| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 1, 2023 |

Court Filing on Year-Round E15 in the Midwest Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird filed a motion for summary judgment regarding the Environmental Protection Agency’s failure to respond to a request to sell year-round E15 in Midwest states. Iowa and six other states filed an opt-out request that would allow them to sell E15. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says biofuel leaders have been more than patient. “For over a year past the statutory deadline, they’ve waited for EPA to follow the law and allow them to make E15 available in their states year-round,” she says. “They have been forced to return to court to compel EPA to do something it was required to have done by July 2022.” Skor also says in its continued decision to illegally delay acting on the governors’ request, EPA has cited fuel distribution concerns that are greatly overstated. “It’s a low-carbon fuel that saves consumers money and is better for the environment,” she adds. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Farm Sector Income Report USDA’s Economic Research Service released its annual Farm Sector Income Forecast Report for 2023 which shows lower net farm income this year. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says while net farm income will drop below the record high in 2022, it’s one of the best years on record for the overall farm sector at $151.1 billion. “In fact, net cash farm income for 2023 is 15 percent above average for the last two decades, and farm income over the 2021-2023 period represents the highest level of farm income in the last 50 years,” he says. “U.S. ag exports have also seen the three highest years on record in 2021-2023, and 2024 is projected to be the fourth-highest year on record despite potential declines.” A bright spot for farmers is that some production costs, including feed, fertilizer, and pesticides, have declined. Data also shows that off-farm income is needed to make ends meet. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Testifies at FMMO Hearing Farm Bureau Chief Economist Roger Cryan testified on behalf of the group’s membership at the Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula hearing. His testimony underscored the need for updating Class 1 and Class 2 price differentials to bring fairness for farmers back into the Federal Milk Marketing Orders. Class 1 differentials are meant to incentivize the movement of milk to where it’s demanded and assist in maintaining regional production capacity in a manner that provides consumers with consistent access to fresh milk. The Class 2 differential is meant to represent the higher value of Class 2 milk, which is used in dairy products like ice cream, cottage cheese, and sour cream, while Class 4 milk is used in butter and dairy products. “Our proposal is the reduction or elimination of negative producer price differentials and the de-pooling they cause,” Cryan said in his testimony. “An orderly pool is key for orderly marketing.” *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Hits Seven-Week Low The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output dropped to its lowest level in seven weeks, and inventories also fell during the seven days ending on November 24. The biofuel production fell to an average of 1.011 million barrels a day during the week, down from 1.023 million barrels a week earlier and the lowest level since October 6. The agency says Midwest production hit 950,000 barrels per day, down 13,000 barrels a day from the previous week. Rocky Mountain output fell to an average of 13,000 barrels a day from 14,000 a week earlier. That was all the losses as East Coast production was unchanged from the previous week at 13,000 barrels a day. Gulf Coast production rose by 1,000 barrels a day to an average of 25,000 barrels, and West Coast output rose from 9,000 to 10,000 barrels a day during the week. Ethanol stockpiles dropped to 21.37 million barrels. *********************************************************************************** Officials Secure Extension of Line Speed Trial for Pork Processing Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Representative Brad Finstad (R-MN), and House Ag Chair Glenn Thompson (R-PA) applauded the USDA’s decision to extend the line speed trial for pork processors. USDA extended the Time-Limited Trial for New Swine Inspection Systems plants but cautioned that the 30-day extension would do little to provide needed clarity for pork producers, who contract with processors many months in advance. The announcement comes after a letter requested Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack issue an extension to ensure that processing plants can continue operating at increased line speeds. “The New Swine Inspection System trial has proven safe and effective at swiftly processing hogs,” Grassley says. “While I’m happy with the extension, USDA risks creating a harmful bottleneck in the pork supply chain if the extension doesn’t go any longer.” House Ag Chair Thompson says, “It’s my hope the department operates transparently to ensure our facilities can maintain full operational capacity.” *********************************************************************************** Producer-Friendly Changes to USDA Programs The USDA has waived certain notice of loss requirements for the 2023 Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) and the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP). To streamline the access to critical 2023 natural disaster recovery assistance, the Farm Service Agency is waiving the requirement to submit ELAP or LIP notices of loss within a pre-determined number of days for 2023. Instead, producers have the flexibility to submit 2023 notices of loss as soon as possible once losses are realized following a natural disaster event or no later than the established annual program application for payment deadlines for each program. “Our goal is to get producers into those disaster programs, and they are always encouraged to turn in an application if they believe they are eligible,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Program improvements work best if we ensure producers have sufficient time and information needed to submit their applications.”

| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 1, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets Manufacturing reports arrive overnight from around the world and the Institute of Supply Management's manufacturing index for the U.S. will be released at 9 a.m. CST. At 2 p.m., USDA's NASS releases its monthly Fats and Oils report and grain traders continue to keep a close eye on weather in South America. Weather A storm system is moving through the Midwest on Friday, bringing widespread areas of moderate to heavy rain. More scattered and lighter rain is developing farther south to the Gulf of Mexico, though it could be heavier near the coast. The system does not have a lot of cold air to work with but may bring some mix of snow on its northern edge from southern Iowa through Lower Michigan through tonight. Meanwhile, the Pacific Northwest will continue to see scattered showers for the next week.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 30, 2023 |

Lawmakers Welcome Extension of Line Speed Trial for Pork Processing Facilities A group of Republican lawmakers welcome USADA’s extension for the Time-Limited Trial for New Swine Inspection System. However, they caution that the short 30-day extension would do little to provide needed certainty for pork producers, who contract with processing facilities many months in advance. The announcement comes weeks after Senator Chuck Grassley and Representative Brad Finstad led a bicameral letter requesting USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack issue the extension to ensure participating processing plants can continue operating at increased line speeds. This is the second time USDA has extended the trial at Grassley and Finstad’s urging. Grassley says, “. While I’m pleased that USDA has taken a step in the right direction by extending the program, the agency risks creating a harmful bottleneck in the pork supply chain if it fails to extend the program beyond just three months.” Finstad adds, “I will continue to urge USDA to provide certainty to our pork processors and producers by permanently allowing them to continue functioning at full operational capacity.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Changes Notice of Loss Requirements for Two Livestock Programs The Department of Agriculture has waived certain notice of loss requirements in 2023 for the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish and the Livestock Indemnity Program. In an effort to streamline assistance to support access to critical 2023 natural disaster recovery assistance, USDA’s Farm Service Agency is waiving the requirement to submit Emergency Assistance for Livestock or Livestock Indemnity Program notices of loss within a pre-determined number of days for 2023. Instead, producers have the flexibility to submit 2023 notices of loss as soon as possible, once losses are realized, following a natural disaster event or no later than the established annual program application for payment deadlines for each program. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says, “Our goal is to get producers into these disaster programs, and they are always encouraged to turn in an application if they believe they are eligible.” Contact your local Farm Service Agency office for more information. *********************************************************************************** Report: Pork exports to China surged During ASF Outbreak The 2018 spread of African swine fever to China had reverberations in the global pork market, according to new data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. ASF caused an estimated loss of 27.9 million metric tons in China's pork output from late 2018 to early 2021 and led to a doubling of China's domestic pork prices. The high prices attracted a surge of pork exports from four major suppliers—the European Union, the United States, Brazil, and Canada. While the EU was the top supplier, U.S. pork exports were sizable and reached a record high of more than 287,000 metric tons in the second quarter of 2020. Official data indicate that China's pork production returned to its pre-ASF level in 2021. While exports to China are down from their peak, China is still one of the top three overseas markets for U.S. pork, with sales in the first six months of 2023 exceeding annual totals posted in years before ASF hit China. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Yield Contest Deadline Extended The National Corn Growers association this week extended the National Corn Yield Contest Harvest Entry deadline to December 5. After considering the unique challenges that growers across the country have faced during the 2023 harvest season, NCGA moved the deadline from November 30. Contest participants can submit a harvest entry from now until 4 p.m. CT on Tuesday, December 5, at ncga.com/ncyc. Entry requirements, yield worksheets, and more information are available on that website. Participants must submit their harvest results to be included in the 2023 rankings. The 2023 National Corn Yield Contest Winner's Announcement will still take place on Wednesday, December 13. The NCGA National Corn Yield Contest has been organized to encourage the development of new, sustainable, and innovative management practices resulting in higher yields and to show the importance of using sound agricultural practices in United States corn production. Entrants must be a producer and member of the National Corn Growers Association. *********************************************************************************** Application Period Opens for Regional Agricultural Promotion Program Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced the Notice of Funding Opportunity for the first tranche of funding under the USDA's new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program. USDA is providing up to $300 million in funding in its first year to support eligible projects that enable exporters to break into new markets and increase market share in growth markets. Secretary Vilsack announced the funding at the President's Export Council, after announcing the establishment of the program in October. The effort is a $1.2 billion program made possible through the Commodity Credit Corporation, which will be made available over five years. Vilsack says, "It takes significant investment to open and develop new export markets and this new fund will be dedicated to helping provide that start-up capital." The funds are available to non-profit U.S. agricultural trade organizations, non-profit state regional trade groups, agricultural cooperatives, and state agencies that conduct approved market development activities. Applications are due in February and more information is available at grants.gov. *********************************************************************************** RFA Partners with Girls Auto Clinic for Ethanol Education The Renewable Fuels Association has partnered with the Girls Auto Clinic to bring ethanol education and promotion to a new and growing audience: women who are actively interested in auto purchasing, maintenance, and repair. Founded in 2013, Girls Auto Clinic builds and provides tools to drive knowledge and engagement to women, or "shecanics," to own their automotive experiences. The organization empowers women to be fully engaged and confident in purchasing and managing their vehicles, while also increasing the presence of women successfully and happily employed within the automotive industry. RFA Vice President for Industry Relations Robert White says, “It's important for all consumers to understand the value of American-made ethanol, as it provides critical cost savings for families and benefits for the climate and the air we breathe.” Girls Auto Clinic CEO and founder Patrice Banks adds, “with RFA's backing, we can extend our reach, empowering more women across the country to become confident drivers and smart consumers."

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 30, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be posted at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, reports on U.S. personal income and spending in October, the personal consumption expenditures index for October and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 10 a.m. Weather A storm system is building in the Southern Plains on Thursday, which will bring scattered showers and thunderstorms during the day. The storm system will spread into the Ohio Valley tonight through Friday. Precipitation amounts could be moderate and there is a small risk for accumulating snow on the northern edge of the system from parts of Kansas to Michigan tonight through early Saturday.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 29, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on third-quarter U.S. GDP will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Wednesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will follow at 9:30 a.m. with an update of ethanol production. Traders continue to keep close watch on South American weather. Weather A warm front is bringing some light snow to the Great Lakes on Wednesday, but also much warmer air than Tuesday to much of the country east of the Rockies. Another cold front will drop south out of Canada tonight, though, with slightly cooler air to follow for Thursday across the north.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 29, 2023 |

Growth Rate of Ag Output Continues Slowdown In the last decade, the world’s agricultural output grew at an average annual rate of 1.94 percent per year. A USDA report says that’s slower than the 2.74 percent output growth rate over the previous decade and below the average annual rate of 2.3 percent during the last six decades. The slowdown in agricultural growth was primarily tied to a slowing rate of growth in agricultural total factor productivity, or TFP. The world agriculture’s TFP fell to 1.14 percent per year from 2011-2021 compared to 1.93 percent per year during the previous decade. TFP measures the amount of agricultural output produced from the aggregated inputs used in the production process, including land, labor, capital, and material resources. There are four major sources of overall growth, such as bringing more land into production, extending irrigation to land, intensifying capital use, labor, and material inputs per unit of land, and improving TFP. *********************************************************************************** Groups Respond to Small Refinery Exemptions Decision A coalition representing farmers and ethanol producers responded to last week’s decision of the Fifth Circuit Court on Small Refinery Exemptions under the Renewable Fuels Standard. The Court remanded to the Environmental Protection Agency its rejection of six small refinery exemption requests. The coalition that includes the Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, the American Coalition for Ethanol, and the National Farmers Union says they are disappointed by the decision and will continue to defend the Renewable Fuel Standard. “We will continue fighting the illegal abuse of small refinery exemptions,” the groups said in a statement. “As other federal courts have determined, the RFS does not impose an economic burden on oil refiners because any compliance costs are passed down the supply chain.” The groups also say the refiners’ lawsuit wasn’t about economic hardship but more about oil refineries doing everything they could to dodge legal obligations to blend renewable fuels. *********************************************************************************** Grant Applications for Improving School Meals Are Open Applications are now open for the School Food Systems Transformation Challenge Sub-Grants, which is a part of USDA’s Healthy Meals Incentives Initiative. USDA says the grants will transform the K-12 school food marketplace by increasing collaboration between school districts, food producers, suppliers, distributors, and community partners. Students can expect to see improvements in the quality of food on their plates thanks to these new efforts. All eligible applicants are encouraged to consider applying for one or both of the grant opportunities. The first is the Supporting Community Agriculture and Local Education Systems (SCALES) Grant, and the second is Partnerships for Local Agriculture and Nutrition in Schools (PLANTS.) SCALES projects are designed to increase the procurement of locally sourced foods by developing partnerships between schools and producers as well as growers and processors. PLANT projects will support regional efforts to expand scratch-cooked meal programs and create sustainable change for all school districts. *********************************************************************************** Variety Crop Trial Results are Now Available The Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station and the College of Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences have published the 2023 Minnesota Field Crop Trials. Crops included in this year’s trial include barley, canola, corn grain, oats, soybeans, spring wheat, winter rye, and winter wheat. The University of Minnesota field crop trials are done every year to provide unbiased and trustworthy information to help farmers when they are ready to make seed choices. The annual Field Crop Trials are one of the key ways that the University of Minnesota works to bring valuable research into the hands of farmers and ultimately help improve farm profitability, improve the economy, and the overall quality of life for farmers and rural communities. Since the late 1880s, the U of M has published reports of crop variety trials, but it wasn’t until 1948 that the trials were combined into a single annual publication. Go to varietytrials.umn.edu. *********************************************************************************** Export Inspections Decline for Corn, Beans, and Wheat The USDA says inspections of corn, soybeans, and wheat all turned lower during the week ending on November 23. Corn inspections dropped to almost 406,700 metric tons from just over 601,000 a week earlier. That’s still above the 311,700 tons assessed during the same week in 2022. Soybean assessments for export fell to 1.44 million tons from 1.63 million the previous week. That’s well below the 2.3 million tons examined during the same week last year. Wheat inspections dropped to 276,600 tons, down from 366,400 tons during the previous week. It’s also lower than the amount of wheat assessed for export during the same week in 2022. Since the start of the marketing year on September 1, the government has inspected 7.27 million metric tons of corn, down from 5.82 million last year. Soybean inspections are at 17.5 million tons, while wheat assessments are two million lower than last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Report Shows Full Impact of ASF in China An Economic Research Service report shows the full impact of African Swine Fever in China, and the impact was likely more than Chinese officials reported. The agency’s report investigated how China’s reduced pork supplies affected other pork-exporting countries. The virus moved from Europe to China and spread rapidly throughout the country, leading to a 30-month cycle of decline and recovery between 2018 and 2021. China lost an estimated 27.9 million metric tons of its pork production during that 30-month cycle. Pork prices in China more than doubled, with most of the increase occurring about a year after the initial outbreaks. A total of 31 countries saw surging pork exports to China during the down cycle. Impacts on pork markets outside of China were relatively modest. Increases in pork prices in leading exporters like the U.S., Germany, and Spain, were relatively brief and much smaller than the price increases in China.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 28, 2023 |

USMCA Panel Limits U.S. Dairy Access in Canada Late last week, a U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dispute panel allowed Canada to continue restricting dairy access that the U.S. negotiated for under the agreement. The action came after an earlier panel ruled in January 2022 that Canada had improperly restricted access to its market for American dairy products. American agriculture leaders and groups reacted negatively to the decision. “It’s profoundly disappointing that the dispute settlement panel chose obstruction rather than facilitation in trade,” says Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation. “We urge USDA and the USTR to look at all available options to ensure that Canada stops playing games with trade agreements.” Krysta Harden, president and CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council, says this isn’t the only shortcoming in Canada’s international commitments. “We are committed to working with USTR and USDA to address Canada’s harmful actions that help evade USMCA dairy export disciplines,” she says. *********************************************************************************** More Reaction from USMCA Dairy Decision U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai said two of the three USMCA dispute panel members found that Canada’s dairy import policies don’t breach its commitments under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement. “I’m very disappointed by the findings in the USMCA panel report on Canada’s dairy TRQ allocation measures,” Tai says. “While the United States won a previous USMCA dispute on Canada’s dairy TRQ allocations, Canada’s revised policies still haven’t fixed the problem for U.S. dairy farmers.” In the dispute panel’s report, it found that Canada’s measures are not inconsistent with the USMCA provisions cited by the U.S. The panel split on the U.S. claims that Canada’s exclusion of retailers, food service operators, and others from eligibility and its historical market share approach to allocating dairy TRQs breach its obligations. House Ag Committee Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) says, “It’s critical we enforce USMCA as this decision allows Canada to continue with its protectionist practices.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Making Investments in U.S. Food Chains Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is making investments to strengthen American food and agriculture supply chains, expand markets for producers, and lower food costs. “We’re using these investments in agricultural producers and rural entrepreneurs to create better economic opportunities that bolster food supply chains across the country and increase competition,” Vilsack says. “This will result in more affordable prices and choices for consumers, as well as more opportunities and revenues for farmers.” USDA is making investments in 185 projects worth nearly $196 million to create new and better market opportunities in states like Arizona, Illinois, New York, 34 other states, and Puerto Rico. Today’s announcement was made as part of the inaugural meeting of the new White House Council on Supply Chain Resilience. The goal is to lower costs for American families and increase investments in American supply chains that are critical to economic and national security. *********************************************************************************** Jury Rules that Egg Producers Conspired to Fix Prices An Illinois jury found that several of the country’s major egg producers conspired to limit America’s supply of eggs in order to raise prices in a case that began in a federal lawsuit 12 years ago. Several large food manufacturing companies in the lawsuit filed in 2011 said producers used various means to limit the U.S. domestic supply of eggs to increase the price of eggs and egg products during the 2000s. “We are incredibly pleased that the jury held egg producers Cal-Maine Foods and Rose Acre Farms accountable alongside United Egg Producers and United States Egg Marketers for conspiring to inflate the price of eggs,” says Brandon Fox, an attorney for the food manufacturers. Damages will be decided during a trial this week. The jury found the egg suppliers exported eggs to reduce the overall supply in the domestic market and limited the number of chickens available for laying eggs. *********************************************************************************** Nominations are Open for USB’s Legacy Award The United Soybean Board announced a call for nominations for the Tom Oswald Legacy Award. In its second year, this award honors the late Tom Oswald, who will always be remembered as a passionate farmer-leader and dedicated volunteer. The award recognizes someone who went above and beyond to move research and promotion investments forward in a conventional way. “Within our soy community, we are fortunate to have leaders who ensure we’re stewarding farmer checkoff dollars to their full potential,” says Meagan Kaiser, USB Chair. “We look forward to getting numerous worthy nominations and eagerly await the opportunity to celebrate an exceptional leader who’s leading the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future for U.S. soy farmers.” If you know an organization, group, or individual that should be recognized for their efforts and passion for the industry, visit the USB website to submit a nomination. Nominations close on January 8, 2024. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Announces Keynote Speaker at 2024 Convention Greg Harden, a best-selling author and former associate athletic director of student counseling at the University of Michigan, will be the keynote speaker at the 2024 Farm Bureau convention. He’ll address attendees during the closing session of the annual convention on Monday, January 22. Harden counseled more than 400 student-athletes, including names like Super Bowl champion Tom Brady, Heisman Trophy winners Desmond Howard and Charles Woodson, and Olympic swimming champion Michael Phelps. “Persistent, patient, and resilient are among the traits that professional athletes share with farmers and ranchers,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “That’s why Greg’s message about coaching and mentorship is so timely.” Duvall also says the lineup for the entire convention is outstanding. In addition to guest speakers and exciting competitions, they’ll host important conversations about top priorities for U.S. agriculture, including the farm bill. The 105th AFBF convention is in Salt Lake City, Utah, January 19-24, 2024.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 28, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are not many reports Tuesday, but there is a report on U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. CST. Traders continue to closely watch South American weather and could be jumpy after Monday's new lows in corn, wheat and livestock. Weather Cold air moving over the Great Lakes continues to produce lake-effect snow Tuesday, leading to some hefty amounts in some of the more prone areas. The rest of the country will be more quiet. Though it is cold this morning in the Plains, temperatures are forecast to increase significantly this afternoon.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 27, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Slight Warming and Markets Return to Full Time 1. Ag Summit approaches: We're in full swing on registration for our 2023 DTN Virtual Ag Summit, Dec. 5-6. The two half-day sessions will be packed with quick-to-digest presentations on business-critical topics from changing farmland values to finances, interest rates and global economics. 2. Warming trend: While lake-effect snows will continue around the Great Lakes, The Plains will be turn drier and most of the country will see warmer-than-normal temperatures as El Nino conditions continue to build. For longer-term conditions, don't miss DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick's 2024 forecast on Dec. 6 during the DTN Virtual Ag Summit. 3. Volunteers with a view: DTN's Crops Technology Editor Pamela Smith is starting the search for candidates for our annual View From the Cab stories. That highly popular series discusses what's going on in the world of two farm operations, and kicks off just ahead of spring planting. . 4. Watching for awakening markets: As traders come back from the holiday-shortened week, we're watching wheat prices and any surprises from South America. 5. Todd Hultman, will be talking about corn and soybean markets at the Greater Peoria Farm Show through Thursday. Information on that event is here: 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday features a report on new U.S. home sales in October at 9 a.m., followed by USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections at 10 a.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. On Tuesday, we'll watch the U.S. consumer confidence report set for 9 a.m. Then Wednesday sees the report on third-quarter U.S. GDP, out at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be released at 9:30 a.m. Thursday starts with USDA's weekly export sales report, posted at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, reports on U.S. personal income and spending in October, the personal consumption expenditures index for October and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 10 a.m. On Friday, manufacturing reports arrive overnight from around the world and the Institute of Supply Management's index for the U.S. is released at 9 a.m. At 2 p.m., USDA's NASS releases its monthly Fats and Oils report.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 27, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to keep watch over South American weather. A report on new U.S. home sales in October will be out at 9 a.m. CST Monday, followed by USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections at 10 a.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. CFTC data for the week ended Nov. 21 will also be released Monday afternoon. Weather Colder air east of the Rockies is leading to some lake-effect snows around the Great Lakes for Monday. Overnight lows have become especially cold around the snow that fell in the Central and Southern Plains over the holiday weekend. That snow will slowly melt away this week.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 24, 2023 |

Most States Saw Growth in Net Farm Income During 2022 The U.S. saw growth of almost 31 percent in net farm income from 2021 through 2022. NFI is a broad measure of farm sector profitability. Researchers with USDA’s Economic Research Service used data from the Farm Income and Wealth Statistics to classify states into six categories of NFI changes. The five agricultural states with the highest NFI include Texas, which had the highest NFI growth at 65 percent from 2021 to 2022, followed by Minnesota at 55.7 percent. Growth in the remaining top five states, including California, Iowa, and Illinois was also strong. Other states among the top 25 for average NFI had a wide range of NFI changes from 2021 to 2022. Many showed strong growth, such as Idaho at 116 percent, Georgia at 104 percent, Florida at just over 100 percent, and North Dakota at 76 percent. However, Kansas and Washington NFI fell 23 and 28 percent, respectively. *********************************************************************************** Study Proves U.S. Corn Superiority The U.S. Grains Council released its second annual Corn Origins Report, which explores the performance of U.S. corn against corn from other countries in poultry diets. U.S., Argentinian, and Brazilian corn samples were collected from an international feed company in Colombia for use in the study. The study found that birds fed diets with U.S. corn consumed less feed throughout the entire grow-out phase compared to those fed Argentinian or Brazilian corn. The lower feed conversion rates in the poultry fed U.S. corn translated into significant long-term cost savings. Depending upon the number of poultry produced, the savings could be very large. The study was done to address customer concerns about the fragility of U.S. corn and the breakage occurring during the export process. “We found that U.S. corn, despite its fragility, outperforms other origins in terms of digestible starch,” says Kurt Schultz, senior director of Global Strategies for USGC. *********************************************************************************** Horizon Organic Suspends Milk from Texas Farm Danone’s (DA-nun’s) Horizon Organic brand says it has suspended all sourcing of milk from Texas supplier Lone Star Organic Dairy. The move comes after People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals released a whistleblower’s report appearing to show animal suffering and deaths at the operation. PETA shared its findings with USDA and asked the agency to investigate Lone Star Organic Dairy and revoke its organic qualification for any violations that it confirms. Agriculture Dive says Horizon Organic is the second big dairy brand to be hit by animal abuse allegations in the last several months. Tyler Holm, general manager of Horizon Organic, says, “We are deeply disturbed to see the videos and photos shared by PETA. The care and welfare of cows are a critical part of our company and brand values. We take these allegations seriously.” Danone didn’t say what percentage of milk that Lone Star Contributes to the Horizon brand. *********************************************************************************** Minneapolis Fed Releases Third Quarter Survey Results Heading into harvest in the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Banks’ District, farmers faced lower incomes because of falling commodity prices and rising production costs. A third-quarter survey of ag bankers showed that while incomes fell, the decline wasn’t uniform. Districtwide, 46 percent of agricultural lenders said incomes dropped in the third quarter from a year earlier, up from 35 percent in the second quarter. More than a third of the bankers said farm household spending increased, while slightly more than half reported no change. Capital spending also dropped as 35 percent of the bankers saw decreased investment in equipment and buildings from a year ago, compared to 21 percent who reported increased spending. “Interest rates are slowing down borrowing and capital purchases as cash flows are under more stress,” a Minnesota banker reported. Farm finances remained in good condition despite the negative hit to income. Loan repayment rate held steady. *********************************************************************************** Deere Fourth-Quarter Sales Drop Slightly Deere & Co. sales in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023 fell year-over-year, though the earnings per share did increase. The company says in a report that revenue in the three months ending on September 30 was reported at $15.41 billion, one percent lower than the same quarter last year. The equipment manufacturer also says earnings rose to $8.26 a share from $7.44 a year earlier. Production and precision agriculture sales in the fourth quarter fell six percent to $6.97 billion. Small agriculture and turf revenue was down 13 percent year-over-year to $3.09 billion, and construction and forestry sales rose 11 percent to $3.74 billion. “Production and precision agriculture sales decreased in the fourth quarter due to lower shipment volumes partially offset by price realization,” Deere says. Full-year sales for Deere jumped 16 percent to $61.25 billion, while earnings came in at $34.63 a share versus $23.28 a year earlier. *********************************************************************************** NCGA, BASF Announce 16th Annual Scholarship Program The National Corn Growers Association and BASF have partnered for another year to provide scholarships to undergraduate students passionate about agriculture. Over the past sixteen years, more than 80 undergraduate students have received scholarship funds to aid them in pursuing higher education. “BASF has been a long-standing partner in support of this program, and we are grateful for the commitment to building up the next generation of leaders in our industry,” says Dan Nerud, chair of NCGA’s Member and Consumer Engagement Action Team. “Our grower members are passionate about this program, and we are excited for another year of supporting students who share our passion for agriculture.” The William C. Berg Academic Excellence Undergraduate Scholarship is open to NCGA members and their children pursuing an undergraduate degree in any field. A completed application must be submitted by January 31, 2024. Scholarships are for one year, and previous recipients may not apply.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 24, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be posted at 7:30 a.m. CST on Black Friday, a day known more for store bargains and football games. U.S. grain and livestock futures commence trading at 8:30 a.m. for a short holiday session that has most grain and livestock contracts closed by 12:05 p.m. South American weather will remain the focus for any traders of corn and soybeans that show up for work. Weather A cold front continues to sag south through the country Friday, bringing in a burst of seasonably cold air. In the cold, snow has developed in the central Rockies and Central Plains, which continues Friday. Some bursts and streaks of heavier snow will be possible going into the weekend in these areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 22, 2023 |

Groups Express Concern About Disaster Relief Changes The National Corn Growers and 16 state-affiliated associations joined more than 140 allied national, regional, and state commodity organizations opposing changes to USDA disaster relief. The groups sent a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack relaying their concerns with the design of the Emergency Relief Program for 2022. While the group showed appreciation for the allocation of $3.74 billion in much-needed ERP assistance, the groups expressed serious concerns with changes. The biggest change is a “progressive factor” that reduces the disaster assistance for many eligible growers based on the size of the losses. USDA also changed the method used to incorporate producer-paid insurance premiums. “In the case of the progressive payment factor, we oppose a policy that delivers the least amount of benefit to those who have lost the most outside of the payment limits provided in the statute,” the letter says. “Support should be equitable for losses of all magnitudes.” *********************************************************************************** Cattle on Feed Up Two Percent The USDA’s November 1 Cattle on Feed Report says cattle numbers were two percent higher than the previous report. Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 1.19 million head on November 1, 2023. That inventory total was two percent higher than on November 1, 2022. Placements in feedlots during October totaled 2.16 million head, four percent higher than in 2022. Net placements were 2.11 million head. During October, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds hit 550,000 head, 600-699 pounds totaled 470,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 465,000 head, and 800-899 pounds were 394,000 head. Cattle weighing 900-999 pounds totaled 205,000 head, and 1,000 pounds and greater were 80,000 head. Fed cattle marketings during October totaled 1.76 million head, three percent lower than in 2022. Other disappearances totaled 55,000 head, two percent higher than last year. *********************************************************************************** Strengthening Agriculture’s Talent Pipeline Agriculture Future of America and the National FFA Organization made their partnership official. The groups signed a Memorandum of Understanding during AFA’s Leaders Conference in November. The MOU cements the bond that existed between the two groups and underscores a shared commitment to developing and empowering the next generation of leaders. “AFA and FFA have similar goals and values regarding the role of school-based agricultural education,” says Scott Stump, CEO of the National FFA Organization. One of the primary objectives of this partnership is to create a seamless pathway for young individuals who are passionate about agriculture to transition from FFA to AFA. By doing so, they’ll get access to a wide array of leadership development opportunities, scholarships, internships, membership programs, and job opportunities. FFA and AFA also intend to collaborate on various projects and initiatives that promote agricultural education and leadership, including the chance to interact with experienced professionals *********************************************************************************** Partnership to Create Jobs and Growth in Rural America USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (zo-CHEEL) Torres Small announced that the agency is strengthening a longstanding partnership with the Small Business Administration. The goal is to create jobs and expand access to new and better market opportunities for people in rural America. “We’re redoubling our commitment to drive economic security and prosperity for people in rural America, so they can find opportunities to succeed right in the places they call home,” Torres Small says. “Strengthening our collaboration with the SBA helps us expand these opportunities for people to build brighter futures for generations to come.” The agencies are committing to increase investments in small and underserved communities to help grow the rural economy. They may also work together to provide joint trainings, technical assistance, and mentorship opportunities for rural small business owners and entrepreneurs. They may also help producers and small businesses identify ways to export their products around the world. *********************************************************************************** Dairy FARM Program Announces Excellence Award Winners The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program announced the winners of the third annual FARM Excellence Awards. The FARM Program recognized three farms and one evaluator who go above and beyond industry standards through their commitment to innovation and improvement. The 2023 Excellence Award winners are Ingleside Dairy Farm of Virginia and Newmont Farm in Vermont, and Jim Kaufman of AMPI was named the Evaluator Award winner. The FARM Excellence Award for Environmental Stewardship was awarded to a Dairy Farmers of America farm that wished to remain unnamed. “The FARM Program would not be able to demonstrate the high quality of U.S. dairy without the dedication of our producers and evaluators,” says FARM Program Executive Director Emily Stepp. Winners were announced on November 14 at the Joint Annual Meeting of the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board, the National Milk Producers Federation, and the United Dairy Industry Association. *********************************************************************************** Montana Singer to Perform National Anthem at CattleCon24 The winner of the 11th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest is Anna Sponheim of Winfred, Montana. Sponheim will sing the “Star-Spangled Banner” at CattleCon24 in Orlando, Florida, during the Opening General Session. “I’m elated and grateful to win this contest,” says Sponheim. “I may have been chosen, but this is a win for Montana and everyone who supported me. I hope I can do them proud.” Sponheim grew up helping her family grow wheat, barley, hay, and peas, and raise Black Angus Cows near the Upper Missouri River Basin. After graduating from Montana State University with degrees in agricultural communications and writing, she joined the staff at the Montana Beef Council. “I count it a good day when I can talk to people about the beef industry, the nutrients beef provides, and the positive impact producers have on the environment,” Sponheim adds. For more information or to register, go to convention.ncba.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 22, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. weekly jobless claims and durable goods orders for October are set for 7:30 a.m. CST Wednesday. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be released, followed by natural gas storage at 10 a.m. and USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. South American weather continues to get a lot of attention. U.S. grain and livestock futures have normal closes Wednesday, are closed Thursday for Thanksgiving and start again at 8:30 a.m. Friday morning for a short session, in which most contracts close at 12:05 p.m. Weather A system continues to push off the East Coast on Wednesday morning, where some areas of accumulating snow occurred in the Northeast. Another cold front is slipping south through the Canadian Prairies and will press through the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest throughout the day. Behind it, precipitation will develop in the northern Rockies and adjacent areas of the Northern Plains and Pacific Northwest, which will amount to accumulating snow tonight into Thanksgiving Day.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 21, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders will remain focused on South American weather and are straining for forecasts after this week. A report on U.S. existing home sales in October will be out at 9 a.m. CST. Minutes from the latest FOMC meeting are set for 1 p.m. Weather A storm system continues to move through the eastern half of the country Tuesday, bringing widespread moderate-to-heavy showers for the Great Lakes down to the Southeast and points eastward. This is mostly occurring as rain, but there is some wintry mix over Michigan and parts of the Northeast will see a mix as well. Winds are a little breezy with this system, too.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 20, 2023 |

Survey Reveals Importance of AM Radio The agricultural industry has been one of the biggest supporters of the “AM for Every Vehicle Act” since its introduction. Radio Ink says the industry has spending power of more than $576 billion spread across millions of workers. MRI-Simmons, the leading study of American consumer attitudes and behaviors, explored the media choices of agricultural workers. Those workers are big audio consumers, with more than half qualifying as heavy listeners. They listen to audio 60 percent more than the internet and 51 percent more than television. At the other end of the media spectrum, close to half of all ag workers fall into the light user category for internet and TV and outnumber the heavy users. Eight in 10 ag workers favor AM/FM and tune into radio, ahead of streaming audio, podcasts, and satellite radio. The heavy audio usage is likely because of the fact that it’s an “everywhere” media with easy access. *********************************************************************************** Credit Conditions Soften with Farm Economy Agricultural credit conditions in the Kansas City Fed’s Tenth District softened during the third quarter of 2023. Farm income and loan repayment rates were lower than a year ago for the second straight quarter. The moderation was more pronounced in areas hit hardest by drought, but more tempered in areas most concentrated in cattle production. Conditions have weakened slightly following two years of significant improvement that continued to support loan performance. Despite softening farm finances and substantially higher interest rates, agricultural real estate values in the region remained firm. The ag economy has softened in recent quarters alongside a moderation in commodity prices. Together with elevated production costs, a drop in the price of many key products during the past year has likely reduced farm income in 2023. Despite softening incomes with high-interest costs, ag loan performance has remained solid with ongoing support from strong finances during the past two years. *********************************************************************************** Irrigators Invited to Respond to Irrigation, Water Management Survey The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service mailed survey codes to a selected sample of irrigators across 50 states with an invitation to respond to the 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Survey. The survey is a special study with the 2022 Census of Agriculture and provides the only comprehensive dataset of irrigation activities and water use across American farms, ranches, and horticultural operations. Producer input will aid USDA’s efforts to promote efficient irrigation practices and long-term sustainability of water resources across the U.S. The survey will be mailed in phases, with paper questionnaires following in January. Producers only need to respond once, either online or by mail. All responses are due by February 15, 2024. “Water is arguably the most important resource for agriculture and horticulture operations,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “This survey is an opportunity to provide data that will influence policy decisions and impact the industry for years.” *********************************************************************************** American Lamb Board Seats Two New Members The USDA appointed five board members to the American Lamb Board who will contribute their expertise to advance the American Lamb industry. The board members begin their three-year terms in January 2024 and conclude in January 2027 and bring a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives to the industry. One new members is Steve Breeding of Seaford, Delaware, a producer with 100 or fewer head. Catherine Harper of Eaton, Colorado, is the other new member and a feeder with less than 5,000 head. “While there are a lot of sheep and lambs grown west of the Mississippi, there is also a lot on the east coast that people don’t always remember,” Breeding says. “I’m looking forward to collaborating with that group and putting the East Coast on the map.” Harper is a 26-year-old from Colorado who runs 3,500 sheep of her own in addition to the feedlot her family runs. *********************************************************************************** Challenge Ahead for Deere Patent Lawsuit Ruling Kinze Manufacturing says while it can’t comment on ongoing litigation, the company did say that a jury in the Southern District of Iowa issued a verdict it doesn’t agree with. The jury found that the True Speed and Sure Speed systems infringe on certain Deere and Company patents. Kinze and Ag Leader say they “strongly disagree” with the verdict and intend to pursue their rights to challenge the verdict. An Iowa jury returned a verdict on October 30 that found Kinze and Ag Leader had infringed on several John Deere patents regarding True Speed/Sure Speed technology. The jury sided with Deere on four claims of patent infringement but found that Deere didn’t prove the infringements were willful. Additionally, the jury found that Kinze and Ag Leader’s countersuit did not prove any of Deere’s asserted claims were invalid. The jury said Deere was entitled to over $14 million in royalty compensation. *********************************************************************************** Survey Discovers Top Thanksgiving Leftovers Pumpkin pie, turkey, gravy, sweet potatoes, and green bean casserole are some of the time-honored foods found at most Thanksgiving tables. But a survey shows those are also some of the top day-after sandwich items. A Harris Poll survey did a deep dive into America’s favorite Thanksgiving leftover sandwich. More than 94 percent of the respondents dine on a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich. Stapes like gravy (42 percent), ham (41 percent), and stuffing (39 percent) trailed turkey (81 percent) as the most popular items that belong on a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich. Pumpkin pie-filled sandwiches were a must-have ingredient in a leftover sandwich for 11 percent of the respondents. Americans also love adding hot dish leftovers into their post-Thanksgiving sandwiches, with Mac and Cheese (21 percent), Green Bean Casserole (14 percent), corn casserole (10 percent), and broccoli casserole (nine percent) reported by survey participants. White bread (20 percent) was the bread winner for sandwiches.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 20, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Give Thanks During a Shortened Week 1. Short markets week for Thanksgiving: As we gather stories for the week, families will gather across the country to give thanks for the year that was 2023. We hope it has been a positive year for our readers and their families, despite the many challenges the year brought. DTN's holiday coverage schedule will look like this: Wednesday markets open and close as normal, we'll have normal Closing Market Video and Six Factor strategies updates for DTN subscribers. Thursday, U.S. markets are closed, but Canadian markets are open so DTN Canadian Analyst Cliff Jamieson will still have some market updates. On Friday, grain and livestock futures markets open at 8:30 a.m.; we will carry Early Word Grains and Before the Bell grains comments that morning ahead of the opening. Most grain and livestock futures markets will close at 12:30 p.m. We will not have a Closing Markets video that afternoon, and the CFTC will not release updated position data until Nov. 27. 2. Reminder on Ag Summit: There is still plenty of time to sign up for the 2023 DTN Virtual Ag Summit, Dec. 5-6. We'll have sessions on a number of business-critical topics from interest rates, changing farmland values and global economics. 3. Holiday cold snap: Rain systems during the Nov. 18 weekend will bring colder air in for the holiday and the following weekend. DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick notes that temperatures may reach even lower than current estimates. He adds the dip will likely hold through the first days of December, but then temperatures should be milder. El Nino usually means a mild December in the U.S., and Baranick says weather models have a very "El Nino look" to them, at least through mid month. That's not good news for winter wheat. 4. Eyes on South America: Traders continue to watch weather and crop conditions in South America, particularly Brazil. Conditions there are expected to be wetter in the south, drier in northern states. Argentina has seen inconsistent rainfall of late but is still in much better shape than 2022. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday -- The index of U.S. leading indicators will be out at 9 a.m., followed by USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections at 10 a.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. On Tuesday the report on U.S. existing home sales in October will be out at 9 a.m. Minutes from the latest FOMC meeting will be revealed at 1 p.m. On Wednesday, U.S weekly jobless claims and durable goods orders for October come out at 7:30 a.m. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be released, followed by natural gas storage at 10 a.m. and USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. On Thursday, U.S. futures markets are closed for Thanksgiving. On the shortened market day Friday, we'll see USDA weekly export sales posted at 7:30 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 20, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to keep watch over South American weather. The index of U.S. leading indicators will be out at 9 a.m. CST Monday, followed by USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections at 10 a.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A storm system moved into the Plains on Sunday and will continue to develop and move east Monday. It will spread showers through much of the middle of the country today, including a risk of severe weather in the Lower Mississippi Valley where rain is most welcome.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 17, 2023 |

USDA Announces Release Details for 2022 Census of Ag The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will release the 2022 Census of Agriculture data on February 13, 2024. NASS concluded the data collection during the summer with a preliminary national return rate of 61 percent. “On behalf of everyone at USDA, I’d like to thank the millions of producers who gave their time and effort to complete the 2022 Census of Agriculture,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “Ag census data will inform decisions about policy, farm and conservation programs, rural development, research, technology development, ag education, and more during the next several years.” He also says the data will have a very real impact on producers, their farming operations, and communities. The ag census data will be available at nass.usda.gov and in the NASS searchable database. Like all NASS data, ag census data will only be available in aggregate form, ensuring that no individual operation or producer can be identified. *********************************************************************************** Consumer Report Highlights Thanksgiving Meal Plans Approximately 79 percent of Americans are gearing up for a Thanksgiving meal next week. Purdue University’s Consumer Food Insights says among that crowd, 37 percent plan to host the meal, 43 percent have chosen to attend, and the rest plan to dine out during the holiday. Turkey prices are 10-15 percent lower than last year. However, people are still bracing for higher prices and planning to budget even more for this year’s meal. The report explores consumer food behaviors for the upcoming holiday across different U.S. regions. While turkey is planned to be the centerpiece nationwide, each region has its own traditions. The South is more likely to serve macaroni and cheese, cornbread, and ham. Meanwhile, pies seem to be a stronger tradition in the Midwest. Many consumers attending or hosting Thanksgiving believe travel costs to get to their preferred destination will be higher this year compared to last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Says Farm Share of Food Dollar Dipped Further in 2022 America’s farms received 14.9 cents per dollar spent on domestically produced food in 2022 as compensation for farm commodity production. This portion called the farmer’s share is a decrease of 0.3 cents from a revised 15.2 cents in 2021. The farm share covers operating expenses and input costs from non-farm establishments. The remaining portion of the U.S. food dollar is called the marketing share, which covers the costs of getting domestically produced food from farms to points of purchase. That includes the costs of transportation, processing, and selling to consumers. One of the factors behind the long-term downward trend in the farm share is an increasing proportion of food-away-from-home spending. Farms get a lower portion of dollars spent on food away from home because of the added costs of preparing and serving meals. The Economic Research Service uses input-output analysis to calculate the farm and marketing shares of a food dollar. *********************************************************************************** National Sorghum Producers Announce New Executive Director National Sorghum Producers is pleased to announce the hire of Greg Ruehle as its new Executive Director. Ruehle brings a wealth of experience in agriculture and association management to his new role. His leadership comes at a pivotal time as NSP continues to grow and expand its impact on the sorghum industry. He was raised on a diversified grain and livestock farm in northwest Iowa. “We are thrilled to welcome Greg as the new NSP Executive Director,” says NSP CEO Tim Lust. “As our association continues to grow and with the expansion of the Partnerships for the Climate-Smart Commodities grant, we are stepping up expanded leadership in our organization.” He’s a past president and CEO for the Independent Professional Seed Association, the Nebraska Cattlemen, and ServiTech, Inc. “Sorghum’s time has definitely come,” Ruehle says. “From water conservation to reduced GHG emissions, sorghum has an expanding role to play, and I’m excited.” *********************************************************************************** Nominations Open for Animal Agriculture Water Quality Committee The Environmental Protection Agency published a Federal Register Notice on November 16 establishing the Animal Agriculture Water Quality subcommittee. It’s under the umbrella of the Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Federal Advisory Committee. Nominations are open for members who want to serve on the AAWQ subcommittee. The primary subcommittee goal will be to develop recommendations that will inform the Agency’s decisions regarding how to improve the implementation of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System’s (NPDES) Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation permitting program. That program is designed to reduce nutrients and other types of water pollutants more effectively from Animal Feeding Operations. EPA says it’s committed to working with stakeholders, advocates, communities, and industry to explore how to achieve water quality improvements related to CAFOs. The EPA is accepting subcommittee nominations until January 2, 2024. The agency welcomes nominations from a diverse range of qualified candidates for appointment to serve on the subcommittee. *********************************************************************************** USDA Scheduling 2024 Trade Missions Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack released the next steps in the Department’s efforts to bolster U.S. ag trade, including the agency’s planned trade missions for 2024. Ag exports totaled a record $196 billion in 2022 following a record-setting year in 2021. USDA plans to build on recent successes and highlight export opportunities in additional markets through a robust agribusiness trade mission schedule next year. USDA will lead trade missions to several markets, including Seoul, Korea; New Delhi, India; Vancouver, Canada; Bogota, Colombia; Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam; and Casablanca, Morocco. In addition, Vilsack announced a public comment period for the new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program. Combined, these efforts will help support further growth in U.S. agricultural exports and introduce high-quality U.S. agricultural products to new markets. “Market diversification is an important tool for maximizing growth opportunities for U.S. agriculture, as well as hedging the risk of market contraction,” Vilsack says.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 17, 2023 |

WOTUS Lawsuits Restart in Fed Courts - States, Ag Groups Wage Fight Against Amended WOTUS Rule in Federal Courts LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- A total of 26 states and a group of agriculture interests have renewed the legal fight against the Biden administration's Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, filing amended complaints in federal courts this week aimed at an amended rule finalized in September. The renewed legal fight is playing out in federal courts in Texas and North Dakota. After the Supreme Court ruled against EPA in Sackett v. EPA earlier this year, President Joe Biden's administration finalized an amended rule on Sept. 8, 2023, that removed the use of the significant-nexus test in making Clean Water Act (CWA)determinations -- without conducting a public comment period. NO PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD PROVIDED The states argue in an amended complaint filed Monday in the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota, that EPA committed several violations of the Administrative Procedure Act, including not providing a public comment period before releasing the amended final rule. The states are Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. Two other states, Texas and Idaho, have filed a separate amended complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. The states also argue the amended rule violates the Clean Water Act and the Constitution, asking the court to vacate the rule and send it back to the EPA. "The amended final rule, that is the final rule as modified by the conforming rule, remains riddled with problems," the states said in the complaint. NO REASONABLE CONNECTION The states said the rule includes waters with "no reasonable connection to navigable waters" and is arbitrary and capricious "because, among many things, it embraces vague standards with little justification and minimal consideration of costs." The initial lawsuit filed in February asked the court to throw out the Biden rule, claiming the EPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers "toppled the cooperative federalism regime" by implementing a rule that is "overbroad and hopelessly vague." That initial lawsuit resulted in an injunction against the rule's enforcement in the 24 states. "Meanwhile, if the amended final rule is left in place, then ranchers, farmers, miners, homebuilders and other landowners across the country will struggle to undertake even the simplest of activities on their own property without fear of drawing the ire of the federal government," the states said in the new complaint. "Landowning Americans of all stripes will thus be left with a choice: fight their way through an expensive and lengthy administrative process to obtain complex jurisdictional determinations and permits or face substantial civil and criminal penalties. The amended final rule's ambiguous environmental benefits do not justify any of this." Two state-level agriculture groups in North Dakota, including the Cass County Farm Bureau and North Dakota Farm Bureau, that intervened in the case on behalf of the states also filed an amended complaint this week. "The amended rule failed, however, to address numerous other significant flaws in the 2023 rule," the ag groups said in their complaint. The ag groups pointed to one example of a problem in the amended rule. WOTUS DEFINITION The definition of WOTUS applies the relatively permanent standard to tributaries to traditional navigable waters, the territorial seas, interstate waters or impoundments of WOTUS, intrastate lakes and ponds, streams, or wetlands, and wetlands adjacent to and with a continuous surface connection to relatively permanent impoundments, and wetlands adjacent to tributaries that meet the relatively permanent standard. Texas and Idaho, as well as a group of agriculture interest groups, have filed their amended complaints against EPA in lawsuits that were first filed in January 2023. In an amended complaint filed by Texas and Idaho in the U.S. District Court for the District of Southern Texas in Galveston, the states allege the EPA promulgated the final amended rule without allowing public comment. "They used the Sackett opinion to justify depriving the public and plaintiffs of notice and the opportunity to comment on a rule with nationwide importance," according to the Texas and Idaho complaint. Leading up to the drafting of the Biden rule, ag groups and others asked the administration to hold off on the rulemaking until the Supreme Court ruled on the Sackett case. "The amended 2023 rule maintains the ambiguity of the 2023 rule, leaving those wishing to identify the ambit of federal power over dry land or minor water features at the mercy of an expensive, vague and arbitrary analysis, lest they face a staggering criminal or civil penalty," the states said. OTHER INTEREST GROUPS Also filing an amended complaint in the Texas court was a group of 18 interest groups from the agriculture, oil and housing industries. The American Farm Bureau Federation is joined in the amended lawsuit by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Pork Producers Council, Matagorda County Farm Bureau, Public Lands Council, Texas Farm Bureau and U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, as well as the American Petroleum Institute. They have asked the Texas court to declare the amended rule unlawful. "The amended rule fails to remedy the vagueness concerns in the 2023 rule, and thus imposes impossible and unpredictable burdens on landowners, users and purchasers," the groups said. "It requires them to assess not only their own land but also vast expanses of land beyond their own holdings, using multiple vaguely defined connections to potentially remote features, in an effort to determine if their land is regulated under the CWA. The consequence is a sweeping and unwieldy regulation that leaves the identification of jurisdictional waters so opaque, uncertain and all-encompassing that plaintiffs and their members and clients cannot determine whether and when the most basic activities undertaken on land will subject them to drastic criminal and civil penalties."

