USDA Picks Grain Inspectors for Key US Heartland Hubs

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.

2026-19174, Oranges, Grapefruit, Tangerines, and Pummelos Grown in Florida; Continuance Referendum

Florida citrus growers who produced oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, or pummelos between August 2025 and July 2026 will vote from October 19 to November 9, 2026, on whether to keep the current marketing rules that help manage their fruit sales. This vote decides if the marketing order stays in place, which affects how their fruit is handled and marketed. The results could impact how these growers do business and possibly their earnings.

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: 2026-20094, SMR, LLC; Palisades SMR, LLC; Pioneer Units 1 and 2; Phased Construction Permit Application-Limited Work Authorization

SMR, LLC and its subsidiary Palisades SMR, LLC, part of Holtec International, have applied for a phased construction permit to build two new small nuclear reactors called Pioneer Units 1 and 2 in Michigan. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission started announcing this application on October 1, 2026, allowing limited early work while the full review happens. This move could boost local jobs and energy but will take time and investment to complete.

Next: 2026-20099, Agency Information Collection Activities: Requests for Comments; Clearance of a New Approval of Information Collection: Special Purpose Pilot Authorization, § 61.77 Application

The FAA is asking for public feedback on a new form pilots must fill out to get special permission to fly U.S. planes leased by non-U.S. citizens. This new process helps the FAA decide who qualifies for this special pilot authorization. Comments are due by November 2, 2026, and the goal is to make sure the form is clear and not too much work for pilots.