MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture's statistical arm says it won't issue some agricultural reports this year because of the automatic federal budget cuts taking effect.
The National Agricultural Statistics Service keeps tabs on a wide range of agricultural industries that generate billions of dollars for the U.S. economy. Its reports influence the price and supply of many products that end up on American dinner plates.
The reports being suspended this year include the agency's July tally of cattle, which is used by the beef industry, and milk production reports.
The agency posted a notice on its website Tuesday listing the reports to be cut. It says the decision was not made lightly but it was necessary given the agency's funding.
Other reports cover catfish, potatoes, rice and fruit and vegetables.