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 17, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets Traders remain highly interested in South American weather. A report on U.S. housing starts for October is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday. USDA's monthly Cattle on Feed report for Nov. 1 is set for 2 p.m. Cattle traders have been anxious ever since the October report showed higher-than-expected placements. A 7% increase in placements from a year ago is anticipated in Friday's report. Weather A cold front continues to race through the central and eastern parts of the country Friday, providing some rain to the Eastern Corn Belt and sending temperatures back to normal briefly. We will see them perk up this weekend ahead of a pattern-changing system that is now off the coast of California.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 16, 2023 |

Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner Drops Slightly This year’s Thanksgiving Day dinner won’t be as hard on the checkbook as it was in 2022. However, the meal will still reflect historically high costs. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 38th annual survey provides a snapshot of the average costs of this year’s holiday feast for 10, which is $61.17 or less than $6.20 per person. This is a 4.5 percent decrease from last year’s record-high of $64.05, but a Thanksgiving meal is still 25 percent higher than in 2019. The centerpiece of a traditional meal is turkey, which helped bring down the overall cost. A 16-pound turkey averages $27.35 or $1.71 per pound, down 5.6 percent from 2022. Cranberries took the sharpest drop as a 12-ounce bag averages $2.10, down 18 percent from last year. The cost for a classic meal was cheapest in the Midwest at $58.66. The Northeast was the most expensive at a cost of $88.43. *********************************************************************************** Groups Applaud House Passing Farm Bill Extension Competitive Markets Action and the Organization for Competitive Markets applauded the House of Representatives for passing H.R. 6363, which included a one-year extension of the current farm bill. “We applaud Speaker Mike Johnson and House leadership for swiftly passing the bill by an overwhelming margin in the chamber closest to the American people,” says Marty Irby, president of Competitive Markets Action. “We are grateful to Ag Committee Chair Glenn ‘G.T.’ Thompson for securing an extension of the farm bill through the Fall of 2024.” They also say the maneuver offers ample time and opportunity to get the job done right. “We also hope House and Senate leaders will produce a new farm bill that brings clarity to the marketplace by preventing the nullification of countless state and local agriculture laws that some legislators are seeking to wipe out,” Irby adds. “We’re hoping to bring significant reform to USDA’s commodity checkoff programs.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing in Support for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers USDA’s Deputy Secretary Xochitl (zo-CHEEL) Torres Small announced the agency is investing $27.9 million across 45 organizations that teach and train beginning farmers and ranchers, including veterans. “The next generation of farmers and ranchers hold the promise for the future of American agriculture and rural prosperity,” says Torres Small. “We’re providing our newest producers with the support they need to succeed and the educational resources to guide their operations on the path toward long-term sustainability and profitability.” The investment is part of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program which supports a wide range of professional development activities and topics, such as managing capital, acquiring and managing land, and learning effective business and farming practices. As the average age of U.S. producers continues increasing, Torres Small says the agency is accelerating efforts to provide meaningful support to a large number of upcoming farmers and ranchers. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Grain Storage Outlook Improves The profit outlook for U.S. grain elevators storing corn and soybeans has improved significantly for the 2023-2024 marketing year with buy basis falling and carries returning to the futures markets. The world market is currently awash in grains, and CoBank says global supplies of corn and soybeans are abundant. The current challenge for grain elevators is simply getting ownership of bushels. Farmers have been reluctant to sell as corn and soybean prices are down sharply from their peaks early in the year. A new report from CoBank says the challenge of getting bushels should begin slowing in early 2024. The rising cost environment will likely compel farmers to begin selling in January, February, and March 2024 to generate cash ahead of next spring’s planting and operating expenses. “Higher land rents and borrowing costs combined with rising input prices will likely compel farmers to sell in 2024,” says Tanner Ehmke of CoBank. *********************************************************************************** Dairy’s Long-Term Outlook is Bright The future of America’s dairy farming is bright as global growth and American production capacity and innovation combine to create a “powerhouse.” Gregg Doud is the incoming president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation. “In terms of the protein world, dairy is a huge part of the future,” Doud says. “As a former Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the U.S. Trade Representative, I can tell you the opportunities are there for U.S. dairy’s taking with robust outreach and appeals to the world’s consumers.” Doud made his remarks during the NMPF’s annual meeting in Florida. During the past year, America’s dairy producers faced operating margins at their lowest since the federal dairy safety net was adopted in its current structure in 2014 as prices plummeted from record highs. Forecasts during a panel discussion showed an improving price outlook for next year, even as inflation continues to be a challenge for consumers. *********************************************************************************** Dolcini Joins American Farmland Trust Board of Directors Val Dolcini (Dole-CHEE-nee) was unanimously elected to the American Farmland Trust Board of Directors by the AFT members. Dolcini is the U.S. Head of Sustainability and Government Affairs for Syngenta and will support the members’ efforts to promote sound farming practices while protecting and keeping farmers on the land. “We are thrilled to have Val join AFT to help us grow to new heights in the future,” says AFT President and CEO John Piotti (Pee-AHT-tee). “Val’s diverse and extensive experience in agriculture and passion for our work will be an invaluable asset for AFT in the years to come.” Dolcini’s work spans over 25 years of agricultural policy and management experience in the state, federal, and nonprofit sectors. “Farming and agriculture have been my focus and passion throughout my entire career,” says Dolcini. “I specifically want to focus my time on the board to expand opportunities for new and beginning farmers.”

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 16, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. industrial production is set for 8:15 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's updated report on natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. The International Grains Council issues its monthly report Thursday and, at 2 p.m., USDA will provide its Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook. Weather A little system developed along a front near the Canadian border Wednesday night and will push that front quickly through the northern half of the Plains and Upper Midwest on Thursday. The front will not have much precipitation with it but will cause breezy winds and a drop in temperatures. The front will get more active east of the Mississippi River for Friday.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 15, 2023 |

NFU Releases Farmer’s Share of Thanksgiving Food Dollar The National Farmers Union released its Farmers’ Share of the Food Dollar Report for items typically served during the Thanksgiving holiday. These figures reflect how much family farmers earn compared to the amount consumers pay at the grocery store. Consumers are likely to see an increase when they shop for the holiday meal, but little of that increase will get passed on to American farmers and ranchers. An 11-pound turkey retails for $21.89, with the farmer’s share at 66 cents. A 12-ounce box of stuffing is $3.99, and the farmer gets nine cents. Sixteen-ounce frozen sweet corn costs $2.99, and the farmer gets 41 cents. Pumpkin pie filling is $1.79 a can, and farmers get 16 cents. A five-pound bag of mashed potatoes costs $3.99, and farmers get 64 cents. A two-pound boneless ham is $12.98, with the farmer receiving $1.32. Twelve-ounce cranberries are $2.99, and the farmer’s share is 29 cents. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow Calls for More Farm Bill Urgency Debbie Stabenow, Senate Ag Committee Chair, is looking for more urgency from farm groups about getting a new farm bill in place. The Fence Post says Stabenow recalled farm bill negotiations dragging on during 2013 and says there was a “sense of urgency” in the agricultural community about getting it done. However, the Michigan Senator says she doesn’t get that same sense of urgency now. While an extension is considered important, she says it’s absolutely vital that Congress get a new farm bill written and passed in 2024. “I want to hear more of a sense of urgency from ag groups,” Stabenow told a group of reporters after a hearing. John Boozman (BOZE-man), ranking member from Arkansas, says he believes farm groups are “expressing urgency.” However, farm leaders know times are so different from 2018 and that “we don’t just need to do something, we need to do the right thing.” *********************************************************************************** November Oil Crops Outlook Increases Soybean Production, Stocks This month, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service raised the 2023-2024 national average soybean yield to 49.9 bushels an acre in its Crop Production Report. That’s up from 49.6 bushels an acre in the previous report. This revision has increased the 2023-2024 soybean production forecast by 25 million bushels to 4.13 billion bushels. Higher yields in Wisconsin, Tennessee, Ohio, North Dakota, and South Dakota have contributed to the higher yield forecast. With soybean crush and exports unchanged this month, soybean ending stocks for the 2023-2024 marketing year are now forecast at 245 million bushels. The season-average soybean price forecast is unchanged this month at $12.90 a bushel. With the U.S. soybean supply forecast for 2023-2024 at 4.43 billion bushels, 25 million higher than last month’s forecast with unchanged demand, soybean ending stocks were raised to 245 million bushels. U.S. soybean oil production for the 2022-2023 marketing year is finalized at 26.2 billion pounds. *********************************************************************************** CHS Foundations Awards $4.3 Million to National FFA Foundation The CHS Foundation announced grants of $4.3 million to the National FFA Organization, continuing a partnership to support the next generation of agricultural leaders. “We are thrilled to continue this partnership with CHS,” says Molly Ball, president of the National FFA Foundation. “Throughout our partnership, CHS has been unwavering in its support and continues to see the potential leaders in each of our members and advisors.” The grants will help fund FFA programs in 17 states, provide scholarships for attending conferences and contests, and introduce students from all backgrounds to ag careers through the workforce development program. It will also support the National Association of Ag Educators in attracting ag teachers and building strong teaching programs. “CHS and its foundation are proud to make the largest gift in the foundation’s 75-year history to the National FFA,” says Megan Wolle, president of the CHS Foundation. “We’re connecting to the next generation of leaders.” *********************************************************************************** Paraguay Beef Imports Won’t Boost Tight U.S. Supplies USDA’s decision to accept beef imports from Paraguay for the first time in 25 years will likely not change the overall volume of U.S. imports, even during tight supplies and high prices. U.S. meat importers tell Reuters that’s due to a quota on shipments. American beef prices set records this year because of herd contraction to its smallest level in decades. As a result, meat companies are relying on more imports to process enough ground beef to meet demand. Paraguay didn’t negotiate with the U.S. to sell beef under its own quota agreement. That means it has to compete with other countries in the same situation to fill a group tariff-rate quota. The quota for these countries, including Brazil, Ireland, Japan, and Namibia, is approximately 650,000 metric tons. Suppliers already filled that quota earlier this year. Suppliers face a steep 26 percent tax on the value of products shipped above the quota. *********************************************************************************** Beyond Meat Struggling to Stay Afloat An industry analyst says Beyond Meat may need to reach into the financial markets next year to stay in business. Ag Funder News says the firm posted a $70.5 million net loss in the third quarter. Net revenues slid again at the plant-based meat company in Q3, dropping eight percent year-over-year and 26 percent versus the prior quarter. Beyond Meat did see positive free cash flow in the third quarter, but the company doesn’t expect to sustain it. Industry analysts are saying that the firm is now in “survival mode” and will need to tap the financial markets in 2024 to stay afloat. CEO Ethan Brown says the company anticipated a modest return to growth in the third quarter that did not occur. “We did see pockets of growth, especially in the EU, where we saw double-digit gains in net revenues,” Brown says. “But we are still disappointed with the overall results.”

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 15, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CST Wednesday, the U.S. producer price index and retail sales reports for October will be released. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out with updated data after last week's absence, due to system upgrades. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will have an estimate of members' soybean crush later Wednesday morning. At 2 p.m., USDA will have new cost of production forecasts for 2023. U.S. President Joe Biden and China's President Xi Jinping are set to meet in San Francisco Wednesday and traders will be keenly watching any trade-related comments. Weather A disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico will continue to produce areas of showers in eastern sections on Wednesday. A cold front is also setting up along the Canadian border from Montana to North Dakota that will produce a band of showers there Wednesday night, mostly in the form of snow. Otherwise, the majority of the country will be dry and warm by mid-November standards.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 14, 2023 |

Ag Committee Leaders Agree on One-Year Farm Bill Extension Leaders of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees came to an agreement on extending the lifespan of the 2018 Farm Bill by one year. The agreement came with the release of a House Republican proposal funding USDA operations through January 19. A 32-page continuing resolution contained 17 pages on farm bill extension and provided some funding for small-ticket programs that had run out, such as feral swine eradication. Dairy subsidies would be extended through December 31, 2024, to avert a looming dairy cliff on January 1. Leaders from both ag committees say the extension “in no way” substitutes in place of a five-year farm bill. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson revealed a two-part funding package that would provide money for some federal operations, including USDA, for two months and through February 2 for the rest of government. The extension depends on House, Senate, and White House agreement on the CR. *********************************************************************************** FAO Predicts Decline International Foodstuffs Trade The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization predicts a declining international trade in foodstuffs for multiple reasons. While the organization’s latest forecasts point to favorable production outlooks for most basic foodstuffs, global food production systems remain vulnerable to several risks. Those challenges include extreme weather events, rising geopolitical tensions, and policy changes that could potentially tip the delicate supply-demand balances and dampen prospects for international trade in food commodities and global food security. The global food import bill is forecast to reach a new high of $2 trillion in 2023. High-income and upper-middle-class countries are expected to lead the increase. Other challenges include the cost of shipping those foodstuffs. Dry bulk freight costs across the grains and oilseeds routes mostly edged higher during the six months leading up to October 2023 but remained well below last year’s levels. However, robust demand has led to a recent rebound in freight rates. *********************************************************************************** Hearing on Carbon-Capture Pipeline Ends in Iowa Summit Carbon Solutions presented a request to Iowa regulators to build a $5.5 billion carbon capture pipeline. Local reports say Iowa regulators recently concluded a hearing on the subject. However, deciding whether the company should get a construction permit and eminent domain powers to get land for the pipeline could take many months. The Sierra Club’s Iowa Chapter opposes the project. Sierra’s attorney says regulators likely won’t issue a decision until March or April. That allows enough time needed to file legal documents and responses. Summit’s pipeline would also run through South Dakota and into Minnesota and Nebraska. The company says the pipeline is critical to helping ethanol remain marketable as the nation seeks to lower its greenhouse gas emissions. Iowa residents are concerned about safety and property rights. Summit says it has agreements in place with 75 percent of the affected landowners, and the project will exceed federal safety standards. *********************************************************************************** FFA, 4-H Members Admitted Free to NCBA Trade Show The next generation of agricultural leaders are invited to attend the NCBA Trade Show at CattleCon24 for free on Friday, February 2. FFA and 4-H members can get that free admission on Next Gen Ag FFA & 4-H Day, which will include a variety of events and activities for youth and families. Courtesy of Culver’s, the first 250 FFA members to register will receive complimentary Friday NCBA trade show admission. Nationwide is providing complimentary Friday NCBA Trade Show admission to the first 250 4-H members who register. Trade Show attendees can explore more than eight acres of displays and exhibitors offering the latest advancements in equipment, technology, and feed supplements. To get the free Friday NCBA Trade Show registration, FFA members must use the code FFACULVERS, and 4-H members, 4HNW. A variety of other registration options are available. For more information and to register and reserve housing, go to convention.ncba.org. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Reducing Beef Exports as Herd Shrinks The nation’s ranchers slashed the U.S. cattle herd to its lowest level in decades. As a result, the U.S. is importing record amounts of beef this year and exporting much less. The steep drop in cattle numbers has led to significantly higher beef prices. Reuters says those high prices make companies look to import cheaper beef and discourage American beef purchases by buyers like China, Japan, and Egypt. The USDA expects the U.S. to drop to fourth in the rankings for the largest beef and veal exporters, down from number two last year. America’s beef exports are projected to sink 14 percent from 2022 to three billion pounds, the lowest level since COVID slowed meat processing and international trading in 2020. USDA expects American beef production to decline further in 2024 due to tight cattle supplies, and beef exports are forecast to hit an eight-year low of 2.8 billion pounds. *********************************************************************************** Ag Export Values Dropped in FY 2023 Agricultural export values in fiscal year 2023 that ran through September 30 declined while imports narrowly increased. Agricultural product values from October 2022 through the end of September were reported to be $178.7 billion, down from $196.1 billion a year earlier. A USDA report last week said import values rose 0.6 percent to $195.4 billion. Corn exports were the second-biggest decliner behind only vegetable oils with the value falling 32 percent to $13.1 billion. Cotton fell 28 percent, wheat values were down 21 percent, and soybeans dropped two percent year-over-year. The agency says the volume of corn exports dropped 32 percent, wheat shipments slipped 14 percent, and soybeans declined seven percent. Mexico was the biggest buyer of U.S. corn by volume during the fiscal year, purchasing 16.5 million metric tons of the grain, a narrow drop compared to the previous year. China bought the most beans, and Mexico the most wheat.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 14, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Grain traders remain fixated on South American weather and the latest export sales news. The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for October will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Tuesday, the only significant report of the day. Traders may become a little jumpy later this week, if no agreement is reached to avoid a government shutdown by the November 17 deadline. Weather A disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico will continue to produce showers near the coast for Tuesday. Elsewhere will be rather dry and warm in most areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 13, 2023 |

September Pork Exports Steady, Beef Lower September U.S. pork exports were slightly lower than a year ago but maintained a robust pace. USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows pork exports reached 221,140 metric tons, one percent less than last year, while export value dropped four percent to $643.7 million. For the first three quarters of this year, pork exports rose nine percent year-over-year to 2.13 million metric tons and climbed seven percent in value to almost $6 billion. “Pork exports achieving another $200 million month in Mexico is fantastic,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Beef exports continued struggling compared to 2022 but showed increasing strength in Western Hemisphere markets. Beef exports totaled 98,757 metric tons, 15 percent below last year and the lowest total of 2023. Value fell 12 percent to $797.5 million. Exports were lower across the board in Asia but picked up momentum in Mexico, Canada, and other locations. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Union Supports Increased Poultry Transparency National Farmers Union President Rob Larew supports the finalized “Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments” rule from the USDA under the Packers and Stockyards Act. He says monopolies in agriculture have put the squeeze on farmers and consumers for far too long. “Poultry growers face an especially unfair contracting system that’s opaque and secretive,” Larew says. “This finalized rule issued last week will require poultry companies to be more honest in their dealings with growers.” He also calls this good news for family farmers and will bring strong rules to promote sorely needed transparency for livestock producers. The final poultry rule released last week is the first of several updates USDA wants to make to the Packers and Stockyards Act. USDA also announced efforts to increase competition and innovation in seeds, improvements to USDA meat procurement requirements, and the establishment of a new Chief Competition Officer position at USDA. *********************************************************************************** Injecting Carbon Into National Forests and Grasslands The U.S. Forest Service proposed a change in regulations that would allow it to consider requests to inject carbon dioxide beneath the 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Currently, the Forest Service is barred from authorizing “exclusive and perpetual use and occupancy” of its land by outsiders, a prohibition that would apply to carbon storage because the gas would remain underground for hundreds of years. The proposed regulation would create an exemption for carbon capture and storage projects. If approved, the USDA agency could “authorize proposed carbon capture and storage on National Forest Service system lands where and if it’s deemed appropriate.” Public comments on the carbon injection idea will be accepted until January 2. The Forest Service says the proposed rule would harmonize carbon storage regulations with the Bureau of Land Management, the other major federal land manager. The BLM issued its carbon storage policy in July 2022. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Opposes Beef Imports from Paraguay The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association opposes the USDA’s decision to allow Paraguayan beef imports starting next month. NCBA has repeatedly raised concerns with USDA over Paraguay’s history of foot-and-mouth disease and the outdated information used to justify Paraguay’s access to the U.S. market. NCBA is concerned that USDA’s failure to use information from recent site visits in the risk assessment may pose a risk to the safety of the U.S. cattle herd. “USDA based their decision on a deeply flawed risk assessment that uses old data from site visits that were conducted more than nine years ago,” says NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus. “Paraguay has a history of FMD outbreaks, and it’s unclear if their inspection system can provide an equivalent level of safety for animal health to prevent possible FMD on U.S. soil.” He also says diplomacy shouldn’t be done on the backs of U.S. cattle producers. *********************************************************************************** Genetically Modified Seed Prices Rising Faster Than Non-GM Prices paid for crop seed increased significantly faster than the prices farmers received for crop commodities between 1990 and 2020. During that period, the average prices farmers paid for all seed rose by 270 percent, while the crop commodity price index rose 56 percent. For crops planted predominantly with genetically modified (GM) seed, like corn soybeans, and cotton, those seed prices rose by an average of 463 percent between 1990 and 2020. During this period, GM seed prices peaked in 2014 at 639 percent above 1990 levels. Despite their higher cost, GM crop varieties have provided significant productivity gains for farmers, partly through higher yield, but also by lowering farm production costs. For example, GM traits for insect resistance reduce the need for pesticide applications. Similarly, GM traits for herbicide tolerance provide a substitute for mechanical tillage, thus reducing the cost of labor, machinery, and fuel previously used in controlling weeds. *********************************************************************************** Corn, Soybean Export Sales Rise USDA data shows that export sales of corn, soybeans, and wheat were all higher for the week ending on November 2. Corn sales to overseas buyers totaled 1.02 million metric tons. That’s 36 percent higher than the previous week and four percent higher than the prior four-week average. Mexico was the biggest buyer at 384,800 metric tons. Corn exports for the week totaled almost 825,000 tons, the highest in the marketing year so far. Soybean sales rose seven percent above the prior week to 1.08 million metric tons but was still eight percent lower than the four-week average. China was the top buyer at 692,400 metric tons. Soybean exports reached 2.24 million tons; 12 percent higher than the previous week. Wheat sales through November 2 totaled 354,300 tons, 29 percent above the prior week but still 26 percent below the four-week average. Wheat exports rose 34 percent to 134,300 tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 13, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Ag Summit Registration, Low River Levels and Active Markets 1. Ag Summit launch: Watch DTN pages and the November Progressive Farmer magazine for announcements on the 2023 DTN Virtual Ag Summit, December 5-6. We'll have sessions on a number of business-critical topics from changing farmland values to finances, interest rates and global economics. To register for the Summit, go here: 2. Southern rains won't fix low rivers. Warm weather may break some records this week, then cooler weather should bring scattered rains. But they're unlikely to significantly change low river levels in the Mississippi value, which we'll continue to track. 3. Markets swing on record estimate: Grain markets had mostly been watching South America crop conditions until the November WASDE report hit, with USDA's expectation of a new US average corn yield record of 174.9 bushels per acre, besting the 2016 number. We'll be watching what catches the trade's attention throughout the week. 4. Dicamba ruling imminent: We reported on Friday that lawyers expect a new EPA ruling on dicamba use. Center for Biological Diversity, National Family Farm Coalition, Pesticide Action Network and the Center for Food Safety filed the lawsuit over dicamba's drift potential in December 2020. Sources tell DTN the goal has been to have new dicamba rules ahead of the 2024 season. 5. Economic reports to watch: On Monday the USDA weekly report of grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m., followed by a release of the federal budget for October at 1 p.m. and USDA's Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Tuesday features the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for October at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday sees the U.S. producer price index and retail sales reports for October at 7:30 a.m. At 9:30 a.m. the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out with updated data after last week's absence due to system upgrades. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will have an estimate of members' soybean crush later Wednesday morning, and at 2 p.m., USDA will have new cost of production forecasts for 2023. Thursday starts with USDA's weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m., the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. industrial production is set for 8:15 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's report on natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. At 2 p.m., USDA will have its Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook. Friday we'll watch U.S. housing starts report for October, due at 7:30 a.m. and USDA's monthly cattle on-feed report for November 1, set for 2 p.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 13, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to keep watch over South American weather forecasts. USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CST, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. The U.S. Treasury releases the federal budget for October at 1 p.m. Weather A disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico will be bringing areas of showers near the coast on Monday. It will be drier elsewhere, but temperatures are largely above normal. Some breezy winds may occur in parts of the Plains, but nothing overly hazardous is expected.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 10, 2023 |

Cattle Group Commends New Competition Initiative The USDA released a package of rules and orders seeking to increase competition in the livestock industry. That package establishes a Chief Competition Officer at USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service. This position will be hired as a career rather than a political appointment. The officer will help elevate and institutionalize competition-related concerns at USDA. “Today’s announcement is another item crossed off a to-do list the administration is following to ensure a fairer, more competitive marketplace for U.S. cattle producers,” says U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Justin Tupper. The package also updates AMS Institutional Meat Purchase Specifications that large volume buyers like federal, state, and local government agencies, schools, restaurants, hotels, and other food service users follow when buying meat products. Currently, meat and meat products do have to be of domestic origin, but the updated standards will specify that to mean only animals that are born, raised, and slaughtered in the U.S. *********************************************************************************** November WASDE Finds Higher Corn and Soybean Production The USDA’s November World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates show increased corn and soybean production compared to the previous report. The corn outlook is for larger production, domestic use, exports, and ending stocks. Corn production is up 170 million bushels from last month on a 1.9-bushel increase in yield to 174.9 bushels an acre. Corn ending stocks are up 45 million bushels to 2.2 million. The season-average corn price is down 10 cents to $4.85 a bushel. The soybean outlook shows increased production and ending stocks. Soybean production is forecast at 4.13 billion bushels, a 25 million increase on higher yields. Ending stocks rose to 245 million bushels. The season-average soybean price is unchanged at $12.90 per bushel. The wheat outlook calls for larger supplies and decreased domestic use. Ending stocks are projected to rise by 14 million bushels to 684 million. The season-average farm price dropped a dime to $7.20. *********************************************************************************** Commerce Decision on Imports Saves Farmers a Lot of Money The U.S. Commerce Department recently lowered the duties placed on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco. The National Corn Growers Association says this move gives true savings to farmers and access to critical inputs that have been scarce during the last couple of years. Commerce lowered the rates from 19.97 percent to 2.12 percent. “Farmers were already facing rate hikes on inputs, and the duties were making the situation worse,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “This gives us more hope.” Assuming Commerce finalizes those duty rates and imports resume, farmers could see a reduction in added costs of $7 per acre on imported fertilizer from Morocco. NCGA’s analysis says many factors and dynamics contribute to changes in fertilizer markets and prices, but the imposed duty rates undoubtedly had an impact on the prices paid by farmers. “Our advocacy campaign to lower the duty rates wouldn’t have succeeded without our members,” Wolle says. *********************************************************************************** Initiative to Enhance Specialty Crop Industry’s Competitiveness USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (zo-CHEEL) Torres Small announced the agency is starting a new effort to support producers in the U.S. Specialty Crops sector and increase its competitiveness. “We all count on America’s specialty crops for reliable access to nutritious, fresh foods,” Torres Small says. “As part of the new effort, USDA has compiled useful information on its programs and services that support the specialty crops industry into a Specialty Crops Resource Directory.” The directory will be a one-stop shop for the sector and contains a comprehensive snapshot of USDA’s resources and services for specialty crop producers and businesses in one convenient location. Also, USDA leadership will directly engage with the specialty crop industry and its producers during the next several months to get feedback on how the Department can better address gaps in services and meet the industry’s needs. A new webpage on the initiative is available at usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USB Invests in Infrastructure to Give Growers an Edge The United Soybean Board invests in many infrastructure projects that will help increase profits for soybean growers and the industry itself, which is undergoing significant changes. Through the soy checkoff, USB pursued feasibility studies leading to the dredging of the Mississippi River in Louisiana, a terminal expansion in Washington, and a reduced freight toll agreement on the St. Lawrence Seaway. “The goal of these investments is to give U.S. soybean growers a competitive edge in the global market,” says Belinda Burrier of the USB Board of Directors. “This helps us be more reliable in moving soybeans from our farm to the global customer.” While the checkoff isn’t allowed to invest directly in these projects, it does enable them by investing in feasibility and engineering studies. “It’s a win-win as we make $12.34 on every dollar invested,” Burrier adds. “I don’t know of too many investments with that kind of return.” *********************************************************************************** CHS Yearly Revenues Down Five Percent, Net Income Up 13 Percent CHS Inc., one of the nation’s largest agribusinesses, reported a net income of $1.9 billion for the fiscal year ending on August 31 compared to $1.7 billion for fiscal year 2022. Key drivers included consolidated revenues of $45.6 billion for fiscal year 2023 compared to $47.8 billion for fiscal year 2022. In the company’s ag segment, robust meal and oil demand contributed to higher earnings in the company’s soybean and canola processing business. “The support of our member cooperatives and farmer-owners, dedication of our employees, exceptional operational performance, and favorable market conditions enabled us to achieve the strongest earnings in our history during fiscal year 2023,” says Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS Inc. As a result of those earnings, CHS intends to return $730 million in cash patronage and equity redemptions to its member cooperatives and farmer-owners in fiscal year 2024, demonstrating its “commitment to share profits” with producers.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 10, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets Veterans Day will be observed Friday. U.S. government offices are closed, but markets and banks are open. University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early November will be released at 9 a.m. CFTC data will not be released until Monday afternoon. Traders remain interested in South American weather and will watch for further export business. The deadline for a possible government shutdown is November 17, one week away. Weather Showers continue to develop near a front from Texas to the Mid-Atlantic and points southward. Cooler temperatures continue to move in behind the front for areas farther north.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 9, 2023 |

USDA Predicts Record Corn Production OMAHA (DTN) -- USDA increased U.S. 2023-24 corn production by 170 million bushels (mb) to 15.234 billion bushels (bb) -- a surprise that was beyond pre-report estimates. If that holds, that breaks the 2016 production record. USDA also increased soybean production by 25 mb to 4.129 bb. According to DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman, Thursday's new-crop U.S. ending stocks estimates were bearish for corn and slightly bearish for soybeans and wheat. Hultman sees the world ending stocks estimates from USDA as bearish for corn and neutral for soybeans and wheat. Stay tuned throughout the morning and refresh this page often as we will be sending a series of updates with the important highlights from today's reports, including commentary from our analysts. CORN USDA raised the 2023-24 crop by bumping up the yield estimate 1.9 bushels per acre (bpa) to 174.9 bpa. That drove up production 170 mb to 15.234 bb as a result. That breaks the production record of the 2016 crop, which came in at 15.148 bb. USDA held pat on harvested acres at 87.1 million acres. Ending stocks for the 2023-24 crop were increased 45 mb to 2.156 bb. On the demand side, USDA increased Feed and Residual use 50 mb to 5.65 bb. Total 2023-24 Food, Seed and Industrial use at 6.740 bb, up 25 mb. Ethanol use was also increased 25 mb to 5.325 bb. Total domestic use is forecast at 12.390 bb up 75 mb. Exports for the new crop also were increased 50 mb to 2.075 bb. The farmgate price for the 2023-24 crop was lowered 10 cents a bushel to $4.85 a bushel. Globally, beginning stocks for the 2023-24 new crop were raised 1.12 million metric tons (mmt) to 299.22 mmt. Production globally was increased 6.32 mmt to 1,220.79 mmt. Global exports were bumped up 3.37 mmt to 199.62 mmt. Global ending stocks for the new crop are forecast at 314.99 mmt, up 2.59 mmt. Ukraine's production was increased 1.5 mmt to 29.5 and Ukraine's exports were increased .5 mmt to 20 mmt. Looking at global 2022-23 crop, Brazil's production was held at 137 mmt and exports were held pat at 57 mmt. Argentina's production was held at 34 mmt and Argentina's exports were held pat at 23 mmt. SOYBEANS USDA raised its national soybean yield forecast 49.9 bpa, up 0.3 bpa from last month's estimate. Harvest acres were left unchanged at 82.8 million acres, unchanged from the previous forecast. Total production climbed to 4.13 bb. All estimates are within the range of pre-report estimates. Domestic ending stocks for 2023-24 are now forecast at 245 mb, 25 mb higher than last month. The change reflects increased production forecasts, as USDA made only a minor change to the residual on the demand side of the balance sheet. The national average farm gate price was left unchanged at $12.90 per bushel. Globally, ending stocks for the 2023-24 marketing year were 114.51 million metric tons, down 1.11 mmt from last month. The change is mostly due to smaller beginning stocks. USDA forecasts Brazilian farmers will harvest 163 mmt of soybeans, while Argentine growers will harvest 48 mmt. Old-crop, 2022-23 world ending stocks, dropped to 100.31 mmt from last month's 101.9 mmt. USDA said the changes were due to back-year balance sheet revisions for China and Brazil. "China's beginning stocks are reduced on lower soybean imports for 2021-22 and 2022-23 and higher crush for 2022-23. Conversely, Brazil's beginning stocks are increased on a larger 2022-23 crop of 158 million tons due to higher-than-expected use to date," the report stated. WHEAT USDA pegged U.S. wheat production at 1.812 bb in November, unchanged from October's estimate. USDA estimates ending stocks at 684 mb in November, an increase from October's estimate of 670 mb. U.S. wheat use is estimated at 1.86 bb, unchanged from October. Wheat exports were set at 700 mb, unchanged from October. USDA set the farmgate price of wheat at $7.20, down from $7.30 last month. Wheat world ending stocks were estimated at 258.69 mmt, an increase from 258.13 mmt in October. USDA estimates global wheat production at 781.98 mmt, down from 783.43 mmt in October. USDA estimates wheat production in Argentina at 15.0 mmt, down from the October estimate of 16.5. Brazil's production is estimated at 9.4 mmt. Wheat production in Australia was unchanged from last month's 24.5 mmt. Wheat production in Russia was pegged at 90 mmt and Ukraine production was estimated at 22.5 mmt. Wheat exports from Russia were pegged at 50 mmt and 12 mmt in Ukraine. USDA increased wheat imports 10 mb to 145 mb. LIVESTOCK Thursday's November WASDE report posted reduced overall beef and pork production levels for 2023, while 2024 projection were mixed from the previous month with a strong increase production projected in beef, while moderate to firm pork production losses were seen. This will continue to likely cause concern for beef producers and overall cattle prices in the near future. Fourth-quarter beef production fell 55 million pounds, creating the expectation of annual production levels falling 44 million pounds from the last month estimate. The focus on increased production of 535 million pounds in 2024 was strongly attributed to gains in first quarter projections accounting for 235 million pounds. The confirmation of these numbers is adding additional bearish influence to overall market prices as traders are focusing on larger-than-expected beef production through most of 2024. Beef price levels for the fourth quarter of 2023 were unchanged, which also left overall annual price projections unchanged at $177.30 per cwt. Price levels for 2024 were unchanged when it came to annual overall price projections, but first quarter 2024 prices were reduced by $2 per cwt from the previous month while second quarter prices fell $1 per cwt. Beef Imports for 2023 increased by 36 million pounds from the previous month while total beef supplies fell 8 million pounds. Expected imports in 2024 increased 40 million pounds from last month's estimate, increasing overall 2024 supply issues by 590 million pounds. Pork Production posted moderate to strong production losses from the previous month for both 2023 and 2024. Annual pork production is expected to fall 72 million pounds in 2023 from October's estimate, while annual pork production in 2024 is estimated to be reduced 165 million pounds from previous month's levels. This is expected to create some additional support through the lean hog complex long term, but there remains the need to sustain current values based on short term demand. Hog prices were actually reduced on an annual level in both 2023 and 2024, with fourth quarter prices falling $3 per cwt in the latest report. First quarter 2024 hog prices were also reduced by $3 per cwt, and currently based on current hog numbers in the pipeline and the potential for this to put pressure on short term market levels. Pork imports for 2023 increased 9 million pounds from the previous month estimate but were unchanged for 2024 from October levels. The small adjustments in imports are not expected to be a major focus following the moderate to firm overall reduction in pork production for both 2023 and 2024 from October levels.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 9, 2023 |

Bayer Considers Company Breakup Bayer confirmed in an investor call on Wednesday the company is considering splitting business units following poor financial results. “We are redesigning Bayer to focus only on what’s essential for our mission – and getting rid of everything else,” according to Bayer CEO Bill Anderson. Anderson, who has been at the company's helm since June, says by the end of next year, Bayer will remove multiple layers of management and coordination. The company ruled out splitting into three divisions, but other options remain. Anderson adds, "In terms of structural options, beyond maintaining three divisions, a separation of either Consumer Health or Crop Science remains under evaluation." Sales in the agricultural business were level year on year at 4.3 billion euros. Higher volumes in all regions were mostly offset by lower prices for glyphosate-based. Corn Seed and Traits sales rose by 21.2, while Fungicides were up 16.2 percent. The Soybean Seed and Traits business likewise posted double-digit percentage growth of 15.6 percent. By contrast, sales at Herbicides were down by 17.3 percent. *********************************************************************************** USTR Tai Traveling to Indiana U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai will Travel to Indianapolis, Indiana as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in Rural America tour. Tai will visit Indiana this Friday to highlight how the administration's economic policies have lowered trade barriers abroad for American agricultural products and increased access for farmers and producers in global markets. Ambassador Tai will tour Starkey Farms, a seventh-generation family farm committed to local and regional farming conservation during her trip. Starkey Farms features more than 2,500 acres near Brownsburg, Indiana. Starkey Farms Partnership is also a retail partner for AgroLiquid. The Investing in Rural America tour kicked off last when President Joe Biden and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack visited Dutch Creek Farms in Northfield, Minnesota. During the visit, President Biden announced more than $5 billion in investments from his Investing in America agenda to advance rural prosperity, economic development, competition, and sustainability. *********************************************************************************** TFI Supports Amendment to Block Proposed Rule on Air Quality Standards The Fertilizer Institute Wednesday reiterated its opposition to the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed rule to tighten national ambient air quality standards for fine particulate matter. The organization also voiced support for legislation to prohibit the EPA altering the standard at this time. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, “Only two years ago the EPA confirmed that the current standard is protective of public health and the environment,” adding, “They have not provided any reasoning as to what has changed in the past two years aside from the fact that these emissions continue to decline.” According to the government’s own data, fine particulate matter emissions have declined by over 40 percent over the past twenty years, and they continue to go down. Additionally, the current rule balances environmental protection with robust commercial and industrial activity. TFI joined more than 70 other industry groups in a letter articulating the economic impact the rule they say would have, as well as the faulty reasoning behind the change. *********************************************************************************** Court Confirms Permanent Injunction on California’s Prop 65 The U.S. Ninth Circuit Appeals Court recently affirmed a district court permanent injunction prohibiting California's Proposition 65 warning requirement related to glyphosate. Proposition 65 is a right‑to-know law that is intended to enable Californians to make informed choices about exposures to chemicals that cause cancer or reproductive effects. The proposition did not ban the use of glyphosate in the state. California attempted to apply Proposition 65 to glyphosate in 2017 following the 2015 ruling by the International Agency for Research on Cancer that glyphosate is an animal carcinogen and a probable human carcinogen. The National Association of Wheat Growers welcomed the court's response of a permanent injunction. NAWG President Brent Cheyne says, “California’s Proposition 65 requirement threatened the use of glyphosate by requiring false and misleading labels on products that may contain glyphosate.” NAWG was joined by 11 other agriculture organizations in the case, including CropLife America and the National Corn Growers Association. *********************************************************************************** Study Finds Perception Gaps Between Farmers and Consumers Nutrien this week released Bridging the Agricultural Perception Divide, a research study on the perception gaps between farmers and consumers in North America on issues such as sustainability, technology, and land usage. The report also indicates there is some common ground and opportunities for bridge-building. The findings revealed that the largest perception gaps between farmers and consumers are related to environmental stewardship and industry advancement. For example, farmers were significantly more likely to agree with statements related to the responsible use of crop inputs, chemical use, environmental progress, farming careers, and soil quality. However, topics related to Societal Support for Farmers reveal much closer agreement. The study also finds that younger consumers have the lowest interest and trust in agriculture. When farmers were asked about the top issues affecting the agriculture industry today, their responses included the rising cost of growing food, followed by a desire for consumers to have more knowledge about the industry, and concerns around misinformation about where food comes from. *********************************************************************************** New York Announces Flexibilities Amid Milk Carton Shortage In a memo to food service managers at public schools, the state of New York announced flexibilities amid a milk carton shortage recently. Due to the unexpected nationwide shortage of paper milk cartons, many School Food Authorities are not able to obtain milk in half pints for their school meals programs. Although schools are expected to meet the fluid milk requirements to the greatest extent possible, supply chain disruptions, including disruptions that limit milk variety or affect serving size, are considered a temporary emergency condition. The New York State Education Department announced schools are allowed to pour milk from larger containers into individual cups, offer one type of milk instead of a variety, offer an alternate form of fluid milk such as low-fat or fat-free lactose-free, or as a last resort, not offer fluid milk altogether. However, juice cannot be offered as a replacement, and schools must still adhere to National School Lunch Program guidelines.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 9, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for September will be out at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports are due out at 11 a.m., followed by DTN's WASDE webinar at 12:30 p.m. South American weather remains a topic of concern for traders. Weather A front has pushed south into Texas and east across the Midwest. A disturbance is moving into the southern end of the front, where it is starting to produce rain over Texas that should overspread much of the Southern Plains and Delta throughout the day, easing drought conditions. Cooler air behind the front is actually seasonable for this time of the year, though it is a sharp drop from recent days.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 8, 2023 |

