For much of last year, rural areas had better unemployment numbers than metro America. Now, the tables have turned and a greater percentage of rural residents find themselves out of work.

Regulators should make it easier for telephone companies to build out the next generation of Internet-based communications services for rural America, rather than forcing them to maintain the old copper-line system. The executive vice president of the US Cattlemen's Association explains the communications needs of today's modern cowboy.

While Congress debates whether to revisit the renewable fuel standards set back in 2007, three advocates for ethanol (representing growers and refiners) argue for the positive aspects of this home-grown industry.

Farm Bureau submits new farm bill proposal • Online livestock auctions need better regulation, farmer says • Fluharty joins Agri-Pulse columnists • Rebranding potatoes.