business, finance, consumer and lifestyle journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

He has worked for the BBC, Bloomberg TV, Dow Jones Newswires, Share Radio in the past and also currently produces a daily 2 minute video containing a market update, stock idea and big boss ...

USDA mandates testing of the nation’s milk supply for bird flu

06 Dec 2024  |  www.spokesman.com  |  English  |  Agriculture

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has mandated testing of the nation's milk supply for bird flu, starting December 16, following the detection of the H5N1 virus in U.S. dairy herds. The testing aims to identify affected states and herds, with initial testing in six states. The virus has spread to 720 herds across 15 states, sickening nearly 60 people. The federal government assures the safety of the commercial milk supply, citing pasteurization as effective against the virus. The order requires raw milk testing and reporting of positive cases, with ongoing monitoring to ensure containment. The initiative is seen as a proactive measure to control the virus's spread.

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U.S. Department of Agriculture PA Dairymen’s Association Food and Drug Administration Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Lu Liu is a award-winning freelance video journalist based in Beijing, China. I work as one-man-band VJ for WashingtonPost, Al Jazeera+, AP, France 2, etc. I do news, feature stories, documentaries and corporate shooting. Have won silver at New York festival for tv documentaries because of a story ...

Synergistic Effects of Nonthermal Plasma and Solid Acid Catalysts in Thermo-Catalytic Glycerol Dehydration

06 Nov 2024  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Nonthermal Plasma

The study explores the synergistic effects of nonthermal plasma (NTP) and solid acid catalysts in the catalytic dehydration of glycerol to acrolein. It evaluates the interaction between temperature and NTP fields using alumina- and silica-supported silicotungstic acid catalysts. Results indicate that increasing reaction temperature generally enhances glycerol conversion, with optimal acrolein production observed at 275°C. NTP application improves acrolein selectivity by providing additional acidity and lowering activation energy. However, excessive NTP field strength negatively impacts acrolein production. The study highlights the potential of NTP-catalysis in improving bio-based acrolein production, though challenges like catalyst deactivation remain.

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U.S. Department of Agriculture

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Natalia Ningthoujam is a journalist based in Imphal, India. She has been reporting and writing on entertainment and lifestyle since 2010. She has interviewed Bollywood biggies like Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Anil Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif, and global stars like Pitbull, Ellie ...

Enjoy these 20 Thanksgiving appetisers before dinner

27 Nov 2024  |  www.healthshots.com  |  English  |  Recipes

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and food, with turkey being the centerpiece. However, before the main course, a variety of healthy appetizers can be enjoyed, catering to both vegetarians and meat lovers. The article provides recipes for appetizers like stuffed mushrooms, roasted sweet potato bites, and turkey meatballs with cranberry glaze. It emphasizes the health benefits of ingredients like mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and turkey, supported by expert opinions and research findings. The focus is on creating flavorful, protein-rich, and fiber-rich dishes to enhance the Thanksgiving experience.

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U.S. Department of Agriculture

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Expert reporter and writer. Big picture thinker. Detailed storyteller. Dawn Reiss is a Chicago-based reporter who has written for The New York Times, TIME, U.S. News & World Report, USA Today, Chicago Tribune, AFAR, Trave + Leisure, Plate magazine, Civil Eats, Fortune.com, Crain's Chicago Business, ...

Black farmers connect with buyers, resources through the Black Farmers Index

13 Jan 2025  |  www.newhope.com  |  English  |  Agriculture

The Black Farmers Index, founded by Kaia Niambi Shivers, serves as a vital resource connecting Black farmers with buyers and resources, addressing systemic racial discrimination in agriculture. Inspired by the Green Book, it lists over 1,300 Black agriculturalists, providing essential information to enhance visibility and support. Despite historical challenges, including discrimination by the USDA, the Index aims to empower Black farmers by improving access to markets and resources. Collaborations with organizations like the Organic Trade Association seek to increase diversity in organic farming, though challenges remain in certification and regulatory processes.

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US Department of Agriculture Black Farmers Index Organic Trade Association

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Jacob Resneck is a professional journalist based in Wisconsin. His work appears in wire services, newspapers, magazines and radio outlets across the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

USDA awards $1.3m wild salmon fillet contract to Pacific Seafood

25 Nov 2024  |  Undercurrent News  |  English  |  Seafood Industry

The US Department of Agriculture has awarded a $1,382,400 contract to Pacific Seafood Group to supply 108,000 pounds of frozen wild salmon fillets. The delivery is scheduled between January 1 and June 30, 2025, highlighting a significant procurement in the seafood industry.

