Agriculture

The average age of farmers is increasing as young aspiring farmers face financial barrier to starting up.

And, diversity is still a challenge in the agricultural industry. According to the census, 95 percent of American farmers are white and on average, are just over 58 years old.

The Associated Press uncovered a workforce of prisoners producing hundreds of millions of dollars worth of agricultural products and goods by popular food brands.

The current bill, which funds everything from crop insurance to nutrition programs, was set to expire back in September. Congress gave itself a yearlong extension to negotiate an update — but it could take even longer than that.

There’s been more than $3 billion pledged toward making global food systems more resilient in the face of climate change.

Some farmers say their business models depend on the crop insurance and getting rid of the program would drive up food prices.

If an extension or replacement bill isn't passed by the new year, there could be major consequences for farmers and consumers.

"I thought I'm gonna have so much income," said April Hemmes. "But all my inputs were all that much higher."

In August, agricultural exports were about 20% lower than the same time a year ago, according to the Commerce Department. That's because export volumes have fallen, and ag prices are coming off of recent highs.

After a cold spring and unseasonably hot and dry summer, Patrick Smith of Yakima is seeing some abnormalities in when his crops mature.