Today’s Harvest Blog

Today’s Harvest is a valued, timely resource for stories, news, tips and information relevant to Northeast agriculture and our customers.
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Latest From Today's Harvest Blog

Farm Credit

Employee Spotlight: A Day in the Life of Tax Specialist Phil Murphy

Elisabeth Olcott

As a tax specialist with Farm Credit East's Financial Accounting Services (FAS) team, Phil helps agricultural businesses navigate everything from annual tax preparation and year-end planning to farm transitions and succession planning. While tax season is certainly a busy time, his work extends far beyond April deadlines. 

November 3, 2026

Photo of Phil Murphy, Fam Credit East Tax Specialist

Latest Tax Talk

Close-up of a fuel pump showing diesel and gasoline grade buttons, with the Tax Talks logo.
Tax Talks
Update: Diesel Fuel Tax Provisions

Earlier this month, Executive Order, Emergency Tax Relief on Diesel Fuel, was signed by the President with the purpose of deferring certain diesel fuel tax payment obligations and to provide penalty relief. As a result, the IRS acted and indicated it will not impose a penalty when dyed diesel fuel is sold for use or used on highways nationwide. 


October 22, 2026

Today's Harvest Blog

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Business Tips and Tools
Protecting yourself from Tax Scams in 2026

Tax season is a busy time — and unfortunately, it’s also a peak season for fraud scams. From fake IRS messages to misleading “tax tips” on social media, fraudsters often rely on urgency and confusion to trick people into sharing personal or financial information. 

March 19, 2026

Close view of purple red grapes on a vine ready for harvest in a vineyard
Business Tips and Tools
Key Financial Metrics Every Winery Should Track

Running a modern winery takes far more than producing exceptional wine. Financial discipline is essential for long term success. Today’s most resilient wineries use data-driven strategies to strengthen margins, sustain growth and remain competitive. Understanding key performance indicators (KPIs) can help wineries make smarter decisions and protect profitability.

March 17, 2026

Caucasian man farmer standing in field with tablet device in hands and showing something to woman on screen.
Crop Insurance
Navigating Crop Insurance: Crop Insurance Roles Defined

Crop insurance is a vital tool for farmers and agribusinesses, helping to protect against financial losses caused by natural disasters and unpredictable market shifts. Understanding how crop insurance works — and the key organizations involved — empowers producers to make informed decisions about managing risk and safeguarding their livelihoods.

March 13, 2026

Harvested oysters in a mesh basket by body of water
Ag Economy
The Road Ahead for Oyster Growers: Trends, Risks and Opportunities for 2026

The U.S. oyster industry’s current landscape is shaped by decades of regulatory progress, rapid production innovations and shifting market pressures. As growers head into 2026, understanding the forces behind today’s rules, technologies and economic trends is essential for making informed business decisions. In a recent Farm Credit East webinar, Bob Rheault, executive director of East Coast Shellfish Growers Association, shared the key challenges and opportunities for the oyster industry. 

March 10, 2026

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