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US Department of Agriculture

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Julia Riera is a multimedia journalist based in Barcelona, Spain. Skilled in video shooting, script writing, editing, and broadcasting live and prerecorded.

How much does grocery shopping cost in the US? (And why it has been key for Trump)

13 Nov 2024  |  es.ara.cat  |  Spanish  |  US Presidential Elections

In 2023, US households spent an average of $832 monthly on food, marking a 6.8% increase from 2022. Economic concerns, particularly food prices, were pivotal in the presidential elections, with Donald Trump leveraging these issues in his campaign against the Biden-Harris administration. California emerged as the most expensive state for groceries. Despite a decrease in inflation, prices remain high, affecting middle-class consumers. Factors like import costs and the Russia-Ukraine war contribute to rising food prices. Experts highlight the challenge of affording nutritious food, with a significant portion of the population identifying food costs as a major issue.

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Department of Agriculture Pew Research Center Biden-Harris Administration Help Advisor Research America

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Tom Roche


Tom Roche is an accomplished film/video editor, published author, photographer, and radio host.

From 1982-85 he was Production Manager at the pre-MTV Atlanta Video Music Channel. He then spent 26 years as Senior Editor at Crawford Media Services, the largest post house in the ...

Remembering life in an Offaly town when cows were milked in the town centre

19 Jul 2024  |  www.offalyexpress.ie  |  English  |  Irish History

The article reflects on the historical significance of small family-run dairy farms in Tullamore, Ireland, during the mid-20th century, highlighting the challenges faced by farmers due to compulsory tillage regulations. It draws parallels to contemporary issues, emphasizing the importance of sustainable farming practices and biodiversity. The author, Tom Roche, expresses support for the Green Party and Minister Pippa Hackett, advocating for policies that benefit rural communities and the environment. The article critiques current agricultural regulations and underscores the need for political representation that prioritizes environmental sustainability.

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Department of Agriculture Green Party Fianna Fail

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Juan Salinas is a journalist based in Trujillo, La Libertad, Perú.

Ag Commissioner Sid Miller’s former political consultant pleads guilty to bribery

16 Oct 2024  |  inkl  |  English  |  Political Scandal

Todd Smith, a former political consultant for Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, pleaded guilty to commercial bribery, avoiding a jury trial. Smith was accused of soliciting money to secure an exclusive hemp license from the Texas Department of Agriculture. The plea deal includes a two-year deferred adjudication, after which the case will be dismissed. Smith's past controversies include allegations of soliciting money for appointments and his wife's appointment to a high-paying department role. Miller previously suggested the indictment was politically motivated.

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Texas Department of Agriculture

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sanavver shafi is a freelance journalist based in Bhopal, India.

MP Farmers receive weevil-ridden seeds under Beej Gram Scheme

27 Nov 2024  |  groundreport.in  |  English  |  Farmer Challenges

Farmers in Madhya Pradesh are facing significant challenges due to the distribution of poor-quality, weevil-infested wheat seeds under the Beej Gram Yojana. Despite receiving a 50% subsidy, the seeds provided by the Farmers Welfare and Agriculture Department and sourced from the Seed Corporation have been criticized for their substandard quality. Farmers like Ajay Singh and Dinesh Gurjar express frustration over the lack of action from authorities and the financial burden of purchasing market seeds. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare's inspections have highlighted the need for better implementation of the scheme, focusing on high-quality seed distribution and proper storage protocols. The situation is exacerbated by previous losses from unseasonal rains and fertilizer shortages, leaving farmers in a precarious position during the Rabi sowing season.

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Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Farmers Welfare and Agriculture Department Seed Corporation MP Directorate of Pulses Development

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Elizabeth Walsh is a journalist based in Los Angeles, United States of America.

Idaho’s mint industry faces crisis as fungal disease, nematodes take toll

31 Jul 2024  |  The Times-News  |  English  |  Economic Impact

Idaho's mint industry, valued at $21 million, faces a significant threat from Verticillium wilt, a fungal disease exacerbated by nematodes. This has led to a $4 million drop in sales and reduced acreage for mint farming. Experts like Joe Weitz and Saad Hafez highlight the challenges of treating these pathogens, which are costly and often ineffective. The spread of nematodes and the lack of sufficient treatment options for Verticillium wilt pose ongoing challenges. As demand for U.S. mint declines, farmers are less inclined to invest in expensive treatments, though labeling products as U.S.-grown could potentially boost demand.

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U.S. Department of Agriculture University of Idaho

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