• Tenderness and perishability of specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursey crops and herbs;
• Specialized handling and transport equipment with temperature and humidity control;
• Packaging to prevent damage;
• Moving perishables to market quickly; and
• Higher labor costs.

MASC covers the following commercially marketed specialty crops grown in the US:

• Fruits (fresh, dried);
• Vegetables (including dry edible beans and peas, mushrooms, and vegetable seed);
• Tree nuts;
• Nursery crops, Christmas trees, and floriculture;
• Culinary and medicinal herbs and spices; and
• Honey, hops, maple sap, tea, turfgrass, and grass seed.

The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) has received reports of a large number of reported missing and harmed livestock in the state this year, adding to an alarming trend that has been increasing over the past few years.

“Our department has been investigating a substantial amount of cases of missing livestock and suspicious livestock deaths this year,” said Leann Hunting, UDAF animal industry director. “While we don’t know the exact cause of the increase in cases, it is very concerning and we want to raise awareness of these happenings.”

As of July 2022, UDAF has received missing livestock reports for 77 cattle, five horses/mules, and one sheep/goat; of those 83 animals, seven have been found. The department has also received seven reports of suspicious livestock deaths that are currently under investigation.Historical trends indicate that a rise in these occurrences are expected to increase into the fall months. Livestock producers should be vigilant and herds should be monitored closely. Any instances of missing or harmed livestock should be reported to the local brand inspector.

UDAF is asking the public to be vigilant and watch for any suspicious activity. A reward of $20,000 is offered for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person involved in the theft, mutilation, or malicious killing of livestock. Reports can be made to the UDAF livestock investigator at 435-419-0021.

Announcing the second episode of our brand new UDAF Animated Series!

For most people, when it comes to water and agriculture there are a lot of unknowns, myths, and misconceptions. Check out our latest animation to learn more about agricultural water use and how UDAF is working to help farmers improve water efficiency.

Applications for the next round of Water Optimization grant funding open August 1 – September 1.

Watch our newest episode here:

As we head into the summer months, click here to view the most up-to-date version of UDAF’s Hay and Drought Resource Page.

Announcing the first episode of our brand new UDAF Animated Series.  We’re excited for this new platform to share what we do, our goals, new stories and have a little fun!

Watch the first one here: