b'sequencing methodology with Illuminas sequenc- to higher ethanol blends and building strong relation-ing technology to provide innovative solutions forships to achieve these goals.researchers and breeders in the Asia Pacific (excluding China) and Latin America. Researchers at the USDA Agricultural Research Services Northern Plains Agricultural Research The USDA projects a potential 22% increase in globalLaboratory in Sidney, Montana, found that continu-soybean trade due to population growth in the Globalous cropping systems can maintain crop yields and South and rising biodiesel demand. This trend issignificantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in semi-boosting soybean value, particularly in South Dakota.arid regions. The 34-year study evaluated long-term Researchers at South Dakota State University aredryland cropping systems in the northern Great Plains, using CRISPR gene-editing technology to analyzefocusing on practices that eliminate summer fallow over 1,000 soybean genomes to identify hormoneperiods to enhance sustainability and reduce emis-genes linked to nodule numbers and delayed matura- sions.tion. These traits will be incorporated into high-yield soybean cultivars in collaboration with breeders. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a nearly $121 million investment to support research and Kenneth R. Hartman Jr., a corn farmer from Waterloo,Extension activities for specialty crop and organic Illinois, has officially begun his term as president of theagriculture producers. This includes $70.4 million for National Corn Growers Association. He outlined thespecialty crop research and $50.5 million for organic economic challenges facing corn growers and com- farmers. The funding, part of the National Institute mitted to advocating for a comprehensive farm bill,of Food and Agricultures Specialty Crop Research expanding market opportunities, and addressing tariffInitiative, aims to foster innovation in these sectors, impacts on agricultural supplies. Hartman also empha- which include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, sized the importance of increasing consumer accessand horticultural products. SW100/ SEEDWORLD.COMDECEMBER 2024'