agriculture

As the end to the government shutdown seems near, Gov. Janet Mills directed Maine DHHS to start sending benefits to eligible households. Though advocates say the Trump Administration's handling of the crisis caused chaos.

Best known for its long-range weather forecasts, the 208-year-old publication is widely read by farmers and those who want to live off the land.

Every year in the early weeks of fall, Aroostook County potato farmers race to dig up their fields before the first frosts hit. Since at least the 1940s, students get a break from school to help out during the busy season.

According to a recent survey from the University of Maine, around half of farmers and fisherman in Maine say they struggle to access health care due to costs and availability in rural areas.

While some parts of Maine saw rain over the weekend, drought conditions are still in effect. They're affecting all types of crops — from apples to potatoes to wild blueberries. But the biggest challenge may be for farmers who grow hay to feed their livestock.

Industry officials say a wet spring followed by prolonged drought has made it a difficult year for honeybees and other pollinators.

The U.S. Drought Monitor says about 80% of Maine is in some sort of drought condition.

The report from the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association finds total sales of organic products nearly doubled from 2007 to 2022, to nearly $50 million.

However, the Wild Blueberry Commission is scrambling for backup options after the Trump administration abruptly cancelled a $15.5 million irrigation infrastructure grant.

Scientists say Maine potato crops are at high risk for late blight- a destructive disease that devastated Maine's potatoes in 2009.