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Agriculture

Farm Bureau report: Iowa consumers worry about government-caused increases in food costs

The Iowa Farm Bureau’s latest food and farm index found that among concerns of the high cost of groceries, the overwhelming majority of Iowa grocery shoppers surveyed are concerned about increases to food prices caused by government regulations.  The annual survey, conducted by the Harris Poll, also found that more consumers are seeking locally grown […]

Nearly half of Iowa corn acres planted

Despite another week of rainy conditions, which left an average of just over three days suitable for field work, Iowa farmers have more corn and soybeans in the ground than this time last year.  Corn planted in the state reached 49%, which is three days ahead of 2024 planting but two days behind the average.  […]

Making sex deadly for insects could control pests that carry disease and harm crops

In the toxic male technique, genetically engineered male insects would implant semen containing toxic venom into the female insects during mating.
Mosquitoes cause around a million deaths per year. So, scientists are coming up with genetic engineering techniques that could lower their numbers.

Agriculture secretary oversees food production, rural life, and nutrition programs that help millions afford healthy diets

A farmer harvests corn near McIntire, Iowa, on Oct. 31, 2023.
The USDA oversees food production and much more. However, it has little direct power to reduce food prices – a centerpiece of President Trump’s campaign.
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The Tour de France is one of the most physically taxing sporting feats imaginable.
Tour de France: How many calories will the winner burn?
Riders in the 2022 Tour de France will ride more than 2,100 miles (3,400 km) over the 21 flat and mountainous stages of the race. And they will burn an incredible amount of energy while doing so.
Lionel Messi celebrates with fans after Argentina won the FIFA World Cup championship in 2022 in Qatar.
2026 FIFA World Cup expansion will have a big climate footprint, with matches from Mexico to Canada – here’s what fans can do
Big sports events face a sustainability conundrum: They’re under pressure to grow bigger, but at the same time, their athletes are dealing with increasingly dangerous heat and shorter snow seasons.
Cyber-safe summer: How to travel smart and stay secure
(BPT) - Summer is in full swing, and with it the thrill of travel. Whether you're chasing sunsets, road-tripping with friends or exploring new places, the last thing you want is a scam ruining the …
Former Navy SEALs are diving to save the ocean
Reasons to be Cheerful reports on Force Blue, where veterans use their skills for marine conservation, healing both ocean and themselves.
Are you covered? Why renters insurance is more important than ever
(BPT) - Renting your home? You're not alone. According to Pew Research, more than 44 million households in the U.S. were rented in 2024 — that's more than one-third of all homes. And the number …
Rising from obscurity: Unique baby names gaining sudden popularity in 2025
Spokeo reports unique baby names like Truce and Azaiah are rising in popularity in 2025, reflecting cultural shifts and parental values.
Considering anesthesia for a tattoo? What anesthesiologists say you need to know
(BPT) - Tattoos have gone mainstream — about one in three U.S. adults has at least one. Some people consider the pain of getting a tattoo part of the experience or a rite of passage. Others may …
How to power the AI economy while supporting local communities
Bloom Energy reports on how onsite power, like fuel cells, can support AI's energy needs while minimizing costs and pollution for local communities.
Variety is the sauce of life.
3 basic ingredients, a million possibilities: How small pizzerias succeed with uniqueness in an age of chain restaurants
While economic forces have streamlined many global dishes into uniform, predictable formats, pizza continues to thrive in all its messy and delicious variety.
5 ways to help make more affordable (and sustainable) choices at the pharmacy
(BPT) - Health care essentials like over-the-counter (OTC) products can quickly add up and eat into your budget. Whether you're buying pain medication to manage headaches or antibiotic ointment for …