Farmer Sentiment Rises in Latest Ag Economy Barometer The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose four points in October to 110. The modest improvement in farmer sentiment resulted from farmers' improved perspective on current conditions on their farms as well as their expectations for the future. The Index of Current Conditions rose three points to 101, while the Index of Future Expectations rose five points to 114. Farmers in this month's survey were a bit less concerned about the risk of lower prices for crops and livestock and felt somewhat better about their farms' financial situation than a month earlier, although that did not translate into a more favorable investment outlook among survey respondents. Farmers remain cautiously optimistic about farmland values, particularly when asked to look ahead five years. Nearly one in four farmers responding to the survey reported making changes in their farm operations in response to long-term weather pattern changes. Changes implemented by farmers were wide-ranging, and some reported making multiple changes in response to shifting weather patterns. *********************************************************************************** Four States Join Suit Against Agri Stats Four states this week joined the Department of Justice’s civil antitrust lawsuit against Agri Stats. The suit alleges that Agri Stats organized and managed anticompetitive information exchanges among broiler chicken, pork and turkey processors. The Attorneys General of Minnesota, California, North Carolina and Tennessee joined the effort Monday. The Justice Department filed the lawsuit in September of this year, alleging Agri Stats violated Section 1 of the Sherman Act. The complaint alleges that Agri Stats' scheme continues to this day in the chicken processing industry, among others. While Agri Stats paused its turkey and pork reporting after facing several private antitrust lawsuits, Agri Stats has expressed an intent to resume such reports following the lawsuits. A statement at the time of filing by Agri Stats says, "The lawsuit threatens serious harm to American consumers of chicken, pork, and turkey because protein producers depend upon Agri Stats' reports to help them identify opportunities to reduce production costs to keep prices low." *********************************************************************************** Shifting Consumer Demand for Dairy Foods Fuels Butterfat Boom The long-term demand trends for dairy products indicate butter, cheese and other full-fat dairy foods will continue to grow in sales and volume for the foreseeable future. U.S. consumers have shifted away from margarine and reduced-fat dairy foods over the last decade as nutritional science surrounding saturated fats has evolved. As a result, butterfat levels in the national milk supply have risen sharply in response to changing demand patterns and dairy market dynamics. According to a new report from CoBank's Knowledge Exchange, the butterfat boom will continue as the entire dairy supply chain is capturing additional value from milk with higher fat and protein levels. CoBank's Corey Geiger says, "Despite the significant growth in domestic butterfat production over the last decade, there is still tremendous upside potential, largely because the U.S. remains a milk-fat-deficit nation." Geiger says the overall market picture for butterfat is quite clear, with tremendous growth potential both domestically and ultimately via the export market. *********************************************************************************** Program to Support Native American Farmers with Climate-Smart Grazing Farm Journal Foundation and the Intertribal Agriculture Council are launching a new program to support climate-smart grazing practices among Native American cattle farmers and ranchers. The program, which will work in partnership with Ecosystem Services Market Consortium and the Yield Lab Institute, will offer a combination of direct incentive payments, technical assistance, and education to producers who adopt certain conservation practices on their grazing lands. It will also better enable Native American cattle producers to participate in carbon and branded commodity markets and create pathways to join USDA conservation programs. Enrollment is now open for this three-year project, which will provide approximately $1 million in direct funding to producers to enable them to implement one or more designated climate-smart conservation practices. The program will work with Native American producers in three states – Florida, Montana, and Oklahoma – whose primary source of business income comes from beef cattle farming. Both small-scale and large-scale producers are encouraged to apply. Learn more at farmjournalfoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Army Corps to Reduce Missouri River to Winter Flows Gavins Point Dam releases will be reduced in late November as flow support to navigation ends. Releases are currently 32,000 cubic feet per second. John Remus of the Amry Corps of Engineers says, "We will continue to make releases from Gavins Point Dam to provide flow support at an intermediate service level, 1,500 cubic feet per second less than full service, through the end of the navigation flow support season." Winter releases from Gavins Point Dam for the 2023-2024 winter will be slightly higher than last winter, which were at the minimum rate. However, Remus adds, "Intake operators in the lower river should be taking measures to assure they can maintain access to the water." October runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 1.5 million-acre-feet, 124 percent of normal. Based on the most recent seasonal drought outlook, drought conditions are expected to persist through the end of January in the upper Basin, with a potential for improvement in the lower Basin. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack to Speak at CSU Spur Water in the West Symposium Thursday Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will be in Denver Thursday to give opening remarks at the 6th Annual CSU Spur Water in the West Symposium. The event, focused on “Next Gen Water,” includes keynotes and panel discussions on topics ranging from leadership and water system management to workforce and the future of Colorado’s outdoor industry. The symposium, the first to occur on the CSU Spur campus in north Denver, will take place in the Hydro building, which opened this past January. Vilsack will discuss the USDA’s work to build rural prosperity by supporting producer income, bolstering local and regional food supply chains, and creating jobs and economic opportunities in rural areas. In addition, he will talk about work to foster the next generation of leaders in food and agriculture, including through the USDA’s NextGen program, which includes geology and hydrology among more than 36 disciplines supported. Vilsack served as a strategic advisor for Colorado State University Spur and the Colorado State University System’s food and water initiatives from 2017-2021.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 8, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders will continue to watch South American weather forecasts and after Tuesday, will keep an eye on outside markets and energy prices, in particular. Due to a systems upgrade, the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories and natural gas will not take place this week but will be back with updated data next week. Weather A system moving across the northern tier of the country is producing areas of isolated showers Wednesday. The system is pushing a cold front deeper into the Plains and Upper Midwest, where temperatures will fall closer to normal for this time of year. South of the front continues to be quite warm.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 7, 2023 |

Scott Calls for One-Year Farm Bill Extension David Scott (D-GA), the ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee, called on colleagues to extend the 2018 Farm Bill by one year. He made the call to offer certainty and support to farmers, ranchers, and foresters as “extremism” in the House Republican conference continues hobbling legislative efforts. “While we continue the bipartisan effort on the House Ag Committee to craft a new farm bill, the extremism and cynicism that’s taken hold of the House Republican Conference makes reauthorizing the farm bill by the end of this year unlikely,” Scott says. “Therefore, I’m calling on colleagues to support a one-year extension.” Scott calls it the responsible thing to do. It would allow U.S. farmers, ranchers, and foresters to operate with an element of certainty while they continue working on a new five-year farm bill. “Ag Committee Democrats remain committed to passing a bipartisan farm bill as quickly as possible,” Scott adds. *********************************************************************************** New National FFA Officer Team in Place The 2023-2024 National FFA Officer team was elected during the final session of the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis. The new officer team was picked from 35 candidates and will lead the organization during the next year. Amara Jackson of Michigan is the new national president. Grant Norfleet of Missouri is the National Secretary. The new regional vice presidents come from Florida, Iowa, Ohio, and New Mexico. Each year during the national convention, six student members are elected by delegates to represent the organization as national officers. Through their year of service, the officers will interact with business and industry leaders, thousands of FFA members and teachers, corporate sponsors, government officials, education officials, the general public, and others. The team will also lead personal growth and leadership training conferences for FFA members throughout the country and set policies that help guide the future of the FFA and its members. *********************************************************************************** USDA Relief Program Hurts Larger Farmers USDA announced the Emergency Relief Program for 2022, ten months after the funding was initially signed into law. But the National Sorghum Producers say there are two major flaws in the program that make it a disaster in itself. First, USDA established a “progressive” payment factor to fit total payments within a budget that will severely harm full-time farm families. NSP says the “progressive” requirement will actually cut deepest on those who faced the largest losses. Second, although the law requires producer-paid premiums to be netted out for all producers, USDA’s new ERP only nets out such premiums for “underserved” farmers. The organization says the progressive aspect of the payments is no more than a “backdoor pay limit” that violates both Congressional intent and the letter of the law. They point out that structuring payments this way will cause immense harm to full-time farm families now and in the future. *********************************************************************************** FSA County Committee Elections Start This Week The USDA will begin mailing ballots this week for the Farm Service Agency county and urban county committee elections. Ballots will go to all eligible agricultural producers and private landowners across the country. Elections are occurring in certain Local Administrative Areas for those committee members who make important decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally. Producers and landowners must return their ballots to their local FSA county office or have their ballots postmarked by December 4 to be counted. “In order for county committees to be effective, they must truly represent all who are producing,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. Producers must participate or cooperate in an FSA program to be eligible to vote in the county committee election. Each committee has from three to 11 elected members who serve three-year terms, and at least one seat representing a Local Administrative Area is up for election each year. *********************************************************************************** Educators to Receive Immersive AFBF Convention Experience The American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture and Nationwide have teamed up to bring outstanding educators to the American Farm Bureau’s annual convention on January 19-22, 2024. Selected educators will receive an exclusive and immersive experience. They’ll receive free registration for the 2024 AFBF Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah, as well as financial reimbursement for travel, lodging, and meals while attending the event. The experience will connect teachers with farmers and ranchers from across the country to hear directly about modern farming. Highlights will include participation in local ag tours, networking with farmers, ranchers, and other professionals involved in ag education, and access to many other events. “We’re proud to support teachers from all across the country in several ways,” says Daniel Meloy, executive director of the AFBF Foundation. “We hope they’ll leave the 2024 convention with new ideas and information about agriculture to take back to their classrooms.” *********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Annual Convention to Discuss Important Topics The 2024 American Sheep Industry Association’s Annual Convention will offer producers a closer look at two pieces of legislation that will greatly affect the industry. The opening session will feature officials from congressional agriculture committees discussing the new farm bill. Whether it’s passed by then or still getting hashed out, there will be plenty to talk about for America’s sheep producers. The speaker on January 13 from Superior Farms will talk about a petition in the city of Denver to prohibit the processing of livestock within city limits. If it passes, the petition will force the closure of Superior Farms’ lamb processing plant just minutes from the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel where the ASI convention takes place. “If they can pass such legislation in Denver, where they have as rich a livestock history as any in the American West, they can pass it anywhere in America,” says ASI Executive Director Peter Orwick.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 7, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. trade deficit for September is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST and will allow USDA to have more specific export data later Tuesday morning. DTN will have a preview of the November WASDE report. USDA's long-term price projections will be out at 2 p.m., the same time as a report on U.S. consumer credit. Meanwhile, traders will keep an eye on South American weather conditions. Weather A system is moving out of the Pacific Northwest and through the Northern Plains early Tuesday, which will spread a mix of showers through the region and into the Upper Midwest Tuesday night. Some snow may accumulate in northern North Dakota and Minnesota as well as the southwestern Canadian Prairies. Temperatures for most of the U.S. will be quite warm for early November.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 6, 2023 |

Commerce Department Lowers Duties on Fertilizers The U.S. Commerce Department announced it is lowering duties placed on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco from 19.97 percent to 2.12 percent. The decision came after the agency conducted an administrative review of the duties, which is performed annually by retroactively examining the price of shipments and other factors. The National Corn Growers Association, a long-time vocal opponent of the duties, called it a big win for corn growers. “This victory was made possible by corn growers who spoke out against these duties as they faced skyrocketing fertilizer prices and product shortages at the behest of The Mosaic Company,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. The issue stems from a decision by Commerce that favored a petition by Mosaic to impose duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco and Russia. Mosaic had claimed that unfairly subsidized foreign companies were flooding the U.S. market and selling their products at extremely low prices. *********************************************************************************** Court Orders EPA to Follow the Science The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals granted a major victory to farmers when it ruled the Environmental Protection Agency must base its decisions on sound science and the law. The court was clear when it said the EPA failed to follow the law when it revoked chlorpyrifos tolerances, which effectively banned the pesticide. The American Farm Bureau Federation was one of several agriculture organizations that sued the EPA, asserting the agency ignored scientific evidence that proved the pesticide’s safety. “AFBF appreciates the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals for recognizing that the Environmental Protection Agency failed to follow the law when it revoked the use of chlorpyrifos,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farmers and ranchers are committed to growing safe and nutritious food, and they use science to guide decisions on how to manage pests and insects. Today’s decision tells the agency that it, too, must use sound science when drafting rules.” *********************************************************************************** Foreign Investment in U.S. Ag Land Foreign investment in U.S. agricultural land is a big topic. USDA’s latest research, based on 2021 data, shows over 40 million acres of American agricultural land are owned by foreign investors and companies. This corresponds to 3.1 percent of all privately-held agricultural land and 1.8 percent of all land in the U.S. Canadian investors own the largest portion of foreign-held agricultural land with 31 percent, or 12.8 million acres of the total, and 0.97 percent of all U.S. agricultural land. Many of the current concerns center around China. According to the latest data, China is ranked 18th in ownership of U.S. agricultural land with 383,000 acres. That’s less than one percent of total foreign-owned U.S. ag land and only three-hundredths of one percent of all ag land in the U.S. It reflects a total area of about one-third the size of Rhode Island or that of an average Ohio county. *********************************************************************************** China Importing a Lot of Soybeans in 2023 A University of Illinois FarmDoc report says China’s soybean imports are likely to stay high through the fourth quarter of this year, taking 2023 purchases to an all-time record. However, lackluster demand from hog farms is seen as reducing soybean purchases in early 2024. Traders and industry analysts say record Brazilian soybean supplies are expected to dominate China’s imports in the last three months of this year, citing better oil and meal quality. That will reduce demand for U.S. cargoes in the world’s biggest market for the oilseed. The larger share of Brazilian soybeans in China’s import basket is likely to add pressure on benchmark Chicago futures, which slumped almost 15 percent this year, snapping a four-year rally. The report says, “Typically, freshly harvested U.S. soybeans dominate the global export market after September as Brazil’s export season winds down.” But this year, China’s purchases from the U.S. are well below normal. *********************************************************************************** Second Annual FFA Future Leaders Fundraising Drive Underway Tractor Supply Company kicked off the second annual FFA Future Leaders Scholarship fundraising drive. The Tractor Supply Foundation established the fund last year with a $5 million commitment over five years, making it the largest agriculture scholarship of its kind. In 2022, the inaugural fundraising drive raised more than $1 million. The funds generated scholarships for 146 FFA students in 38 states, ranging from welding and electrical engineering to agricultural business, animal science, and others. Now through November 12, customers can make a donation at checkout, either in TSC stores or online at TractorSupply.Com. The goal is to raise another $1 million. The funds will generate $5,000 scholarships for students attending trade schools and two-year colleges to pursue a skilled trade or agriculture-related field. There will also be $10,000 scholarships for students pursuing agriculture-related four-year majors. After a successful 2022, the foundation can’t wait to see what happens this year. *********************************************************************************** Funds to Help Improve Agriculture Exports Senator Tammy Baldwin and colleagues delivered $9.3 million in Transportation Department funds to expand Port Milwaukee’s newly opened Agriculture Maritime Export Facility. The funding will support Phase 2 of the AMEF project, including the construction of two grain storage silos, purchasing of additional grain handling equipment, and the purchase of new equipment to move products between storage and vessels. “Port Milwaukee plays a critical role in connecting farmers and businesses to markets across the world,” Baldwin says. “This investment will strengthen maritime commerce, create jobs, and grow our economy.” Jackie Carter, director of Port Milwaukee, says she’s grateful for the continued support they get and appreciates the grant award for the Agriculture Maritime Export Facility. “The project will increase capacity and allow for the simultaneous handling of multiple agricultural commodities,” Carter says. “It will provide access for producers and growers in Wisconsin and the surrounding states to efficiently move products to international markets.”

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 6, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - November WASDE, Flipping Temperatures Lead the Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Nov. 5. Note: All times listed below are in Central Standard Time (CST) unless otherwise mentioned. CST returned on Nov. 5. 1. WASDE Thursday: USDA's World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates and Crop Production reports are due out at 11 a.m. Our preview of the report will hit Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on the release of analyst estimates. On Thursday we will have WASDE numbers immediately after the reports are released, followed by updates with commentary and market reactions throughout the morning. 2. South America crop watch: Southern Brazil could get a brief respite from heavy and flooding rains. The forecast is still for wet weather throughout the month. Argentina has fared better with 23% of the corn crop planted. The Buenos Aires Exchange notes that 87% of the planted area is now good or normal, up from the previous week. 3. Fertilizer imports spark interest: With retail fertilizer prices steady to slightly higher according to DTN's weekly fertilizer reports, there will be growing interest in last week's announcement that U.S. Department of Commerce agreed to lower import duties on Moroccan phosphate fertilizer from 19.97% to 2.12%. 4. Weather warms for some: The Midwest starts the week with above-normal temperatures. But the weather pattern will stay active with additional showers possible, followed by cooler air. In the Northern Plains, the pattern will stay fairly active with occasional periods of showers, including some snow. The colder and wetter conditions will continue to make the remaining fieldwork difficult to accomplish. The Delta will see several systems more through during the week, bringing showers and more falling temperatures. 5. Economic reports to watch: Back from the weekend, you should be on standard time now or you may find yourself early for appointments. Monday starts with USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections set for 10 a.m., followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Tuesday sees U.S. trade deficit for September at 7:30 a.m.; U.S. consumer credit report is at 2 p.m., and USDA long-term price projections at also 2 p.m. On Wednesday, because of a systems upgrade, the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories and natural gas will not take place that day -- or this week -- but will be back with updated data next week. Thursday sees USDA's weekly export sales at 7:30 a.m., the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for September will be out at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports are due out at 11 a.m. On Friday, Veterans Day is observed. U.S. government offices are closed, but markets and banks are open. CFTC data will not be released until Monday afternoon. University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early November will be released at 9 a.m. The deadline for a possible government shutdown is Nov. 17, one week away.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 6, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will have set their clocks back an hour, checked the latest weather forecasts, especially from South America, and gotten caught up on world events. USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CST, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A pair of systems, one in the Great Lakes, and another in the Pacific Northwest, will be moving eastward on Monday, spreading showers through northern areas of the country. Precipitation is mostly rain, but some early morning light snow is falling in parts of North Dakota where it has been colder. Temperatures elsewhere are warm for early November.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 3, 2023 |

Ag Secretary Speaks at FFA National Convention Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke to students, agricultural educators, and guests at the opening session of the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo during Thursday’s opening session. He also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the organization formalizing a partnership to prepare more students for careers in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields. He shared USDA’s vision to secure the future of American agriculture and opportunities for the next generation of agricultural leaders. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that farms of all sizes have the opportunity to succeed. “At National FFA, we’re preparing our students to be tomorrow’s leaders in agriculture,” says Scott Stump, CEO of the National FFA Organization. “We appreciate the Secretary’s dedication to agricultural education and FFA, which is why we were honored to present him with an Honorary American FFA Degree.” Vilsack said today’s youth are the ones who will create tomorrow’s food systems. *********************************************************************************** Corn Growers Support Fertilizer Industry Transparency The Iowa Corn Growers Association developed language they’d like added to the upcoming farm bill that would review competition and transparency in the fertilizer industry. The language would mandate a USDA assessment of the pricing practices used by fertilizer companies and the effects of the price increase on both farmers and consumers. The association points out that input costs for farmers have gone up drastically and are crucial topics at the grassroots level. This assessment would provide transparency in the fertilizer market and help farmers understand why these price increases keep occurring. Jolene Riessen, president of the ICGA, says, “We’re hopeful with the support of our Iowa delegation that this language will make it into the next farm bill, as it would provide USDA with the framework to start a comprehensive study and review of the fertilizer industry.” The study would paint a clearer picture of what’s happening in the industry. *********************************************************************************** American Angus Association Offering Internship Opportunities The American Angus Association is excited to offer internship opportunities for students to try a trial-run of potential career choices. The association has five internship positions available for the summer of 2024. It’s a ten-week program that’s designed to provide an immersive, hands-on experience that helps students to grow professionally as they “dip their toes” into the workforce. The five internships are being offered in marketing, publications, communications, events and junior activities, and in Angus Genetics, Inc. “What makes an internship at Angus so unique is that the Angus family believes in your ability to achieve a level of high success from day one,” says Brooklyn Botterman, 2023 events and junior activities intern. ‘The professional and personal growth that is acquired during your time with Angus is invaluable.” Students who want to apply should submit their resume, cover letter, and references by December 1. For more information, go to angus.org/careers. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Pork Campaign Involves Iowa State Football Players The Iowa Pork Producers Association has a marketing initiative involving aptly-named Iowa State football players. The campaign is called “Purchase Moore Hamman Bacon.” The Cyclone players are Myles Purchase, Tyler Moore, Tommy Hamman, and Caleb Bacon. The Iowa Pork Producers original social media post featured a photo of the players with their backs to the camera showing the last names on their jerseys, and several pounds of bacon and ham were pictured on a table behind them. The post has been viewed on X (formerly Twitter) more than 2.6 million times. “We’re overjoyed at the success of the ’Purchase Moore Hamman Bacon’ campaign,” says Iowa Pork Producers President Trish Cook. “We had hoped it would go viral, and it did in a big way.” The association will donate $4,000 worth of pork to pantries in each player’s hometown. The future of the promotion includes the addition of linebacker Alex Cook *********************************************************************************** Legislation to Study Barriers to Mental Health Senators Michael Bennet and Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming introduced legislation requiring the Government Accountability Office to study the barriers between farmers and ranchers and mental health care. “Our farmers and ranchers face uncertainty from forces beyond their control, and Congress needs to do more to help them access the mental and behavioral health care they need,” Bennet says. Volatile commodity prices, increased input costs, more frequent wildfires, severe drought, and other extreme weather events significantly affect farmers’ and ranchers’ mental health. Despite the demonstrated need for services, many rural communities face barriers to access those services. The GAO would be required to study the availability and accessibility of substance abuse treatment and mental health care providers trained to serve the needs of farmers, ranchers, agricultural workers, and their families. The study would also assess the barriers farmers and ranchers face to accessing care and successful programs at the state and local levels. *********************************************************************************** China Set to Import Record Amount of Wheat A University of Illinois Farmdoc report says China is set to import “record volumes” of wheat this year. Industry sources say rain damage to China’s wheat crop and subsequent worries over dry weather in exporting nations are driving Beijing’s appetite to buy while prices are low. Traders also say China’s frantic wheat buying is likely to support global prices, which have dropped more than a quarter through this year due to abundant supplies from Russia, the world’s top exporter. Overall, China’s 2023 imports are likely to reach 12 million tons, topping the previous year’s record of 9.96 million tons, with the avid buying expected to continue into 2024. Industry traders also say Beijing’s recent large purchases of Australian wheat could force rival importers such as Indonesia and Japan to seek alternatives from North America and the Black Sea region. China was the fifth-largest importer of U.S. wheat in Marketing Year 2022-2023.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 3, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the U.S. Labor Department releases nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for October. Traders will keep close watch on weather and will soon wonder about the possibility of a government shutdown on November 17. Weather Though widespread frosts and freezes were recorded again this morning across the Southeast, temperatures are rising. A weak disturbance moving across the north may bring some occasional light showers from Montana to Michigan throughout the day, but most areas will stay dry.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 2, 2023 |

US to Participate in Next Indo-Pacific Framework Negotiating Round A delegation of trade officials from the U.S. Trade Representative's office will participate in the seventh in-person negotiating round of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity. The negotiations are planned for November 5-12, 2023, in San Francisco, California. In San Francisco, the IPEF partners will continue to make progress on negotiations towards high-standard outcomes under the pillars of trade, clean economy and fair economy. The U.S. interagency delegation will be co-led by Sarah Ellerman, IPEF Pillar Assistant United States Trade Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific, and Sharon H. Yuan, U.S. Department of Commerce Counselor. The framework will offer tangible benefits that fuel economic activity and investment, promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth, and benefit workers and consumers across the region, according to USTR. The first negotiating round was held in Brisbane, Australia, in December of last year, with other rounds taking place earlier this year. *********************************************************************************** Federal Urban Agriculture Committee to Meet this Month Members of the Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Advisory Committee will meet this month. This is the committee's seventh meeting and is scheduled for November 29, 2023. The 2018 Farm Bill directed USDA to create the committee to advise the Agriculture Secretary on developing policies and outreach relating to urban, indoor, and other emerging agricultural production practices, as well as identify any barriers to urban agriculture. The committee is one of several ways that USDA is extending support and building frameworks to support urban agriculture, including issues of equity, climate resilience and nutrition access. Twelve members are appointed to the committee for one to three-year terms by the Secretary of Agriculture. The members represent a diverse set of expertise, including urban production, innovative production, higher education, non-profit, finance, business and economic development, supply chain, and other areas related to urban, indoor, and other emerging agriculture production practices. The public is invited to attend virtually by registering on the USDA website. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for USDA’s 100th Agricultural Outlook Forum The Department of Agriculture this week opened registration for the 100th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum. Titled “Cultivating the Future,” the event will be held in person at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia, February 15-16, 2024. All Forum sessions will also be livestreamed on a virtual platform. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “As we reflect on a century of agricultural progress, we’re not just celebrating our achievements, we're also preparing for an even better future.” USDA’s Agricultural Outlook Forum began in 1923 as a way to disseminate USDA data and analyses to farmers, so they had the tools to understand markets and make informed production decisions. Over time, the event has evolved into a unique platform where key stakeholders from the agricultural sector in the United States and around the world come together every year to discuss current and emerging topics and trends in the sector. Visit the Agricultural Outlook Forum website to register. *********************************************************************************** Apply Today to Become Beef Spokesperson The Beef Checkoff-funded Trailblazers program is seeking applications for its next class of beef advocates. Trailblazers, developed by the National Cattlemen's Beef, takes advocacy to the next level by giving participants the tools and training they need to promote beef to new audiences while addressing and correcting myths. NCBA's Chandler Mulvaney says, "If you are an advocate and seeking a chance to be empowered on your advocacy journey, apply today, and help safeguard the work of cattle farmers and ranchers." The Trailblazers program is looking for new spokespeople to participate in a year-long hands-on program designed to train, equip, and empower beef advocates. Selected candidates receive training to become expert communicators, excel in media interviews and understand how to build confidence in beef-related practices when talking to consumers. Applications will be accepted through December 8, and selected participants will be notified mid-January, upon completing the review process. Learn more and apply at NCBA.org. *********************************************************************************** CropLife America Announces CEO Search The CropLife America Board of Directors is opening the search for the organization's next president and Chief Executive Officer. CropLife America is the national trade association representing the manufacturers, formulators, and distributors of plant science solutions for agriculture and pest management in the United States. The president and CEO will be important in maintaining and enhancing existing member relationships. The successful candidate will have strong leadership skills, experience in a regulated industry, and advocacy with a broad array of stakeholders, including elected officials and regulators at both the federal and state level. The organization's members are deeply committed to their businesses, and the CEO must demonstrate a shared belief in and commitment to furthering the interests of the industry. The Board retained Kincannon & Reed to help guide the nationwide search process. CropLife America parted ways with former CEO Chris Novak in September. A statement from CropLife America at the time said, "Thee entire CLA Board of Directors thank Chris for his service to the organization over the past five years.” *********************************************************************************** 2023 Ozone Hole Ranks 16th Largest on Record The 2023 Antarctic ozone hole reached its maximum size at ten million square miles on September 21, which ranks as the 16th largest since 1979, according to annual satellite and balloon-based measurements made by NOAA and NASA. During the peak of the ozone depletion season from September 7 to October 13, the hole this year averaged 8.9 million square miles, approximately the size of North America. Paul Newman of NASA says, "It's a very modest ozone hole," adding, "Declining levels of human-produced chlorine compounds, along with help from active Antarctic stratospheric weather slightly improved ozone levels this year." The ozone layer acts like Earth's natural sunscreen, as this portion of the stratosphere shields our planet from the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. Every September, the ozone layer thins to form an “ozone hole” above the Antarctic continent. NOAA and NASA researchers monitor the ozone layer over the pole and globally using instruments aboard NASA's Aura, NOAA-NASA Suomi NPP and NOAA-20 satellites.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 2, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, a report on third-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for September will be out at 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Weather Cold air that has been spreading through the country has reached its peak, with moderating temperatures in the Plains on Thursday that will continue eastward through the weekend. A system has moved into the Pacific Northwest and will bring showers there and to northern areas going into the weekend.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 1, 2023 |

House Republican Members Urge Swift Farm Bill Passage Republican lawmakers in the House of Representatives are urging the new speaker to pass a farm bill. In a letter last week to Speaker Mike Johnson, a group of 61 members told the speaker, “We urge you and the Conference at-large to be united in ensuring swift passage of a strong Farm Bill.” The letter notes that more than 92 percent of the nation’s planted acres are represented by Republican Members. Moreover, in 2022, the food and agriculture sectors contributed $7.4 trillion in economic activity, creating 43 million jobs, $2.3 trillion in wages, $718 billion in tax revenue, and $183 billion in exports, stemming from direct, indirect, and induced output. The lawmakers added, "The Farm Bill is a critical agenda item that must be addressed this Congress." Before he was elected speaker last week, Johnson revealed a priority list that included a December vote on the farm bill, pledging to "Begin negotiations as soon as possible.” *********************************************************************************** Report Reveals Global Agriculture Subsidies Total support to agriculture reached record levels of $851 billion per year during 2020-22 for the 54 countries covered by a new Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. The Agricultural Policy Monitoring and Evaluation 2023 report shows the historically high level of support is nearly a 2.5-fold increase compared to two decades ago, though still behind the overall growth of production. Support remains highly concentrated in a few large producing economies, with China, India, the United States and the European Union representing 36 percent, 15 percent, 14 percent and 13 percent of total support provided, respectively. Individual producers received $630 billion per year in positive support over the 2020-22 period. The report tracks global government support provided to the agricultural sector, including subsidies, tariffs and other “market-distorting forms of support.” OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann says, “Such measures alter trade, investment and the location of production, undermining both the value of market access and the benefits of competitive markets and open trade.” *********************************************************************************** New Grants to Strengthen Local and Regional Food Systems USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service Tuesday awarded more than $32 million for 98 grant projects to expand and strengthen local and regional food systems. The funding will be distributed through the Local Agriculture Market Program's Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Programs and the Regional Food System Partnerships grant program. USDA Undersecretary Jenny Lester Moffitt says, "These grant programs support local and regional food producers by broadening marketing opportunities, such as farmers markets, local food hubs, and farm-to-institution programs." This year, the Farmers Market Promotion Program is funding 55 projects that support producer-to-consumer markets, such as farmers markets, roadside stands, agritourism activities, community-supported agriculture programs, and online sales. Through the Local Agriculture Market Program's Farmers Market, 33 projects have been funded to support local and regional food businesses that engage as intermediaries in indirect producer-to-consumer marketing. Through the Regional Food System Partnerships grant program, funds will support ten partnerships across eight states and the District of Columbia. *********************************************************************************** Tentative Agreement Allows for St Lawrence Seaway Reopening Unifor has reached a tentative agreement with St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation, ending a weeklong strike that halted shipping along the route. An agreement was announced at the start of this week following mediated negotiations on behalf of Ontario and Quebec members. St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation CEO Terence Bowles says, “We have in hand an agreement that’s fair for workers and secures a strong and stable future for the Seaway.” The tentative agreement covers roughly 360 Unifor members in Ontario and Quebec, who work in the supervisory and engineering group and the maintenance, operations, and clerical group. Specifics of the agreement were not released, but workers did return to work Monday morning. The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway is a deep draft waterway extending 2,300 miles from the Atlantic Ocean to the head of the Great Lakes at Duluth, Minnesota. The Seaway includes 15 locks – 13 in Canada and two in the United States. *********************************************************************************** USDA Examines ReConnect Program Populations Households in nonmetro areas are more than four times as likely to lack broadband internet access as households in metro areas. To help bring broadband to rural areas, USDA’s ReConnect program provides grants and loans to internet providers to help finance the costs of providing high-speed internet through broadband services. Funding areas served by projects must be rural and have 90 percent or more of households without access to broadband at minimum upload and download speeds. USDA Economic Research Service researchers examined ReConnect projects proposed in fiscal years 2019 and 2020, finding that the populations of areas eligible and areas of approved projects tended to have less formal educational attainment, more poverty, and more people over the age of 65. About 53 percent of the population in ReConnect-eligible areas had high school or less educational attainment, compared with 40 percent in ineligible areas. Likewise, the poverty rate was higher in eligible areas, as was the portion of the population over age 65. *********************************************************************************** Shell Eggs Broken Down 1% from Last Year USDA's latest monthly Egg Products report shows shell eggs broken is down one percent from last year. Released this week by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, the report tracks eggs cracked by processors for egg products, including liquid whole egg, liquid whites, liquid yolk, and dried product. Shell eggs broken totaled 198 million dozen during July 2022, down one percent from July a year ago, and two percent below the 202 million dozen broken during the previous month. During calendar year 2022 through July, shell eggs broken totaled 1.38 billion dozen, up six percent from the comparable period in 2021. To date, cumulative total edible product from eggs broken in 2022 was 1.76 billion pounds, up six percent from 2021. Meanwhile, overall demand for shell eggs is mixed with most interest from marketers looking to build their stocks in anticipation of increased consumer demand into early November and the start of the Thanksgiving demand season for baking.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 1, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Reports of manufacturing indices from around the world will roll in overnight with the U.S. index due out at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories follows at 9:30 a.m. At 1 p.m., the Federal Reserve announces its decision on interest rates, expected to stay unchanged. At 2 p.m., NASS releases its monthly report on Fats and Oils. Weather Cold air has fully pushed into the country east of the Rockies early Wednesday with widespread frosts and freezes for most areas except those areas adjacent to the coast. Some lake-effect snow lingers in the eastern Great Lakes and Northeast early in the day but will wane later Wednesday. Dry conditions elsewhere will give potential for completing some late fieldwork during the start to the last month of fall.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 31, 2023 |

State of the Corn Economy In the third quarter of 2023, the corn sector wrapped up the 2022-2023 marketing year and entered the 2023-204 marketing year. Geopolitical tensions and international dynamics continue to be factors in the market. Looking ahead, a National Corn Growers Association webinar says the war in Israel could have larger implications for corn if it spreads throughout the Middle East. On the macroeconomic side, interest rates continue to rise while the economy remains strong. That makes it a challenge to forecast an economic landing, especially considering geopolitical factors. Despite widespread drought across the Corn Belt during the growing season, the U.S. is positioned to produce one of the three largest corn crops on record. That positions the U.S. to have enough grain needed to fulfill demand. Even with the strong competition in the world market, the outlook for demand from ethanol, feed, and exports is more positive than it was last year. *********************************************************************************** Organic Produce Sales and Volume Up Two Percent For the second quarter in a row, organic fresh produce grew slightly in year-over-year sales and volume in the third quarter of 2023. That’s according to a report issued by the Organic Produce Network. Overall, organic fresh produce dollar sales and volume rose by two percent and 1.9 percent, respectively, for Q3 in 2023 compared to the same time last year. “The growth in organic produce volume slightly outpacing conventional produce reflects the continued consumer interest in healthier and sustainable food choices,” says Tom Barnes, CEO of Category Partners. In the third quarter, 15 of the top 20 organic fresh produce categories posted increases in dollar sales compared to the same period last year. The organic berry category, including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, led overall dollar sales with $461 million for the quarter, a 6.9 percent increase. Organic broccoli saw the largest sales jump at 14 percent above last year. *********************************************************************************** USGC Building Markets in Africa East Africa holds significant long-term growth potential for U.S. feed grains. Earlier this month, the U.S. Grains Council sent staff and members to the region as part of an engagement mission to discuss upcoming programming, current partnerships, and opportunities for American feed grains. The Council has been active in East Africa for over a decade, working to promote the development of a commercial poultry and feed industry in the region to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population. The USDA estimates by 2032 that Africa and the Middle East will account for 43 percent of the additional growth in world coarse grain imports. The team kicked off the trip by attending the tenth African Grain Trade Summit in Uganda. The conference brought together business leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders from Africa to talk through issues and emerging trends in the grain sector. Other stops included Kenya and Tanzania’s Poultry Show. *********************************************************************************** Trends in Agricultural Land Ownership The landscape of land ownership has evolved over the past 25 years as a generational transfer of ownership takes place. A Farmers National Company report says a strong ag economy has driven the market higher for several years. Most landowners have seen steady increases in value during the past 25 years, but especially within the past three years. FNC says one market dynamic farmers can always count on is change. Politics, world events, and other factors will continue driving change in the agriculture economy and land values over the next 25 years. Generational transfer of land ownership will continue bringing changes to who owns the land. One constant in the market is the fact that they aren’t making more land available. FNC says the U.S. loses an average of 1.8 million acres of farmland every year, which will only add to the limited supply available and more change in the marketplace. *********************************************************************************** Deere Foundation Announces Anti-Hunger Grants The John Deere Foundation announced a series of grants totaling $19 million aimed at eliminating hunger by increasing access to food, helping resource-constrained farmers, and supporting global food systems. The grants go to the World Food Program USA, the One Acre Fund, and the Nature Conservancy. “We firmly believe that the world’s farmers deserve our collective support and advocacy if our goal is to realize the promise of the ‘Green Revolution,’” says Josh Jepsen, senior vice president and chief financial officer at Deere. The World Food Program received $5 million to strengthen the capacity of the United Nations World Food Program, the world’s largest humanitarian organization. One Acre Fund was awarded $7.5 million to accelerate its work to ensure every family farm has the knowledge and means to be successful. The Nature Conservancy received $6.5 million to promote natural climate solutions like forest restoration and conservation in key regions around the world. *********************************************************************************** Corn and Soybean Export Sales Surge USDA says corn sales to overseas buyers surged, and soybean sales hit a marketing-year high in the seven days ending on October 19. Corn export sales totaled 1.35 million metric tons, up 53 percent over the previous week and 22 percent from the prior four-week average. An agency report says Mexico was a big buyer of U.S. corn, purchasing 762,400 metric tons, followed by Colombia and Japan. Exports during the week were 483,700 tons, down six percent week-to-week and the lowest since the marketing year began on September 1. Soybean sales jumped to 1.38 million metric tons during the week, one percent above the previous week and 43 percent over the four-week average. That’s also the largest amount since the marketing year began. China was the largest buyer at 1.17 million tons. Soybean exports hit a marketing-year high at 2.38 million tons. Wheat sales dropped 43 percent from the prior week.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 31, 2023 |

Biden, Cabinet, Heading to Rural America President Joe Biden will travel to Minnesota to lead his Administration's Investing in Rural America Event Series. Over the course of two weeks, President Biden, Cabinet members, and Senior Administration Officials will barnstorm across the country. The events will promote investments in climate-smart agriculture, bringing new revenue to farms, increased economic development in rural towns and communities and more opportunity throughout the country, according to the White House. During the Event Series, President Biden and leaders across the Administration will travel to rural communities across the country. This includes rural communities leveraging Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to support critical infrastructure such as high-speed internet, safe roads and bridges, modern wastewater systems, clean drinking water, and reliable and affordable electricity. Beyond the Minnesota visit with Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Vilsack will also speak at the National FFA convention this week in Indianapolis. Other administration officials will travel to Wisconsin, Michigan, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, Washington State, Oregon and Georgia, among other states. *********************************************************************************** September Milk Production Down Slightly USDA’s latest Milk Production report shows production in the 24 major states during September totaled 17.5 billion pounds, down slightly from September 2022. August revised production, at 18.1 billion pounds, was down 0.7 percent from August 2022. The August revision represented a decrease of 73 million pounds or 0.4 percent from last month's preliminary production estimate. Production per cow in the 24 major States averaged 1,960 pounds for September, three pounds above September 2022. The number of milk cows on farms in the 24 major States was 8.91 million head, 16,000 head less than September 2022, and 2,000 head less than August 2023. Milk production in the United States during the July - September quarter totaled 56.1 billion pounds, down 0.7 percent from the July - September quarter last year. The average number of milk cows in the United States during the quarter was 9.38 million head, 41,000 head less than the April - June quarter, and 33,000 head less than the same period last year. *********************************************************************************** $3 Million Available for Producers Impacted by 2022 Natural Disasters The Department of Agriculture will provide more than $3 billion to commodity and specialty crop producers impacted by natural disasters in 2022. Eligible impacted producers can apply for financial assistance through the Emergency Relief Program 2022. The program will help offset the financial impacts of crop yield and value losses from qualifying disasters in 2022. Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux (DOO-sheh-know) says, “2022 was another year of weather-related challenges — for some, the third consecutive year or more in a row.” ERP 2022 covers losses to crops, trees, bushes and vines due to qualifying, calendar year 2022 natural disaster events, including wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, tornadoes, winter storms, freeze –including a polar vortex, smoke exposure, excessive moisture, qualifying drought and related conditions. Producers can apply for ERP 2022 starting October 31, (today). The application deadline has not yet been determined and will be announced at a later date. *********************************************************************************** Branstad, Westman to Receive USMEF Awards Terry Branstad, former U.S. ambassador to China and longtime governor of Iowa, has been selected to receive the U.S. Meat Export Federation's Michael J. Mansfield Award. USMEF established this award in recognition of the U.S. Senate majority leader and ambassador to Japan, whose five decades of government service advanced U.S. trade relations throughout the world. Bill Westman will receive the USMEF Distinguished Service Award. This award honors outstanding figures in the red meat industry who exemplify the exceptional, individual dedication responsible for the federation's success. Westman had a 29-year career with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, served as senior vice president of international affairs for the North American Meat Institute and is now president of William Westman and Associates LLC, a boutique consulting firm specializing in agricultural trade policy, export market development, and strategic planning. The awards will be presented November 9, at the USMEF Strategic Planning Conference in New Orleans. *********************************************************************************** Syngenta Group Recognized as Top Agriculture Employer Syngenta Group was again recognized as one of the globe's top five leading employers in the 2023 Science Careers Top Employers Survey. Syngenta Group employs 59,000 people across more than 100 countries and works towards the challenging goal of feeding the eight billion people on Earth. A Syngenta spokesperson says, "We are excited that Syngenta Group is again being named as the #1 agricultural employer." Recently, Syngenta Seeds held a grand opening for its R&D Innovation Center in Malta, Illinois, which joins a connected, modern ecosystem of more than 150 Syngenta R&D and production sites worldwide and exemplifies the company's $1.48 billion USD annual investment globally. Syngenta Group, registered in Shanghai, China and with its management headquarters in Switzerland, includes four business units – Syngenta Crop Protection, headquartered in Switzerland, Syngenta Seeds, headquartered in the United States, ADAMA headquartered in Israel, and Syngenta Group China. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Gas and Diesel Prices Fall Again The nation's average gasoline price fell 5.3 cents last week to $3.45 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is down 36.3 cents from a month ago and 27.4 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 3.4 cents last week and is $4.43 per gallon—86 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "The West Coast has been home to some of the largest declines, with California seeing an impressive 80-cent drop in the last four weeks, dispelling the myth that prices don't fall as fast as they go up." De Haan says the national average gas price could drop another 10-20 cents in the weeks ahead. However, any jolt in the Middle East still holds the potential to disrupt current trends, according to De Haan. Oil markets have struggled to hold onto any momentum in recent weeks, and demand declined one percent last week.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 31, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Keeping with the Halloween theme on Tuesday, the Federal Reserve will begin a two-day meeting and may spook markets with a quarter-percent rate hike on Wednesday, but general expectations are for no change this time around. At 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, the U.S. Labor Department will release its employment cost index for the third quarter, followed by a report of U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Weather Very cold temperatures continue to fill in east of the Rockies on Tuesday, producing widespread frosts and freezes for all but the Southeast. A small system is moving through the Midwest, producing areas of light, but briefly intense snow.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 30, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - More Wheat Winners, Weather From North to South 1. Cold hits Northern harvest: With some areas of North America already seeing snow and frigid conditions, crop harvest in those areas gets trickier. We will examine the results of weather that turn combines into ersatz snowblowers. Mike and Chandra Langseth, one of our View From the Cab families, have already been preparing for the challenge. 2. South American crop conditions: El Nino usually means drier weather for much of Brazil. But "drier" in an area that normally receives too much rainfall this time of year may not be as bad for the crop as one thinks. We're watching how much conditions will influence the current crop and prospects for the safrina (second-crop) corn. 3. Fertilizers and wars: We've written quite a bit in the past about how the war in the Black Sea affects fertilizer shipments out of Russia and other areas. As it happens, Israel is a fairly important supplier of phosphates. We'll be keeping an eye on all those outlying influences, as well as our usual reporting on fertilizer prices, found in our DTN Retail Fertilizer Trends column. DTN subscribers can see even more detailed price information in their Fuels and Fertilizers or Fertilizers segments, depending on their specific product. 4. More wheat winners: We'll continue to feature the winners in the National Wheat Foundation 2023 contest. Now in its eighth year, the NWF's National Wheat Yield Contest is designed to encourage wheat growers to strive for high yield, quality and profit while trying new and innovative management strategies. DTN/Progressive Farmer is the official media outlet of the competition. Contest partners include: John Deere, WestBred, BASF, U.S. Wheat Associates, Croplan, Eastman, The McGregor Companies, AgriMaxx, Ardent Mills, BushelFarm, Dyna-Gro, GrainSense, Limagrain Cereal Seeds, Mennel, North Carolina Small Grain Growers Association, Ohio Corn&Wheat, PlainsGold, UniSouth Genetics, UPL, Grain Craft, Grow Pro, Kansas Wheat, Michigan Wheat, Miller Milling, North Dakota Mill, and Northern Crops Institute. 5. Economic reports to watch: (All times CDT) Monday -- USDA's weekly grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m., followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Tuesday -- Happy Halloween! The Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting that may spook markets with a quarter-percent rate hike on Wednesday. The U.S. Labor Department releases its employment cost index for the third quarter at 7:30 a.m., followed by the U.S. consumer confidence report at 9 a.m. Wednesday -- We'll check manufacturing indices from around the world, with the U.S. index due out at 9 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories follows at 9:30 a.m. At 1 p.m., the Federal Reserve announces its decision on interest rates. At 2 p.m., NASS releases its monthly report on Fats and Oils. Thursday -- USDA releases its weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m., the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, a report on third-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for September will be out at 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Friday -- We wrap up the week with the U.S. Labor Department nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for October, hitting at 7:30 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 30, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the latest news from Israel and Ukraine, as well as the latest weather forecasts. USDA's weekly grain export inspections report is set for 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. when USDA will post its first winter wheat crop ratings for the new season. Weather A strong cold front moved through most of the Plains and Midwest over the weekend, spreading areas of heavy rain and some snow. The front will continue into the Southeast Monday with weakening rain showers. Very cold air filtering in behind the front will cause widespread frosts and freezes for the bulk of the country by midweek. A disturbance following behind the front will bring light snows to the Midwest tonight and Tuesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 27, 2023 |

