National Agricultural Statistics Service

Beef Cow-Calf Production Continues to be a Lifestyle Choice for Some Farmers

September 3, 2024 Jeffrey Gillespie and Christine Whitt, USDA's Amber Waves

Today’s beef cow-calf operations vary by size, occupation of the primary operator, and income. Using these distinctions, researchers identified three categories of farms for the study: rural residence, intermediate, and commercial.  …

Local Food Sales Continue to Grow Through a Variety of Marketing Channels

October 7, 2021 Stephen Martinez, USDA ERS

Local foods represent a small but growing share of the U.S. food system—one reflection of consumers’ increasing influence on food production. Local food producers sell their goods directly to consumers at places such as farmers markets, on-farm stores, or pick-your-own stores. …