The FBI is warning agriculture against data breaches that may expose farming data through internet-connected farming equipment. The FBI, along with USDA, say farmers should be very mindful of the way they configure technology devices on the farm. The FBI says so-called “hacktivists” may be targeting farmers as a way of protesting U.S. agricultural policies. The FBI suggested farmers should ensure that companies managing farm data, including digital management tools, application developers and cloud service providers, develop cybersecurity and breach response plans.

It doesn't look good for hydroponic farmers who are growing for the organic market. Despite heavy lobbying of the Agriculture Department's National Organic Standards Board by the industry, a subcommittee of the board seems poised to recommend the USDA severely restrict or even ban hydroponic systems from gaining certification. In a presentation to the NOSB, experts said their panel has taken the position that "Hydroponic systems cannot meet key requirements for organic production" as laid out in the governing statutes and regulations.

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