Iowa Delegation Wants Reduction on Fertilizer Duties Iowa Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst are calling on the Department of Commerce to lower the countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizers from Morocco. The push comes from the Court of International Trade’s recent remand of DOC’s subsidy calculation. “We ask that Commerce carefully consider and follow the Court’s decision in Commerce’s recalculation of the subsidy amount, both in its final determination in the investigation and its administrative review,” the Iowa delegation said in a letter. “Reducing the subsidy rate would provide welcome relief for U.S. farm suppliers and their customers, who are America’s family farmers.” Grassley and his colleagues cited promising preliminary findings from the DOC on potentially reducing the subsidy rate by about 5.5 percent. Since the Biden administration boosted duties on Moroccan phosphate fertilizers, their supply across the U.S. has dropped, placing an undue financial burden on farmers. The move drove already high input costs up even further. *********************************************************************************** Rabobank: Global Fertilizer Market Set to Recover A recent report from Rabobank says the outlook for global fertilizer markets is positive in the coming years. However, there are some challenges and potential risks to monitor. The global fertilizer market is recovering, with an estimated increase in usage of around three percent this year after a seven percent drop in 2022 because of significant market complications. The Rabobank Affordability Index shows a positive outlook for fertilizer purchasing in 2024, with an expected increase of almost five percent next year. The Farm Input Division at Rabobank says nitrogen growth grew two percent this year, phosphate 3.9 percent, and potash was up five percent. There is a potential impact from the Israel-Hamas War as Israel is a sizable supplier of phosphate and potash. Israel accounts for about three percent of the world’s phosphate exports and eight percent of the global potash supply. Currently, there is sufficient availability and alternative supply sources. *********************************************************************************** Farm Groups Applaud More OFF Act Sponsors Farm groups like Competitive Markets Action, the Organization for Competitive Markets, R-CALF USA, and others applauded seven new sponsors of the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act. The groups say the OFF Act would restore accountability and transparency to agricultural checkoff programs. In total, the OFF Act now has more bipartisan support than in any previous Congress, including 15 co-sponsors in the House and six in the Senate. “The OFF Act is backed by more than 20,000 American family farmers who are sick and tired of seeing their own checkoff dollars put farmers out of business,” says Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC). The groups say recent debate over the 2024 Ag Appropriations Bill has increased interest in oversight of the 22 government-mandated checkoff programs. They have long been plagued by accusations of corruption and misuse of funds. They also say the new bill sponsors show that momentum is rising for their reform. *********************************************************************************** Alltech Survey Finds Optimism Regarding Sustainable Food System Agri-food leaders around the world believe the industry can work together to create a better, more sustainable food system. That’s according to the Alltech Sustainability Insights report. “Our goal was to listen to the voices of our industry and its stakeholders and develop a robust, future-facing program of insights that are relevant, ambitious, and genuinely impactful,” says Tara McCarthy, global vice president of EST at Alltech. Some of the findings include four out of five respondents agreeing that climate change will make food production more difficult, but perspectives differ across regions. Most respondents agree that regulation is putting pressure on all areas of the supply chain. “Our industry is navigating extraordinary times, but the opportunities for positive impact are even more unprecedented,” says Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “Imagine the possibilities of working toward shared goals of providing nutrition for all, revitalizing economies, and replenishing our natural resources.” *********************************************************************************** NCC Elects New Officers The National Chicken Council has installed the four officers that will guide the organization through 2024. The installation took place at NCC’s 68th Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. Randy Day, a retired CEO and special adviser to the Perdue Farms Board of Directors, will serve as the 2023-2024 Chairman. Randy led Perdue’s senior leadership team before retiring as CEO after 43 years. He began a career with Perdue Farms in 1980, holding various positions of increasing responsibility in the company’s two operating divisions. Peco Foods Chief Operations Officer Bill Griffith will serve as Vice Chairman, bringing more than 25 years of management experience in the food industry. David Jackson, COO of Simmons Foods, is the NCC Secretary-Treasurer. Mike Brown was also elected to his 13th term as NCC President. “I look forward to working with the new officers to continue advancing the industry’s interests and achieve our shared goals,” Brown says. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Trending Higher The Energy Information Administration reports that ethanol production rose to its highest level in two months, and inventories rose during the seven days ending on October 20. Ethanol production increased to an average of 1.04 million barrels a day. That’s up from 1.03 million the previous week and the highest level since August 18. In the Midwest, output narrowly rose to 987,000 barrels a day from 985,000 the previous week. That’s also the highest in the Midwest since mid-August. East Coast production rose from 10,000 to 12,000 barrels a day, while West Coast output improved from 9,000 the prior week to 10,000 barrels a day. Gulf Coast production was unchanged at 17,000 barrels a day, while the Rocky Mountain region was the only drop, falling by 1,000 barrels a day to 13,000. Ethanol stockpiles through the week of October 20 rose to 21.39 million barrels, up from 21.1 million a week earlier.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 27, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending in September will be out at 7:30 a.m. Friday, the same time as the personal consumer expenditures index for September, the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation indicator. Traders continue to keep a close watch on South American weather as row crop planting progresses. Weather A cold front is starting to move south and east through the middle of the country and that is bringing some very cold air into the Plains and western Midwest. The front will light up with areas of showers and thunderstorms from Texas to the Great Lakes throughout the day, which could be heavy again in Texas. Winds behind the front are breezy.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 26, 2023 |

AFBF Congratulates Johnson on Speaker Election American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall welcomed the election of Representative Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, to be Speaker of the House. Johnson was the fourth Republican nominee for the post following the ousting of former speaker Kevin McCarthy. Duvall of AFBF says, "Speaker Johnson has a strong history of supporting America's farmers and ranchers, which has earned him the 'Friend of Farm Bureau' award multiple times." Johnson represents Louisiana's 4th Congressional district, encompassing much of the state's western half, and was first elected to Congress in 2016. Johnson calls the election an "honor of a lifetime" while proclaiming, "We will restore trust in this body.” Duvall of Farm Bureau adds,” America’s families are relying on Speaker Johnson, and Congress, to focus on pressing needs, including completion of fiscal year 2024 appropriations and passage of a farm bill.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Household Food Insecurity Increased in 2022 New research from USDA finds that in 2022, 12.8 percent of U.S. households were food insecure at some time during the year. Food insecure means they had difficulty providing enough food for all their members because of a lack of resources. The prevalence of food insecurity in 2022 was statistically significantly higher than the 10.2 percent recorded in 2021 and the 10.5 percent in 2020. Very low food security is a more severe form of food insecurity, and the 2022 prevalence of very low food security was 5.1 percent, statistically significantly higher than the 3.8 percent in 2021 and the 3.9 percent in 2020. In response, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “The 2022 Household Food Security in the United States report is a sobering reminder that, while the vast majority of Americans are able to affordably feed themselves and their families, too many of our neighbors struggle to put healthy food on the table.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Publishes New Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday previewed the Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards final rule. USDA says the new rule establishes clear, strong and consistent standards for organic livestock and poultry production, levels the playing field for organic livestock farmers, ranchers and businesses and promotes fairer, more competitive markets for their products, while providing consumers with more transparency about their purchases. Vilsack says, "USDA is creating a fairer, more competitive and transparent food system." Strong interest from consumers and the organic industry drove the change. USDA encouraged the public to comment, and USDA received more than 40,000 written comments, all of which were carefully reviewed to inform drafting of this final rule. USDA also held a listening session in August 2022 to hear public comments on the proposed rule. The final rule outlines standards for six key areas, including outdoor space requirements, indoor and outdoor living conditions, poultry stocking densities, preventative health care, physical alterations, and transport, handling and slaughter. *********************************************************************************** Bill to Support Organic Dairy Farmers Senator Tammy Baldwin introduced legislation to support organic dairy farmers and help them address economic challenges like feed shortages and increased costs. The Organic Dairy Assistance, Investment, and Reporting Yields Act of 2023 will increase investments in the organic dairy industry to ensure resiliency and longevity and works to improve data collection for organic milk production to enhance price accuracy and transparency. The Wisconsin Democrat says, "In the face of recent headwinds, I'm committed to delivering the support our dairies need to keep their operations open for generations to come." The legislation would extend emergency assistance to organic dairy farmers facing losses and invest $25 million annually in dairy infrastructure investments. Additionally, the bill directs USDA to the viability of an organic safety net program, which would get aid to farmers faster when disasters hit in the future. Known as the O DAIRY Act of 2023, the bill has broad support from the organic dairy industry, including the Organic Farmers Association. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Launches 2024 Scholarship Program The National Corn Growers Association Wednesday announced the launch of its annual scholarship program for the 2024 academic year. The program is designed to support students who are passionate about agriculture and making a positive impact in their community. NCGA will award scholarships to deserving students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership and community involvement. The scholarships are open to students attending technical school, undergraduate universities, and pursuing graduate-level studies. NCGA Membership & Consumer Engagement Action Team Chair Dan Nerud says, “We believe that education is critical in shaping the future of the agriculture industry, and we are committed to providing opportunities for students to achieve their academic and career goals To apply for the scholarship, students must complete an online application. Submissions are now being accepted, and the deadline to complete them is January 31, 2024. All eligible students are encouraged to apply. For more information and to apply, visit NCGA.com/scholarships. *********************************************************************************** NCBA 2024 Environmental Stewardship Award Nominations Open Nominations are now open for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Environmental Stewardship Award. Established in 1991, the Environmental Stewardship Award Program annually recognizes outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of cattle producers across the nation. NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says, "This award celebrates the innovative efforts our industry is undertaking to protect the environment, engage with communities and remain profitable." Any individual, group or organization is eligible to nominate one individual or business raising or feeding cattle. Individuals and families may not nominate themselves, although nominees may be involved in preparing the application. Past nominees are encouraged to resubmit applications; however, previous winners may not reapply. Along with a typed application, one nomination letter and three letters of recommendation highlighting the nominee's leadership in conservation are required, and the deadline is March 8, 2024. Nominees do not have to be members of NCBA but should support the objectives of their state and national organization. For more information, visit environmentalstewardship.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 26, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, durable goods orders for September, third-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. and traders will continue to keep an eye on the latest weather developments, especially in South America. Weather The zone of precipitation that has been active across the middle of the country all week continues on Thursday with areas of heavy rain from Texas into the Midwest and heavy snow in the Northern Plains, though a little farther south than previous days. Very cold temperatures are pouring into the Northern Plains and will sweep south and east going into next week.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 25, 2023 |

USDA Boosts Investments in International Trade Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA is providing $2.3 billion to help American producers maintain and develop markets for their commodities. Some of the funds will use U.S. commodities to boost international food aid. A request for the funding initially came from the Senate Ag Committee’s leadership, so USDA will be utilizing funds from the Commodity Credit Corporation to address challenges related to trade and food insecurity impacting U.S. farmers and the international community. USDA will use $1.3 billion for the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program and support for specialty crop industries to diversify export markets. One billion will go to help address global hunger. “The Commodity Credit Corporation continues addressing the needs of American producers as significant and unpredictable challenges arise,” Vilsack says. “Those challenges impact the international commodity markets and global food insecurity in the face of an ongoing conflict.” The goal is to strengthen the U.S. position in global markets. *********************************************************************************** Ag Responds Positively to Funds for Market Development The American Soybean Association joined other groups in applauding the USDA’s efforts to strengthen U.S. trade and food aid. USDA announced a total of $2.3 billion in funds going toward those efforts. “Having these funds to sufficiently support export promotion programs and address hunger are things ASA and soy growers have consistently championed,” says ASA president Daryl Cates. Jim Mulhern, President and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, says, “If these funds are distributed to underfunded sectors like dairy, this will put us in a position to be more competitive globally.” Dan Halstrom, president and CEO of the U.S. Meat Export Federation, says these new investments in foreign market development are “very timely and much appreciated.” Ryan LeGrand, President and CEO of the U.S. Grains Council, says, “We look forward to expanding exports of corn, sorghum, barley, and their co-products and are grateful for this new source of funding.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Extends Deadline for Milk Loss Assistance Program The USDA is extending the application deadline for the Milk Loss Program to Monday, October 30. The agency wants to allow more time for eligible dairy farmers to apply for much-needed weather-related disaster recovery assistance. The program compensates dairy producers who dumped or removed milk without compensation from the commercial milk market in 2020, 2021, and 2022 because of qualifying weather events. Eligible causes of loss also include consequences of those weather events, such as power outages, impassable roads, and infrastructure losses. “We recognize that MLP benefits are critical to the financial recovery of dairy operations significantly impacted by weather-related disasters that inhibited their ability to deliver or store their milk,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “We know that dairy farming is a 24/7, 365-day commitment and hope this MLP application deadline extension ensures that all dairy farmers in need of assistance will now have adequate time to apply for help.” *********************************************************************************** Two Positive HPAI Cases in Iowa The Iowa Ag Department and the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service have confirmed two positive cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. One of the sites is a commercial turkey flock, and the other is a mixed species backyard flock. Both agencies remind commercial and backyard owners to prevent contact between their flocks and all wild birds. Sick birds or unusual deaths among birds must be reported to state and federal officials. Other indications may include lethargy or no appetite, decreasing egg production - soft, thin-shelled, or misshapen eggs - swelling in the head or eyelid area, difficulty breathing or coughing, sneezing, falling down, and diarrhea. If a producer in any state suspects HPAI in a flock, they should contact their veterinarian immediately and their state ag department. The CDC says the recent viral detection in birds doesn’t pose a public health concern, and it’s safe to eat poultry products. *********************************************************************************** Student Leaders Prepping for National FFA Convention FFA members and supporters from across the country will celebrate agriculture and agricultural education next week at the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis. The time-honored tradition will take place November 1-4. Over 65,000 FFA members from the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are expected to attend. The general sessions will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium. Convention events begin on the first day when Expo attendees can explore various career pathways in agriculture and attend leadership workshops. FFA members and advisors can also take their skills to the next level in student and teacher workshops. They’ll hear from industry leaders, motivational speakers, and many other guests. Members will get to discuss their agricultural projects on the new Student Showcase Stage. Service will be front and center at the event as members will participate in service projects at the convention center and various sites in Indianapolis. ********************************************************************************** IA Ag Secretary on EPA’s Herbicide Strategy Mike Naig, Iowa’s Secretary of Agriculture, submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency raising serious concerns about its draft Endangered Species Act herbicide strategy. Iowa is a national leader in crop production, so the secretary submitted written comments from the perspective of Iowa farmers and the state’s agriculture community. Naig says he appreciates the agency’s efforts to comply with the Endangered Species Act while still allowing farmers access to crop protection tools. However, he says the proposed strategy is too complex and would be an incredible burden on farmers and pesticide applicators. He also says the EPA must consider the economic impact of the proposed strategy and conduct a thorough economic analysis. “Farmers have proven time and again that they can be productive while also setting conservation records,” Naig says. “This burdensome strategy will jeopardize both those accomplishments.” EPA should also not rush the process to reach a final rule.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 25, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales in September will be out at 9:00 a.m. CDT, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. At 2 p.m., USDA releases its monthly cold storage report. Also, the Bank of Canada is expected to hold rates steady at 5% Wednesday. Traders continue to have interest in South American weather reports. Weather Active weather continues Wednesday with widespread areas of showers from the Plains into the Midwest due to several features and disturbances in the area. Cold air is filling into the Northern Plains, leading to heavy snow across Montana and North Dakota throughout Wednesday, continuing into Thursday. Some windy spots are possible as well. Heavy rain in parts of the Southern Plains may lead to flooding.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 24, 2023 |

U.S. Soybean Meal Exports Expected to Reach Record High USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service expects record soybean meal exports for marketing year 2022-23, at an estimated 13.2 million tons. USDA says increased soybean crush to supply feedstock oil for growing U.S. biomass-based diesel production is behind the expansion. The new record came from substantial expansion in shipments to the European Union and Vietnam as drought in Argentina, usually the world's largest soybean meal exporter, severely reduced its exportable supplies. Additionally, U.S. soybean meal exports to the Philippines, Colombia, and Mexico held firm despite a strong dollar. In marketing year 2023/24, U.S. soybean meal exports are forecast to reach a new record of 13.9 million tons. U.S. export prices are likely to remain competitive with South American supplies as the United States continues to produce more soybean meal than will be needed domestically, ensuring growing supplies are available to the global market. In the four previous marketing years, exports were relatively flat, hovering over 12 million tons per year. *********************************************************************************** Study Offers Farmer Viewpoint on Precision Tech A new study from South Dakota State University investigates farmers’ viewpoints on the most influential factor behind adopting new technologies and practices: profitability. In the study, researchers highlighted eight widely adopted precision ag technologies, including auto-steering and guidance, automatic section control, satellite/aerial imagery, unmanned aerial vehicle/drone imagery, variable rate fertilizer application, variable rate seed and application, variable rate pesticide application and variable rate irrigation application. The most widely adopted precision ag technologies include auto-steering and guidance, which fit under the georeferencing technology category. Satellite imagery was the next most widely adopted technology, with nearly 60 percent of all farmers having used it. Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles fall under a similar category to satellite imagery. However, drones are much less prevalent, with an adoption rate of 26 percent. To further facilitate precision ag adoption, the research team noted that financial support during the first few years of adopting a new technology could be beneficial. *********************************************************************************** USDA Conducting Sheep Study in 2024 USDA's National Animal Health Monitoring System conducts a national sheep study approximately every ten years, and will do so again next year. The Sheep 2024 Study will support industry groups and research efforts with new information on sheep health and management. The study consists of two phases and includes biological sampling and two questionnaires. A random selection of almost 5,000 sheep operations located in specific states will be asked to participate. While participation is voluntary, it is important to obtain high-quality data. The National Agricultural Statistics Service will contact selected participants in January and February 2024. Participants will be asked to provide their contact information to complete the second phase of the study, which begins in April 2024 and continues through July 2024. Information from the study will help develop new treatments, controls and prevention mechanisms for sheep diseases. The results will also guide future research and education. *********************************************************************************** PPP loans provided $5.8 billion to U.S. farm sector in 2020 Researchers at USDA’s Economic Research Service estimate that the Paycheck Protection Program provided $5.8 billion to the farm sector in 2020. The PPP was a non-USDA assistance program for small businesses adversely affected by the pandemic. Total Federal Government payments to the farm sector in 2020 were $45.6 billion, meaning that PPP payments were 13 percent of total payments. The Small Business Administration administered the PPP, providing forgivable loans to eligible small businesses and certain other entities to allow them to cover some of their payroll costs. The PPP loans were forgiven in full if the loan was used on eligible expenses, including at least 60 percent on payroll expenses. Agricultural producers in California were the largest recipients of PPP loans at $1.1 billion, followed by Washington at $285 million. California leads the nation in the value of agricultural production and has the highest hired labor expense among states. *********************************************************************************** Canada Announces Wildfire, Drought Support for Farmers As U.S. farmers faced drought conditions this year, so too did producers from Canada. Recently, Canada announced support for farmers and ranchers who are dealing with extraordinary costs due to drought conditions and wildfires. Canada announced C$219 million of support available through the AgriRecovery Framework. The funding will help them recover and ensure they have the tools they need to continue to be resilient in the face of natural disasters and extreme weather events. The announcement follows the August designation of specific regions for the Livestock Tax Deferral for 2023 due to extreme weather conditions. The Livestock Tax Deferral provision allows livestock producers who are forced to sell all or part of their breeding herd due to drought or excess moisture to defer a portion of their income from sales until the following tax year. This month, Farm Credit Canada also announced a new Replacement Heifer Program to help Canadian cattle producers in maintaining or expanding their herds. *********************************************************************************** Weaker Demand Driving Fuel Prices Lower Average gas prices declined again for the fifth straight week, with gasoline dropping 5.2 cents last week to $3.50 a gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is down 33.2 cents from a month ago and 26.8 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. However, the average diesel price increased 3.8 cents last week to $4.48 per gallon, yet 82 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “The national average is on the cusp of falling to the lowest level since March, something that could happen this week.” Gasoline demand continues to weaken as the calendar marches towards winter, coupled with cheaper winter gasoline and refinery issues that have faded. For now, that trend will likely mean further declines in the weeks ahead, before prices bottom out between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The most common U.S. gas law week stood at $3.29 per gallon, while demand saw a 1.8 percent decrease.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 24, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no official reports for Tuesday, but several earnings reports will get traders' attention, including reports from ADM, Alphabet (Google), GM, Microsoft and others. Traders are also interested in South American weather, rain in this week's U.S. forecast and news from the wars in Israel and Ukraine. Weather The setup for heavy precipitation continues in the middle of the country Tuesday with remnants of a tropical storm moving through Texas into Missouri throughout the day. A front from Nebraska to Wisconsin is also an area that could see precipitation but is the dividing line of colder air to the north and warm air to the south. Another, stronger cold front is moving through the Canadian Prairies, where snow is common today.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 23, 2023 |

Record-Low Mississippi River Level at Memphis The Mississippi River gauge hit a record-low water level on October 11 at Memphis, Tennessee. The all-time low hit -11.52 feet. It surpasses the previous low of -10.81 feet set in October 2022. The weekly USDA Grain Transportation Report says records were also broken on the Ohio River at Cairo, Illinois. That gauge read 4.5 feet, the lowest river level since 1901. Draft and tow-size restrictions are in place along the entire Mississippi River system. Despite some recent rains, more rain will be needed to raise water levels enough to improve the navigation conditions. Water levels are projected to rise by late October and early November, but navigation conditions aren’t expected to improve before late December or early January. Despite the navigation issues, the recent St. Louis spot freight rate fell for the third week in a row to $23.06 per ton, 68 percent below the same week last year. *********************************************************************************** Big Four Packers Hit with Another Suit The four largest meatpackers were hit by a new price-fixing lawsuit from a group of small food distributors. The suit was filed on October 9 in the U.S. District Court in Northern Illinois, accusing the Packers of fixing prices for years. The plaintiffs say the price-fixing dates back to at least January 1, 2015, and includes Cargill, JBS, Tyson Foods, and National Beef Packing Company. The distributors say the Big Four “exploited their market power in this highly concentrated market by conspiring to limit the supply of beef sold to purchasers in the U.S. wholesale market, which resulted in higher prices paid by the plaintiffs.” They also claim the alleged scheme caused financial harm at least through the end of 2021. “As a result, the plaintiffs paid higher prices for beef than they otherwise would have paid in a competitive market,” the lawsuit says while seeking relief under the Sherman Act. *********************************************************************************** Fourth Consider Corn Challenge Winners Announced The National Corn Growers Association announced the winners of the Consider Corn Challenge IV. Four winners were chosen for their unique ways to improve a product or process using feed corn to produce biobased materials. “Corn’s unique versatility can be witnessed in the showcase of their diverse approaches and applications,” says Sarah McKay, director of market development for NCGA. The winners include Penn State University, whose technology uses both corn starch and corn oil for applications in energy storage in lithium batteries. Nexceris has developed a new sugar-to-chemical process that uses renewable dextrose to make industrial chemicals instead of oil or gas. Maizly has developed the world’s first corn-based milk alternative called Maizly Original. Bluestem Biosciences developed a new yeast biology for the sustainable anaerobic production of 3-HP acids. “The Consider Corn Challenge fosters collaborations between corn farmers and industry, paving the way for innovative products and applications,” McKay adds. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Women Sharpen Communication Skills Fifteen farm and ranch women leaders graduated from the fall session of the Women’s Communication Boot Camp hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation. The agricultural leaders completed an intensive four-day course that featured sessions focused on public speaking, working with the media, and messaging. Program graduates will use this training to support Farm Bureau’s priority issues. This includes participating in local media opportunities, sharing information with elected officials, and joining social media campaigns spotlighting modern agriculture. “Agriculture needs strong advocates who are willing to step up and share their stories at the local, state, and national level,” says Isabella Chism (CHIZ-um), Chair of the Women’s Leadership Committee. “The Farm Bureau women leaders who completed this training are poised to creatively use their skills in a broad range of settings.” The program has a total of 284 graduates over 19 years and is open to all women involved in Farm Bureau. *********************************************************************************** Smaller Operating Loans Slow Ag Lending Activity Farm lending activity slowed further in the third quarter alongside a drop in operating loan volumes. The number of new non-real estate farm loans was flat compared to a year ago, while the average size shrank almost 20 percent. The amount of operating loans over $1 million dropped notably. The Kansas City Fed says lending has softened alongside significant increases in farm loan interest rates that have put considerable upward pressure on financing costs. The farm economy has moderated in recent months as profit margins thinned alongside lower commodity prices and elevated expenses. Credit needs have increased for many borrowers because of high input costs, but strong liquidity built up in recent years has also allowed many producers to supplement additional loan advances. Higher financing costs have prompted farmers with enough liquidity to limit debt usage, but any softening in farm finances could reduce reserves and increase loan demand. *********************************************************************************** September Milk Production Up Slightly Milk production in the 24 major dairy states during September totaled 17.5 billion pounds, up slightly from September 2022. August revised production, at 18.1 billion pounds, was 0.7 percent below August 2022. The August revision represented a decrease of 73 million pounds or 0.4 percent from last month’s preliminary production estimate. Production per cow in the 24 major states averaged 1,960 pounds for September, three pounds above September 2022. The number of milk cows on farms in the 24 major states was 8.91 million head, 16,000 head less than in September 2022 and 2,000 head less than August 2023. Milk production in the July through September quarter totaled 56.1 billion pounds, down 0.7 percent from the July through September quarter in 2022. The average number of milk cows in the United States during the quarter was 9.38 million head, 43,000 head less than April through June 2023 quarter, and 33,000 head less than 2022.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 23, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will keep an eye on events in Israel and Ukraine and keep tabs on harvest progress with rain expected in the U.S. this week. USDA's weekly grain export inspections report is at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Cattle prices will respond to Friday's larger-than-expected placement and on-feed totals. Weather Portions of the Southern Plains, Northern Plains, and Upper Midwest will see scattered rain showers Monday. Areas in western Texas have a risk for flash flooding with areas of heavy rain developing. 1.00-2.00 inches of rain are possible in western Texas throughout Monday and into early Tuesday morning.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 20, 2023 |

Ag Groups Urge Caution About Fertilizer Duties The National Corn Growers Association and 62 other ag groups say fertilizer shortages are creating a hardship for U.S. farmers. The groups sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo asking her to consider the current difficulties faced by farmers as she recalculates duties on phosphate fertilizer imported from Morocco. “High costs and limited availability of fertilizer continue to strain family farms across the U.S.,” the groups said. The duties levied on fertilizers have caused some of the top phosphate fertilizer importers to drastically reduce the amount brought in. The letter comes after the U.S. Court of International Trade ordered the agency to reconsider its previous decision on recalculating the duties. The letter says duties levied on phosphate imports combined with other factors have led to substantial price volatility over the past three years as prices increased 230 percent from 2020 to 2022. A determination will be announced on December 13. *********************************************************************************** World Dairy Summit Celebrates the Future The first International Dairy Federation World Dairy Summit held in the U.S. in over 30 years recently concluded in Chicago. Over 1,240 dairy leaders from 55 countries celebrated the IDF’s 120th anniversary and highlighted dairy innovations, market opportunities, and contributions to global sustainability and food security. “U. S. Dairy is honored to have hosted this momentous IDF WDS 2023, bringing dairy’s premier annual gathering to the U.S. for the first time in over three decades,” says U.S. IDF Co-Chair Nick Gardner. Summit leadership emphasized bringing the global dairy sector together, releasing a declaration statement calling on governments, global organizations, and the world’s food and beverage sector to support “Being Dairy.” The summit delivered dynamic programming, including eight main sessions and 21 break-out sessions focused on dairy policy, scientific, and technical issues and insights. “The hard work of the dairy sector produces nutritious food for over six billion consumers,” Gardner says. *********************************************************************************** Early 2023 Hog and Cattle Weights Lagged Behind 2022 Live weights of both hogs and cattle ran below year-earlier weights for the early part of 2023. Hog live weights averaged 284.9 pounds through the week ending on July 8, 2023, compared to 287.3 pounds during the same time in 2022. That’s an average difference of over 2.4 pounds. Lower weights this year are likely because of producer losses caused by high feed costs and low hog prices due to weaker pork demand. Live cattle weights averaged 1,370 pounds through May 20, 2023, 16.25 pounds less than weights over the same period last year. Lower weights are likely caused by numerous factors, including more heifers with lower weights in the slaughter mix due to ongoing drought conditions that discouraged the retention of heifers for breeding. Additionally, feedlot performance was likely affected by adverse weather conditions early in 2023, resulting in lower rates of gain. Hog weights hit year-earlier levels in mid-July. *********************************************************************************** Research Investments Spur New Agricultural Markets The USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture announced an investment of almost $22 million in agricultural economics research. That research will include agricultural markets, international trade, farm labor, consumer behavior and nutrition, food retail, agricultural production, processing, and agricultural policy. NIFA Director Manjit (Man-JEET) Misra says, “The challenges facing the agricultural sector, the production and consumption of food, and management of natural resources and the environment continue to evolve.” The agency chief also says NIFA supports research that investigates the increasing global demands for food production in the face of limited resources and changing climate. “These will have major implications for how we use natural resources, promote healthy diets, invest in science, and foster economic opportunities and quality of life for all Americans,” Misra says in a release. He made the announcement in Colorado during a keynote address at the Global Forum for Rural Advisory Service Annual Meeting in Denver. *********************************************************************************** New Eggnog in Time for the Holidays Organic Valley Cooperative released its limited-time eggnog with a new recipe. It’s made from scratch and coming just in time for the holiday season. The farmer-owned organic co-op calls the new recipe its Organic Reduced Fat Eggnog, which is already available for purchase throughout the country. Milk is sourced from small family farms, as well as the eggs, sugar, nutmeg, and natural flavor. Dairy Processing reports that like all Organic Valley products, the eggnog’s milk comes from dairy farms where the cows are raised without the use of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, toxic pesticides, or GMOs. The company says it heard loud and clear from consumers that eggnog is an important part of their winter traditions, so the co-op came together to work hand-in-hand with their smaller family farmers to make the new eggnog a reality. “We’re excited to introduce this made-from-scratch recipe,” says Jaclyn Cardin, chief brand officer at Organic Valley. *********************************************************************************** Butter Prices Hit Record Highs Butter prices have hit a record high this month as lower production levels create supply constraints heading into the holiday season when demand normally peaks. The USDA says spot butter prices on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange hit a record high at $3.44 a pound last week. August butter production was at the lowest level in almost five years because of tighter milk supplies, fewer imports, and the increased use of cream in making other products. Agriculture Dive says the summer’s heat impacted milk supplies in two ways: the heat caused cows to produce less milk, and consumers demanded more ice cream and other dairy-based products. U.S. butter use has trended higher year-over-year since February, but production hasn’t kept up. Year-to-date domestic use was 8.2 percent higher than last year, while production and imports rose only four percent. USDA says the surge in demand is much higher than is typical.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 20, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's cattle on-feed report for October 1 will be out at 2 p.m. Traders will be focused on any new export sales, along with weather in South America, and geopolitical developments from Ukraine or the Middle East. Weather Mostly dry conditions are expected across the Plains and Mississippi Valley Friday with high pressure in control. However, a quick system will move through northern and eastern areas of the Upper Midwest this afternoon and tonight.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 19, 2023 |

Arkansas Orders Syngenta to Sell Farmland Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin this week ordered Syngenta to divest its ownership of approximately 160 acres in the state. Griffin also imposed a civil penalty of $280,000 for failure to timely report foreign ownership by the Chinese state-owned company. The land in question is owned by Northrup King Seed Co., a subsidiary of Syngenta Seeds, LLC, which is ultimately owned by China National Chemical Company, known as ChemChina. Griffin says, "I am ordering ChemChina, as a 'prohibited foreign-party-controlled business' to divest this land within two years, or I will commence an enforcement action in Craighead County circuit court." Under Arkansas Act 636, state law bars a "prohibited foreign-party-controlled business" from acquiring or holding public or private land in Arkansas either directly or through affiliated parties. In March 2022, Syngenta Seeds, LLC submitted paperwork to USDA regarding the property under the federal Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act, stating that "ultimately, the foreign person that holds indirectly a significant interest in the person owning the land is from China." *********************************************************************************** APHIS Partnership to Improve Early Detection of Emerging Animal Diseases The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced a new partnership between the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility and the National Animal Health Laboratory Network. USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will place five scientists in labs in each of the five National Animal Health Laboratory Network regions to enhance the capabilities and capacities of the network. USDA Chief Veterinarian Dr. Rosemary Sifford says, "Our goal is to ensure all network laboratories are poised to combat the threat of transboundary and emerging diseases to protect our nation's agricultural and food supply systems." USDA selected the following laboratories to participate: Cornell University Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Virginia Tech Animal Laboratory Services, Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Arizona Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, and Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. The scientists will evaluate and develop diagnostics for animal and zoonotic diseases. They will collaborate across the organizations and will be responsible for evaluating local, regional, national, and international threats and ensuring the laboratories have the tools necessary to diagnose emerging threats. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Reintroduce the Adopt GREET Act Lawmakers Wednesday announce the reintroduction of the Adopt GREET Act. The legislation is a bipartisan bill directing the Environmental Protection Agency to update its greenhouse gas modeling for ethanol and biodiesel. Republican Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa, John Thune of South Dakota, and Minnesota Democrat Amy Klobuchar introduced the legislation. Grassley says, "My colleagues and I are working to empower the innovation stemming from our energy and agricultural communities, and get federal emissions testing up to speed with private sector producers." The Adopt GREET Act would require the EPA to apply the Argonne National Lab's "Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions and Energy Use in Transportation" or GREET Model to energy commodities under the Renewable Fuel Standard. It would hold EPA accountable by ensuring the agency updates its modeling every five years. The EPA would need to report to Congress either affirming its modeling is current or explaining why no updates were made. *********************************************************************************** OTA Welcomes Organic Standards Act The Organic Trade Association applauds the introduction of the Continuous Improvement and Accountability in Organic Standards Act. The legislation ensures organic standards continuously evolve and improve and to hold the federal government accountable for keeping up with the needs and expectations of the dynamic organic marketplace. The legislation would amend the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 to provide a streamlined and predictable process to review and revise organic standards implemented by USDA. It would enable the improvement and advancement of organic to forge ahead into the future. OTA CEO and Executive Director Tom Chapman says, "Ensuring continuous improvement for organic is our highest priority in the 2023 Farm Bill, and this legislation goes far to address that objective." The bill requires the USDA to review and revise national organic standards "not less frequently than once every five years." The legislation also highlights the continuation of the established consultation process with the National Organic Standards Board and input from the public. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Nearly $50 Million to Strengthen Forest Products USDA’s Forest Service Wednesday announced nearly $50 million in grant funding. The funding is for proposals that support crucial links between resilient, healthy forests, strong rural economies and jobs in the forestry sector. USDA says the funding will spark innovation, create new markets for wood products, expand processing capacity, and help tackle the climate crisis. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "We are investing in rural economies by growing markets for forest products through sustainable forest management while reducing wildfire risk, fighting climate change, and accelerating economic development." The Forest Service is requesting proposals from eligible entities in the private, non-profit, and government sectors, including Tribes, local and state governments, businesses and for-profit entities, institutions of higher education, as well as public utility, fire, conservation, and school districts, among others. These investments will support forest management projects to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk across all land ownerships. Visit the Forest Service webpage for more information. *********************************************************************************** New Call for Applications in Aflatoxin Research Grants The National Corn Growers Association Wednesday announced a new round of research grants to help farmers manage aflatoxin issues. Proposals not exceeding the $100,000 per year limit—will be accepted by the Aflatoxin Mitigation Center of Excellence no later than Wednesday, November 15, 2023. The competitive grants program offers research grants for projects focused on solving profit-robbing aflatoxin issues for farmers. The program was developed by a consortium of southern state corn checkoff boards to provide a unified approach to funding projects affecting growers across the region. NCGA serves as the management structure to leverage more dollars for solving aflatoxin issues and to build strong regional teams, which would be highly competitive for federal, public, and private funding. Projects funded through the grant program for 2024 should focus on one of these three priority research areas: ideas that prevent or defend against aflatoxin, In-field mitigation measures, and post-harvest strategies. For more information, visit NCGA.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 19, 2023 |

Thursday Market Watch Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Weather Isolated to scattered rain showers are likely across the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and Tennessee Valley today as a cold front works from west to east across these regions. Dry and relatively warm conditions return across the Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 18, 2023 |

CRP Pays Over $1.77 Billion The USDA has issued over $1.77 billion this year to agricultural producers and landowners through its Conservation Reserve Program. The agency says the program is a critical piece of the Department’s efforts to support climate-smart agriculture and forestry on working lands. More than 667,000 participants received payments from the Farm Service Agency for their voluntary conservation efforts on more than 23 million acres of private land. “Through the addition of tools to sequester carbon, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and better quantify these efforts, we’ve made the Conservation Reserve Program better for the nation’s ag producers and landowners and our natural resources,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. The USDA also listed the top five states for CRP participation payments, including Iowa at number one, followed by Illinois, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Missouri. “We are grateful to all CRP participants who are making a tremendous difference now and for future generations,” Vilsack adds. *********************************************************************************** Global Crop Protection Market to Jump by 2032 The global agricultural landscape is on the brink of a large shift, with the crop protection chemicals market points to witness extraordinary growth. The market will exceed $132.4 billion by the year 2032. Global Market Insights, Inc., says the unprecedented surge can be attributed to a confluence of factors ranging from technological advancements to swelling population numbers to the pressing need for more sustainable agricultural practices. The world population expected to reach almost 9l7 billion people by 2050 necessitates a dramatic surge in food production. This will put immense pressure on the ag sector, and crop protection chemicals play an instrumental role in ensuring optimal yields. While the use of crop protection tools is essential to modern agriculture, sustainable practices like biopesticides and the exploration of natural enemies are examples of a shift towards more ecologically stable approaches. As world population surges, crop protection chemicals will help ensure food security. *********************************************************************************** Senators Challenge EPA Rodenticide Restrictions Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MI), along with 15 Senate colleagues, are challenging the EPA to abandon its proposed mitigation measures targeting 11 rodenticides. In a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan, the senators urged Regan to consult the businesses and individuals who rely on rodent control products when developing rules that affect their operations. “As written, the proposed mitigation measures will place severe restrictions on product users and result in crop damage and livestock loss, jeopardize the safety of the food supply, weaken public health protections, and make it more difficult for people to protect their homes and properties from rodents,” the letter says. The EPA’s proposed mitigation measures would classify most rodent control products as restricted-use pesticides and require users to become licensed, state-certified applicators. It would prohibit surface application methods for protecting crops and require growers to conduct carcass searches for two weeks after application. *********************************************************************************** USDA Trims America’s Feed Grain Supplies October U.S. feed grain production is forecast at 396.6 million tons for the 2023-2024 marketing year, down 1.8 million tons on reduced corn and sorghum output. With lower beginning stocks partly offset by a slight bump in imports, the total feed grain supply is projected 4.1 million tons lower this month at 436 million. Reflecting a slight yield decrease to 173 bushels per acre on unchanged harvested acreage, U.S. corn production is 69.5 million bushels lower this month at 15.06 billion. The September 30 Grain Stocks Report estimated American corn stocks on September 1 at 1.36 billion bushels, down 90 million from the September WASDE report. With reductions in food, seed, and industrial use and exports based on observed data, 2022-2023 feed and residual disappearance is higher than previously forecast. These factors contribute to smaller carry-in for the 2023-2024 marketing year and, ultimately, a lower corn supply, projected at 16.45 billion bushels. *********************************************************************************** NHSTA CAFE Standards Will Weaken Energy Security The National Highway Traffic Safety Standards proposed new fuel economy standards that greatly missed the intent of the Corporate Average Fuel Economy Program to enhance energy security. That’s according to comments filed by the National Corn Growers Association, the Renewable Fuel Association, and the National Farmers Union. They assert the proposal will lead to an overreliance on critical foreign minerals due to its singular dependence on electric vehicles. “As NHTSA determines the appropriate CAFE and fuel efficiency standards, it should avoid putting all our eggs into the electrification basket,” the groups say in their comments. “The proposal missed the intent of the CAFÉ program. As Congress acknowledged, solving energy security and air pollution issues related to the transportation sector require a diversified portfolio of approaches.” The associations note problems with overreliance on electric vehicles because of the increased security vulnerabilities of getting critical minerals from overseas that are needed for the batteries. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn Export Inspections Drop Inspections of corn for overseas delivery dropped week-to-week while bean assessments improved. USDA data says corn inspections totaled 434,471 metric tons in the seven days ending on October 12. That’s a significant drop from over 800,400 tons the week prior and just below the 460,000 tons assessed during the same week in 2022. Examinations of soybeans for export surged to just over two million metric tons last week, up from 1.4 million the previous week and higher than the 1.93 million tons assessed during the same week last year. Wheat inspections also rose, increasing to 354,771 metric tons from just over 306,600 tons during the previous week. That’s also up from the 244,500 tons assessed during the same week in 2022. Since the new marketing year began on September 1, USDA has assessed 3.93 million metric tons of corn for offshore delivery, and soybean inspections are at 5.4 million tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 18, 2023 |

Wednesday Market Watch Markets Wednesday morning, the government will report housing starts and building permits. We will be watching for any new sales announcements and for weather changes in South America. Weather A low pressure system will bring areas of scattered, light rain showers to the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest Wednesday. By Wednesday night, this system will continue shifting east, providing light rain showers to the northern Mississippi River Valley.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 17, 2023 |

U.S. Grains Council Hosting Global Ethanol Summit The U.S. Grains Council kicked off the week by hosting the Global Ethanol Summit in Washington, D.C., held for the first time since 2019. The Global Ethanol Summit is an education and trade forum that seeks to elevate bioethanol's international visibility. U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says, “I’m thrilled to see so many industry leaders and policymakers gathering here in the Washington area with the common goal of implementing environmental and human-health friendly bioethanol in regions around the world.” Monday programming offered keynote addresses from POET Founder and CEO Jeff Broin, Summit Agricultural Group Executive Chairman Bruce Rastetter and U.S. Department of Agriculture Acting Deputy Undersecretary Jason Hafemeister. Memorandums of understanding will be signed between domestic producers and overseas importers Tuesday (today). At the end of the event, 11 groups of participants will travel around the country to view the biofuel value chain firsthand before returning to their home countries. The event concludes Wednesday. *********************************************************************************** USDA Extends Milk Loss Program Assistance The Department of Agriculture last week extended the application deadline for the Milk Loss Program to Monday, October 30, 2023. The extension allows more time for eligible dairy farmers to apply for much-needed, weather-related disaster recovery assistance. Administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency, MLP compensates dairy producers who, because of qualifying weather events, dumped or removed milk without compensation from the commercial milk market in calendar years 2020, 2021 and 2022. Eligible causes of loss also include consequences of these weather events, such as power outages, impassable roads and infrastructure losses. FSA opened MLP enrollment on September 11, 2023; the original MLP deadline was October 16, 2023. Most producers, especially those who have previously participated in FSA programs, will likely have the required forms already on file. But those who are uncertain or want to confirm the status of their forms can contact FSA at their local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Monthly Cotton and Wool Outlook The latest Department of Agriculture cotton projections for 2023/24 indicate global cotton beginning and ending stocks decreased by approximately ten million bales, 11 percent, from the previous month. The decrease, however, was largely attributable to a permanent accounting change for Brazil’s production data back to 2000/01. For 2023/24, global cotton ending stocks, at 79.9 million bales, are 2.9 million bales, or 3.5 percent lower than the previous year, as mill use is estimated to exceed production. China accounts for nearly half of global cotton stocks once again in 2023/24, with India, Brazil, and the United States combining for an additional 25 percent. World cotton production is forecast at 112.6 million bales in 2023/24, 3.2 percent below the previous year, as the global yield is projected to decline. World cotton trade is projected to rise 17 percent in 2023/24, supporting the expected 4.4 percent increase in global cotton mill use to 115.8 million bales. *********************************************************************************** Grants to Establish Children’s Health Research Centers in Rural Communities The Environmental Protection Agency Monday announced $3.7 million in grant funding to two institutions to establish research centers. The facilities will address children’s cumulative health impacts from agricultural and non-chemical exposures. Children in underserved, rural agricultural communities face increased health risks due to the combination of agricultural, according to the EPA. The agency says there is an urgent need to investigate the cumulative health impacts of chemical and non-chemical exposures for children in these communities. EPA spokesperson Chris Frey says, “EPA is funding these research centers to identify effective, science-based options aimed at reducing early childhood health disparities in agricultural communities.” Florida State University will use the funding to evaluate chemical and psychosocial stressors and promote children’s cumulative health in rural and agricultural communities. The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center will use the grants to mitigate the chemical and non-chemical stressors that affect school absenteeism caused by gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases in Texas and Oklahoma. *********************************************************************************** Tulare County, California Top Ag Producer in 2022 Tulare (too-larry) County, California, is the number one ag-producing county in the United States for 2022. While Fresno County, California, reported a record $8 billion haul for 2022, it didn't beat Tulare County's $8.6 billion report. Both counties benefited from improved market prices and continue to corner the market in the top spots in the nation for ag production. Add in Kern County, California, at number three, and the Central Valley counties are a combined agriculture and economic powerhouse valued at $24.4 billion. Putting this in perspective, three California counties account for 44 percent of California's total ag production value of $55.8 billion. Tulare County has a growing population of 479,112 and includes an area of 4,863 square miles. The fertile valley floor in the Western half of the county has allowed Tulare County to become the top producer of agricultural commodities in the United States, while the Eastern half is comprised of mostly public lands. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Decline After Volatile Week For the fourth consecutive week, the nation's average price of gasoline dropped, falling 11.3 cents from a week ago to $3.55 per. The national average is down 29.9 cents from a month ago and 30.9 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 5.8 cents last week and stands at $4.48 per gallon, 55.2 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "For now, the national average is likely to soon fall to its lowest level in six months." However, De Haan cautions, "this depends on actions that are not foreseeable, mainly the conflict in the Middle East." As the situation continues to unfold, markets will be watching interactions between Iran as well as responses from Israel, and while all eyes have been on those escalations, Saudi Arabia has put an end for now to a possible weapons and security pact between the U.S. and Israel.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 17, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Tuesday morning, the U.S. government will be out with retail sales and industrial production reports. We will also be watching for developments in the Israel versus Hamas conflict, with President Joe Biden arriving Wednesday for a meeting with Israel representatives. We will also be watching for any new export sales, and weather in South America. Weather A storm system will be moving through the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains on Tuesday, producing some areas of isolated showers throughout the day with increasing winds. The rest of the country is rather quiet.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 16, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Global Events, Reports Drive Markets 1. Post-WASDE worries: Lowered corn expectations in the United States (see our latest USDA World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report coverage) will continue to run into the market volatility driven by global conflicts and the ongoing Congressional leadership drama. DTN analysts will continue to factor all this windage and elevation into where the commodity market targets hit. 2. Soil moisture watch: We'll watch drought monitors in the U.S. and in Canada to see how recent rains have changed soil moisture as we go into late fall and winter. Conditions continue to cause low water levels in the Mississippi River Valley, causing barge issues up and down those critical waterways. 3. Crop insurance comes into focus: With more than a third of the U.S. corn crop harvested, farmers have concrete ideas about their yields. Those real-world results are also reflected in this month's WASDE report, which lowered corn yields to 173 bushels per acre for expected average. Lower corn yields are coinciding with lower prices, which means crop insurance payments are becoming more likely for farmers who chose revenue-guarantee products. 4. Cattle numbers coming: This week sees the latest USDA Cattle on Feed report coming out Friday. We'll have our analyst's preview of the report mid-week, then actual numbers hit at 2 p.m. CDT Friday, with analysis of those numbers shortly after. 5. Economic reports calendar: Monday will see USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. We'll have our commentary on Crop Progress soon after. Tuesday is a broad economy two-fer with U.S. retail sales for September due out at 7:30 a.m., followed by the Fed's report on U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. Wednesday features the U.S. housing starts for September, out at 7:30 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. At 1 p.m., the Fed releases its description of economic activity in the Beige Book. Thursday is a busy morning, with USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims and the updated U.S. Drought Monitor all due at 7:30 a.m. CDT. U.S. existing home sales in September and U.S. leading indicators are both due out at 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. As noted earlier, Friday is USDA's monthly cattle on feed report for Oct. 1.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 16, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest news from Israel and Ukraine, as well as the latest weather forecasts with seasonal attention on South America. USDA's weekly grain export inspections are due out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A lull between systems has set itself into the middle of the country for Monday, keeping most areas dry. Isolated showers may form south of the Great Lakes, however. Some cold morning temperatures will produce frosts in the Plains Monday morning and Tuesday morning as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 13, 2023 |

