Eyes on Russia & Reviewing WIC Programs

Eyes on Russia & Reviewing WIC Programs

Eyes on Russia & Reviewing WIC Programs plus Food Forethought. I'm Greg Martin with today's Northwest Report.

Those of us who are old enough to remember the Red Threat have been watching the news lately with growing interest as more of Russia's action smack of those days gone buy. Ag leaders are also showing interest since there is a great deal of damage that could be done to exports of goods if Russia continues on their current course. There has also been some impact on the grain markets due to rising prices in the exports to the Ukraine. Canada has thrown in with the Ukraine while the EU is threatening sanctions against Russia unless they back down.

USDA will be urging a new scientific review of foods that WIC participants should be allowed to purchase under the program. The review is partially in response to concerns by the growers and marketers of white potatoes. Ag Under Secretary, Kevin Concannon.

CONCANNON: Asking them in effect to jump start the review of all foods in the WIC package, not just potatoes but the whole food package in anticipation of the renewal of the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act in 2015. So we will be starting that scientific review, independent review a year earlier than normally would have been the case.

Now with today's Food Forethought, here's Lacy Gray.

Each season has its own distinct smell, and spring is closing in. In fact, it's so close I can, well, smell it! Of course winter doesn't want to let go just yet, so she's trying one last attempt at hanging on by blasting many of us around the country with early March ice and snow. While it's nearly impossible to imagine planting a garden while you're still wearing your winter gear, there are numerous things to do outside once the snow does melt to get ready for spring. Yard cleanup is the obvious one, and clearing out leaves and such that's accumulated after raking last fall is a good place to start. Everything can benefit this time of year with some fresh air and sunshine, grass and bushes are no exception. Now would also be a perfect time to make sure yard equipment is in tip top shape by sharpening pruners, shears and loppers. Also, check your lawn mower's oil and spark plugs so that first mowing goes off without a hitch. Winter doesn't know it yet, but she's loosing the battle. I can smell it.

Thanks Lacy. That's today's Northwest Report. I'm Greg Martin on the Ag Information Network.

Previous ReportOSHA Drops Case & New Food Labels
Next ReportPEDv No Threat & Getting Aggressive with Sea Lions