California Dates Get Cheaper: Farmers' Fees Slashed to Sweet 5 Cents

2026-20095, United States Grain Standards Act Award of Designations

The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service just gave official thumbs-up to seven grain inspection groups across the U.S. These groups will keep making sure grain quality meets standards in their areas starting now, helping farmers and buyers trust their grain’s grade. If you’re in North Dakota, Omaha, Fremont, Champaign, Maryland, Enid, or Eastern Iowa, this news means smooth grain inspections ahead with no extra costs announced.

2026-19887, Almonds Grown in California; Extension of Inedible Disposition Obligation Deadline

California almond growers and handlers now have two extra months to handle inedible almonds, extending the deadline from September 30 to November 30 every year. This change helps them manage almond quality and market supply better without rushing. The new rule kicks in on October 29, 2026, giving the industry more flexibility and smoother operations.

2026-19623, National Organic Program: Notice of Intent To Extend and Revise a Previously Approved Information Collection (2027)

The USDA’s National Organic Program is planning to extend and update its paperwork rules for organic farmers and businesses through 2030. This means folks involved in organic farming will see some changes in how they report info, helping keep organic standards strong and clear. Comments on these updates are open until November 24, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up!

2026-19420, Fruit Crops; Notice of Request for Extension and Revision of a Currently Approved Information Collection

The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service wants to keep collecting info about fruit crops and make some updates to how they do it. This affects fruit growers and businesses involved in federal marketing orders. They’re asking for your thoughts by November 23, 2026, and this helps keep fruit marketing smooth without extra costs.

2026-19389, Softwood Lumber Board Assessment Rate Clarification and Changes to Membership

Starting October 22, 2026, the Softwood Lumber Board is updating how it charges fees on imported softwood lumber and changing who gets to be on the Board. If you import softwood lumber or are involved with the Board, these changes could affect your costs and membership rules. This update keeps the lumber industry running smoothly and fairly.

2026-19177, Milk in the Northeast and Other Marketing Areas; Uniform Pricing Formula Provisions

The USDA fixed a pricing mistake for milk in Morgan County, Ohio, lowering the Class I differential from $3.90 to $3.80. They also removed Shannon County, South Dakota, from the pricing table. These changes affect dairy farmers and milk buyers in these areas and take effect on September 18, 2026.

Previous: 2025-17659, Manifest Mailing System Retired

The Postal Service is retiring the old Manifest Mailing System (MMS), which means mailers will need to switch to newer ways to send their bulk mail. This change affects businesses and organizations that use MMS to handle large mailings. The update will happen soon, so get ready to save time and avoid any extra costs by moving to the new system.

Next: 2025-17715, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

If you own or work with certain Airbus AS355 helicopters, the FAA wants you to update your maintenance manuals with new safety rules. These changes make the helicopters safer by adding stricter checks and limits. You’ll need to follow these updates soon to keep flying safely and avoid any costly issues.