Higher Interest Rates, Strong Dollar Affecting Rural Economies CoBank says the combination of high interest rates and a strong U.S. dollar is beginning to take a disproportionate toll on rural industries like agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing. Most international transactions are still conducted in dollars, and a strong dollar makes U.S. exports more expensive and imports cheaper. CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange says that disproportionately hurts the backbone of the rural economy. “The challenge for agriculture and other rural industries that rely heavily on global markets is their export partners simply can’t afford to buy U.S. products,” says Rob Fox, Knowledge Exchange Director. America’s economic position relative to other countries has gotten much stronger than anticipated. The expectation that interest rates will remain high for the foreseeable future has also contributed to the stronger dollar. “When you combine the export loss with a general slowdown in the U.S. economy, it’s a double whammy for many businesses in rural America,” says Fox. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Produces Less Corn, More Soybeans Brazil’s corn production will drop significantly while the soybean output will surge in the 2023-2024 marketing year. Those numbers come from CONAB (KOH-nab), Brazil’s food agency. South American corn output is projected at 119.4 million metric tons. If it’s reached, that would be down from the 131.9 million metric tons produced in the 2022-2023 marketing year. Also, soybean output is now forecast by CONAB at 162 million metric tons. The rise is tied to strong overseas demand, especially from China. Production during the previous marketing year totaled 154.6 million metric tons. CONAB says total grain and soybean production is predicted to reach 317.5 million metric tons, a number the agency says is down 1.5 percent year over year. Wheat production was predicted to reach 10.5 million metric tons, down modestly year over year because of weather issues. Brazil’s rice output is expected to rise 7.7 percent to 10.8 million tons. *********************************************************************************** October WASDE Shows Lower U.S. Corn and Soybean Production The latest World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates Report says U.S. corn production is forecast at 15.1 billion bushels, down 70 million on a cut in yield to 173 bushels per acre. The corn outlook predicts reduced supplies, down less than one percent, but ten percent above 2022. The season-average corn price received by producers was raised a nickel to $4.95 a bushel. Soybean production is forecast at 4.1 billion bushels, down 42 million on lower yields. The yield is predicted at 49.6 bushels per acre, down 0.5 bushels from last month. With lower production partly offset by higher beginning stocks, supplies are reduced by 24 million bushels. The season-average soybean price is unchanged at $12.90 per bushel. Wheat supplies were raised by 85 million bushels this month, primarily on higher production as reported in the NASS Small Grains Summary. The season-average farm price dropped 20 cents per bushel to $7.30. *********************************************************************************** September Food Price Index Unchanged The U.N.’s Food and Agricultural Organization’s Food Price Index averaged 121.5 points in September, basically unchanged from the value in August. Declines in the price index for vegetable oils, dairy, and meat offset increases in the sugar and cereal price indices. That 121.5 reading was ten percent below its corresponding level from a year ago and 24 percent from the all-time high in March 2022. The Sugar Price Index took the biggest jump in September, rising 14.5 points from August to an average of 162.7 points. It’s the highest level since November 2010. The Cereal Price Index rose one percent to 126.3 points in September. The Vegetable Oil Price Index dropped five points in September to average 120.9 points. The Dairy Price Index averaged 108.6 points during the month, down 2.6 points and 34 points under the same time last year. The Meat Price Index dropped one percent to 114.2 points. *********************************************************************************** Fund Awards Over $1 Million to U.S. Farmers and Ranchers American Farmland Trust recently awarded more than $1 million to 110 farmers around the country through the Brighter Future Fund. The grant announcement came out on National Farmer’s Day that recognizes the importance of American farmers. This year, AFT received more than 1,500 applications from 48 states, an all-time high and almost double the number of applications last year. Priority was given to applicants who were starting their agricultural pursuits, veterans, women, or those with limited resources. Funds were allocated for both professional services and equipment or infrastructure costs, with focus areas including improving farm viability, accessing farmland, and adopting regenerative agricultural practices. AFT awards grants to farmers and ranchers to advance its mission to protect farmland, promote sound farming practices, and keep farmers on the land. The Brighter Future Fund was launched in 2020 to help farmers around the U.S. start, grow, and sustain farms despite a number of challenges. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Want Congress to Pass AM Radio Legislation Nine organizations representing rural and agricultural interests wrote a letter to Congress in support of passing the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. “AM radio is an essential communications medium in rural America,” the letter says. “Local news, weather, and sports reporters are recognized as respected sources for information that affects the lives of millions of rural residents.” The letter was sent to lawmakers by multiple groups like the Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas, the Latino Farmers & Ranchers International, the Livestock Marketing Association, the National Farmers Union, the National Grange, and others. The letter touts the reach of traditional AM radio broadcasts that carry a strong signal over significant distances, even during catastrophic weather events. FEMA also relies on AM radio to deliver critical public safety information. “When power goes out in rural America and cell networks drop, households can still get emergency information through their radios,” the letter adds.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 13, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. Friday, one day after USDA reduced export estimates for corn and soybeans. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index follows at 9 a.m. Traders remain interested in the latest weather forecasts and news from Ukraine, Israel and Washington D.C. Weather A storm system is moving eastward into the Midwest Friday, bringing areas of heavy rain with it. Strong winds in the Plains may reach up to 60 mph through the daylight hours before winding down Friday night. Cold air filtering in behind the system will bring the first frosts and freezes to the southwestern Plains Friday night.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 12, 2023 |

Survey Reveals Consumer Purchasing Behaviors A new survey from the United Soybean Board reveals valuable insights into consumer preferences and purchasing attitudes for animal protein, particularly pork products. According to the survey, 70 percent of respondents say that animal diet is extremely or very important to them when purchasing meat, up from 51 percent in 2019. Meat consumers who prefer soy-fed meat say it offers better health, higher quality, greater nutrition and better taste. This research confirms that consumers desire to know more about their meat choices, such as what poultry and livestock consume. The study found three out of four consumers are more likely to purchase meat if it’s raised and fed by U.S. farmers. Even higher than that, the majority of consumers, at 88 percent, are more likely to purchase meat from animals born, bred and raised in the United States. USB commissioned global market research firm Reputation Leaders to survey more than 2,000 U.S. adults online for the study. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces New School Lunch Grants Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced two new grant opportunities plus a training and technical assistance partnership to help schools continue to invest in nutritious school meals. The announcement comes as USDA recognizes National School Lunch Week, as proclaimed by President Biden, and National Farm to School Month. Vilsack says, "USDA is committed to giving students the nutrition they need to reach their full potential by empowering schools to continue serving delicious, healthy meals." USDA is partnering with the Urban School Food Alliance to provide training and tools to school districts to help them purchase high-quality foods while keeping costs low. In addition, two new grant opportunities are opening to support school meals, including USDA's Farm to School Grants, and the School Food Systems Transformation Challenge Sub-Grants. In addition, this month, the Farm to School Program also launched the 2023 Farm to School Census, a periodic survey of school districts’ participation in local procurement and agricultural education activities. *********************************************************************************** Strong Finish for Q3 Tractor Sales Unit sales of four-wheel-drive ag tractors experienced a notable upswing in both the U.S. and Canada in September, closing the third quarter of 2023 in a strong position. The latest monthly data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers shows 100-plus two-wheel-drive tractors, and four-wheel-drive tractors grew year-over-year in the United States. Both segments, along with combines, remain positive for the year. Overall unit sales of U.S. tractors are down 4.3 percent compared to sales in September 2022, with 100-plus horsepower two-wheel-drive units being the only other growth segment, while combine sales finished nearly flat, only selling eight fewer units than the previous year. Canadian tractor sales fell nearly 14 percent, with combines declining more than 37 percent. Year to date, at the end of the third quarter of 2023, combine sales overall are positive, up more than 25 percent, while tractors altogether are down just over eight percent in the United States. *********************************************************************************** Growing Share of Egg-Laying Hens Are Cage-free Cage-free hens comprise a growing percentage of the U.S. egg-laying flock, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. The cage-free flock has grown as states have passed and enacted legislation banning confinement of hens, and as multiple retailers and food service providers have pledged to only source eggs from cage-free operations. Additional State bans are planned to take effect between 2023 and 2026. The cage-free egg-laying flock increased by more than 10.5 million hens in the first six months of 2023, according to USDA’s Monthly Cage-Free Shell Egg report. Cage-free hens increased as a proportion of the total U.S. laying flock, expanding from 36 percent in January to 38 percent in June. The non-organic cage-free flock accounted for most of the increase. Meanwhile, in late 2021, cage-free lay rates have been moving mostly above or at similar levels to the lay rates in the overall table egg-laying flock, a departure from the previous trend. *********************************************************************************** NIFA Invests $1.8 Million in Pest Management Alternatives USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture has invested $1.8 million in four projects as part of the Methyl Bromide Transition Program. Methyl bromide is an odorless, colorless gas previously used in many agricultural and related systems as a soil and structural fumigant to control various pests. However, Methyl bromide depletes the stratospheric ozone layer. As part of the Clean Air Act, the U.S. Government agreed to reduce methyl bromide incrementally from 1991 until the complete phase-out in 2005. The Methyl Bromide Transition Program supports the discovery and implementation of practical pest management alternatives for commodities and uses affected by the methyl bromide phase-out. Funded projects include integrated and Extension-only projects seeking to solve pest problems in key agricultural production and post-harvest management systems, processing facilities, and transport systems for which methyl bromide has been withdrawn or withdrawal is imminent. The 2023 Awardees include Arkansas State University, University of Delaware, Kansas State University and North Carolina State University. *********************************************************************************** Students Encouraged to Apply for Beef Industry Scholarship The National Cattlemen’s Foundation is accepting applications for the 2024 CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship. Ten scholarships of $1,500 each will be awarded to outstanding students pursuing careers in the beef industry. Introduced in 1989 and sponsored by CME Group, the scholarship identifies and encourages students who play a vital role in the future of food production. Students studying education, communication, production, research or other areas related to the beef industry are eligible to apply for the annual scholarship program. Eligible applicants must be a graduating high school senior or full-time undergraduate student enrolled at a two- or four-year institution. The application process includes submitting a one-page letter expressing career goals related to the beef industry, a 750-word essay describing an issue in the beef industry and offering solutions to this problem and two letters of recommendation. The applicant or a family member must be a National Cattlemen's Beef Association member. The application deadline is November 10, 2023. For more information and to apply, visit nationalcattlemensfoundation.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 12, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Thursday is a busy day with U.S. weekly jobless claims due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as the consumer price index for September and update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by the weekly report of energy inventories at 10:00 a.m. At 11 a.m., USDA releases its Crop Production and WASDE Reports for October, followed by DTN's WASDE webinar at 12:30 p.m. Weather A strong storm system continues to build in the Central Plains Thursday morning. Heavy rain and thunderstorms have formed in a band from Wyoming to Chicago, which will continue to build in this general area and farther north throughout the day. Winds continue to increase in the Plains around the developing low-pressure center, which will be much more significant tonight into Friday as the system tracks eastward. Snow is also likely to mix in over parts of Wyoming and western Nebraska, though accumulation will be difficult. Heavy rain continues to track through the Southeast this morning as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 11, 2023 |

Smithfield Foods to Close North Carolina Pork Plant Smithfield Foods will close its Charlotte, North Carolina, pork-processing plant and transfer production to its Tar Heel, North Carolina, facility. The company says the move is to increase efficiency and better utilize existing capacity, and comes as the company faces “abundant supplies and soft demand” weighing on pork prices. The company will provide financial and other transition assistance to the 107 employees affected by this closure and will meet with employees to discuss options, including transfer to other Smithfield locations. Smithfield will also provide a financial incentive package for hourly employees to remain at Charlotte until the final day of production in December. Smithfield employs nearly 40,000 people in the U.S. and more than 10,000 in North Carolina. The company is not alone, as Tyson Foods announced the shutdown of six chicken processing facilities this year and cut jobs at others in North Carolina. *********************************************************************************** NARA Launches Organics Recycling Information Campaign NARA, the North American Renderers Association, just released an infographic on Organics Recycling and How Recycling Food Waste with Rendering Creates Value and Ensures Sustainability. The graphic is an educational tool for those who may not be familiar with the rendering process and the sustainability and economic benefits of rendering food waste. With the passing of Senate Bill 1383 in California in 2022, which requires local governments to collect and recycle organic waste, NARA felt it was critical to release this information publicly. Roughly 50 percent of a meat animal is considered inedible by North Americans. This leaves a lot of leftover material that would end up in landfills and increase greenhouse gas emissions. By diverting this organic meat from landfills and sending it to rendering facilities, it ensures this otherwise wasted material, as well as used cooking oil, is safely, hygienically and sustainably processed into safe and clean rendered material for use in new products – so nothing is wasted. The graphic is available on the NARA website. *********************************************************************************** World Food Program Launches Gaza, West Bank Humanitarian Efforts The United Nations World Food Program is deeply concerned by the rapidly deteriorating situation in Israel and Palestine. As the conflict intensifies, civilians, including vulnerable children and families, face mounting challenges in accessing essential food supplies, with food distribution networks disrupted and food production severely hampered by hostilities. The program called for humanitarian corridors on Tuesday as it launched an emergency operation for Gaza and the West Bank. WFP urgently requires access and funding to reach those in need. A total of $17.3 million is needed in the next four weeks to address the situation. On Monday, WFP distributed ready-to-eat food to 73,000 people. Distributions are ongoing daily for displaced people in shelters in Gaza. In the next few days, pending the replenishment of food stocks through the opening of humanitarian corridors, WFP will distribute food to 300,000 people in host communities and make available cash-based-platforms to humanitarian partners. *********************************************************************************** Delivery Innovation Could Reduce Hunger Delivery of food may be the way to increase access in rural America, according to a recent report by CoBank. While roughly one in ten Americans faces food insecurity, rural communities are particularly affected. Rural communities comprise 63 percent of all U.S. counties but 87 percent of the counties with the highest rates of food insecurity. Food delivery has become an expected service for many Americans. However, only 37 percent of rural residents have access to major food delivery services. Delivery mechanisms exist, particularly for shelf-stable food and beverage, even if it takes the form of FedEx, UPS or USPS. Fresh food offerings present another challenge altogether, but more direct-to-consumer approaches should, in the long term, be able to capitalize on improvements in technology to reach those who simply don't live near a grocery store. Further, the report suggests that convenience stores, dollar stores and even liquor stores have been considered as possibilities for reducing food insecurity in more rural areas. *********************************************************************************** Measuring USDA’s National School Lunch Program This week is National School Lunch Week and USDA's Economic Research Service is out with new data about the programs' success. USDA's National School Lunch Program served 4.9 billion lunches in fiscal year 2022, and about 228.9 billion lunches since 1971. Any student in a participating school can get a National School Lunch Program lunch. Typically, students may be eligible for either a free, reduced-price, or full-price lunch, depending on their household's income. Compared with previous years, a higher share of the lunches were served for free or at a reduced price in fiscal years 2020 through 2022. This was in large part because of USDA waivers during the COVID-19 pandemic allowing for meals to be provided free of charge to all students. The onset of the pandemic interrupted the operations of many schools, disrupting the provision of lunches through the NSLP. In response, USDA allowed schools to serve free meals through the Summer Food Service Program or the Seamless Summer Option. *********************************************************************************** Newsom Signs California Food Safety Act California Governor Gavin Newsom last week signed the California Food Safety Act. While delayed until 2027, the legislation bans food products containing brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, and red dye 3. Newsom cited similar bans in the European Union in his announcement, saying, "There have been many misconceptions about this bill and its impacts." In referencing a bag of Skittles from the European Union, Newsom claimed it was "demonstrable proof that the food industry is capable of maintaining product lines while complying with different public health laws, country-to-country." The European Union banned the food additives in question following a review in 2008. The California measure requires food makers to reformulate their products to comply with the law when selling them in the state, beginning January 1, 2027. Food manufacturers are unlikely to produce two versions of a product, thus the law is expected to impact products nationwide. Other states are considering similar measures.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 11, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department releases the producer price index for September at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, one day ahead of the consumer price index. Minutes from the Federal Reserve's meeting in September will become public at 2 p.m. Traders will continue to keep an eye on events in Israel and in Ukraine, as well as the latest weather forecasts. Grain markets may be quiet ahead of Thursday's USDA reports. Weather A storm system will be moving out of the West and into the Plains throughout the day Wednesday. Areas of thunderstorms have already started up in northern Missouri and will spread both west through Nebraska and east through the Midwest throughout the day and especially tonight. Winds will also be a bit breezy in the Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 10, 2023 |

Mexico Fuels August Pork Exports While Beef Rebounds August U.S. pork exports were steady compared to last year and led by another tremendous performance in Mexico. Data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation says August exports totaled 226,519 metric tons, while export value dropped 1.5 percent to $649.5 million. Exports to Mexico remained at a record pace and set a value record in August at $211.7 million. “I can’t say enough about Mexico’s remarkable demand for U.S. pork and the revenue it generates,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Exports also trended higher year-over-year to Japan, Canada, Central America, the Dominican Republic, Oceania, and Taiwan. August beef exports totaled 109,000 metric tons: 19 percent lower than last year but a six percent increase from July. Export value hit $884 million, 15 percent below last year but nine percent higher than July. August lamb muscle cut exports dropped 14 percent from last year to 107 million tons. *********************************************************************************** HPAI Confirmed in South Dakota The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed that the first commercial case of highly pathogenic avian influenza was discovered in South Dakota. APHIS says the virus was confirmed in a commercial turkey flock of 47,300 birds on October 4. Another case was also recently confirmed in a small non-commercial flock located in Idaho. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency also reported four commercial cases of the virus since mid-September. The most recent case was announced on October 3 in a commercial flock located in Alberta. The agency doesn’t disclose the type of poultry or how many birds were involved in the infection. One of the first clinical signs of HPAI in domestic birds is sudden, unexplainable death. Many infected birds drop their water consumption in the 72 hours that lead up to their unexplainable death. Decreased egg production and depression in layers may be another sign that the birds are ill. *********************************************************************************** Fertilizer Prices Mostly Higher in September The Agricultural Marketing Information System’s October “Market Monitor” report says that fertilizer prices were mostly higher in September, as were the prices for the main fertilizer inputs. Farm Policy News from the University of Illinois says price movements for several fertilizer categories were influenced by strength in the Indian market and uncertainty around exports from China. AMIS also says these two countries will be a major influence on market developments as will demand for the fall application season in the Northern Hemisphere. Fertilizer inputs like natural gas went higher in September. Markets should be focusing on monitoring EU stock levels, which are currently near capacity. Ammonia prices also surged in September, supported by major plant outages. Ammonia buyers also showed unusually strong interest during this time of year that’s normally a quiet period. Nitrogen fertilizer prices rose in September. Urea price increases were driven by concerns about Chinese export levels. *********************************************************************************** Rancher Resilience Grant Helps Producer Attend CattleCon24 The Rancher Resilience Grant offers support to beef and dairy cattle producers by allowing them to attend CattleCon24 and Cattlemen’s College for free. Eligibility depends on qualifications and application responses. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says it’s the perfect way for producers to get a ticket to CattleCon and experience the combination of education, events, and fun. All beef and dairy cattle producers are eligible for the Ranchers Resilience Grant. It requires registering for CattleCon24, and applicants must have the Cattlemen’s College Education packet. The first 75 applicants will be awarded a fixed grant designed to ease their way to CattleCon24 and Cattlemen’s College. This grant includes one Education Package Registration and up to three nights of hotel stay in Orlando from January 31 to February 2, 2024. Once CattleCon is over, they’ll make sure your grant reimbursement arrives within 30 days. For more information or to register, go to convention.ncba.org. *********************************************************************************** Third-Quarter Grain Movements Low on Mississippi River Almost 60 percent of the Midwest grain harvest moves down the Mississippi River system to the U.S. Gulf region for export. In The Agricultural Marketing Service’s “Grain Transportation Report,” the agency says low water on the entire system led to draft and tow restrictions on barges, similar to what happened in fall 2022. “From the week ending on July 8 to the week ending on September 30, down-bound barged grain volumes totaled 3.9 million tons,” the report says. “That’s 35 percent lower than the third quarter last year and 53 percent lower than the five-year average.” Last year’s historic low water levels hit from late September through early December. This year’s low water levels began in June, about two months earlier than in 2022, and then continued for most of the third quarter this year. The most severe shipping restrictions are on the lower Mississippi River and Ohio River in Illinois. *********************************************************************************** National Dairy Herd Information Scholarship Applications Open The National Dairy Herd Information Association announced it is accepting applications for $1,500 scholarships. They’ll go to third- or fourth-year College of Veterinary Medicine students. Applicants must be enrolled at a college that’s accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education. To apply for a scholarship, applicants must submit a letter of application and two reference letters. The letter of application requires young people to submit information like their area of specialty/interest, academic background, career plans, and other important information. Scholarship committee members will evaluate applicants based on overall interest as a veterinarian planning to work in dairy, involvement in dairy medicine, extracurricular activities, and interest in dairy software and dairy records to improve dairy management and animal health. Applications are due on December 31. Specific application requirements are on the National DHIA website at dhia.org. Recipients will be announced at the 2024 National DHIA Annual Meeting next year.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 10, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders continue to keep an eye on the latest events from Israel and are likely wary about how others will respond. USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Grain markets may be cautious ahead of Thursday's WASDE report, due out at 11 a.m. CDT. Weather Cool air continues to be settled in across the Midwest on Tuesday. Morning frosts are occurring, and some isolated showers may develop in the Great Lakes. A big system will be moving through the West, which may be enough to start lifting a front northward through the Plains. Some isolated showers and thunderstorms may develop along it, especially Tuesday night across northern Missouri.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 9, 2023 |

World Ag Productivity Not Increasing Fast Enough The Global Agricultural Productivity Report says the world’s agricultural productivity is consistently falling short of the target growth rate. Since 2011, productivity isn’t growing fast enough to hit the target growth rate required to sustainably meet global needs for agricultural outputs by 2050. The report says total factor productivity growth continues to be strong in China and South Asia. However, Sub-Saharan Africa and the U.S. show especially low TFP growth. From 2011-2021, global TFP grew at an average rate of 1.14 percent yearly. To sustainably meet the agricultural needs of a growing global population by 2050, the GAP report says the world must now aim for 1.91 percent average annual TFP growth. If producers are able to access proven, appropriate, productivity-enhancing tools, there can be significant improvements in closing the TFP growth gap. Lack of growth may result in over-reliance on unsustainable production practices and continued decline in TFP growth. *********************************************************************************** Food Prices Unchanged in September The U.N.’s Food and Agriculture Organization’s Food Price Index edged lower to 121.5 in September, the lowest level since March 2021. That index was down slightly from 121.6 in August. Prices for vegetable oils were down 3.9 percent, a second decline due to lower prices across palm, sunflower, soy, and rapeseed oils. Dairy prices dropped 2.3 percent, a ninth consecutive fall. Meat costs dropped one percent, led by a drop in pork amid weak export demand from China and ample global export availabilities. Cereal costs increased one percent, including a 5.3 percent rise in coarse grain prices, led by a seven percent climb in maize prices. Also, sugar prices soared 9.8 percent to reach a high last seen in November 2010. The rise in sugar prices came from increasing concerns over a tighter global supply outlook in the upcoming 2023-2024 season and forecasts of increased production declines in Thailand and India. ********************************************************************************** Group of House Republicans Against EATS Act Sixteen members of the House of Representatives pushed back against the Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression Act. The group sent a letter to House Ag Chair Glenn Thompson (R-PA) and Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA). Groups backing the letter included the Organization for Competitive Markets, Competitive Markets Action, National Dairy Producers Organization, and others. “We applaud the representatives for taking a stand against the EATS Act that would sell out American agriculture to China,” says Marty Irby, president of Competitive Markets Action. “The Hinson-Marshall EATS Act is an assault on states’ rights that’s backed by Smithfield, a wholly owned Chinese corporation that continues to rake in billions of dollars by oppressing and exploiting American family farmers.” The groups say if the EATS Act becomes law, it would invalidate hundreds of state and local agriculture laws that support family farmers and hundreds of laws relating to food safety and invasive pest control. *********************************************************************************** 4-H Caucus Co-Chairs Applaud National 4-H Week Resolution The co-chairs of the Senate 4-H Caucus, Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and John Boozman (R-AR) applauded the Senate adoption of their resolution supporting the designation of “National 4-H Week.” The resolution was introduced by Stabenow and Boozman and supports the designation of October 1-7 as “National 4-H Week.” It recognizes the important role of 4-H in youth development and education and encourages all citizens to recognize 4-H for the significant impact the organization and members have made and continue to make. The organization empowers young people with the skills needed to lead for a lifetime. “As a former 4-H’er myself, I know that 4-H empowers young people to thrive in their communities and grow into future leaders through hands-on health, science, agriculture, and civic engagement projects,” Stabenow says. Boozman says, “I saw firsthand the tremendous impact 4-H has on young people while watching my three daughters get so much out of it.” *********************************************************************************** Food Export Midwest Welcomes FAS Administrator Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley toured the Food Export Midwest office in Chicago. “The Foreign Agricultural Services longstanding partnership with Food Export Association of the Midwest USA and Food Export USA-Northeast has helped regional U.S. ag producers enter international markets and introduce their world-class products to new consumers around the globe for nearly 40 years,” he says. “The collaboration between the groups was key to achieving record-breaking exports of U.S. agricultural products and commodities the past two years and puts us on target to have an outstanding 2023.” The FAS Market Access Program allocates funds to Food Export Midwest and Food Export Northeast to help promote American food and agricultural products across the globe. Through these collaborations, USDA helps ensure that small and medium-sized enterprises can take part in trade missions, trade shows, and other export promotion activities designed to help expand their businesses and increase their bottom lines. *********************************************************************************** Missouri River Runoff Near Average in September September brought mixed results for precipitation across the Missouri River Basin. Parts of Montana, North and South Dakota, and Nebraska received above-average rainfall, while the remainder of the upper basin and lower basin were below average. September runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 1.3 million acre-feet, 109 percent of the long-term average. The annual runoff forecast for the upper Missouri River Basin above Sioux City is 29.1-million-acre feet, 113 percent of average, and the same as last month’s forecast. “Rainfall was above average in portions of the Upper Missouri River Basin during September,” says John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. “Runoff was above average or near average in every reach except Sioux City, which was below average. He also says soil moisture conditions have improved in parts of the basin, but many parts remain abnormally dry.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 9, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - WASDE, Possible Frosts on the Watch List OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Oct. 8. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms. 1. Speaker uncertainty unnerves markets: There's a lot up in the air as the GOP-led House of Representatives tries to escape from its self-watered muck hole. One immediate effect is to make traders ever more skiddish. We'll have ongoing coverage of all the collateral damage around the leaderless House. 2. WASDE week: Thursday we'll cover the October Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. Our preview of those reports will be out earlier in the week, as soon as market analyst expectations reports are in. WASDE coverage starts right after the 11 a.m. CDT report release, and we'll have updates throughout Thursday morning. As always, our free webinar on the reports, featuring DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman, goes live at 12:30 p.m. You can register for that webinar, including a question and answer session at the end, by going here: 3. Weather systems raise frost concerns: Several cold fronts are moving across the U.S., some with high winds. The real concerns are frosts and freeze warnings, particularly in northern states, during the weekend and into this week. DTN forecasters say central states will have more cloud cover, and rainfall potential, which generally reduces the chance of frost. Cooler weather will continue in most areas through the week. 4. Trade issues gather interest: Recent corn sales to Mexico have been at high pace, we'll monitor how long that trend remains. There's still a longer-term concern that the potential ban on GMO corn -- which at the moment is aimed at food-grade (white) corn, could spread to No. 2 yellow if the country's political winds blow that way. In the meantime, China's demand remains high, despite the fact that U.S. sales to that country are lower than 2022. Just another sign of Brazil's big crop, which is pushing out sales of U.S. beans. 5. Economic reports to watch: Government offices, banks and bond markets are closed Monday for Columbus day. U.S. stock markets and futures markets are open, and DTN reports on those markets will continue through the day. However, USDA weekly grain export inspections (10 a.m. CDT) and Crop Progress reports (3:00 p.m.) will be delayed until Tuesday. On Wednesday, the U.S. Labor Department releases the producer price index for September at 7:30 a.m. Minutes from the Federal Reserve's September meeting are released at 2 p.m. On Thursday, U.S. weekly jobless claims are out at 7:30 a.m., the same time as the consumer price index for September and update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by the weekly report of energy inventories at 10 a.m. As noted above, October WASDE coverage begins at 11 a.m. Friday will see USDA's weekly export sales reports at 7:30 a.m. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index hits at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 9, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets On Monday, government offices, banks and bond markets are closed for Columbus Day/Indigenous People Day. U.S. stock and futures markets are open however, starting with their normal opening times on Sunday evening. Traders will check the latest weather forecasts, any harvest reports they can find and news over the weekend from Ukraine. USDA's reports of exports inspections and crop progress will be released Tuesday. Weather A burst of colder air moved through the country over the weekend and continues to spin around the Great Lakes, leading to some frosts in select spots of the Corn Belt Monday morning. Isolated showers may develop near the Great Lakes in the cooler air during the day, otherwise it will be quiet in most areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 6, 2023 |

Turkey Prices Falling as Thanksgiving Approaches The cost to buy a Thanksgiving turkey could be lower this year, thanks to a drop in avian influenza cases and a recovery of the turkey population in the U.S. Farm Bureau economists analyzed turkey and egg prices and found that the average price for an eight-to-16-pound turkey typically served for Thanksgiving was $1.27 per pound lower than in August 2023. That’s 22 percent lower than the same time last year. “The status of HPAI is different now than it was just a year ago,” the economists say in a Market Intel Report. “Migratory birds are a major vector of this virus, which naturally makes spring and fall migration high-risk times.” June marked the first month with no detections since the outbreak began in February 2022. Egg production also saw a year-to-year increase, with 9.38 billion eggs produced in September 2023, a two percent increase from the same time last year. *********************************************************************************** Ukraine Exports Down Almost 25 Percent Grain exports dropped to 6.82 million metric tons so far from Ukraine in the 2023-2024 marketing year. The ag ministry says Ukraine shipped 8.99 million tons during the same period in the prior marketing year. The first three days of October saw 153,000 tons of exports compared to 297,000 tons a year ago. While the ministry didn’t give a reason for the drop, traders and agricultural unions say the country’s ports on the Black Sea are getting blocked. Russia is attacking ports along the Danube River too. The exported volumes include 3.4 million tons of wheat, 2.7 million tons of corn, and 625,000 tons of barley. The Black Sea grain deal negotiated by the U.N. and Turkey ended in July. Ukraine is expected to harvest a total of 79 million tons of grain and oilseeds in 2023, with the 2023-2024 exportable surplus totals expected to reach about 50 million tons. *********************************************************************************** More Crop Insurance Options for Organic, Specialty Crops The USDA is improving crop insurance options for specialty crop and organic producers, including rolling out new and expanded options based on feedback from America’s producers. “We’re committed to working with specialty crop and organic producers to develop options that fit their needs,” says Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger. “We listened to what they said, and we’re proud of our efforts to deliver crop insurance options that meet the needs of producers as well as to share information on available crop options.” From 1990 to 2022, liabilities for insured specialty crops rose from $1 billion to more than $23 billion. Over the past 20 years, the number of individual specialty crops insured under the crop insurance program grew by 27 percent. Currently, there are over 70 individual specialty crops insured under the crop insurance options. New insurance options include the Transitional and Organic Grower Assistance Program and Tropical Storm Coverage. *********************************************************************************** Creelman Named 2024 World Ag Expo Chair The 2024 World Ag Expo season was kicked off recently by Show Chair Stan Creelman. The kickoff dinner in late September was attended by volunteers, staff, and invited guests. It was a chance to get together and set the tone for the coming show. “I’m honored to serve as the 2024 World Ag Expo Chairman,” says Creelman. “There have been so many great leaders before me, so it’s humbling to be here.” The theme is “The Best Farm Show on Dirt.” The annual show is produced by the International Agri-Center, a non-profit focused on year-round agricultural education. Entering its 57th year, World Ag Expo is the largest annual outdoor ag tradeshow in the world. In 2023, the Expo saw 108,223 people come from 49 states and 56 countries. With more than 1,200 exhibitors and 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space, the event provides a platform for networking and education. *********************************************************************************** AFT Calling Attention to Farming on PBS American Farmland Trust will sponsor the new PBS national public series “America the Bountiful” with its premiere planned for spring 2024. The new project is a food, history, and travel series exploring the regional food traditions of America’s Heartland. It will help viewers learn more about culture and find inspiration in the chronicles of farmers, artisans, restauranteurs, and home cooks through the bounty they grow, produce, and eat. The show will shine a spotlight on the vibrant, culturally diverse, untold food stories and traditions hidden across America. “We’re focused on saving the land that sustains us all, and our new partnership with “America the Bountiful” will help us reach an important PBS audience of engaged and committed conservationists, farmers, and food lovers across the country,” says AFT President and CEO John Piotti (Pe-OHT-tee). “We’re excited to further educate people about the importance of farmland protection and sound agricultural practices.” *********************************************************************************** Washington Clean Fuel Standard Impressive in First Quarter The Washington Clean Fuel Standard is off to an impressive start with the release of its first-quarter results for the number of credits generated by alternative low-carbon fuels. These figures demonstrate the program’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, supporting local economies, and fostering a unified market for biomass-based diesel on the West Coast. Preliminary data shows that biodiesel and renewable diesel contributed around 22 percent of the credits indicating an approximate 1.2 percent blend rate. In comparison, when California first implemented its Low Carbon Fuel Standard, the state saw a blend rate of 0.4 percent for biodiesel and renewable diesel in the first year. Replicating California’s fuel standard, Washington adopted their own Clean Fuel Standard in 2021 in an effort to reduce carbon intensity in the transportation sector, the state’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. The program provides credits for low-carbon fuel alternatives that improve air quality and economic growth.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 6, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department reports on non-farm payrolls and the unemployment rate for September at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, another possible threat to interest rate concerns. Traders will continue to keep watch over the latest weather forecasts, any harvest reports and news from Ukraine where the war remains hard-fought. Weather A cold front continues to push through the eastern Midwest and Northeast Friday, with the southern end dragging through the Southeast. Both have some showers with them. Cold air is quickly filling in behind the front and produced widespread frosts and freezes Friday morning in the northwestern Plains. That will spread to most of the Central and Northern Plains for Friday night. In the cold air, isolated showers will develop across the Midwest.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 5, 2023 |

Weakening Crop Prices and High Production Costs Weigh on Farmer Sentiment Agricultural producers’ sentiment declined for the second month in a row during September. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell nine points to a reading of 106. Producers expressed concern about both their current situation as well as future prospects for their farms. The Current Conditions and Futures Expectations Indices both declined ten points in September, leaving the Current Conditions Index at a reading of 98 while the Future Expectations Index stood at 109. Weakening prices for major crops and ongoing concerns about high production costs and interest rates weighed on producers' minds this month. September's declines left all three indices below year-ago levels. Despite the weak sentiment reading, producers remain relatively optimistic about farmland values as expressed by both the short and long-term farmland values indices. The September survey also included several questions to learn more about cover crops. Just over half of the corn and soybean growers surveyed said they currently plant cover crops on a portion of their acreage. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Support for Underserved and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced $27.6 million in grants for underserved and veteran farmers, ranchers, and foresters. The funding will provide training, outreach and technical assistance to help them own and operate successful farms, ranches, and forest lands. The funding is made through USDA's 2501 Program, administered by the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement. In 2023, the funding supports grants to 41 organizations in 27 states for their efforts to provide outreach and technical assistance to underserved and veteran farmers and ranchers. The 2501 Program was created through the 1990 Farm Bill to help underserved farmers, ranchers and foresters who have historically experienced limited access to USDA assistance. The 2014 Farm Bill expanded the program to include veterans. Grants are awarded to higher education institutions and nonprofit and community-based organizations to extend USDA's engagement efforts in underserved and veteran communities. Since 2010, the 2501 Program has provided more than $221 million to fund more than 657 projects. *********************************************************************************** APHIS Celebrates ASF Preparedness and Prevention USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is celebrating its many successful efforts to prevent African swine fever from reaching the United States. In honor of ASF Action Week, APHIS is recognizing the continuing efforts to prevent this deadly swine disease from reaching our shores. USDA's Dr. Rosemary Sifford says, “The United States has always had a system of interlocking safeguards in place to protect against foreign animal diseases, however the spread of ASF abroad made us review and strengthen our protections.” Some of the agency’s major accomplishments in these areas include enhancing existing safeguards, strengthening Customs and Border Protection partnerships, and further collaboration with states, industry and producers. APHIS continues to conduct surveillance for ASF in domestic and feral swine in the mainland United States. Since August 2021, APHIS has tested almost 6,000 samples from higher-risk domestic herds, and more than 26,000 case-compatible samples from veterinary diagnostic laboratories and production facilities. *********************************************************************************** Climate Center Develops Soil Temp Climatology Tool The Midwestern Regional Climate Center is launching a new tool in partnership with the Department of Agriculture's Midwest Climate Hub. The tool will provide soil temperature threshold information based on historical data from the last 30 years. The Soil Temperature Climatology Tool will be crucial for the agricultural industry to better identify benchmark dates for when specific agronomic activities, such as planting and applying nutrients, should take place. Data for the tool was sourced from the North American Regional Reanalysis, a model produced by the National Centers for Environmental Prediction that generates data for temperature, wind, moisture, soil and dozens of other parameters. Widhalm said using data from NARR was necessary because several areas across the Midwest lack substantial soil temperature measurements. These soil temperature estimates provide for an accurate historical perspective. While the Soil Temperature Climatology Tool was developed with the farming community in mind, the data this tool provides will be useful for several other production areas. Find the tool on the MRCC website. *********************************************************************************** National Dairy FARM Program Launches Enhanced Biosecurity Initiative The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management Program Wednesday announced the launch of FARM Biosecurity – Enhanced. The project is a new aspect of the FARM Biosecurity Program that includes training and an online database. FARM Biosecurity – Enhanced, includes an online database to develop and securely store dairy producers’ enhanced biosecurity plans and an online training that helps users write those plans. FARM has also developed a FARM Biosecurity – Enhanced Biosecurity Prep Guide and Database User Guide to complement these tools. Stronger, or enhanced, levels of biosecurity will be needed to protect cattle against the highly contagious foot-and-mouth disease found in two-thirds of the world. One FMD case in the United States could shut down movement across the nation of livestock and their products for at least 72 hours. To learn more about the FARM Program or access protocol templates and training aids, visit the FARM website: nationaldairyfarm.com. *********************************************************************************** Households That Earn Less Spend a Higher Share of Income on Food Households spend more money on food as their incomes rise, but the amount spent represents a smaller share of their overall budgets, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. When U.S. households were divided into five equal groups by household income, households in the lowest income group had an average after-tax income of $16,337 and spent an average of $5,090 on food, or about $98 a week, in 2022. Households in the highest income group, with an average after-tax income of $196,794, spent an average of $15,713 on food, about $302 a week. As households gain more disposable income, they often shift to more expensive food options. Food spending as a share of income rose across all income groups in 2022 as food prices increased faster than the overall inflation rate. In 2022, food spending represented 31.2 percent of the lowest groups’ income, 13.4 percent of income for the middle group, and 8.0 percent of income for the highest group.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 5, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for August and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Weather A cold front continues to push eastward through the Midwest and south through the Southern Plains and Delta on Thursday, producing areas of showers and thunderstorms. A second front moved through the Northern Plains overnight and will continue to move in behind the primary front through Friday with much colder air coming in and some isolated showers of its own. Breezy winds are also expected.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 4, 2023 |

NPPC Wants Input on Swine Traceability U.S. pork producers tasked the National Pork Producers Council with leading an effort to update the existing swine traceability system. NPPC wants swine producers, veterinarians, cull swine and breeding operators, and show pig enthusiasts to comment on the draft standards by October 27. “Approximately one million pigs are in transit every day, giving diseases plenty of opportunities to spread,” says Scott Hays, NPPC president and Missouri pork producer. “With the growing threat of a foreign animal disease reaching the U.S., the need to address gaps in our existing traceability system is important for our farms and industry.” International markets would close immediately if a foreign animal disease were discovered in the U.S. “With $7.7 billion worth of pork being sold to international consumers, we need to assure our trading partners that we can identify disease-free animals and provide products from unaffected farms,” Hays adds. For more information, go to nppc.org/trace. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Helps Secure Passage of Animal Health Priority The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association hailed the reauthorization of the Animal Drug User Fee Act. The act allows the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine to collect fees from animal health companies, which fund the agency’s review and approval process for new animal drugs. ADUFA ensures that FDA has an efficient system for authorizing new cattle medicines and diagnostic tools that keep livestock healthy and protect our safe, wholesome food supply. “Keeping our livestock healthy is on every cattle producer’s mind,” says NCBA President Todd Wilkinson. “NCBA made this reauthorization a top priority at the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention, and I’m proud to see our team’s hard work pay off.” NCBA Chief Veterinarian Kathy Simmons says drug innovations are happening every day. “This ensures that FDA has the resources it needs to review these new technologies for safety and efficacy and to bring them to market for cattle producers,” Simmons says. *********************************************************************************** Wolle Takes Over as New NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOLL-lee), a Minnesota farmer, officially took over as the new president of the National Corn Growers Association. Wolle has several goals in mind, saying that reauthorizing a farm bill that reflects the priorities of corn growers will be a pressing concern. He also plans to push for more support of the Next Generation Fuels Act in the House and Senate while making ethanol a go-to biofuel in the aviation sector. “My theme as president is ‘Shaping the Future,’ and nothing shapes the future like effective advocacy,” Wolle says. “And no other group does advocacy as well as our state corn grower groups and the NCGA.” Wolle has a lot of experience in many issues important to corn growers. He's served on NCGA committees and the organization’s board, including as a board liaison to the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Advisory Board. He’s also past president of the Minnesota Corn Growers. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for the 2024 ASI Annual Convention Registration is now open for the 2024 American Sheep Industry Association’s Annual Convention in Denver, Colorado, January 10-13. Early-bird registration rates are available through December 8. Online registrations must be finished by December 18. The ASI annual convention is the one time each year when all facets of the American sheep industry come together to discuss timely and important topics for sheep and wool producers, as well as those working in the meat, wool, and sheepskin sides of the overall industry. “We’re putting together an exciting program of events at a first-class venue,” says ASI Executive Director Peter Orwick. “We encourage anyone with an interest in the industry to register and attend as we work through the business of the association and educate leaders on important topics ranging from marketing and government policy to sheep health and genetics.” It’s also a great networking opportunity for farmers, ranchers, traders, and processors. *********************************************************************************** New Crop Insurance Program for Controlled Environments The USDA is announcing a new crop insurance program designed for agricultural producers using controlled environments in their operations. The new Controlled Environment Program from the Risk Management Agency is specifically for plants grown in fully enclosed environments and provides coverage against plant diseases subject to destruction orders. Available beginning in the 2024 crop year, the program provides a risk management resource for urban, specialty crop, and organic producers who often use controlled environments as a major part of their operations. “We are always looking to expand and improve the crop insurance resources we offer to producers,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “Controlled environment agriculture is a quickly growing sector in the nation’s food production, and this new option is part of USDA’s broader effort to support urban agriculture and new and better markets for American producers.” The first sales closing date is December 1. For more information, go to rma.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Meeker Reelected to Lead Sorghum Association The National Sorghum Producers Board of Directors reelected officers and a new director at its annual board and budget meeting in August. Craig Meeker of Wellington, Kansas, will serve a second term as Chair, Amy France of Scotty City, Kansas, will continue to serve as vice chair, and Kody Carson of Olton, Texas, retains his position as past chair. “The executive leadership team has represented sorghum farmers exceptionally well this past year, and we look forward to following their leadership in 2024,” says NSP CEO Tim Lust. “As we near more concentrated farm bill debate and other issues pressing sorghum farmers and the industry, Craig, Amy, and Kody serve as a shining example of dedication and expertise, guiding us toward a more prosperous and sustainable future for sorghum in the United States.” He also says the sorghum industry is fortunate to have them at the industry’s helm during an important time.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 4, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. factory orders is due out at 9:00 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. CDT, including ethanol production. Traders will remain interested in the weather, harvest reports and news from Ukraine. Weather A strong cold front continues to move eastward through the country Wednesday. The northern end will move through the central Midwest, the southern end through the Southern Plains. Both areas will have scattered showers, but the Southern Plains could find some severe weather. A stronger burst of cold air will move into the Canadian Prairies, with its eyes on the U.S. for later in the week.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 3, 2023 |

