SALMON farming is making a dramatic recovery in Orkney following a period of serious decline, according to new figures. The change has been put down to better prices, renewed confidence, new investment, a new operator and high demand. The start of the decline was attributed to the effects of worldwide low prices. Salmon production leaps on islands. The industry contributes over 1.5 million directly into island pay packets. Salmon production leaps on islands. The page is still readable....

Ministers are set to push ahead with plans to introduce genetically-modified crops across Britain, despite widespread public opposition. Officials expect the go-ahead for the commercial cultivation of GM crops to be given next year. Phil Woolas, the environment minister, said: "GM crops may be approved for cultivation here in the future, if they pass the rigorous safety assessment procedure that is in place. Officials expect the final go-ahead for the commercial cultivation of GM crops to...

Other responses included those from farming organisations, councils, organic farmers, biotechnology companies, scientific bodies and other organisations. Of the remaining 20% about 1,370 people registered a "general opposition to GM crops" while about 390 people were mainly concerned about "a perceived threat to organic farming" And farmers intending to sow GM crops would be required to notify neighbouring farmers. Chris Huhne said responses to a Defra survey show planting should not be...

But this year, obesity has become a national obsession just as Congress is embarking on one of its periodic overhauls of the nation's farm policy. In response to growing concerns about health, particularly children's health, the new five-year farm bill going before the Senate now provides a record $2 billion for specialty crops, including money to buy fruits and vegetables for school lunches and to assist organic agriculture. A kernel of truth? Nation's obese are corn-fed. The national...

The bill would boost target prices and loan rates for a variety of crops grown in North Dakota and South Dakota - including wheat, barley, oats, soybeans and minor oilseeds - when prices are low. Thune also successfully pushed language that would preserve current rules for farmers' loan deficiency payments and require the Department of Agriculture to purchase and distribute locally grown food produced by American Indians. The Senate Finance Committee passed farm legislation earlier this...