Corteva, Bayer, Supply Majority Corn, Cotton and Soybean Seeds Two companies—Corteva and Bayer—provided more than half the U.S. retail seed sales of corn, soybeans, and cotton in 2018–20, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. In recent decades, the U.S. crop seed industry has become more concentrated, with fewer and larger firms dominating seed supply. Today, four firms—Bayer, Corteva, ChemChina’s Syngenta Group, and BASF—control the majority of crop seed and agricultural chemical sales. In 2015, six firms led global markets for seeds and agricultural chemicals. The concentration can be traced to the expansion of intellectual property rights to private companies for seed improvements in the 1970s and 1980s. As biotechnology advanced, companies created genetically modified seed varieties, such as herbicide-tolerant or insect-resistant corn, soybeans, and cotton. Mergers occurred between companies that produced and sold pesticides, seed treatments, crop seeds, and seed traits. As a result, the U.S. crop seed sector has become highly integrated with agricultural chemicals and more concentrated. *********************************************************************************** Farm Real Estate Market Holding Steady As combines roll into fields this fall, there is a renewed sense of optimism when looking at the real estate market. The current state of the ag land market is resilient, and the demand for high-quality farmland remains strong in the face of higher interest rates and lower commodity prices, according to Farmers National Company. However, the market will likely return to a more normal flow, evidenced by the slowdown of the appreciation rate of ag land, as well as the sales volume at Farmers National Company. Regional drought pressure across portions of the Corn Belt have also softened short-term demand for land. Areas highly impacted by the drought have seen seasonal pressure, with the lowest-quality farms impacted the most, while demand for higher-quality land has remained stable. The solid demand for ag properties from people interested in expanding their farm operations or investment opportunities seems to be driving the interest in high-quality cropland. *********************************************************************************** USDA Restricts Poultry Imports from France, EU The Department of Agriculture recently placed restrictions on the importation of poultry from France and the European Union. The restrictions, enacted by USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, include live ducks, duck eggs, and unmitigated or untreated duck products from the APHIS-recognized European Poultry Trade Region, as well as Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, but excluding Great Britain. The restrictions are due to increased risk of introducing Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza into the United States and were enacted October first. The restrictions are based on the World Organization for Animal Health's definition of poultry and result from France's decision to vaccinate commercial meat ducks against HPAI. France’s decision to vaccinate presents a risk of introducing HPAI into the United States. The United States does not currently allow the import of poultry from countries affected with HPAI or from flocks that have been vaccinated by HPAI. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Margin Coverage Provides Critical Support for Dairy Operations The August milk margin triggered the eighth consecutive payment for dairy producers who obtained Dairy Margin Coverage for the 2023 program year. August's income over feed margin is $6.46 per hundredweight, with projected DMC payments totaling $120 million. To date, including the projected August payments, dairy producers have received more than $1.2 billion in much-needed economic support for 2023, and margin forecasts indicate the likelihood of more to come before the end of the calendar year. USDA Farm Service Agency Administrator Zack Ducheneaux says, "While livestock and crop producers alike have been financially impacted by catastrophic natural disaster events, dairy producers' financial stressors have been compounded by significant market volatilities." DMC is a voluntary risk management program administered by USDA's Farm Service Agency that offers protection to dairy producers when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed price (the margin) falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer.   *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Weaned Calf Risk Protection USDA recently announced Weaned Calf Risk Protection, a new insurance option for livestock producers in several states. This policy, offered by USDA's Risk Management Agency, offers Actual Production History coverage for beef cow-calf producers to ensure revenue from their spring calving operations. Weaned Calf Risk Protection will be available for the 2024 crop year. The policies insure producers against yield losses due to natural causes such as drought, excessive moisture, hail, wind, frost, insects, and disease. Coverage is provided for a decline in price and loss of yield due to a decrease of overall weaning weight, like revenue coverage offered for other crops. The program will be available in Colorado, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Texas, beginning with the January 31, 2024, sales closing date for the 2024 crop year. Coverage levels between 50 and 85 percent will be available, along with catastrophic coverage. Interested producers should contact their local RMA office. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Fuel Prices Decline Again For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline fell, posting a decline of 3.5 cents from a week ago to $3.77 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is up 2.8 cents from a month ago and 1.0 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 0.7 cents last week and is $4.52 per gallon, 36.2 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "we're likely to see nearly the entire country see gasoline prices trend lower in the week ahead." After bouncing around near and above $90 for the last few weeks, oil has not maintained its upward trend as renewed fears about further interest rate hikes lower demand prospects in the months ahead. Meanwhile, OPEC+ plans to hold the line on its current production levels at a key meeting this week.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 3, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports due out Tuesday. Traders will continue to watch over the latest weather forecasts, harvest anecdotes and any news out of Ukraine. Weather A frontal boundary is moving into and through the Plains Tuesday, creating areas of showers and thunderstorms from north to south. Showers will move into the western Midwest overnight. A significant drop in temperatures will occur behind the front, but it continues to feel like summer ahead of it.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 2, 2023 |

Corn and Soybean Ending Stocks Lower in 2023 The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released its Grain Stocks report that showed lower numbers for corn and soybeans. Old crop corn stocks on hand as of September 1 totaled 1.36 billion bushels, one percent lower than the same time last year. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions were down two percent from September 1, 2022, and all wheat stocks were up slightly from a year earlier. Of the total corn stocks, 605 million bushels were stored on farms, 19 percent higher than last year. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions on September 1, 2023, totaled 268 million bushels, two percent lower than last year. Soybean stocks stored on farms totaled 72 million bushels, up 14 percent from a year ago. All wheat stored in all positions on September 1 totaled 1.78 billion bushels, up slightly from September 1, 2022. On-farm stocks were one percent higher than in 2022. *********************************************************************************** USDA Issues 2023 Small Grains Summary All wheat production totaled 1.81 billion bushels in 2023, up ten percent from last year’s total of 1.65 billion bushels. The harvested area totaled 37.3 million acres, up five percent from the previous year. The U.S. yield was estimated at 48.6 bushels an acre, 2.1 bushels higher than in the prior year. The levels of production and changes from 2022 by type were winter wheat, at 1.25 billion bushels, was up 13 percent from last year. Other spring wheat totaled 505 million bushels, up five percent, and Durum wheat production hit 59.3 million bushels, seven percent lower than the previous year. Oat production was estimated at 57 million bushels, one percent lower than 2022 totals. USDA estimated the yield at 68.6 bushels an acre, 3.8 bushels higher than the previous year. Barley production hit 185 million bushels; six percent higher than in 2022, and yield was 72.4 bushels an acre. *********************************************************************************** Drought Monitor Shows Improvements After Rainfall Western parts of the Midwest were inundated with heavy rains while the eastern part received little to no moisture. Large areas in Minnesota and Wisconsin and parts of Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri all received two inches or more. Abnormal dryness and moderate to exceptional drought were reduced in these areas. Meanwhile, drought continued expanding over Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky, and in parts of Missouri, Michigan, and Illinois. Northern and eastern parts of the High Plains region received as much as two inches of rainfall, while parts of Wyoming and Kansas stayed dry. Drought conditions contracted in North and South Dakota and Nebraska. In the South, bands of heavy rain fell in eastern Oklahoma, western Arkansas, and the Louisiana and Texas borders with Arkansas, with some amounts topping five inches of rain. But the western half of Texas and Oklahoma, along with much of Mississippi and Tennessee received little to no rain. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Will Require Crop Insurance Transparency Looking for less secrecy in the Crop Insurance Program, representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Ralph Norman (R-SC) introduced the Crop Insurance Transparency Act. If passed, it would require USDA to publicly disclose the names of producers and insurers who receive federal crop insurance subsidies and the amount received. “At a time when federal crop insurance payments are at an all-time high, it is an abject failure that a majority of our small farmers and ranchers do not even have access to the crop insurance safety net,” says Blumenauer. “Reform begins with accurate and transparent information.” Norman adds that one-third of all crop insurance subsidies don’t make it to farmers, but instead go to massive insurance companies. “Millionaires and billionaires are likely receiving crop insurance subsidies at a time when most farmers are struggling to get by,” says Scott Faber of the Environmental Working Group. “It’s time to lift this veil of secrecy.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Rises Slightly The U.S. inventory of all hogs and pigs on September 1, 2023, was 74.3 million head. That was slightly higher than September 1, 2022, and up two percent from June of this year. The breeding inventory was 6.08 million head, down one percent from last year and one percent from the previous quarter. The market hog inventory was 68.2 million head, slightly higher than last year and two percent higher than the previous quarter. The June-August pig crop was 34.2 million head, slightly higher than in 2022. Sows farrowing during the period totaled 2.95 million head, down four percent from 2022. U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.93 million sows farrow between September and November, down five percent from the actual farrowings during the same period a year earlier. Intended farrowings between December 2023 and February 2024 total 2.91 million sows, down one percent from the same period a year ago. *********************************************************************************** State Attorneys General Against the Eats Act A coalition of 16 State Attorneys General sent letters to Congressional leadership regarding the EATS Act. Sponsors of the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act have positioned the bill as a regulatory solution, but it will undermine states’ rights to regulate agriculture within their local jurisdictions and nullify numerous state and local laws that already exist. Those hundreds of laws that would be invalidated support family beef, dairy, egg, and pork producers, as well as hundreds of laws related to food safety and invasive pest control. The letter states that, “For over 200 years, state and local governments have been responsible for ensuring that there is a safe and healthy food supply for their consumers and that locally sold farm products are governed by locally accountable elected officials.” Groups like the Organization for Competitive Markets and Competitive Markets Action say the Act would up-end the crucial balance between state and federal authority.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 2, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Government Shutdown Avoided, Record-Breaking Heat May Turn to Frost Later in Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Oct. 1. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Grain trade reaction: How will traders respond to the weekend political moves to avoid government shutdown for now with a 45-day funding bill that President Joe Biden signed late Saturday? That will be a key focus for the week, starting with grain comments available to DTN subscribers Sunday night. 2. Weather messes with harvest: Some areas of the Corn Belt had record heat during the weekend. However, if you caught the Sept. 29 Ag Weather Forum, you know DTN's weather models all did an about-face mid-afternoon. That ushers in a strong cold front expected Oct. 3-6, which will produce showers and thunderstorms up and down the Plains to the Mississippi Valley. There may even be frost by the end of the week. I 3. Low rivers still an issue: Despite the potential for rains, we're continuing to track low river levels in the Mississippi Valley. 4. Digging into the details: DTN's Clayton will dig deeper into what was decided by the government during the weekend and assess what are the consequences. What is being funded, what still hasn't been decided, and what will this mean for farmers and ranchers? 5. Reports this week: Here's what is tentatively expected to come out this week, based on the government shutdown being avoided. We'll update if we hear more. Monday, International manufacturing indices reports trickle in overnight, joined by the U.S. report at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly grain export inspections hit at 10 a.m., followed by NASS Fats and Oil report at 2 p.m. and weekly Crop Progress at 3 p.m. On Tuesday, U.S. new home sales are released at 7:30 a.m., followed by U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Wednesday, we'll watch U.S. factory orders at 9 a.m., with the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. On Thursday USDA's weekly export sales are due at 7:30 a.m., as is weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for August and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Friday we hope to see the U.S. Labor Department reports on non-farm payrolls and the unemployment rate for September at 7:30 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 2, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the latest weather forecasts and have likely heard the deadline for a possible U.S. government shutdown has been moved to November 17. International reports of manufacturing indices will trickle in overnight and be joined by the U.S. report at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly grain export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by NASS's Fats and Oil report at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather Hot temperatures east of the Rockies will be near daily records in many locations. Some isolated showers may develop in the Plains, otherwise the country will be rather dry as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 29, 2023 |

USDA Sees Record Demand to Advance Clean Energy in Rural America The Department of Agriculture reports record demand for funding to advance affordable and reliable clean energy in rural America. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “The Inflation Reduction Act is driving investment in rural communities across the nation, particularly in places that for too long have been left out or left behind.” The Inflation Reduction Act made nearly $13 billion available to support clean energy infrastructure for rural America through USDA Rural Development programs. In May, USDA made $9.7 billion available under the New Empowering Rural America program for member-owned rural electric cooperatives, and received 157 proposals from nearly every state. Also in May, USDA made $1 billion available under Powering Affordable Clean Energy to fund new clean energy projects and energy storage in rural America. So far, USDA has received requests for more than $7.8 billion through letters of interest. USDA has also seen substantially more interest than funding available under the Inflation Reduction Act in USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. *********************************************************************************** Animal Rights Groups Welcomes Bill to End Milk Mandate Legislation introduced recently would give kids a nutritionally equivalent, plant-based milk option to cow’s milk in the National School Lunch Program. Welcomed by animal rights groups, the Addressing Digestive Distress in Stomachs of Our Youth Act requires public schools to offer a nutritionally equivalent soy milk option and allows USDA to reimburse schools for those purchases, just as it does for cow's milk. Animal Wellness Action President Wayne Pacelle says, “The federal government is overreaching by subsidizing and promoting milk beyond its natural appeal to consumers.” Under law, USDA provides a reimbursement of $1 billion for cow’s milk to public schools across the country, placing a carton of milk on every tray. Earlier this year, the National Milk Producers Federation responded, “The latest ploy among the vegan, animal rights and plant-based lobbies is to suddenly paint themselves as social justice crusaders, demanding that their nutritionally inferior products should now be treated as legitimate milk substitutes in federal nutrition programs.” *********************************************************************************** Federal Complaint Alleges Environmental Violations by eBay The Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Justice this week filed a complaint against eBay. The complaint alleges eBay allows the unlawful selling of pesticides, violating the Clean Air Act, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, commonly known as FIFRA and the Toxic Substances Control Act. FIFRA prohibits the unlawful distribution or sale of unregistered, misbranded, and restricted-use pesticides, and authorizes EPA to issue Stop Sale, Use, or Removal Orders. The complaint also alleges that eBay has unlawfully distributed or sold at least 23,000 such products, and that some of those sales directly violate a stop sale order issued to eBay in 2020 and amended in 2021. Examples of these pesticides include a high-toxicity insecticide banned in the U.S., restricted-use pesticides that only certified applicators may apply, and products fraudulently claiming to protect users against SARS-CoV-2. The complaint also targets aftermarket parts that defeat motor vehicle emission controls. *********************************************************************************** 2022 Potato Production Down 3 Percent The Department of Agriculture this week released the 2022 Potatoes Summary. The report presents potato estimates of acreage, yield per acre, production, farm disposition, season average price, value, and utilization of sales, including processing for the 2022 season. All potato production in 2022 totaled 399 million hundred-weight, down three percent from the 2021 crop. Harvested area, at 911,400 acres, was down one percent from 2021. The average yield of 438 hundred-weight per acre was down six hundred-weight from the previous year. The value of all potatoes sold in 2022, at $4.80 billion, increased 23 percent from the previous year. The average price, at $12.90 per hundred-weight, was up $2.70 from 2021. The quantity of potatoes sold from the 2022 crop totaled 373 million hundred-weight, down three percent from 2021. Potatoes used for chips increased three percent, while frozen French fries utilization dropped one percent, and dehydrated potatoes fell seven percent. *********************************************************************************** Turkey Growers Increase Flock Size While U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai visited a North Carolina Turkey Farm to celebrate market access to India, USDA reported increased turkey production this week. The September USDA Turkey Raised report indicated a four percent increase from 2022. Turkeys Raised in the United States during 2023 is forecasted at 219 million this month. The top six states account for 68 percent of the turkeys produced in the United States during 2023. The largest turkey-producing state is Minnesota, at 39.0 million turkeys, up five percent from the previous year. North Carolina produced 29.0 million turkeys, up four percent from a year ago. Arkansas produced 27.5 million turkeys, up six percent from last year. Indiana produced 20.0 million turkeys, unchanged from last year. Missouri produced 18.0 million turkeys, up six percent from last year, and Virginia is up one percent from the previous year at 15.4 million turkeys. Turkeys raised preliminary estimates include young turkeys intended for meat production and breeder turkeys reaching maturity during the calendar year. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Lower Income Countries Spend More on Food Consumers in low-income countries spend a greater proportion of their budgets on food than those in higher-income countries, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. As incomes rise with economic development and urbanization, the share of income spent on food tends to fall, while discretionary spending on household goods, education, medical services, and recreation tends to increase. In low-income African and South Asian countries, spending on food accounted for more than 40 percent of total consumer expenditures in 2022. This contrasts with higher-income economies in Latin America, including Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico, where an average of about 22.5 percent of budgets was spent on food. In emerging markets such as Brazil, India, and China, where incomes are rising, the share of discretionary income spent on nonfood categories has increased. In higher-income economies, including the United States, Switzerland, Australia, and Canada, disposable incomes remain larger, and the food share of consumer expenditures is smaller than those in countries where urban communities are still expanding.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 29, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The Federal Reserve's favorite inflation indicator, the PCE index is due out at 7:30 a.m., the same time as reports on U.S. personal income and consumer spending. USDA's September 1 Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary are both due out at 11 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by DTN's webinar at 12:30 p.m. Weather A frontal boundary moved into the Northern Plains Thursday and will largely stall there into Minnesota for Friday. Pockets of scattered showers and thunderstorms will be possible in these areas. Some isolated showers may pop up farther south across the Plains as well. Temperatures south and east of the front will continue to climb higher.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 28, 2023 |

Americans Want Their Food Produced Domestically A new survey from the American Sugar Alliance shows American voters recognize the importance of agriculture. The poll says they want Congress to prioritize American farmers in the next farm bill, provide them with a strong and reliable safety net, and protect them from foreign businesses that could displace American farmers and workers and disrupt our national food supply. Almost two-thirds of the respondents in the survey say the nation’s food supply should be less dependent on foreign suppliers. The results cut across political parties and geographical regions. As far as where America should buy its sugar from, eight times as many voters preferred American-made sugar compared to those who preferred imported sugar. “Clearly, voters value domestic sugar production and don’t want to depend on foreign suppliers for an essential food ingredient,” says Cassie Blaedow, Chair of the American Sugar Alliance. Approximately 11,000 family farmers raise sugar beets and sugarcane. *********************************************************************************** USDA Will Begin Issuing $1.75 Billion in Emergency Relief The USDA began issuing more than $1.75 billion in emergency relief payments to eligible farmers and livestock producers. These much-needed payments are helping farmers and ranchers recover following natural disasters in 2020, 2021, and 2022. “USDA provides substantial economic support for America’s farmers and ranchers through its critical farm payments,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “These payments reflect the incredible and cumulative financial hits brought on by devastating natural disasters which agricultural producers nationwide have endured while fulfilling their commitment to produce our food, fiber, and fuel.” He also says the additional assistance offsets tremendous losses and is a valuable investment not only for farmers and ranchers but also for the economic success of rural and urban communities and our nation’s food security for generations to come. This week, the Farm Service Agency will issue more than $581 million in 2021 and 2022 drought and wildfire emergency relief to eligible ranchers. *********************************************************************************** Merck Awards Scholarships to Future Veterinarians Merck Animal Health announced it has awarded $90,000 in scholarships to 18 bovine veterinary students in partnership with the American Association of Bovine Practitioners. Scholarship recipients were selected based on their academic achievements, career goals, work experience, and interest in veterinary medicine. The scholarships were recently given out during the 2023 AABP Annual Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with each winner getting $5,000. “Merck Animal Health is proud to honor these veterinary students who represent the future of our field and the cattle industry,” says Justin Welsh, DVM and executive director of livestock technical services for Merck. Fred Gingrich, DVM and executive director of AABP, says he’s very excited about what the future holds for these outstanding students and the talents and skills they will bring to the veterinary profession as they embark on their careers. “We are incredibly grateful to Merck Animal Health for its continued partnership and support,” Gingrich says. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Helps Organic Producers Meet Growing Demand New legislation was introduced in both chambers of Congress to give organic producers the tools they need to increase their capacity, reach new markets, and grow their businesses. The Organic Market Development Act would codify and increase support for a newly announced USDA program that aims to solve supply chain gaps for the organic market through grants to farmers and businesses as demand increases for organic products. In 2021, U.S. sales of organic food products reached $52 billion, nearly doubling the sales done in 2010. Senate bill sponsor Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) says the legislation will build on the success of the Organic Market Development Grant Program and allow more producers to access these resources and tools to grow America’s agriculture economy. The legislation builds on the initial $75 million annual authorization by maintaining the base CCC investment and adds $25 million in appropriations for 2024 and each fiscal year thereafter. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Campaign Call for a Level Playing Field The National Corn Growers Association launched a grassroots advocacy campaign to encourage the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to provide a level playing field for biofuels like ethanol. The organization wants corn growers and advocates to make their voices heard by submitting comments to the agency. The campaign comes after NHTSA proposed hiking the Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standard, referred to as the CAFÉ Standard. It regulates how much fuel a vehicle consumes per mile. The agency’s current proposal would move the fleet average for small cars and light trucks from 44 to 58 miles per gallon by 2032. NCGA President Tom Haag says the proposal sets an unattainable goal and concerning precedent. “Auto manufacturers will be forced to overlook viable solutions in high-octane biofuels like corn ethanol to meet these standards,” Haag says. “This would minimize the role biofuels play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and saving consumers money.” *********************************************************************************** Missouri Farmland Sale Sets New Record A Missouri farmland auction broke the previous record set in Iowa as 115 acres of land sold for a record amount. The Missouri farmland sale smashed the previous record of $30,000 an acre set in Iowa. The bill of sale from Dyer and Fenner Auctioneers said the record sale happened last week in Saline County, Missouri. Two farmers got into a bidding war, and, in only 15 minutes, the 115 acres set the new record at $34,800 per acre. The buyer wasn’t an investor. The winning bid came from a farmer named Jeff Baxter from neighboring Carroll County, Missouri. Area farmers say the competing bidder was a farmer whose home farm touches the land that was up for sale. Farm Journal’s AgWeb says the bidding started at $15,000 an acre for the piece of ground that’s been in the same family for four generations, and the bids climbed very fast.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 28, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, an update of second-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's Hogs and Pigs report for September 1 is due out at 2 p.m. Weather An upper-level trough that has been meandering through the Midwest all week continues across eastern regions with areas of showers on Thursday. A new front has moved into the Northern Plains and will be the focus for areas of showers and thunderstorms going into next week. Above-normal temperatures continue to build where showers and clouds do not occur.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 27, 2023 |

USDA Expands Access to School Breakfast and Lunch The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced it is giving an estimated 3,000 more school districts in high-need areas the option to serve breakfast and lunch to all students at no cost. The expansion is possible through the Community Eligibility provision, commonly known as CEP. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the effort "Will decrease childhood hunger, improve child health and student readiness, and put our nation on the path to better nutrition and wellness." CEP is a simplified meal service option that allows schools to provide meals at no cost to all students without requiring families to apply for free and reduced-price meals. School districts receive federal funding based on a formula using existing data, and local or state funds must fill any gap between program costs and federal support. Previously, at least 40 percent of students had to live in households participating in federal assistance programs for a school or school district to be eligible for CEP. This final rule lowers that threshold from 40 percent to 25 percent. *********************************************************************************** Report: Organic Strawberries Bring Higher Prices New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows organic strawberries offer growers higher prices than conventional strawberries. Fresh strawberry prices tend to exhibit strong seasonal trends partly because of their relatively short shelf life. In the United States, grower prices for fresh organic strawberries move in tandem with conventional strawberry prices throughout the year while also typically running 40 to 50 percent higher than conventional prices—this difference is known as a price premium. In late fall and throughout winter, supply wanes even though demand remains robust. During this period, grower price premiums for organic strawberries rise above typical levels. From 2018–2022, the highest average price premium was in January, when organic strawberry prices were 74 to 88 percent higher than conventional strawberries. Price premiums in July averaged 18 to 24 percent. Since 2008, domestic organic strawberry acreage has tripled in California, which provides about 75 percent of U.S. organic strawberry production. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Seek Action on Wildland Firefighter Pay Reform A group of Senators called on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to consider wildland firefighter pay reforms. Led by Colorado Democrat Michael Bennet, the lawmakers seek advancement of permanent, comprehensive pay reform for the country's wildland firefighters as temporary pay increases are set to end. Short-term pay increases for over 22,000 federal firefighters will run out this week unless Congress takes action. In a letter, the senators note the increasing threat posed by wildfires in the U.S. and issues that have contributed to firefighter recruitment and retention challenges in recent years – including low pay, unaffordable housing, and strain on their mental health. The lawmakers say, “Firefighters deserve fair pay, support for their mental and physical health, and time to recover from their dangerous work.” They conclude by urging Schumer to move forward on permanent, comprehensive pay reform in line with the President’s Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2024 and the Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act. *********************************************************************************** USDA Report Details Cold Storage Food Supply USDA’s September Cold Storage Report shows lower dairy and meat supplies and seasonally higher frozen fruit and vegetables. The report released this week shows total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on August 31, 2023, were down slightly from the previous month but up one percent from August 31, 2022. Butter stocks were down 12 percent from last month but up four percent from a year ago. Total frozen poultry supplies were down slightly from the previous month, but up one percent from a year ago, and total pounds of turkey in freezers were up two percent from last month. Frozen fruit stocks were up six percent from last month but down two percent from a year ago, while frozen vegetable stocks were up 18 percent from last month and five percent from a year ago. Finally, red meat supplies in freezers were up one percent from the previous month but down 15 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** USTR Visits North Carolina Turkey Farm U.S. Trade Representative Kathrine Tai visited a North Carolina Turkey Farm Tuesday, celebrating recent market access wins for U.S. agriculture in India. Tai joined North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper for a tour of North Carolina State University’s Talley Turkey Education Unit, and participated in a roundtable event with turkey producers. Earlier this month, the U.S. and India reduced tariffs on frozen turkey, frozen duck, fresh blueberries and cranberries, frozen blueberries and cranberries, dried blueberries and cranberries, and processed blueberries and cranberries. The effort will give North Carolina farmers and agriculture producers greater opportunity to reach India’s large, untapped market for turkey exports. North Carolina is one of the United States’ largest exporters of turkey, accounting for about ten percent of U.S. turkey exports to the world each year. From 2017 through 2022, North Carolina averaged $50 million in annual exports of turkey products to the world. From 2017 through 2022, the U.S. exported over $3.1 billion of turkey to the world. *********************************************************************************** NOAA Providing Funding for Tribal Lands Drought Resiliency The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration this week announced funding to support drought resilience on tribal lands. NOAA is providing the funding to support projects that will help tribal nations address current and future drought risk. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo says, “Enhancing drought resilience with tribal partners in the West is a crucial step in building a Climate-Ready Nation.” Proposals may request funding of up to $700,000 total to be disseminated in the first year and expended over three years in the form of cooperative agreements. A total of 3-5 projects may be funded depending on the project budget requested. Applications should be developed by or in full partnership with tribal nations to fund the implementation of activities that address current and future drought risk in the context of a changing climate on tribal lands across the Western U.S. The NOAA Climate Program Office’s National Integrated Drought Information System anticipates a funding allocation of approximately $2 million, pending the availability of funds in Fiscal Year 2024.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 27, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report of U.S. durable goods orders is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and any news from the Black Sea region. Weather An upper-level low pressure system continues to meander slowly through the Eastern Corn Belt Wednesday, with areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms. Some pockets of heavy rain have developed in the rainfall over the last few days, which continues Wednesday as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 26, 2023 |

Bill Introduced to Protect Farmland Used for Renewable Energy Senators Tammy Baldwin and Chuck Grassley Monday introduced the Protecting Future Farmland Act. The new legislation supports farmers’ land stewardship efforts as many choose to deploy solar energy on their land. The legislation will ensure that federal investment in rural energy projects prioritizes both land stewardship and responsible deployment of renewable energy to protect America’s farmlands for future cultivation. Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, says, “we need to support our farmers’ land stewardship efforts and help them protect the farmland that is critical to the future of our rural economies and national food security.” Grassley, an Iowa Republican, adds, “We must be certain that embracing solar doesn’t damage our most valuable commodity: our rich Iowa soil.” Agricultural landowners are increasingly interested in using their land for solar energy production. About 83 percent of new solar projects are installed on farmland and ranchland, with almost 50 percent placed on the most productive, versatile, and resilient land. *********************************************************************************** Legislation to Boost Oversight of Foreign Ag Purchases Advances The U.S. House Committee on Financial Services Last week advanced a bill supported by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association that strengthens oversight of foreign agricultural purchases. Introduced by Representative Frank Lucas, an Oklahoma Republican, the Agricultural Security Risk Review Act would add the Secretary of Agriculture as a member of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States. The committee reviews the national security impact of foreign investments in the United States. NCBA’s Kent Bacus says the effort “Would provide a critical voice for American farmers and ranchers, and ensure that the federal government does not overlook agriculture's role in national security." The Secretary of the Treasury chairs the committee with members from the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of State, Department of Energy, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and Office of Science and Technology Policy. The legislation passed in committee and now goes to the full House of Representatives for consideration. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Group Applauds Hawley’s Anti-Monopoly Bill Senator Josh Hawley last week introduced the Strengthening Antitrust Enforcement for Meatpacking Act. The Missouri Republican’s bill would empower antitrust enforcers to break up giant meatpacking and poultry monopolies. R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard said his group “applauds Senator Hawley’s novel approach to addressing the untenable market concentrations faced by America’s cattle and sheep producers.” The bill would establish two thresholds for determining the market concentration in the meatpacking industry. Using the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, or HHI, which is a measure of market concentration presently employed by the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission, the bill would prohibit a merger or acquisition by a meatpacker if the HHI would exceed 1,800, or if a proposed merger or acquisition would increase the meatpacker’s current HHI Index by 100. The current guidelines consider an HHI below 1,500 to be unconcentrated, an HHI between 1,500 and 2,500 to be moderately concentrated, and an HHI above 2,500 to be a highly concentrated market. The Hawley bill would prohibit mergers currently considered moderately concentrated. *********************************************************************************** USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission Delegation Arrives in Chile A U.S. agribusiness delegation arrived in Santiago, Chile, Monday, led by USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor. The delegation includes representatives from the U.S. food and agriculture sectors and state departments of agriculture. Taylor says, “Customers in Chile are especially interested in U.S. consumer-oriented products, such as dairy, beef, poultry, pork, condiments and distilled spirits, providing U.S. exporters with many new and exciting opportunities.” While in Santiago, the members of the delegation are looking to establish business relationships and explore opportunities for U.S. agricultural exports to the region. Buyers from Chile, as well as from neighboring Ecuador and Peru, have been invited to participate and meet with U.S. exporters. In addition, this trade mission will allow participants to learn about production and marketing practices throughout South America. Chile is among the top three markets in South America for U.S. agricultural and related products, and the second-largest market in South America for consumer-oriented agricultural products. *********************************************************************************** K-State Launches Next-Gen Institute for Digital Agriculture Kansas State University is setting the stage as a national leader in digital agriculture with the launch of the interdisciplinary Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics. The institute is a people-centered interdisciplinary collective transforming learning, research and outreach around digital technologies and advanced analytical methods to enhance agriculture. Work done at the institute will include developing and integrating analytical methods and digital technologies -- like sensors, automation and robots -- that enhance food production and inform decision making for sustainable and resilient systems. K-State President Richard Linton says, “Kansas State University is working across disciplines to solve global agricultural problems and build the economic prosperity of Kansas and one of our state's key industries." The culmination of this collaborative effort will ensure that K-State is positioned as a leader in digital agriculture with an effective foundation to develop programs that sustain the long-term competitiveness of agriculture in Kansas. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Diesel and Gas Prices Decline For the first time in two weeks, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 3.1 cents from a week ago to $3.80 per. The national average is up 1.3 cents from a month ago and 13.6 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price decreased 1.4 cents last week and stands at $4.53 per gallon, 38.0 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "It's been a mostly quiet week for the national average price of gasoline," but adds, "New and continued refinery issues in some regions have had an oversized effect on gas prices in some states, especially in Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada." With some worry over the Fed's statements last week hinting that more interest rate hikes could be coming, oil prices saw some profit-taking last week, falling after Jerome Powell's latest statements. Meanwhile, U.S. retail gasoline demand saw an increase of 2.4 percent last week, bouncing back after several poor readings.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 26, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by a report on U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest weather forecasts and scour contacts for harvest anecdotes. Weather An upper-level cutoff low continues to meander slowly through the Midwest Tuesday, producing scattered showers. Outside of some showers near the Gulf Coast and in the Mid-Atlantic, it should be dry east of the Rockies. A large trough continues to bring rainfall into the Pacific Northwest, which will slowly progress deeper into the country later in the week.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 25, 2023 |

Farmers Take EATS Act Opposition to Capitol Hill American farmers and ranchers were in Washington, D.C., September 17-22, to state their opposition to the EATS Act. The Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression Act was introduced by Representative Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS). Groups like the Organization for Competitive Markets, Competitive Markets Action, and several others said the act would nullify more than a thousand state and local agriculture laws. Those laws are in place to protect communities from a number of issues like invasive pests and livestock diseases. The absence of local regulations would create an environment in which foreign conglomerates could rapidly expand across all 50 states. “If EATS is included in the upcoming farm bill, it will mark the end of American family farming as we know it,” says Deborah Mills, a director with the Organization for Competitive Markets. The organizations also advocated for the inclusion of the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grants to Help Solve Workforce Challenges Employers can begin applying for a pilot program designed to improve the resiliency of the food and agricultural supply chain by addressing workforce challenges faced by farmers and ranchers. The USDA and other federal agencies are announcing up to $65 million in grants available for the Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program. The program will help address workforce needs in agriculture, promote a safe and healthy working environment for farmworkers, and aims to support expanding lawful migration pathways for workers through expanding the H-2A Visa Program. “Our country is facing growing agriculture workforce challenges that jeopardize our farmers’ ability to be competitive, threaten the resiliency, abundance, and safety of our food system, and have repercussions for the overall economy,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The program will benefit producers and farmworkers.” Program applications must be received by November 28. More information about the application process is available at ams.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Pushes Back Against EPA Board The National Corn Growers Association pushed back against commentary made by a science advisory board with the Environmental Protection Agency. The Board questioned the effectiveness of ethanol in lowering greenhouse gas emissions. “There is no shortage of studies on the environmental benefits of corn ethanol,” NCGA CEO Neil Caskey told the advisory board members. “The Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory has conducted extensive research on the matter and concluded that corn ethanol has reduced greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. by 544 million metric tons from 2005-2019.” He also says the feedstock’s carbon intensity is 44 percent lower than that of petroleum gasoline. The testimony comes after the board provided commentary to the EPA administrator raising doubts about the effectiveness of ethanol. Caskey also responded to assertions that ethanol production impacts land use, noting that data shows as corn production has risen, land used to grow corn has not. *********************************************************************************** AFT Announces Farmers’ Market Celebration Contest Winners American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition announced the winners of the 15th annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration. It’s an annual event honoring the role of farmers’ markets. More than 2,000 markets nationwide participated in the 2023 celebration with over ten million supporters engaged in voting. “America’s farmers markets serve communities across the nation, providing access to fresh, healthy food and building farmers’ opportunity,” says David Thayer, AFT’s director of marketing and digital outreach. “It’s a pleasure hosting the Celebration and witnessing the incredible national support for local food.” The first-place winner was the farmers’ market in North Tonawanda, New York, which was awarded $5,000. Since 2008, the celebration has highlighted the important role farmers’ markets play in American communities and the larger U.S. food system. Food markets are on the leading edge of educating consumers about where food comes from and reinforcing AFT’s message of No Farms, No Food. *********************************************************************************** Increasing Competition in Global Pork Trade A recent Rabobank report says competition between major exporters has intensified in the global pork trade, meaning the competitive landscape will continue shifting in the years ahead. Low-cost producers like Brazil and the U.S. will likely have an advantage, while Europe’s position is expected to weaken following increasing market and regulatory requirements concerning animal welfare and sustainability. Countries adopting effective disease mitigation strategies may secure a competitive edge as disease pressure looms over the pig sector. Meanwhile, global pork consumption is poised for growth until 2030, creating ongoing opportunities for global pork trade. Rabobank says disease pressure will continue creating challenges in the pork industry, though the impact will be contingent on trade policies and the success of mitigation efforts. Pork trade will persist despite China’s pork production rebounding to pre-ASF levels in 2022, achieving 95 percent self-sufficiency. The report also says despite disruptions, global pork consumption will grow through 2030. *********************************************************************************** World Grain Conference Brings Buyers and Sellers Together The U.S. Agricultural Cooperators Conference is a cornerstone buyers conference in Southeast Asia. The event is hosted by the U.S. Grains Council, the U.S. Soybean Export Council, and the U.S. Wheat Associates and has actively served the region for 20 years. This year’s event addressed the pressing global challenges of food security, sustainability, and innovation. “We continue to strive to keep this conference fresh and relevant,” says Caleb Wurth, USGC Southeast Asia and Oceania regional director. “We decided to bring an even more diverse group of customers to our member exporters than ever before, and broader Asian participation was well received by our customers.” ACC is an opportunity for the Council’s U.S. exporter members to market their products and engage with buyers from around the globe in one spot. Along with buyer delegations from the Southeast Asia region, the Council invited constituencies from China, South Korea, South Asia, and Taiwan.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 25, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Seed Selection, DC Dramas, Receding Rivers Lead News Coverage OMAHA (DTN) -- Fall is officially here, and with that we turn attention to ending fiscal years, grain reports and harvest news. Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Sept. 24. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Grain Stocks Friday: Grain markets will focus on Friday when the USDA Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary reports hit at 11 a.m. CDT. We'll have our normal immediate coverage, followed by commentary updates throughout the hour. DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will head up a live webinar on the reports at 12:30 p.m. 2. D.C. budget chaos: We continue to watch the fallout of the Congressional failure to put together a budget or a continuing resolution to keep government doors open. In addition to our news team's coverage, DTN subscribers can keep up with the latest news in their streaming AP News section and in our Ag News segments.. 3. Harvest break and rivers drop: The weekend's waves of rainfall should diminish early in the week as the current system slowly fades away to the east or south. Rain is largely too late to benefit summer crops and will delay early wheat harvest plans in some areas. Midwest rains will give some farmers a brief break for some in-season combine and harvest equipment maintenance and to finish seed orders. Dry soils will quickly suck up that moisture, though, meaning the rains won't hold up harvest for long. The past week's Drought Monitor Map update showed increasing dry conditions across most of the country, including wetter areas of East and South. We're watching how lack of inflow will affect the Ohio, Missouri and Mississippi river systems as fall transportation picks up. 4. Speaking of seed buying: We'll continue to post stories from the September Progressive Farmer issue featuring the latest on seeds and related technology. Watch for those in our Top Stories segments and blogs. 5.. Reports fill this week ... and then?: Government economic reports this week should flow as normal. Beyond Sept. 30, the chances are murkier as a government shutdown would cut the cord on such updates. Monday's market-influencing reports include USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. We'll watch for harvest progress of the past week and how much rains will slow that down. Tuesday sees U.S. new home sales report at 7:30 a.m. and a report on U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. On Wednesday, we'll watch the U.S. durable goods orders, which hits at 7:30 a.m., and the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Thursday morning is a busy one, with USDA's weekly export sales report, the weekly U.S. jobless claims, an update of second-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor all hitting at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's Hogs and Pigs report for Sept. 1 is due out at 2 p.m. Then, Friday is the reveal of the Federal Reserve's favorite inflation indicator, the PCE index, at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. personal income and consumer spending reports hit at the same time, followed by USDA's Sept. 1 Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary, which as noted above, are out 11 a.m. CDT.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 25, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking rainfall amounts and the latest weather forecasts. News from the Black Sea may also play a part as Ukraine appears to be getting bolder with its attacks. USDA's weekly grain export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A cutoff low from the weekend is stuck in the Midwest and will be producing some areas of showers Monday. Most places will see little or no rainfall, but a couple of lucky pockets could see some meaningful rain in and around Wisconsin.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 22, 2023 |

NPPC Past President Testifies on Reforming GSP National Pork Producers Council Past President Randy Spronk testified at a House subcommittee hearing on reforming the generalized system of preferences to safeguard American supply chains and combat China. The U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) provided duty-free treatment of goods exported to America from developing countries before expiring in 2020. “American pork producers support the renewal of GSP, a valuable program that will give U.S. trade negotiators another tool to persuade countries to eliminate trade restrictions on U.S. products,” Spronk said. In the past, the U.S. pork industry has utilized GSP to gain market access to countries like Argentina and India. “A renewal of GSP should include stronger enforcement mechanisms that provide U.S. trade negotiators with the tools to ensure countries are meeting their obligations,” Spronk adds. America’s pork industry shipped $7.68 billion worth of pork to more than 100 foreign countries in 2022, supporting approximately 155,000 U.S. jobs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Payments to Help Organic Dairy Producers The USDA is announcing a second round of payments for dairy producers through the Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program. The agency is providing an additional $5 million to help dairy producers mitigate market volatility, higher input and transportation costs, and unstable feed supply and prices that have created unique hardships in the organic dairy industry. The Farm Service Agency has already paid out $15 million in the first round of payments to eligible producers. “The program is critical to keeping small, organic dairies sustainable as they continue to weather a combination of challenges outside their control,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “In total, the Farm Service Agency is providing $20 million to give organic dairy producers additional economic support to stay in operation until markets return to more favorable conditions.” FSA accepted applications for assistance from May 24 to August 11. Eligible operations produce milk from cows, goats, and sheep. *********************************************************************************** NACD Applauds Establishment of the American Climate Corps The National Association of Conservation Districts applauds the establishment of the American Climate Corps. Developing the next generation of conservationists has been a top priority and a major outcome of NACD’s Climate Action Task Force. The government-wide American Climate Corps will provide for a robust and diverse recruitment pipeline that’s critical for the future success of conservation and climate programs. With 3,000 conservation districts across the U.S. and its territories, NACD can also provide valuable learning opportunities for participants. Conservation districts work with landowners and operators across rural and urban communities. “Opportunities to get ‘boots on the ground’ with conservation districts provides the next generation meaningful development opportunities and leadership roles within local communities,” says Kim LaFleur, NACD President. “These emerging leaders can benefit greatly from the decades of expertise that exist within conservation districts, empowering them to tackle challenges and deploy numerous innovative solutions through the locally-led delivery system.” *********************************************************************************** ASI Investigates Trade Case Against Lamb Imports The American Sheep Industry Association updated the status of a legal process initiated several months ago toward possibly filing a U.S. trade law violation by lamb importers. ASI Executive Director Peter Orwick offered an update as the association awaits the results of a preliminary investigation. “We are specifically looking for the estimate of trade case strength, which depends on two parts,” Orwick says. “One is injury to the industry – the entire industry, the sheep producers, the lamb feeders, and the lamb companies. The second piece is the estimate of any violation, including dumping and subsidy margins, so the board can project an impact on American lamb returns should a case filing result in tariffs on imported lamb meat.” Pursuing a trade case against lamb import countries would cost a minimum of $1.3 million in legal expenses alone and require almost a year to see the case through to the end. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Union Supports Right to Repair Bill The Agricultural Right to Repair Act was introduced in both the House and Senate, and the legislation is strongly supported by the National Farmers Union. NFU President Rob Larew says the Right to Repair Act is an important step in the fight to ensure farmers across the country have fair and affordable access to the parts, tools, and information they need to fix farm equipment. “I want to thank the officials who introduced the bill to guarantee farmers the Right to Repair their equipment,” he says. “NFU stands ready to help push this bill forward.” Right to Repair is a pillar of NFU’s Fairness for Farmers campaign to address the monopoly crisis in agriculture. Just three manufacturers control the majority of farm equipment production, sales, and repairs, and use software locks to prevent farmers and independent mechanics from completing certain repairs. Right to Repair could save farmers $4.2 billion every year. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Groups Appreciate the American Farmers Feed the World Act U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers thanked several lawmakers for introducing the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 in the Senate. The bipartisan legislation would restore the original intent of the Food for Peace program without spending additional farm bill resources. It also safeguards the interests of hard-working American farmers in providing food to those in need around the world. The wheat groups have joined the broader agriculture industry in backing the legislation. “The American Feed the World Act of 2023 offers an important rebalancing to ensure that Food for Peace remains focused on effectively delivering as much American-grown food to as many people in need as possible,” says USW Director of Trade Policy Peter Laudeman. “As Congress considers the new farm bill, this legislation provides an opportunity to revitalize the role of American agriculture in addressing global hunger,” says NAWG President Brent Cheyne.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 22, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's cattle on-feed report for September 1 will be out at 2 p.m. CDT Friday. Dow Jones' survey expects the on-feed total to be down 2.2% from a year ago and placements to be down 5.2% from a year ago. Traders will keep an eye on rainfall totals over the weekend and any changes in the forecasts. Weather A storm system in the Pacific Northwest is sending plenty of energy into the Plains to produce areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms in the middle of the country early Friday. Shower coverage should expand with time today, with the more consistent and heavier rains across the Northern Plains. Some severe weather will be possible, as will localized flooding.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 21, 2023 |

New Crop Insurance for Tropical Storms Benefits Producers Impacted by Idalia USDA's recent hurricane crop insurance policy expansion to cover tropical storms this year has already provided farmers $85.4 million to help them recover from Hurricane Idalia. USDA's Risk Management Agency rolled out the new Tropical Storm Option for its Hurricane Insurance Protection-Wind Index Endorsement earlier this year after working with farmers to improve coverage. Additionally, producers have received $84.8 million in indemnities for hurricane-related losses for a total of over $170 million in crop insurance payments that will directly help farmers and rural communities recover from Hurricane Idalia. This coverage was unavailable this time last year. RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger says, "I commend farmers and their organizations for reaching out to RMA to discuss new coverage, and our staff for promptly working on creative solutions to make this coverage a reality." Farmers do not need to file a claim to receive payment. If a county is triggered, then the Approved Insurance Provider will issue a payment in the coming weeks. *********************************************************************************** Stratovation to Launch Collaborative Specialty Crop Biologicals Study Stratovation Group is engineering a new study on how specialty-crop growers perceive agricultural biologicals for vegetable, leafy greens and fruit and nut crops. The new study, "Biologicals: Specialty Crop Growers' Perceptions, Values and Potential," will be conducted in collaboration with Western Growers, the Agricultural Retailers Association, DC Legislative and Regulatory Services, and The Fertilizer Institute. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, "This effort provides a unique opportunity to gather insights directly from growers, enabling our members to support their input needs effectively and drive sustainable innovation deeper into agriculture." The specialty crop effort will be a comprehensive market research effort focused on understanding farmer/grower opinions on the current use, issues and potential for biologicals, but specifically for vegetable, leafy greens and fruit and nut production at the farm level. The 2023 study will set benchmarks around the use of biologicals by specialty crop growers and provide a roadmap to companies seeking to grow and develop the market category. *********************************************************************************** Russian Wheat Exports Remain Biggest Risk to U.S. Elevators A modest rebound in U.S. wheat production and supplies is improving the outlook for profitability among grain elevators that store wheat. Futures market carries have improved for all three major classes of wheat, and the buy basis is widening following a bigger harvest. The larger harvest follows two years of poor production and a historic run of inverted futures markets that sapped profitability for storing wheat. However, according to CoBank, the major risk to elevators in the year ahead is a sharp rally in wheat prices. Wheat stocks among major exporters are historically tight, and any disruption to the flow of Russian exports through the Black Sea could trigger a sharp price run-up. CoBank economist Tanne Ehmke says, “The flood of cheap Russian wheat into the global market may have created a false sense of security in the world wheat market.” Russia is currently harvesting a near-record wheat crop with substantial carryover inventories from last year's record-sized harvest. *********************************************************************************** Oilseed Groups Urge Use of GREET Model for SAF Tax Incentives Oilseed groups delivered a letter this week to the Biden administration seeking support for investments made by U.S. companies and farmers who are ramping up production of sustainable aviation fuel. Using the GREET model will support investments by farmers, oilseed processors and domestic producers to meet the sustainable aviation fuel challenge, according to the groups. Clean Fuels Alliance America, the American Soybean Association, the National Oilseed Processors Association, and the U.S. Canola Association came together to make the request. The letter states, “Without this, our combined members and others in the industry may not be able to follow through on investments in sustainable aviation fuel production.” GREET is the Argonne National Laboratory’s Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation model. The letter asks the administration to consider the billions of dollars that members of the associations have made to build new or optimize existing production facilities and expand availability of sustainable, homegrown, low-carbon feedstocks like soybean oil and canola. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Efforts to Prevent and Reduce Food Waste The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced an additional $25 million investment to expand efforts to prevent and reduce food loss and waste. The investment, funded under the American Rescue Plan Act, is part of a joint agency initiative between USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and USDA’s Office of the Chief Economist. More than one-third of all available food goes uneaten through loss or waste. When food is tossed aside, so too are opportunities for improved food security, economic growth and environmental prosperity. The funding will support the Community Food Projects, Competitive Grants Program to reduce food loss and waste, get surplus wholesome food to individuals, and develop linkages between food producers, providers and food recovery organizations. Since 2017, NIFA has committed $123.5 million across 527 projects relating to food loss and waste. This latest investment will expand several of NIFA’s core programs by $25 million, and has awarded $4.3 million in fiscal year 2023. *********************************************************************************** Majority of U.S. Apples Used in Juices Apples are a fall staple, showing up in lunch boxes, pies, cobblers, crisps, and cider. However, new data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows a majority of apples are used in juices. In 2021, 45.9 pounds of apples per person were available for domestic consumption, according to USDA’s Food Availability data product. Fifty-two percent of the available apples for U.S. domestic use, 23.7 pounds per person, was in the form of juice or cider, or about two gallons per person. Fresh apples accounted for 34 percent, 15.8 pounds per person. Canned, frozen, dried, and other forms made up the remaining 14 percent of apple availability in 2021. Over the last ten years, per-person apple availability reached a high of 49.2 pounds per person in 2016. Much of the decrease since 2016 was because of declining availability of fresh apples. In 2016, fresh apple availability was 19.3 pounds per person.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 21, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales and leading indicators are set for 8 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Weather A system entering the Plains will produce areas of scattered showers throughout the day, some of which could be severe. Another disturbance is bringing showers to Illinois as well. Rains will be heavy enough to stop harvest for the next few days but will help to reduce the impact of the ongoing drought

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 20, 2023 |

AFBF: Dairy Make Allowances Reform a Must American Farm Bureau Federation economist Danny Munch presented testimony Tuesday at the ongoing Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula hearing. This is the third time an AFBF representative has testified at the hearing. The testimony focuses on adjusting make allowances, or the estimated costs that dairy processors incur to convert milk to consumable dairy products, like cheese and butter. This price directly impacts the price paid to farmers for their milk. AFBF is advocating for make allowances to be adjusted based on a mandatory, audited USDA survey, which USDA says it does not have the authority to conduct. AFBF is pursuing legislation that would direct USDA to conduct such a survey. AFBF opposes increasing make allowances based on potentially biased voluntary survey data that could reduce farmers’ prices unfairly. AFBF submitted nine proposals for consideration during the hearing, and four were accepted by USDA. Additionally, AFBF largely supports four of the five proposals submitted by the National Milk Producers Federation. Full AFBF testimony is available at fb.org. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces 100th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum USDA's 100th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum, "Cultivating the Future," will take place on February 15-16, 2024, at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia. The forum is USDA's longest-running and largest public event and aims to help stakeholders understand and plan for the opportunities and challenges facing the agricultural sector at home and abroad. Each year, it attracts more than 1,800 people in person, and nearly 5,000 virtual attendees from the U.S. and worldwide. The program will include remarks from the Secretary of Agriculture and other top Department officials, along with 30 breakout sessions featuring more than 120 leading experts on a wide range of timely food and agriculture-related topics. Whether you're a farmer, policymaker, industry leader, market analyst, or simply interested in the future of agriculture, the Agricultural Outlook Forum is the perfect place to connect, learn, and engage. Registration will open at the end of October. *********************************************************************************** AVMA Reignites Efforts to Address Rural Veterinary Shortages Lawmakers have reintroduced the Association, the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act, formerly known as the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program Enhancement Act. Introduced in both the House and Senate, the legislation would expand the reach of the Medicine Loan Repayment Program. The program helps increase access to food animal veterinary services in rural areas by assisting with the significant obstacle of educational debt. The legislation would end the federal taxation on awards, enabling more veterinarians to participate in a program that offers up to $75,000 over three years for student loan repayment in exchange for service in USDA-designated shortage areas. In 2023, the USDA declared 237 rural veterinary shortage areas in 47 states, more than any year. American Veterinary Medical Association President Dr. Rena Carlson says, "we look forward to working with the congressional champions to enact this bill and help rural communities across the country access the many essential services veterinarians provide.” *********************************************************************************** McKalip to Travel to Oakland, California Port The U.S. Chief Agricultural Negotiator Doug McKalip will visit Oakland, California, on Thursday. McKalip will visit the Port of Oakland to tour its facilities and engage with stakeholders during his trip. McKalip will be joined by local International Longshore and Warehouse Union leadership and local members of the Pacific Maritime Association. Ensuring the success of America's farmers and producers has been a topline priority for the U.S. Trade Representative's Office under Ambassador Katherine Tai's leadership. The trip follows the recent labor agreement between West Coast port workers and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association. Most recently, USTR secured an agreement with India on September 8, 2023, to resolve the last World Trade Organization dispute and lower tariffs on certain U.S. agricultural products. This built upon the agreement finalized with India in June, which terminated six other WTO disputes and removed retaliatory tariffs on other U.S. agricultural products. *********************************************************************************** Lely Robotic Milkers Class Action Suit Settled Producers and their law firm reached a settlement agreement this month against a manufacturer of allegedly defective milking robots. On September 1, 2023, the Court granted final approval of the settlement for the Lely A4. The settlement allowed class members to replace their existing robot with Lely's newer A5 model or receive cash relief. Nearly all of the approximately 400 class members participated, and the relief selected is worth approximately $121 million. Based on the claims submitted and options chosen, the cash fund is approximately $51 million, and those opting for trade-ins will receive approximately $71 million in value for trading in their A4s for new A5s. In approving the settlement, the Court called it an "excellent result," noting that it provided "outstanding relief" and received "overwhelming, unprecedented" support from the class. The terms of the settlement were agreed upon after nearly three years of litigation. *********************************************************************************** USDA Study Underscores Importance of Food Safety Education Month USDA Tuesday released results from the final year of a five-year study that observed how consumers prepared meals. The study observed food safety behaviors, including participants' thermometer use for ground pork sausage, handwashing, and cleaning and sanitizing food preparation surfaces. The most recent data shows that 87 percent of participants self-reported they washed their hands before starting to cook in the test kitchen. However, only 44 percent of participants were observed doing so before meal preparation. In the study, 50 percent of participants used a food thermometer to check the doneness of the sausage patties. However, 50 percent of those participants did not check all the food. The study used a harmless tracer bacteria, which was injected into the pork sausage, to simulate the spread of foodborne illness-causing bacteria. Among the surfaces tested, the kitchen sink was most often contaminated, with 34 percent of participants contaminating the sink during meal preparation.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 20, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories is at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Many expect the Fed to keep the federal funds rate unchanged at their 1 p.m. announcement, but a quarter-percent hike is possible. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts with rain expected to start in the western Plains on Thursday. Weather A couple of disturbances in the middle of the country continue to produce showers on Wednesday, especially one moving through the Ozarks which may yield some areas of heavy rain. A front that has set up in the Northern Plains will also be active with periods of showers and thunderstorms as well. That is in advance of a system that will have a major influence on the middle of the country later this week and weekend.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 19, 2023 |

USDA Seeking Beginning Farmer and Ranchers Committee Members The Department of Agriculture Monday announced a call for nominations to the Advisory Committee on Beginning Farmers and Ranchers. First established in 1992, the committee advises the Agriculture Secretary to enhance USDA’s goals for new farming and ranching operations. Members of the public are invited to submit nominations for themselves or other qualified experts by October 10, 2023. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “USDA is committed to helping the beginning farmer, the young farmer, access and make use of USDA programs.” USDA is soliciting nominations from interested organizations and individuals from among ranching and farming producers, related state and tribal agricultural entities, academic institutions, commercial banking entities, trade associations, and related nonprofit enterprises. The Agriculture Secretary may appoint up to 20 members to the committee. An organization may nominate individuals from within or outside its membership. Interested candidates may also nominate themselves. Find the nomination requirements and information on the committee website. *********************************************************************************** USDA Data Shows Crop Improvement R&D Spending Expanding Total research and development spending on crop improvement by the seven largest seed companies increased from less than $2 billion in 1990 to more than $6.5 billion by 2021. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports the spending closely tracks with increases in company revenues from seed and agrichemical sales. Intellectual property rights protections for new seed innovations—especially genetically modified seeds—allow seed companies to set product prices with a temporary legal monopoly. The profits earned are a return for research and development investments and costs to commercialize the inventions. The profits also allowed seed companies to spend more on crop research and development, accelerate the rate of new variety introductions with higher productivity potential, and charge higher prices reflecting the value of improved seeds, according to USDA. Collectively, the seven companies have invested about ten percent of their agricultural revenues in research and development. The top companies include Bayer, Corteva, Syngenta, BASF, Limagrain, KWS and Rijk Zwaan (rike-svan). *********************************************************************************** USTR to Deliver Speech on WTO Reform Trade Representative Katherine Tai will deliver a speech on the World Trade Organization and participate in a fireside chat Friday at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, D.C. Tai will also participate in a fireside chat with the WTO Director-General. In her speech, Ambassador Tai will underscore the importance of reform at the World Trade Organization to make it a more effective, responsive, and inclusive forum for solving today's global challenges. She will also highlight areas of reform that are a priority to the United States, and how the United States is engaging with other WTO Members to advance these priorities. The Center for Strategic and International Studies is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization dedicated to advancing practical ideas to address the world’s greatest challenges. The organization is self-described as one of the world’s preeminent public policy institutions on foreign policy and national security issues. ********************************************************************************** Cargill, Soil Health Institute Create Water Stewardship Partnership The Soil Health Institute and Cargill recently partnered to implement regenerative agriculture practices through water stewardship within agricultural supply chains. The three-year, $3 million partnership will equip farmers, conservation planners, and sustainability experts across North America with tools to enhance drought resilience, improve soil health, and encourage sustainable water use. Soil Health Institute President and CEO Wayne Honeycutt says, "We're expediting adoption of regenerative systems by offering stakeholders practical insights to assess improvements in water storage and availability resulting from changes in on-farm practices." Research has demonstrated that increases in available water-holding capacity associated with soil organic carbon gains from soil health practice implementation can lead to twice as much water storage in the topsoil compared to previous estimates. The partnership will enable farmers, businesses, researchers, governments, and other sustainability experts to assess their progress toward water stewardship objectives and build industry convergence around the value of soil health in enhancing drought resilience and sustainable water management. *********************************************************************************** Rail Safety Week Raising Awareness to Save Lives Operation Lifesaver this week is promoting Rail Safety Week. The annual week-long event concentrates public attention on the need for rail safety education and saves lives by educating and empowering the public to make safe decisions around tracks and trains. Operation Lifesaver’s national office and state Operation Lifesaver programs across the U.S. will connect with their communities through in-person and online events, sharing rail safety messages and urging the public to get involved. Every year, 2,100 North Americans are killed or seriously injured when they engage in unsafe behavior around tracks and trains. In the U.S. alone, a person or vehicle is hit by a train every 3 hours. Operation Lifesaver Executive Director Rachel Maleh (mall-lay) says, “Everyone can help make their communities safer. Know the facts, recognize the signs, make good decisions and join us.” The organization is partnering with Operation Lifesaver Canada and the Association of Mexican Railroads to promote the week across North America. *********************************************************************************** Refinery Outages Increase Fuel Prices For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline increased, climbing 4.6 cents from a week ago to $3.83 per gallon. The national average is down one cent from a month ago but 19.9 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price increased 9.9 cents last week and stands at $4.53 per gallon, 42.1 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "With the transition back to cheaper winter gasoline now upon us in nearly every state, we should see prices eventually cooling back off, but if refinery issues continue to develop or linger, especially now that we're entering maintenance season with less available capacity online, the expected decline could certainly be offset.” U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a decline of 1.5 percent last week, as demand continues to weaken seasonally while rising prices could also be playing a role.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 19, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday. The Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting, discussing whether to increase the federal funds rate target another quarter-percent or to leave it alone for now. Traders will digest Monday's harvest progress data from USDA, the latest weather forecasts and keep an eye on Black Sea events. Weather A couple of disturbances in the middle of the country will be responsible for areas of showers from Texas to areas around Lake Michigan on Tuesday. Most areas will see light rain, but pockets of heavier rain will be possible, especially farther south across Oklahoma and Texas, where there is a greater risk of severe weather, especially hail.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 18, 2023 |

Wheat Growers Complete Second Farm Bill Fly-In The National Association of Wheat Growers completed the second part of its 2023 summer Farm Bill Fly-Ins. The first round of visits to Capitol Hill took place in July. During the visit, wheat growers from across the country reinforced the association’s core priorities and underscored the need for Congress to work together to ensure farmers can continue providing safe and affordable food for everyone. Last week, growers from 14 states met with their delegations, staff from each Ag Committee, and Congressional leadership to continue educating lawmakers and advocating for an effective farm safety net. The group’s priorities include working to strengthen Title 1 and crop insurance to better protect farmers. They want support for financial and technical assistance through voluntary conservation cost-share programs for producers in all climates and regions. They’re also encouraging additional investment in agricultural trade promotions and U.S. commodities as part of the farm bill’s trade title. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Industry Supports GREET Model for Scientific Emissions Accuracy American ethanol organizations like the U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy, and the Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on sustainable aviation fuel. When it comes to global actions to decarbonize the aviation transportation sector using Sustainable Aviation Fuel, the industry wants to encourage the use of updated carbon-intensity scoring in the GREET model. They don’t want scoring used in the CORSIA model for corn-based ethanol SAF. The letter says, “We strongly support adopting the DOE’s GREET Model as the standard for carbon intensity scoring of conventional aviation fuels and SAF. The latest GREET model relies on the most current information and highest-resolution data regarding the energy use, carbon emissions, and potential land use impacts associated with the corn ethanol-based SAF process.” The letter also says GREET allows the Treasury to unlock the full potential of agriculture to meet the growing global aviation industry SAF demand. *********************************************************************************** House Bill Targets California’s Electric Vehicle Mandate The U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill prohibiting California’s attempt to eliminate all gas-powered vehicles. The bill passed the House 222-190. It would keep states from limiting the sale of gas-powered cars and revoke any federal approvals allowing states to do so issued since the beginning of 2022. The vote was along party lines, but eight Democrats did vote with Republicans in favor of the legislation. The legislation doesn’t specifically mention California in its language. States can implement tighter clean car rules stricter than those from the federal government under the Clean Air Act. But those states have to get permission from the Environmental Protection Agency first. The Hill says the EPA reinstated a waiver allowing a California rule aimed at limiting vehicle pollution to take effect. Since then, the state intends to completely phase out the new sales of gas-powered cars. The bill isn’t expected to become law. *********************************************************************************** U.S. HRW Exports Hit Record Low Levels U.S. Hard Red Winter Wheat exports are forecast down 10 million bushels this month to 155 million bushels, the lowest since records began in 1973-1974. HRW supplies have seen a long-term downturn in U.S. acreage as corn and soybeans gained acres in many locations. International wheat competition has also surged, resulting in exports of this class being less competitive on the global market. U.S. HRW supplies have recently been affected by significant drought in consecutive years, which has dented crop prospects and contributed to exports of this class being uncompetitive with other suppliers like Russia and the European Union. Historically, HRW was the leading class of American exports, but this year it’s forecast to be the third-largest class of U.S. exports, surpassed by both Hard Red Spring and White Wheat. Production of HRS and White is down year-over-year with lower yields, but drought hasn’t hit those classes as hard as HRW. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Announces Grant Opportunity for New Livestock Vaccines Iowa Secretary of Ag Mike Naig (NAYG) announced the new Livestock Protection Innovation Grant Program. The program will provide grant funding to assist Iowa-based companies in the development of safe and effective vaccines that may help protect livestock from foreign animal diseases. “Protecting Iowa’s nation-leading livestock industry from devastating foreign animal diseases is enormously important to the farm families and local communities that benefit from its 13-billion-dollar impact,” Naig says. “Vaccine development is one of the many steps we are taking to help safeguard our farm animals because it’s important to have tools available to effectively respond to disease and protect our food supply.” The Iowa Legislature, with support from Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, appropriated $250,000 for livestock vaccine development within Iowa during the last legislative session. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is working in collaboration with many stakeholders and officials to swiftly respond to any threat. *********************************************************************************** Purdue Survey Shows Consumer Attitudes on Higher Pork Prices A new Purdue University survey indicates that consumers appear to be more willing to live with higher pork prices if they are the result of meeting animal welfare standards like California’s Prop 12. In the nationwide survey, consumers said they would scale back their purchases if pork prices went higher. But fewer of them would cut back on buying pork if Prop 12 was the reason for the increase. A small segment of survey respondents said they would buy even more pork in that case. “We saw responses that suggest animal welfare is more important to consumers than previously thought,” says Elijah Bryant, a research analyst at Purdue. “Even though the hypothetical price increase is the same size, fewer consumers would decrease their spending on pork knowing the price increase was caused by animal welfare regulations.” The Purdue survey results will get tested on January 1 when Prop 12 is fully implemented.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 18, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Harvest Picks up, Will Washington Lie Down OMAHA (DTN)-- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of September 17. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Harvest reports roll in: You'll find continued harvest reports from the field in our View from the Cab feature as well as coming stories from select combine cabs. 2. Washington's failure to launch: DTN's Chris Clayton will be in D.C. next week covering potential Farm Bill conversations as well as watching for the potential shutdown of government operations at the end of the month. Watch for news stories as well as sharp commentary in his Ag Policy blog. 3. Cattle on Feed Friday: The latest USDA Cattle on Feed Report hits at 2 p.m. CDT Friday, with analysis by DTN's ShayLe Stewart soon after. 4. Harvest Weather Questions: Early harvest conditions continue to be mostly favorable, but more rain would be welcome for immature crops and winter wheat establishment. A system moves into the Plains in the middle of next week, bringing a chance of showers to at least the western half of the region later this week. Central and southern plains areas have the best chance for heavier rains. Rain chances increase for the northern Plains by the weekend, while the South stays dry. 5. Reports Fill the Week: USDA's weekly grain export inspections hit the wires at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by USDA's Livestock, Poultry and Dairy Outlook at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. We'll have analysis of Crop Progress Report following the data release. Tuesday we'll see U.S. housing starts for August at 7:30 a.m., while the Fed begins its next two-day meeting. Wednesday the Energy Department releases its weekly energy inventories report at 9:30 a.m., while the Fed is expected to raise the federal funds rate by a quarter-percent at 1 p.m. Thursday we'll see USDA's weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales and leading indicators are set for 8 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Friday, as noted above, features the Cattle on Feed report.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 18, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts, watch for harvest anecdotes and any news from the Black Sea region. USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's Livestock, Poultry and Dairy Outlook at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A front will bring some rain, which may be intense, along the East Coast on Monday. High pressure over the middle of the country will keep most other areas dry. That shifts east tonight with showers being possible in isolated clusters overnight into Tuesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 15, 2023 |

State Ag Departments Set Policy Priorities The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture set policy priorities for the upcoming year during its annual meeting. NASDA will advocate to give the USDA more authority to be flexible in serving farmers and ranchers who often face challenges in seeking disaster assistance. NASDA members also want existing gaps in insurance coverage and federal disaster relief programs closed to protect farmers from an increasing number of natural disasters. Members will also advocate for standards that ensure clear and consistent labeling for cell-based meat products, also referred to as cultured meat. During the meeting, NASDA also adopted a new policy of supporting laws that protect farmers’ right to farm. The new policy advocates for protecting agricultural and forestry operations from nuisance lawsuits. NASDA members also amended the organization’s policy to support increased investment in apprenticeships and educational programming because of a tremendous need for workers with training specializing in agricultural fields. *********************************************************************************** NASDA Elects News Leadership at Annual Meeting The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture finished its annual meeting by electing new leadership for 2023-2024. Blayne Arthur, Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture, will serve as NASDA’s 2023-2024 President and host the 2024 NASDA Annual Meeting on September 22-25, 2024. “The opportunity to serve as NASDA President is incredibly humbling and certainly an honor, and I appreciate the support of my fellow Ag Commissioners in this new role,” Arthur says. “Agriculture looks different all across the U.S., but I look forward to working together to cultivate common ground as we help producers feed, fuel, and clothe the world.” She also says NASDA members will remain steadfast in their commitment to strengthen and promote agriculture in this country and she’s excited to continue this work. Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward is the new Vice President, Amanda Beal of Maine is Second VP, and Washington’s Derek Sandison is the Secretary-Treasurer. *********************************************************************************** September is National Chicken Month September is National Chicken Month, celebrating the most-consumed meat in the U.S. Two-thirds of all chickens in America are raised in Alabama, Georgia, Arkansas, North Carolina, Mississippi, and Texas. Chicken is also one of the top agricultural exports for the U.S. Foreign markets are increasingly important, accounting for $4.4 billion and 16 percent of world production in 2022. The U.S. is the second-largest exporter in the world as more than 145 countries imported U.S. frozen chicken leg quarters, legs, and thighs last year. While American consumers prefer chicken breast meat, dark meat is more widely desired and consumed internationally. Most U.S. chicken meat exports are often destined for low and middle-income countries that value safe, affordable, and tasty high-protein options. In 2022, almost all of the U.S. broiler meat exports went to developing economies. Fourteen percent of shipments were exported to some of the least developed countries in the world. *********************************************************************************** EPA Resolves Long-Standing ESA Litigation The U.S. Justice Department, on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency, resolved long-standing litigation covering over 1,000 pesticide products. The resolution allows EPA to fulfill its obligations to protect endangered species while conducting reviews and approvals of pesticides in a safe and protective manner. In 2011, a lawsuit was filed against EPA alleging it violated the Endangered Species Act when it registered or reevaluated the registration of 382 pesticide active ingredients. A settlement entered in a federal court resolves all outstanding claims. “The agreement is a win-win to protect endangered species, ensure the availability of pesticides needed to grow food across America, and save considerable time and taxpayer expenses further required to litigate this case,” says Michael Freedhoff of the EPA. “This settlement allows EPA time to fulfill its obligations under the ESA and adopt key elements from the Agency’s 2022 ESA work plan, which has a wide range of stakeholders’ support.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests $6.5 Million in Risk Management Education The USDA is awarding approximately $6.5 million to 22 organizations to educate underserved, small-scale, and organic producers on-farm risk management and climate-smart farm practices. The funding from the Risk Management Agency provides assistance through its Risk Management Education partnerships for organizations like non-profits and land grant universities. “This funding and these partnerships are integral to our outreach efforts in communities that historically have not had access to training about risk management options,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “As a farmer, I know first-hand that agriculture is a risky business.” She also says because of that risk, the agency is determined to work with growers and livestock producers to provide them with training and resources about risk management options and how to apply them to their farming businesses. RMA first advertised the available funds in January, and this year’s recipients include nonprofits, historically black colleges, and university extensions, among others. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Show High Interest in Harvest Autonomy Farmers in the U.S. and Canada appear to be embracing autonomous technology to optimize their operations and boost productivity. A survey conducted by Forward Group revealed that 65 percent of the operators surveyed expressed enthusiasm for adopting autonomy solutions, while 29 percent showed high levels of enthusiasm. The survey findings emphasize the positive impact of autonomous solutions on farming efficiency, profitability, and sustainability. Sixty-seven percent of the farmers intend to adopt autonomy technology by 2027, with 47 percent planning integration into their operations by 2025, provided the technology proves effective for the tasks. The survey also shows that 59 percent of farmers believe the autonomy will bring significant value to their carting operations. A substantial 51 percent of respondents expressed trust in autonomy technology for their harvesting. The driving factors behind the growing interest include 42 percent of the farmers interested in the technology wanting the autonomy to increase their productivity.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 15, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. industrial production in August is out at 8:15 a.m., followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index at 9 a.m. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will report on members' soybean crush for August later Friday morning. Weather A weak frontal boundary is moving through the Western Corn Belt on Friday with mostly light showers. Heavier showers and thunderstorms are forecast for parts of Texas. Some showers will also develop in the Southeast, otherwise the country will be dry.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 14, 2023 |

Consumer Price Index: Food Prices Rise Again The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.6 percent in August on a seasonally adjusted basis, after increasing 0.2 percent in July. Over the last 12 months, the all-items index increased 3.7 percent before seasonal adjustment. The index for gasoline was the largest contributor to the monthly all-items increase, accounting for over half of the increase. The food index increased 0.2 percent in August, as it did in July. The index for food at home increased 0.2 percent over the month, while the index for food away from home rose 0.3 percent in August. The six major grocery store food group indexes were split over the month, with three increases and three decreases. The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs rose 0.8 percent in August as the index for pork increased 2.2 percent. The index for other food at home increased 0.2 percent over the month, and the index for cereals and bakery products rose 0.5 percent. *********************************************************************************** Voters Want Congressional Support for Low-Carbon Ethanol A new survey from Morning Consult found continued strong voter support for policies promoting the use of lower-cost, lower-carbon American-made ethanol. Registered voters also indicated robust support for specific legislation allowing the year-round sale of E15 and policy promoting the production of more flex-fuel vehicles capable of using the lower-cost E85 fuel blend. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "This nationwide poll of more than 2,000 voters shows strong support for important legislative proposals that are currently pending in the House and Senate." Among the results, 62 percent of those surveyed had a favorable opinion of ethanol, while only 17 percent had an unfavorable opinion. Further, 67 percent also support the United States increasing the availability of the E15 blend, and only 14 percent opposed the expansion of E15. Of those surveyed, 63 percent support the Flex Fuel Fairness Act, 61 percent support the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, and 61 percent support the Next Generation Fuels Act. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Releases Used Cooking Oil Outlook for Biodiesel Clean Fuels Alliance America Wednesday released a new report assessing potential global supplies of used cooking oil. Specifically, the report looks at used cooking oil to meet the growing demand for biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel through 2030. In 2022, global used cooling oil trade reached 3.7 billion gallons. With anticipated demand and added value from biodiesel and renewable diesel production, the supply could grow to between five billion and ten billion gallons by 2030. With additional global used cooking oil collection, the potential supply could increase by an additional four billion to seven billion gallons. The report indicates that the United States has the most well-developed used cooking oil collection system, due to long-standing practices for its use and disposal. In 2022, the U.S. supply reached 850 million gallons. Increasing biodiesel and renewable diesel production incentivizes domestic use of that supply – curbing recent export trends. Global used cooking oil trade reached 1.3 billion gallons in 2022. *********************************************************************************** AEM: Overall Tractor Sales Lower Heavy-duty row crop tractor unit sales continued to increase in the U.S., while overall farm tractor unit sales in the U.S. and Canada declined in August. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers reports 100-plus horsepower, two-wheel-drive tractors, and four-wheel-drive tractors, were the only segments to grow year over year. Both those segments, along with self-propelled combines, remain positive for the year. The biggest overall growth among tractors happened in four-wheel-drive units, growing more than 20 percent in August. AEM's Curt Blades says, "North American row-crop farmers continue to add and adopt new technology to their equipment fleets to help reduce costs and improve yields." Overall unit sales of U.S. tractors are down 4.6 percent compared to sales in August 2022, while combine sales declined slightly by 2.4 percent. Canadian tractor sales improved their pace versus the previous month, falling just over six percent, with combines declining more than 17 percent. *********************************************************************************** APHIS Finalizes Changes to Import Regulations for Horses USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wednesday announced the finalized amendments to its import regulations for horses. The amendments will better align regulations with international standards and allow more flexibility for permitted imports while continuing to mitigate the risk of bringing equine diseases into the United States. The regulations also provide APHIS with more regulatory authority to enforce standards for transporting horses. The changes include increasing the amount of time allowed for horses to be in a contagious equine metritis-affected region without testing upon their return to the United States from 60 to 90 days. The amendments also update ports designated for the importation of horses, adding requirements for health certifications and requiring that horses transiting Central America or the West Indies comply with the same regulations that apply to horses directly imported from these regions, given the greater risk of equine diseases of concern from these areas. The final rule goes into effect on October 16, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Few US Adults Rate Their Diet Good or Excellent New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service show Americans don’t have high ratings for their diets. In the period covering January 2017 to March 2020, just under three in ten adults, or 29 percent, reported the healthfulness of their diets was very good or excellent.” That is 3.5 percentage points lower than the corresponding share reported in 2005–06. The data can be found in the latest publicly available wave of the Flexible Consumer Behavior Survey, which collects information on U.S. consumers’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about nutrition and food choices. For context, 41 percent of adults surveyed in the 1989–1991 Continuing Survey of Food Intakes of Individuals rated the healthfulness of their diets as “very good” or excellent, suggesting a continuing downward trend in the health quality individuals ascribe to their diets. FCBS is a module of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, and its data reflect national trends about changing dietary behaviors of U.S. consumers.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 14, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the producer price index for August, U.S. retail sales and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Weather A new front and an old one will make for showers in the Plains on Thursday, with any pockets of moderate to heavy rain likely to stay confined in parts of Texas. Mild temperatures continue to be the case for most areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 13, 2023 |

USDA Releases September WASDE Report USDA released the September World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report Tuesday. This month’s corn outlook calls for slightly larger supplies and ending stocks. Projected beginning stocks for 2023/24 are five million bushels lower, and corn production is forecast at 15.1 billion bushels, up 23 million from last month. The national average yield is forecast at 173.8 bushels per acre, down 1.3 bushels. Ending stocks are up 19 million bushels to 2.2 billion. The season-average corn price is unchanged at $4.90 per bushel. Soybean supply and use changes for 2023/24 include lower beginning stocks, production, crush, exports, and ending stocks. The soybean yield of 50.1 bushels per acre is down 0.8 bushels from last month. Ending stocks are projected at 220 million bushels, down 25 million from last month. The season-average soybean price is forecast at $12.90 per bushel, up $0.20 from last month. The wheat outlook for supply and use is unchanged this month. The projected 2023/24 season-average farm price is also unchanged at $7.50 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** Crop Production Report Shows Higher Corn Production Corn production is up, while soybean and cotton production is down from 2022, according to USDA’s Crop Production report issued Tuesday. Corn production is up ten percent from last year, forecast at 15.1 billion bushels. Soybean growers are expected to decrease their production three percent from 2022, forecast at 4.15 billion bushels. Finally, cotton production is down nine percent from 2022 at 13.1 million 480-pound bales. Planted and harvested acreage estimates for corn, cotton, and soybeans were reviewed based on all available data, including the latest certified acreage data from the Farm Service Agency. As a result, area planted to corn is estimated at 94.9 million acres, up one percent from the previous estimate, area planted to soybeans is estimated at 83.6 million acres, up slightly, and area planted to cotton is estimated at 10.2 million acres, down eight percent from the previous estimate. USDA surveyed more than 7,000 producers across the country and conducted objective yield surveys for the report. *********************************************************************************** Basil Gooden Nominated as USDA Rural Development Undersecretary President Joe Biden this week nominated Dr. Basil Gooden to serve as USDA Undersecretary for Rural Development. If confirmed by the Senate, Gooden would fill the undersecretary position left vacant by Xochitl Torres Small, who was confirmed in July 2023 as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack responded, “Dr. Basil Gooden is a widely-respected, accomplished champion for affordable housing, community advancement, and economic development.” One of USDA’s seven mission areas, Rural Development helps to expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. Gooden recently served as a Visiting Scholar in the Sustainable Food Access Core of the Institute for Inclusion, Inquiry and Innovation at Virginia Commonwealth University. From 2016-2018, he served as the 3rd Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Before that, Gooden served as the Virginia State Director for Rural Development at USDA. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Awards to Support One Health Initiatives USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is awarding 36 research awards totaling more than $56 million to support One Health surveillance and coordination. One Health is a collaborative, multisectoral, and transdisciplinary approach – working at the local, regional, national, and global levels – to achieve optimal health outcomes. It recognizes the interconnection between animals, people, plants and their shared environment. The announcement includes eight Agriculture and Food Research Initiative projects from USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, one National Science Foundation Ecology and Evolution of Infectious Diseases program project, and 27 projects identified through the USDA APHIS SARS-CoV-2 in animals funding opportunities. The awards will help APHIS accomplish its goal of building an early warning system to potentially prevent or limit the next zoonotic disease outbreak. APHIS Acting Administrator Dr. Michael Watson says, "This important work will strengthen our foundation to protect humans and animals for years to come." *********************************************************************************** FFAR Renews ESMC Partnership to Grow Market Program The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research Tuesday announced the renewal of its partnership with Ecosystem Services Market Consortium, or ESMC. The foundation awarded $10.3 million in 2019 to ESMC to support its research arm, matched by ESMC for a total of $20.6 million. That research resulted in Eco-Harvest, launched in May 2022. Eco-Harvest is an ecosystem services market program that financially rewards participating producers for using regenerative agriculture practices that generate beneficial environmental outcomes. Eco-Harvest program regions include the corn and soy belt, Northern Great Plains, Southern Great Plains, Southeast and Great Lakes regions for corn, soy, wheat, oats and alfalfa cropping systems. FFAR announced an investment of $5.15 million for additional research, and ESMC is matching the award for a total $10.3 million. ESRC will conduct the research, development, demonstration and deployment activities that facilitate Eco-Harvest participating in all major U.S. agricultural regions. FFAR’s Dr. LaKisha Odom says, “These practices are critical in protecting farmers’ livelihoods and the environment, while increasing productivity.” *********************************************************************************** CHS Intends to Return $730 Million to Owners CHS Inc., the nation's leading agribusiness cooperative, has announced it intends to return $730 million in cash patronage and equity redemptions to its owners in calendar year 2024. The CHS Board of Directors determines the total amount of cash to be returned to CHS owners at the close of each fiscal year. Based on business done with CHS in fiscal year 2023, which ended on August 31, 2023, the CHS Board has elected to return $365 million in cash patronage and $365 million through equity redemptions to CHS owners. CHS owners are member cooperatives and farmer-owners in hundreds of communities across rural America. The cash returns earmarked for distribution in 2024 will combine with the previous year's cash returns for more than $1.7 billion shared with owners over two years and more than $3.2 billion returned to owners over the past ten years. Final financial results for fiscal year 2023 are expected to be announced in November 2023.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 13, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for August will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. The U.S. Treasury reports on the federal budget for August at 1 p.m. Weather A front continues to work across the far south and east on Wednesday, with mostly quiet conditions throughout the Corn Belt. A few isolated showers remain possible in the Great Lakes. Temperatures remain mild for most areas, even in Texas as the front moves through.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 12, 2023 |

Ag Labor Expenses Forecast to Increase in 2023 Total cash labor expenses for the U.S. agriculture sector are forecast to be $43.35 billion for 2023, based on new data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. This would be an increase of $0.78 billion, or 1.8 percent, over the 2022 level of $42.57 billion in inflation-adjusted 2023 dollars. The projected 2023 level would remain below the high set in 2017. Labor expenses are an important component of agricultural production costs. For every $100 spent on production expenses, almost $10 goes toward labor. Total labor expenses include contract and hired labor payments but exclude non-cash employee compensation. Generally, the animal production sector uses less hired and contract labor than the crop sector. In 2021, the animal production sector accounted for about one-third of total hired and contract labor expenses, with the remaining roughly two-thirds incurred by the crop production sector. This is because some large specialty crops are more labor-intensive than most industries in the animal sector. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Applauds Natural Disaster Assistance for Dairy Farmers New funding announced Monday from the Department of Agriculture will help dairy producers affected by natural disasters. The Milk Loss Program administered by the Farm Service Agency will compensate eligible dairy farms and processors for milk dumped due to qualifying disaster events from 2020 to 2022. Eligible disasters include droughts, wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, winter storms and smoke exposure. The Milk Loss Program will help farmers and, in certain cases, cooperatives, recover losses previously overlooked by disaster assistance. The National Milk Producers Federation applauded the announcement. NMPF president and CEO Jim Mulhern says, “We’re very appreciative of USDA’s diligent work over several months to finalize the compensation plan that will address this backlog of disaster assistance.” Dairy farmers and cooperatives can sign up for the program through October 16, 2023. In other FSA dairy safety-net support, Dairy Margin Coverage program payments have triggered every month, January through July, for producers who obtained coverage for the 2023 program year. *********************************************************************************** TFI Welcomes STB’s Proposed Rule on Reciprocal Switching The Fertilizer Institute praised the Surface Transportation Board’s recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on providing rail customers access to reciprocal switching as a remedy for poor rail service. STB Chairman Martin Oberman stated in the announcement, “In the past several years, and particularly since 2021, it has become clear that many rail customers nationwide have suffered from inadequate and deteriorating rail service.” The proposal from the STB would provide a streamlined path for rail customers to obtain a reciprocal switching order by including specific, objective, and measurable criteria for determining eligibility. That criterion includes measures of service reliability, service consistency, and adequacy of local service. The proposal would also standardize these three service metrics across all Class 1 carriers for the first time. President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, “More than 60 percent of fertilizer moves by rail and is therefore critical to the on-time delivery of fertilizer to farmers exactly where and when they need it.” *********************************************************************************** AEM: Market Challenges Lie Ahead, But Optimism is Warranted As equipment manufacturers look ahead to the remainder of 2023 and beyond, the landscape continues to present challenges for the industry and the ag and construction customers it serves. AEM members report demand for products across both industries has softened. However, particularly in construction, investments in infrastructure, energy and utilities, point to better days ahead. And a wealth of data suggests optimism – both in the short term and long term. AEM Director of Agriculture Austin Gellings says, “Essentially, everything hinges on where a farmer is going to be able to improve their efficiency the most and in turn see the greatest return on investment.” With input costs continuing to rise, the best ways for a farmer to respond and continue to reap the rewards of strong commodity prices is to operate on those margins and find wins where they can. As farmers are looking for ways to minimize inputs while still increasing yields, technology and data provides the answer. *********************************************************************************** NASDA Foundation welcomes Next Generation class of 2023 The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation welcomes NASDA's Next Generation class of 2023, featuring 13 students from ten states. The NASDA Next Generation class of 2023 will network with commissioners, secretaries and directors of agriculture, industry leaders, and stakeholders at the NASDA Annual Meeting. The program aims to advance future leaders' understanding of agriculture policy and the role of state departments of agriculture in ensuring a healthy and thriving food system for all. Through the NASDA Next Generation programming, students learn about pressing food and agricultural policy issues, NASDA's mission, and careers in public service. During the meeting events, students can also explore Wyoming's community-based agriculture. NASDA CEO Ted McKinney says, “This cohort of students represents the wide variety of experience and dedication to agricultural excellence that will enable the industry to thrive and impact the entire food system moving forward.” You can find the list of students on the NASDA website. *********************************************************************************** GasBuddy: Weekly Fuel Prices Rise Again After falling for two straight weeks, the nation's average price of gasoline increased, rising 1.6 cents from a week ago to $3.79 per gallon. The national average is down 3.0 cents from a month ago but 11.4 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 0.9 cents last week to 4.42 per gallon, 58.6 cents lower than one year ago. The West Coast and the Corn Belt saw the brunt of last week's increases. More than ten states saw prices rise by more than ten cents per gallon compared to last week, while some, like Iowa and Minnesota, have seen average prices spike by over 30 cents per gallon. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "We should see more price decreases for most of the nation in the weeks ahead, barring further refinery disruptions and hurricane season." U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a hefty 3.9 percent decrease last week, as post-Labor Day travel appeared to drop significantly.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 12, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets USDA's Crop Production and WASDE reports are due out at 11 a.m. CDT Tuesday with prompt coverage on DTN and a post-report webinar at 12:30 p.m. The U.S. Energy Department will also release its Short-Term Energy Outlook Tuesday morning. DTN will also have a presentation of weather and markets at Husker Harvest at 2 p.m., at the DTN building, Lot 802. Weather A front continues to trek southeast through the country Tuesday, producing areas of showers from the Southern Plains to the Northeast. Temperatures behind the front continue to be mild.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 11, 2023 |

World Food Prices Lower in August The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization’s Food Price Index averaged 121.4 points in August, a 2.6-point drop from July, reversing the rebound registered that month. The August drop pushed the index 38 points lower than its peak reached in March 2022. The overall drop was driven by declines in the index for dairy products, vegetable oils, meat, and cereals, while the sugar price index rose modestly. The Dairy Price Index averaged 111.3 points in August and took the biggest drop, down 4.6 points from July, the eighth-straight monthly decline. The Vegetable Oil Index averaged 125.8 points, 4.6 points below July. The Meat Price Index averaged 111.3 points in August, down 4.6 points from July, the eighth-consecutive monthly drop. The Sugar Price Index averaged 148.2 points in August, up 1.9 points from July and as much as 37.7 points, or 34 percent, from its level in the same month last year. *********************************************************************************** July Pork Exports Stay Above 2022 Levels Building on a robust first half of 2023, July pork exports continue to outpace 2022 levels. USDA data showed July pork exports at 219,000 metric tons, up five percent from last year, while export value rose one percent to $628.7 million. Exports to the top market, Mexico, continued at a record pace. “Market diversification has been the top priority for the U.S. pork industry, and those efforts certainly reflect these results,” says Dan Halstrom, President and CEO of the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Through the first seven months of this year, exports were 13 percent higher than last year’s pace at 1.69 million metric tons. Beef exports stepped back in July, posting the lowest volume since January. July beef exports totaled 103,167 metric tons, 18 percent below last year. Beef export value was down 19 percent to $810.4 million, the lowest since February. Exports posted gains in Mexico, Taiwan, and Canada. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Wants Aviation Biofuel Tax Decisions Tied to Emissions Model Asserting that U.S. tax policy should be tied to the best standards the government has, 17 of the nation’s top corn grower leaders sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. It encourages her to adopt an emissions model developed by the Energy Department as her agency works with the IRS to determine which biofuels lower greenhouse gas emissions enough to qualify for sustainable aviation fuel tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. The letter comes as corn ethanol has been used for years in cars and trucks while saving consumers money on fuel. Ethanol is being considered for use in the aviation arena, where experts say the biofuel would do for airplanes what it has done for autos. Corn grower leaders point out that the tax credit from the IRA will be crucial to ensuring ethanol is quickly made available in the aviation sector. A decision will get made this month. *********************************************************************************** U.S. and India Resolve Outstanding WTO Poultry Dispute U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai says the U.S. and India resolved their last outstanding dispute at the World Trade Organization. As a part of the agreement, India also agreed to reduce tariffs on U.S. products like frozen turkey, frozen duck, and fresh and frozen blueberries and cranberries. Tai says the tariff cuts will expand economic opportunities for American agricultural producers in a critical market and help bring more U.S. products to consumers in India. “Resolving this last outstanding WTO dispute represents an important milestone in the U.S.-India trade relationship while reducing tariffs on certain American products enhances crucial market access for American farmers,” says Tai. In June, the U.S. and India agreed to terminate six outstanding disputes at the World Trade Organization. India agreed to reduce tariffs on certain U.S. products like lentils, almonds, walnuts, apples, and others. “This agreement resolves a long-standing dispute and deepens the relationship,” Tai adds. *********************************************************************************** August Rainfall Provides Inflow to the Missouri River System Rainfall in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was above normal during August, resulting in above-average runoff. However, because of drier-than-normal conditions in previous years, total storage in the Missouri River reservoir system remains lower than normal. Based on September 1 system storage, releases from the Gavins Point Dam will be 13,000 cubic feet per second, slightly above the minimum rate. “August rainfall provided some inflow into the Upper Missouri River Basin Reservoir System,” says John Remus, chief of the Army Corps’ Missouri River Basin Water Management System. “Some areas received up to 400 percent of normal rainfall.” August runoff was 1.7 million acre-feet, 121 percent above average in Sioux City. The updated 2023 forecast for the upper basin is 29.1-million-acre feet, 113 percent of average. The annual average runoff for the upper basin is 25.7-million-acre fee. The total volume in the System was 55.5 MAF on September 1. *********************************************************************************** New Checkoff Website for the Sheep Industry America’s Lamb producers can now turn to LambBoard.com for resources on checkoff production, promotion, and other programs. The new American Lamb Board site officially launched on September 7. “This is a totally new site for America’s Lamb industry,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair. “That includes commercial and seedstock producers, feeders, direct marketers, sale managers, auction markets, and processors.” He also says it’s home to everything about the American Lamb Board and the checkoff program. A wealth of information is available on the site, including the best practices for sheep productivity and efficiency, lamb quality, and recipes. There are also premium items for local promotions in the ALB store, free downloadable handouts, and details on ALB’s cooperative funding program. Producers can find the latest news and results of the American Lamb Checkoff’s activities and an online assessment payment tool. Producers selling directly to consumers can check out toolkits on marketing to ethnic markets.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 11, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. DTN will be watching for any new sales of corn or soybeans, private production estimates, and any weather issues around the globe, especially in Argentina, Brazil and Australia. The September WASDE will be out on Tuesday morning. Weather A front continues to sag through the Corn Belt on Monday. It brought scattered showers to many areas over the weekend and continues its pursuit to the Southeast with more showers. Heavier precipitation will likely remain relegated to the Plains, though some bursts through the Midwest will also be possible.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 8, 2023 |

Federal Reserve Releases August Beige Book The Federal Reserve released its August Beige Book update, a summary of commentary on current economic conditions from the Fed. The report includes several observations on the U.S. agricultural economy. Drought was affecting several of the Fed’s districts across the country. In the Tenth District, the Kansas City Fed says the farm economy was strong, but conditions softened alongside lower commodity prices and persistent drought. In the Eleventh District in Dallas, a significant portion of the district entered or re-entered drought during the past six weeks. In the Minneapolis Fed’s Ninth District, prices were retreating to levels that could be below break-even for some producers because of high input costs. In the Eighth District of St. Louis, the percentage of cotton and rice rated fair or better stayed stable despite record-breaking heat and heat-dome-induced thunderstorms. In the Twelfth District of San Francisco, conditions in the agriculture and resource-related sectors remained largely unchanged. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Reorganizes Leadership The National Milk Producers Federation announced staff reorganization as it transitions to new leadership. Incoming President and CEO Gregg Doud began working with the organization as the organization’s Chief Operating Officer, a position he will hold until the current President and CEO Jim Mulhern retires in January. “I am excited to announce these changes, which will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our structure,” Mulhern says. “They also recognize the contributions of the affected individuals to our overall success.” He also says these changes also position the organization well for even greater success in the future. NMPF named three new Executive Vice Presidents as part of the reorganization, recognizing responsibilities that are expanding across NMPF teams. Paul Bleiberg is the Executive Vice President of Government Relations, Shawna Morris is the Executive VP of Trade Policy and Global Affairs, and Alan Bjerga is the Executive VP of Communications and Industry Relations. *********************************************************************************** CAB Launches New Direct-to-Consumer Program Certified Angus Beef launched a brand-new Ranch to Table Program. That means Angus farmers and ranchers now have the option to market their beef directly to consumers as a CAB product. Ranch to Table is a direct partnership program between CAB and cattle operations using Angus genetics that allows ranchers to use the brand’s trusted reputation for increased gain. “This is another way for Angus ranchers to continue taking pride in and having equity in the brand by being able to hang brand standards on those cattle that ultimately qualify,” says Kara Lee, director of producer engagement for CAB. To participate in the program, a producer’s cattle must incorporate registered Angus genetics, which may require American Angus Association active membership or proof of bull registrations. Producers must also be Beef Quality Assurance certified. As with any CAB product, the cattle must meet the brand’s live-animal evaluation with a predominantly solid-black hide. *********************************************************************************** Another Challenge to GMOs The Center for Food Safety filed a legal appeal against the USDA in response to its genetically engineered labeling rules. The organization says those rules do not mandate clear on-package food labeling and allow unlabeled hidden GMOs to proliferate in the U.S. food marketplace. The CFS was victorious in a 2022 district court ruling in its original USDA lawsuit, which found it unlawful to use inaccessible digital QR codes on food products instead of clear and accessible labeling. Despite the decision, the court refused to vacate USDA’s decision allowing this practice. “USDA is hiding the presence of the majority of GMO food ingredients from American consumers with its exemption for highly-refined foods despite a law passed by Congress,” says Meredith Stevenson, CFS attorney. “The Court rubber-stamped USDA’s decision to exclude highly refined foods like sodas and oils from labeling and use unfamiliar terminology, keeping consumers in the dark about their food.” *********************************************************************************** The First Autonomous Tractor Arrived at the University of Missouri It took more than a year, but University of Missouri researchers welcomed the arrival of one of the nation’s first-of-its-kind electric, autonomous tractors. It’s known as the Monarch MK-V tractor. Researchers called it a “revolutionary piece of technology” that will get studied for its ability to refine agricultural practices and support farmers with disabilities. The University received the tractor as part of a grant awarded by the USDA’s Equipment Grants Program. The new tractor, to be charged with a biofuel generator, will serve as a tool for teaching and research in the agriculture and engineering programs. Researchers will explore the autonomous functions of the tractor, like making use of the sensors and cameras to collect images and then store the data from those images. They also want to understand the tractor’s ability to use artificial intelligence to enhance precision agriculture. Researchers are quite excited about the next generation of technology. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Breaks Soybean Export Record with Surprise Sales The University of Illinois Farmdoc Daily says Brazil’s farmers are shipping out a lot of soybeans. Brazil’s farmers harvested almost 160 million tons of soybeans during the previous crop season. That resulted in record exports in the first seven months of 2023. Price competitiveness led to a significant increase in the volume of soybeans shipped to China. Brazil also benefited from sales to a nation that’s not on its regular customers list: Argentina, the third-largest soybean producer behind Brazil and the U.S. Argentina lost almost half its soybean crop because of drought. To meet its crushing industry contracts for soybean oil and meal, Argentina purchased Brazilian soybeans and became the second-leading destination for Brazil’s soybeans after China. Argentina is also losing its top position as soybean meal exporter this season, giving up its spot to neighboring Brazil. Brazil’s soybean exports reached 72.47 million tons during the first seven months of 2023.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 8, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. government reports are scarce on Friday with only wholesale Inventories and the consumer credit report. The weekly Export Sales report will be released at 7:30 a.m. CDT. DTN will be watching for grain and soybean export sales on Friday, and weather issues in primarily Australia and Brazil. Weather A front remains across the East and portions of the Southern Plains Friday. Some clusters of thunderstorms will be possible in both areas. Another system is moving into the Northern Plains and will develop some isolated showers. But most areas will be dry with mild temperatures.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 7, 2023 |

Monthly Monitor Forecasts a Positive Crop Outlook The University of Missouri’s Monthly Monitor surveys economists nationwide about their projections for agricultural trends. The report, compiled by the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center and Farm Journal, is forecasting a positive outlook for farm finances even as the weather has created significant challenges in North America. July’s results showed more optimism than the previous Monthly Monitor in June. Economists seem to be more positive about the crop side of the ag economy compared to livestock. Sixty-four percent of the economists surveyed were positive about crops, and 55 percent had a negative view of livestock. Despite the weather challenges, farmers are seeing continued productivity and efficiency gains that lead to strong balance sheets. Looking ahead, the economists say global competition and geopolitical risks could impact crop prices in the next six months. In livestock, economists worry about feed costs and how they could affect livestock prices and profitability. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Testifies at FMMO Hearing American Farm Bureau Federation Chief Economist Roger Cryan testified at the ongoing Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula hearing. Farm Bureau membership includes cooperatives and independent dairy farmers, most of whom are directly or indirectly affected by the pricing provisions in the FMMOs. Farm Bureau’s testimony focused on the reduction or elimination of negative producer price differentials and the de-pooling they cause. An orderly pool is the key to orderly marketing and the continued benefits of the Federal Milk Marketing Orders for farmers, cooperatives, processors, and consumers. The key to an orderly pool is the proper alignment of the four Class prices. Other proposals include supporting the National Milk Producers Federation’s suggestion to drop barrel cheese from Class 3 component and price calculations. AFBF also proposes that 640-pound blocks get added to the National Dairy Sales Report, to the cheddar cheese price calculation, and to the Class 3 protein calculation. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow, Boozman Want USDA Funds for Market Development The National Corn Growers Association applauds Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and John Boozman (R-AR) for sending a letter to the USDA on increasing market development opportunities. The Senate Ag Committee leaders want the agency to allocate funding from the Commodity Credit Corporation to support creating new and better market opportunities for farmers, as well as in-kind international food assistance. “Cultivating new foreign markets is one of our top priorities,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (HAYG). The letter says, “Farm bill trade promotion programs help address the need to build new markets. We believe that resources available under the CCC can support similar efforts to open access to markets and promote American-grown products overseas.” The CCC funds are used by government to implement specific programs established by or to carry out activities under the CCC Charter Act. NCGA has called on Congress to increase investments in these programs. *********************************************************************************** Idalia Kills at Least Five Million Chickens in Florida Almost a week after Hurricane Idalia hit Florida, the livestock body count is climbing higher, especially in poultry operations. The Messenger says estimates say as many as five million chickens died from the Category Three storm. Winds were around 125 mph when the storm hit land. The hurricane tore apart barns and fence lines and killed livestock from cattle to chickens. Chicken coops were ripped apart by high winds or high waters, and many coops were crushed by falling trees. The chickens that survived the storm were seen roaming around looking for food as their feeders were destroyed in the storm. Many others died in the heat and humidity. The storm hit farmers hard, tearing up crops and multiple livestock facilities. A spokeswoman for the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences says the actual death count of poultry could take months after all the assessments are completed. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grant Helping Promote Sustainable Aviation Fuel Gevo (JEE-voh), Incorporated, announced that it’s received a $30 million grant from USDA for its Climate-Smart Farm-to-Flight Program. The grant is from USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. The Gevo program is intended for tracking and quantifying the carbon-intensity impact of climate-smart practices while creating market incentives for low-carbon-intensity corn to help accelerate the production of sustainable aviation fuel and low-CI ethanol. “Our Farm-to-Flight Program aims to count all the carbon at the field level and reward farmers on a performance basis for delivering low-CI corn, as well as to accelerate the production of SAF to reduce dependency on fossil-based fuel,” says Dr. Paul Bloom, Chief Carbon Officer and Chief Innovation Officer for Gevo. “The program will also focus on deploying our Verity Tracking platform to farmers to help them measure, report, and verify their CI reductions.” The grant will also help count all carbon through the entire business system and reward farmers. *********************************************************************************** Governors Standing Firm on States’ Rights in the Farm Bill Groups like Competitive Markets Action and the Organization for Competitive Markets applauded the National Governors Association for urging Congress to prioritize the next farm bill. The co-chairs of the NGA’s Education, Workforce, and Community Investment Task Force sent a letter to Congressional leaders urging them to consider several key priorities for the new bill. The governors emphasized the importance of avoiding preempting state-level laws regarding agricultural production. They said, “States succeed when the federal government avoids granting a private right of action against states that maintain their own production or manufacturing standards on agricultural products.” The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act is a controversial bill currently being considered by Congress. The groups say it would upend states’ rights by nullifying more than a thousand state and local agriculture laws. Marty Irby, president of Competitive Markets Action, says they applaud the Governors Association for advocating on behalf of farmers and states’ rights.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 7, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's report on U.S. productivity is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, along with weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10:00 a.m. Weather Temperatures across most of the Corn Belt are mild, with some higher temperatures briefly in the far west the next couple of days. A front has essentially cleared the region with showers on the periphery, some of which may be stronger across the East, Southern Plains, and Nebraska later Thursday. It remains hot in and around Texas.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 6, 2023 |

Lower Beef Demand in Most Worldwide Markets Other than in the U.S., beef markets around the world are seeing softer consumer demand. A Rabobank Q3 Global Beef Quarterly Report says cattle prices are split into two groups: those in North America and Europe, and those in the rest of the world. Declining supplies and strong consumer demand in the U.S. are driving cattle prices higher, and lower domestic beef supply has also held up prices in Canada and Europe. It’s the opposite in most other regions, where increased supply and lower demand are making prices softer. Rabobank says U.S. cattle prices have increased almost 30 percent over the past 12 months, while Australian cattle prices have dropped by more than 30 percent, calling it the largest spread they’ve seen in the past decade. In a number of regions, particularly in Asia, beef purchases made in anticipation of COVID recovery haven’t been consumed yet, leaving supply chains full. *********************************************************************************** Farmer Sentiment Drops in August Producer sentiment lowered during August as the Purdue University/CME Group’s Ag Economy Barometer dipped eight points to a reading of 115. The month’s decline was driven by producers’ weaker perception of current conditions on their farms and throughout U.S. agriculture. The Current Conditions Index fell 13 points to a reading of 108. The Future Expectations Index also dropped by five points to a reading of 119 in August. Rising interest rates and concerns about high input prices continue putting downward pressure on producer sentiment. When asked about their top concerns over the next year, 34 percent of survey respondents said higher input prices and 24 percent said rising interest rates. Even though crop prices weakened during the summer, only one in five producers chose declining commodity prices as one of their top concerns. The Farm Capital Investment Index was lower this month, dropping eight points to a reading of 37. *********************************************************************************** FAPRI Releases U.S. Baseline Outlook The Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute at the University of Missouri released its annual U.S. Baseline Outlook report. It includes projections for agricultural and biofuel markets and helps in evaluating alternative scenarios for agricultural policy. “Projected prices for most crops, poultry, and dairy products all retreat in 2023 from recent peaks, and so do some production expenses,” says FAPRI Director Pat Westhoff. Among the findings, the report says if weather conditions allow crop yields to return to trend-line levels in 2023, prices for corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and many other crops are likely to fall. Higher fertilizer, fuel, and feed costs contributed to a very sharp increase in farm production costs last year, but a smaller increase is projected in 2023. Lower prices in some inputs will likely bring down production costs in 2024 and 2025. Hog, poultry, and dairy prices will fall, but beef prices will remain high. *********************************************************************************** Entries Open for 2024 Dairy Checkoff’s New Product Competition Dairy Management, Inc. is accepting applications from college students for the 2024 New Product Competition. The competition seeks innovative dairy product concepts and is open to undergraduate and graduate students in the U.S. DMI wants students to develop innovative, dairy-based products for health and wellness consumers. Successful entries must meet competition criteria, demonstrate innovation, and provide value to consumers. The competition is an opportunity for students to develop new products in line with current industry and consumer insights to uncover innovative dairy-based products for health and wellness. Consumers are emphasizing health and wellness, so they’re looking for products that provide benefits to digestion, immunity, joint health and mobility, and overall health. The judging panel will include experts from across the dairy industry. Winning teams get recognized at the American Dairy Science Association’s annual meeting in West Palm Beach, Florida, from June 16-19, 2024. The contest will award a combined $27,000. *********************************************************************************** Agriculture On Guard Against Cyber-Attacks Agriculture has seen increasing online attacks in recent years. Global AgTech says technology makes running daily operations easier and helps increase output. Different types of technology help with efficiency, yield, and profitability, and they include computers, robotics, drones, software, and vehicles. One of the biggest reasons agriculture has become an online target is due to the vital role it plays in the country’s economy. Farms are also considered easy targets. Many farmers haven’t implemented cybersecurity measures and are unaware of the vital role those measures play in the success of their operations. Industry experts recommend farmers implement security measures to protect their businesses. Among some of the recommended best practices, farmers should have a dedicated contingency plan. It’s also important to protect all login information. Make sure to put measures in place to protect against phishing attacks. It’s also very important to install antivirus software and make sure it stays updated. *********************************************************************************** World Record Soybean Yield Set in Georgia Alex Harrell of Smithville, Georgia, set the world record for soybean yield with an average of 296.7 bushels per acre. The yield was harvested on August 23 and verified by the University of Georgia Extension Service. “We knew it was going to be good, but maybe not quite this good,” says Alex Harrell. “There’s no silver bullet when it comes to high yields, but it’s important to have good products, people, and timing.” Harrell’s world record soybean yield is indicative of advancements in precision breeding, biotechnology, and increased knowledge of farm management practices. Harrell experienced favorable conditions through the growing season. Only two significant weather events with excess rain caused emergence challenges and some flooding. “I’m used to soybeans being in the average range of about 40 bushels an acre,” says Doug Collins, University of Georgia Lee County Extension Agent. “Neither Alex nor I thought the yield would be that high.”

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 6, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will report on the U.S. trade deficit for July at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest weather forecasts and news from Ukraine. Weather A front that pushed through the Western and Central Corn Belt on Tuesday will move through eastern areas on Wednesday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected with the front, some of which may be stronger. The front will not make it down through the Southern Plains, though. Temperatures behind the front are significantly cooler than the extreme heat noted ahead and south of it.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 5, 2023 |

RMA Makes Changes to Whole Farm Revenue Protection Policies The USDA announced it is improving crop insurance options for small and diversified farmers by improving the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection and Micro Farm Insurance plans. The updates are a part of the Risk Management Agency’s efforts to increase participation and access to crop insurance. “The improvements in both policies are a direct response from feedback we’ve received from producers,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “These are two of the most comprehensive risk management plans available, and they are especially important to specialty crop, organic, urban, and direct-market producers.” Changes to the Whole-Farm policy include allowing all eligible producers to qualify for 80 and 85 percent coverage levels. Producers will also be able to purchase catastrophic coverage level policies for individual crops. Micro Farm policy improvements include moving the sales closing date to a less busy time of year, especially helpful for agents to assist growers with important risk management decisions. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Drought, Heat Threaten Soybean Crop at a Critical Stage Prolonged drought and record heat are threatening soybean yields in several key growing states across the Midwest. With most of the soybean crop still in the critical pod-setting phase that depends on August moisture, persistent dry conditions are lowering yield production and raising concerns about the availability of supplies. CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange did research that found soybeans have a much tighter supply situation than corn due to the loss of planted acres. “If hot and dry conditions continue in the Midwest and yield loss for soybeans increases, the U.S. soybean supply will tighten further,” says Tanner Ehmke, lead grains and oilseeds economist for CoBank. “That will result in stronger interior cash basis and lower exports.” More pods will likely get aborted if the hot and dry conditions continue. In addition to drought and heat stress, scouts on the recent Pro Farmer Crop Tour noticed sudden death syndrome across multiple soybean fields. *********************************************************************************** What’s Ahead for the Farmland Market? Recent farmland sale prices and values have increased to levels never before seen in the agricultural land market. Paul Shadegg (SHAH-deg), senior vice president of Real Estate Operations at Farmers National, says the momentum in the farmland market began building 25 years ago. But is it sustainable moving forward? There continues to be strong interest in buying ag land across the U.S. Both individual buyers and land investors have created this competitive atmosphere in the agricultural real estate market. Shadegg and Farmers National predict that will increase moving through the second half of 2023. At the same time, properties offered to the market will likely be limited, which will help sustain current values. They also expect to see a plateau in land values based on past agriculture cycles and a new normal in land values. Land values will continue to be driven by buyer competition and available supply for sale. *********************************************************************************** Barge Freight Rates Climb on Lower Water Levels The cost of transporting harvested commodities down the Mississippi River is climbing. The rates are rapidly rising as shrinking water levels drive barge freight rates higher. The forecast calling for below-average rainfall isn’t offering any relief. Bloomberg says barge spot rates on August 29 were up 49 percent from the prior week and 42 percent from last year at $23.34 per ton. USDA data says that’s 85 percent higher than the three-year average. Last year, extremely low water levels stranded more than 2,000 barges on the Mississippi River, bringing commerce to a halt on the waterway. The Mississippi River carries more than 45 percent of all U.S. agricultural exports to ports in the South. Water levels resumed dropping in June, restricting the amount of grain allowed on each barge. In turn, that leads to a tighter supply of barges as more of them are required to transport the same amount of grain. *********************************************************************************** West Coast Port Workers Ratify Contract Dock workers at West Coast ports ratified a six-year contract that improved pay and benefits for 22,000 employees at 29 ports from California to Washington state. Members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union voted 75 percent in favor of approving the West Coast port worker agreement that runs until 2028. Reuters says longshore workers covered by the agreement are based at some of the busiest seaports in the nation, including the Port of Los Angeles/Long Beach, which is the busiest ocean trade gateway in the U.S. “The contract negotiations were protracted and challenging,” says ILWU International President Willie Adams. The union and the Pacific Maritime Association employer group reached a tentative agreement back in June, ending 13 months of talks. The agreement eased worries that more West Coast disruptions could hit the all-important retail holiday shipping season. West Coast ports lost business to others on the East and Gulf Coasts. *********************************************************************************** Drought Intensifies in the Weekly Drought Monitor The weekly Drought Monitor showed drought getting worse across areas in the Midwest, South, Southwest, and the Pacific Northwest. In the Midwest, extreme heat impacted areas like Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Illinois. Record high temps were set in cities like Chicago (98), Milwaukee (101), and Minneapolis (101). Areas in the South, including the Texas Gulf Coast, Louisiana, and Southern Mississippi, saw continued drought-related deterioration on this week’s map. Temperatures continued to push over 100 degrees during the week, breaking records. Houston reached 109, San Antonio hit 104, Austin was 107, and Dallas topped out at 109. Some areas on the map did see some improvement, including southern Texas, where heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harold provided much-needed relief to the region. Rainfall accumulation along the southern Gulf Coast and South Texas Plains regions ranged from two to six inches. In the Southeast, areas of Florida were impacted by Hurricane Idalia.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 5, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Seed Buying, Looming Harvest, South America Planting Season Get Focus OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Sept. 3. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Markets closed Monday: Reminder that commodity markets are closed for the Labor Day weekend on both sides of the U.S./Canada border. Our coverage will pick up late Monday night and DTN subscribers will see updates in our Tuesday Early Word and Before the Bell pieces. 2. Harvest looms: DTN reporters are beginning to hear of fields being opened up in the Corn Belt. Watch for news from the field as it comes in and look for the latest on propane prices and expectations as drying season begins. 3. Land values stay strong: We're continuing to watch land sales after some interesting numbers of late, we'll have additional sales information from the staff and from the pages of Progressive Farmer magazine. 4. Weather eyes shift South: While harvest weather is top of mind, the grain trade is beginning to shift its gaze below the equator as Brazil, Argentina and other South American producers begin to pull planters into the field. Expect continued updates on their weather and prospects from the DTN meteorological team. 5. Seed-buying season: Seed-buying season gets earlier and earlier. The September issue of Progressive Farmer magazine is chock-full of articles to help you think through your choices for next year's seed lineup.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 5, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, traders will pay close attention to the latest changes in weather and any news regarding Ukraine and Russia. OPEC is also expected to make an announcement regarding oil production this week. USDA's weekly grain export inspections are due out at 10 a.m. Tuesday, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A system and cold front are moving through the Northern Plains early Tuesday with scattered showers, followed by much cooler temperatures. The system will move through the central Corn Belt throughout the day, bringing scattered showers especially to northern areas, but also some isolated showers for other parts of the Corn Belt as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 1, 2023 |

USDA Funding Will Help Farmers Lower Energy Costs Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is awarding $266 million in loans and grants to agriculture producers and rural small businesses. The funds will be for making investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements that will lower energy costs, generate new income, and strengthen the resilience of their operations. “Creating opportunity for rural communities means investing in farmers, ranchers, and small businesses,” Vilsack says. “These funds will make sure our producers and business owners are not only a part of the clean energy economy but are also directly benefiting from it.” The secretary also says these once-in-a-generation investments in renewable energy, like wind and solar, and energy-efficient technologies create new markets and deliver real cost savings for our small and mid-sized agricultural operations and Main Street businesses, building and keeping wealth in rural America. The department is making the funds available through the Rural Energy for America Program. *********************************************************************************** EPA is Right to Deny Refinery Exemptions Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuels trade association, filed briefs to intervene in three cases this week to support the Environmental Protection Agency. More specifically, Growth Energy supports the agency’s decisions to deny small-refinery exemptions for refiners who are seeking to avoid complying with their blending obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, says petitioners have tried over and over again to avoid complying with the RFS because less biofuel in America’s fuel supply means more money in their pockets. “Thankfully, EPA has continued to rightly deny the exemptions, having demonstrated again and again that refiners have no good reason not to meet their blending obligations,” she says. “In this week’s filings, Growth Energy continues to seek to defend the RFS, which is the nation’s most successful climate policy to date, from any attempts to weaken it.” The filings in each case are available at growthenergy.org. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Now the World’s Biggest Corn Exporter For more than 50 years, U.S. farmers were dominant in the international corn market, far and away shipping more corn than anyone else to help feed the world’s stockpiles and manufacture food. A Bloomberg article says that’s no longer the case. In the agricultural year that ended on August 31, the U.S. gave up that top spot in corn exporting to Brazil, and it might not be coming back in the near future. In the 2023 harvest year, Brazil will dominate the world’s global corn exports at 32 percent, well ahead of the 23 percent of corn shipped by the U.S. into the export market. America has only dropped out of the top spot once, doing so in 2013 because of a severe drought. Losing the lead in corn exports may unfortunately be familiar to U.S. producers, who lost the top spot in soybean and wheat exports during the last ten years. *********************************************************************************** U.S. and Canadian Cattle Herds Drop Three Percent Downsizing in the U.S. and Canadian cattle herds continued through the first half of 2023. All cattle and calves in the U.S. and Canada combined to total 108 million head on July 1, 2023, down three percent from the 111 million head on July 1, 2022. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 43.4 million head, were down two percent from last year. All cattle and calves in the U.S. totaled 95.9 million head on July 1, 2023, down three percent from July 1, 2022. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 38.8 million head, were down two percent from a year ago. All cattle and calves in Canada as of July 1, 2023, totaled 12.2 million head, down one percent from the 12.3 million head on July 1 of last year. All cows and heifers that have calved totaled 4.62 million head, down one percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** World’s Rice Supplies Get Tighter Rice prices are climbing around the world as supplies get tighter. Key exporting countries like Thailand and Vietnam have seen rice prices climb as much as 20 percent since India banned shipments of a key rice variety in July. India is the world’s largest shipper of the grain, and the export ban is squeezing global supplies. Reuters says traders expect similar export cuts by other countries that need to ensure their domestic food security. That’s leaving importers scrambling to acquire other shipments of rice. India banned exports of broken rice last year and imposed a duty on shipments of various grades of rice. That ended price stability that ran for over ten years. India did allow traders to ship out non-basmati white rice cargoes that were stuck in ports when India imposed its export ban. India’s farmers have planted 89.2 million acres of rice, 4.3 percent higher than last year. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Hits Three-Month Low The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output dropped to a three-month low while inventories hit the lowest point since November. Ethanol production dropped to an average of 1.007 million barrels a day during the week ending on August 25. The EIA report says that’s down from 1.048 million barrels during the previous week and the lowest level since May 26. In the Midwest, by far the largest-producing region in the country, output dropped to 952,000 barrels a day from 992,000 the prior week. Rocky Mountain production fell by 2,000 barrels a day to 11,000. That was the entirety of the losses as West Coast output was unchanged at 10,000 barrels a day. East Coast and Gulf Coast production each rose by 1,000 barrels per day, coming in at 13,000 barrels a day and 22,000 barrels a day, respectively. Ethanol inventories dropped to 21.61 million barrels, the lowest since November 11.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 1, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for August are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday. Indices of world manufacturing activity will come in overnight and the U.S. index is due out at 9 a.m. NASS will report on Fats and Oils and Grain Crushings at 2 p.m. Weather As we begin meteorological fall, temperatures are increasing in the Plains and will continue to spread eastward through the weekend. A small disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico may provide some showers along the central coast, but most areas will stay dry today.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 31, 2023 |

U.S. Ag Groups React Negatively to WOTUS Changes U.S. ag groups and elected officials all expressed disappointment with the revised Waters of the U.S. rule issued this week by the Environmental Protection Agency. “The agency failed to open the process to public comment, which would have been extremely valuable,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (HAYG). American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates says, “These revisions are window dressing and leave in place much of the rule’s confusing and harmful foundations.” Corey Rosenbusch, president of The Fertilizer Institute, says they’re disappointed in the agency’s disregard for both the procedural need to invite public input for consideration and for May’s Supreme Court ruling. House Ag Committee Chair Glenn Thompson says EPA’s “sleight-of-hand” in circumventing the rulemaking process leaves the door open to agency abuse and uncertainty for U.S. agriculture. Darren Coppock (COP-uhck), president and CEO of the Ag Retailers Association, says this is a missed opportunity by the EPA. *********************************************************************************** Farm Futures Releases 2024 Planting Estimates Farmers are gearing up for the 2023 harvest season with an eye already on next year’s crop. A Farm Futures August survey finds growers are expecting to plant 93.1 million acres of corn in 2024, down one percent from this year’s total acreage. Shrinking revenue prospects amid relatively high costs will likely tighten profit margins for the 2024 crop, giving alternative crops more opportunity for acreage next spring. Soybeans are one crop that farmers expect to plant more of next year. Farmers in the survey expect a two percent increase in soybean acres next spring at a total of 85.4 million acres. Wheat acres are also expected to expand. Winter wheat acres are forecast to be five percent higher at 38.7 million acres, and spring wheat acres will rise eight percent to 52.7 million acres. If those predictions prove true, this would be the largest wheat acreage planted since 2015. *********************************************************************************** Senators Show Opposition to EATS Act In another show of opposition to the EATS Act, 30 senators sent a letter to Ag Committee leaders opposing a sweeping bill to nullify state agricultural laws called the EATS Act. The letter came a week after 172 House members signed a similar letter addressed to House Ag Committee leaders. Over 200 federal lawmakers spanning 35 states have publicly stated that neither the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act nor anything similar should be a part of the upcoming farm bill. “It’s not one state that’s trying to foist its standards on the rest of the country,” says Sara Amundson, president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. “It’s the NPPC that’s trying to force every state to accept the terms of any other state that chooses not to ensure humane safety standards for agricultural products within its borders.” Additionally, 577 veterinary professionals and 78 veterinary students signed letters opposing the EATS Act. *********************************************************************************** Grape Growers Have New Insurance Program Against Natural Hazards The USDA is expanding crop insurance options with a new grapevine insurance program. It will provide coverage for the loss of grafted vines caused by natural perils like frost or fire. The new program will also complement the grape crop insurance program that covers the fruit growing on the vine. “We strive to offer the strongest risk management resources for our nation’s agricultural producers,” says Marcia Bunger, administration of the Risk Management Agency. ‘Sometimes that’s by improving an already existing product or creating a new product like this one to fill a gap.” It’s especially critical when you realize that the loss of fruit can affect a grower for a season, but losing a grapevine is a much costlier situation in terms of the money and time needed to reestablish a productive vine. The program pays losses when the vine is dead or so badly damaged that it won’t recover within a year. *********************************************************************************** Farm Incomes Flatten in the Second Quarter The Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank’s Second Quarter ag credit conditions survey shows that after several strong years of growth, that stalled in 2023. Compared to earlier this year, farm incomes dropped slightly from April through June. Spending on capital equipment also dropped while farm household purchases increased. More than a third of ag bankers surveyed in the Ninth District said farm incomes decreased in the second quarter of this year compared to 2022. Thirty-nine percent of the lenders report that borrower liquidity had dropped in the past three months compared to last year. The Fed also says despite the falling incomes, lenders haven’t seen a boost in loan demand and the rate of loan repayment remained strong. Loan renewals and extensions also remained steady. Farmland values rose, as did cash rents. The third-quarter outlook calls for further farm income declines, though the overall financial conditions are expected to stay relatively stable. *********************************************************************************** Unified Vision Driving Beef Checkoff Success The Federation of State Beef Councils has supported an effective and coordinated state and national Checkoff partnership since 1963. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff and state beef councils, continues setting a positive course for beef. Recent program successes include Nutrition Research which serves as the foundation for all Beef Checkoff-funded initiatives. Nutrition research proves beef has a role in a healthy and sustainable diet. The National Beef Quality Audit is the foundational research providing an understanding of what quality means to the various industry sectors. The 2022 NBQA results showed that the industry is more efficiently producing a high-quality product that consumers want. One of the industry’s top focus areas across the supply chain remains food safety. Cow-calf producers, stockers, and feedyards implement Beef Quality Assurance practices on their operations to produce the highest-quality cattle and the best possible eating experience for consumers.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 31, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending in August, the index of personal consumption expenditures for July and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. Thursday. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Weather With Idalia continuing to move further offshore on Thursday morning, it will be a largely quiet day across most of the U.S. Some isolated showers will be possible across the north and near the Gulf of Mexico, but that should be it. Though still milder in the Eastern Corn Belt, temperatures are starting to rise in the Western Corn Belt, though extreme heat is still a day or two away.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 30, 2023 |

EPA and Army Amend “Waters of the United States” Rule The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers Tuesday announced a final rule amending the 2023 definition of “waters of the United States.” The final rule intends to conform with the recent Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA. With this action, the Army Corps of Engineers will resume issuing all jurisdictional determinations. The rule will take effect immediately. In response, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart says, “Today’s revised WOTUS definition is an important step toward bringing the EPA more in line with the Supreme Court's ruling." AFBF President Zippy Duvall says the EPA chose to continue government overreach and revise only a small slice of the rule that the Supreme Court rejected. Duvall adds, "We're pleased the vague and confusing 'significant nexus' test has been eliminated as the Supreme Court dictated. But EPA has ignored other clear concerns raised by the Justices, 26 states, and farmers across the country about the rule's failure to respect private property rights and the Clean Water Act." *********************************************************************************** US Cattlemen’s Association Welcomes LIP Update The U.S. Cattlemen's Association applauds recent action by the Department of Agriculture to update the 2023 Livestock Indemnity Program payment rate. Late last week, USDA announced the payment rate for beef calves over 800 pounds will increase from $1244 per head to $1618, an increase of $374. The payment will apply retroactively to all qualifying losses since January 1, 2023. No action is necessary for retroactive payments, and producers will receive an additional payment if applicable. Payments will be queued up for current losses as early as next week. FSA acknowledged that some animals might have lost weight due to extreme weather conditions, and they are working on how to handle those cases. USCA President Justin Tupper says, "A loss in today's market has a significantly higher impact on a producer's bottom line, and the updated indemnity better reflects the value of that animal," while giving thanks to FSA for the update. *********************************************************************************** Study: US Soybean Industry Has $124 Billion Impact on the Economy A new study from the National Oilseed Processors Association and the United Soybean Board highlights how the soybean industry impacts the U.S. economy. This 33-page study analyzes the soybean value chain’s impact on the U.S. economy based on data from crop years 2019/20 to 2021/22. The data shows the total economic impact from the U.S. soybean sector averaged $124 billion, including $85.7 billion from soy production and $9.8 billion from soybean processing. The U.S. soy sector accounts for approximately 0.6 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product. There are more than 500,000 individuals involved in soy farm decision-making. This includes 223,000 paid, full-time equivalent jobs and an additional 62,000 family members, beyond growers, who reside on farms and are integral to soybean farming operations. The total wage impact of the sector averaged $10 billion. USB Chair and Missouri farmer Meagan Kaiser says, “It’s reaffirming to see that the U.S. soybean industry has such a tremendous impact on U.S. farmers and the economy overall.” *********************************************************************************** Pivot Bio names Chris Abbott CEO Pivot Bio Tuesday announced Chris Abbot as its Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. As previously announced, Pivot Bio co-founder and current CEO Karsten Temme will become Chief Innovation Officer. Pivot Bio calls Abbot an industry leader and hands-on strategist who has focused his career on agriculture, water, sustainability, and technology. Pivot Bio Board Chairperson Roger Underwood says, "His commercial acumen, financial know-how, and strong relationships across the agriculture industry are exactly what the company needs at this critical juncture to further accelerate our substantial momentum." The company is also announcing another year of rapid growth, with revenue increasing over 60 percent in fiscal year 2023, surpassing $100 million for the first time. It was the fourth consecutive year of growth for revenue and acres. The company anticipates this momentum to continue in 2024. Pivot Bio also revealed plans to increase manufacturing and distribution across the country to support continued growth and expand customer service for growers. *********************************************************************************** Nearly Half of Potatoes Now go into Frozen Products New Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the majority of potatoes in the United States are now sold in processed forms such as frozen, chipped, dehydrated, or canned. With the introduction of french fries as a key side dish in quick-service restaurants, the share of potatoes that go into frozen products has risen in each decade since 1979. As a result, almost half of all potatoes going into food in the United States are now used to create frozen products—most of which are french fries. Meanwhile, the share of potatoes used as fresh table potatoes has declined decade by decade. Per capita frozen potato availability during the pandemic-influenced 2019–21 period, up eight percent from a decade earlier. According to industry data and USDA research in the early 2000s, about 90 percent of frozen french fries move through various food service venues. Quick-service restaurants alone account for about two-thirds of french fry usage. *********************************************************************************** Forest Service Announces Landscape Scale Investments USDA’s Forest Service Tuesday announced it will invest $16.2 million to restore forests across tribal, state and private lands. The funded projects mark the first time the Forest Service will make Landscape Scale Restoration program grants directly available to federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native Corporations to restore priority forest landscapes. The Forest Service selected 64 proposed projects for fiscal year 2023 to help Tribes, state agencies, local governments, and partners restore healthy, resilient, climate-adapted forests, including $3 million to restore landscapes on tribal lands. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore says, "These grants are critical for improving the nation's forests that provide a range of environmental, social, and economic benefits to the American people." The Landscape Scale Restoration program also supports the Forest Service's ten-year strategy to protect communities from catastrophic wildfires. The Forest Service reviewed project requests from federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native Corporations, and selected 11 projects for funding.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 30, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will have an update of second-quarter U.S. GDP at 7:30 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to keep close watch over weather developments and any news regarding Ukraine. Visit DTN at this week's Farm Progress show in Decatur, Illinois, lot 360 on Third Street. Weather A rather quiet day is in store for most of the country outside of the far southeast. Hurricane Idalia, a Category 4 storm, will move into northern Florida this morning, across southeast Georgia and into the Atlantic later Wednesday and Wednesday night. Heavy rainfall, storm surge, and wind damage can be expected from northern Florida through the eastern Carolinas.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 29, 2023 |

Vilsack Making Clean Energy Announcement at Farm Progress Show Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will attend the 2023 Farm Progress Show Wednesday to announce a major investment in clean energy for rural Americans. Wednesday morning, Vilsack will join Representative Nikki Budzinski, an Illinois Democrat, at a meeting of her Agriculture Advisory Council. There, Vilsack will hear firsthand from producers and officials about the state of agriculture in Illinois. Later, Secretary Vilsack will deliver remarks at the main Farm Progress stage. USDA says Vilsack will announce a significant investment to help producers and small businesses in rural communities invest in clean energy systems, improve energy efficiency, lower energy costs, and generate income. Vilsack is scheduled to make the announcement at noon central time, which will be livestreamed at farmprogress.com. Meanwhile, Vilsack announced $808 million to help rural cooperatives and utilities build and improve electric infrastructure Monday. The funding will also help provide clean drinking water and sanitary wastewater systems in rural areas. The announcement will benefit nearly 480,000 people in 36 states and two U.S. territories. *********************************************************************************** USDA Updates Livestock Disaster Payment Rate USDA’s Farm Service Agency updated the Livestock Indemnity Program payment rate recently. The update will support livestock producers in the Midwest who have lost cattle to the extreme heat and humidity experienced this summer. To help indemnify ranchers to reflect a trend towards higher cattle weights in feedlots, the 2023 Livestock Indemnity Program payment rate for beef calves over 800 pounds will increase from $1244 per head to $1618, an increase of $374. The program provides benefits to livestock owners and some contract growers for livestock deaths exceeding normal mortality from eligible adverse weather events, certain predation losses and reduced sales prices due to injury from an eligible loss. Indemnity payments are made at a rate of 75 percent of the prior year's average fair market value of the livestock. The updated payment rate is effective immediately and will be applied retroactively starting January 1, 2023, for all eligible causes of loss, including excessive heat, tornado, winter storms, and other qualifying adverse weather. *********************************************************************************** Farm Credit Farmer-Owned Cooperatives Merger Effective October 1 The merger of Farm Credit of New Mexico and American AgCredit Farm Credit cooperatives will be effective October 1, 2023. The merger will create one Farm Credit Association with enhanced marketplace stability, increased funding capacity, and better access to technology. The voting stockholders of Farm Credit of New Mexico re-voted for the proposed merger after a reconsideration process established by the Farm Credit Administration. American AgCredit CEO Curt Hudnutt says, "This merger makes us a better partner for our customers." Hudnutt will lead the merged American AgCredit, which will have more than 900 employees. The October 1, 2023, effective merger date is pending final Farm Credit Association approval. American AgCredit was chartered in 1916 as part of the nationwide Farm Credit System and is the nation's fourth-largest Farm Credit association. Farm Credit of New Mexico is the largest agricultural lender in New Mexico, a $2 billion cooperative specializing in agricultural lending and related services. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Smoothie Program Expands The results of a checkoff-initiated smoothie program pilot showed increased milk and yogurt consumption and will be offered to more schools this fall. Research shows fruit smoothies are more popular than energy drinks, flavored water, juices and soft drinks with Gen Z consumers. Dairy Management Inc. partnered with Chartwells K12, a food management company that serves more than two million meals in 4,500 schools daily, for the pilot last year. The results were encouraging enough for the company to make the smoothie program available to its entire suite of schools this year. General Mills joined the effort by providing culinary support and training, and Hubert, a food service equipment manufacturer, offered blenders and other materials at a discounted rate. Chefs from Chartwells and General Mills collaborated to produce 30 recipes that contain at least one of the daily recommended servings of dairy and fruit. A survey conducted after the pilot showed a very positive response from students, school food service staff and administrators. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Obesity Rates Grew During First Year of Pandemic Regional obesity rates grew further apart during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. From 2019 to March 2020, adult obesity rates ranged from a low of 36.7 percent in the West to the highest rate at 43.1 percent in the South, a 6.4-percentage point difference. The regional differences expanded to 7.2 percentage points during the first year of the pandemic, from a low of 37.4 percent in the Northeast to a high of 44.6 percent in the Midwest. The West had the lowest adult obesity rate before the pandemic but experienced the largest increase of any region during the first year, a 2.8-percentage point increase. The obesity rate increase in the West was nearly twice that in the South, which had the highest regional obesity rate before the pandemic. The Midwest had the second-highest rate before the pandemic, but increased nearly twice as much as the South, emerging as the region with the highest obesity rate as of March 2021. *********************************************************************************** Gas Lower, Diesel Higher, Ahead of Labor Day Weekend For the first time in over a month, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 4.0 cents from a week ago to $3.78 per gallon. The national average is up 5.8 cents from a month ago but 3.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price rose 3.3 cents in the last week to $4.33 per gallon, 70.7 cents lower than one year ago. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "The drop may be short-lived, as one of the nation's largest refineries partially shut last week after a fire at a storage tank, and as we see more tropical activity that could lead to further disruption." After rallying for seven straight weeks, oil prices have lost some of their luster, much of which can be blamed on continued weakness in China’s economy, and refinery issues in the U.S. limiting how much crude oil refineries will be able to process.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 29, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Statistics Canada will have crop estimates out at 8 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by an index of U.S. consumer confidence at 9:00 a.m. CDT. DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman discuss weather and markets in the DTN building, Lot 360 at the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois, Tuesday through Thursday. Weather A small front moving through the Midwest may produce a few showers on Tuesday and a few more may be found in the High Plains, but it should be a rather quiet day. The Southeast will be more active with a front there as the region waits for Hurricane Idalia to build over the next 24 hours prior to landfall in the Big Bend of Florida on Wednesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 28, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - New Equipment, Land Rental Rates Out This Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Aug. 27. 1. From the Show: We'll have a steady stream of news on the latest equipment, seed, chemicals and other inputs from the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois. You can also hear the latest outlooks and chat with DTN journalists and experts in our building at Lot 360 on the show grounds. DTN's Ag Meteorologist John Baranick and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will give their thoughts on the weather and markets at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. CDT Tuesday and Wednesday, and at 10 a.m. on Thursday. We'll also have experts talk about the new Farmers for Soil Health signups which can earn you up to $50 per acre for cover crops and other soil health practices. DTN is a partner in this USDA-funded project. 2. Farm rental rates: USDA released its latest farmland cash rental rates by county; look for our story that digs into the data to spot the latest land trends. 3. Cooler weather, until it's not: The weekend's cold front, which knocked 15-20 degrees off of some areas of the country, won't bring a lot of rain to help crop recovery. Best rainfall chances are in the eastern Great Lakes states and the Central Plains, the latter thanks to remnants of Tropical Storm Harold. The break from the heat will last about a week, with models showing above-normal temperatures east of the Rockies as the calendar turns to September. 4. Crop harvest begins: Some of the first corn and soybean plots are beginning to come out. Watch for news on some of the early results. 5. Weekly business reports: (Note: all times are CDT) Monday will see USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. and the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. On Tuesday, we'll have the U.S. consumer confidence index numbers at 9 a.m. On Wednesday, the second-quarter U.S. Gross Domestic Product numbers hit at 7:30 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Then Thursday is a busy one, with USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending in August, the index of personal consumption expenditures for July and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor all due at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. That Thursday is also the last day of the 2022-23 crop year for the corn and soybean complexes. On Friday, we'll see U.S. nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for August, due at 7:30 a.m. World manufacturing activity indices come in overnight and the U.S. index is due at 9 a.m. The latest Fats and Oils and Grain Crushings report from NASS is at 2 p.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 28, 2023 |

Pro Farmer Releases National Crop Yield Estimates The Pro Farmer Crop Tour recently wrapped up its 2023 expedition after traveling through corn and soybean fields in multiple states. After predicting yield estimates for each state, Pro Farmer puts all the numbers together to come up with its national harvest predictions for corn and soybeans. Pro Farmer predicts a national corn yield of 14.96 billion bushels and an average yield of 172 bushels per acre. The Pro Farmer national soybean yield prediction is 4.11 billion bushels and an average yield of 49.7 bushels an acre. The national estimates reflect Pro Farmer’s views on production and yields. They consider the data gathered and weather conditions during the Crop Tour, crop maturity, historical differences in Tour data versus USDA’s final yields, and areas outside those sampled on the tour. Based on August FSA-certified acreage data, Pro Farmer increased harvested corn acres by 675,000 from August. They didn’t change the soybean harvested acres. ********************************************************************************** RFA Blasts Panel Report on Ethanol and Emissions The Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan blasting the agency’s Science Advisory Board. The RFA accuses the panel of making misleading and unfounded claims about corn ethanol’s impact on greenhouse gas emissions. In draft commentary sent to Regan, the board attempted to downplay the climate benefits of corn ethanol and recommended that the EPA conduct more extensive research on ethanol’s carbon footprint. “The overwhelming evidence of scientific analysis and data clearly show that corn starch ethanol significantly reduces GHG emissions relative to the gasoline it replaces,” says RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We adamantly disagree with the SAB’s statement saying the ‘best available science’ suggests there are minimal, or no climate benefits related to substituting corn ethanol for gasoline.” Cooper also points out that no scientists with biofuels industry experience were invited to participate in the working group when putting the board together. *********************************************************************************** McConnell: Farm Bill Will Be Late Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell says Congress will deliver a farm bill, but not likely in September. Roll Call says McConnell told the Kentucky Farm Bureau that Congress is running out of working days on the legislative calendar before the current law expires on September 30. McConnell is one of the highest-ranking members of Congress to admit the timeline for a new farm bill is shifting past September. When asked about reauthorizing the five-year farm bill, McConnell says, “We’ll figure it out.” While the current bill runs out on September 30, it looks like the new deadline for farm legislation will be December 31. On January 1, some American farm policies will revert to 1940s-era controls on production and costly price supports. If the farm bill does get pushed to 2024, a one-year extension becomes likely as it’s a presidential election year, and both parties will battle for Congressional control. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Drought Monitor Shows Spotty Improvement The weekly U.S. Drought Monitor saw improvements in parts of California and Nevada because of the impacts of Tropical Storm Hilary. The storm brought record-breaking rainfall accumulations and incidents of flash flooding and mudslides. In the Midwest, light precipitation accumulations fell in northern Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and northern Michigan. Drought conditions worsened in areas of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois, where both short and long-term precipitation deficits continue. Areas of Moderate Drought (D1) and Severe Drought (D2) were removed in Michigan. No changes were made this week in the Plains states, while some minor improvements took place in northwest Wyoming, and some conditions worsened in South Central Colorado. While some improvement took place in areas of Kansas and Nebraska, long-term dry signals remain in place through most of the region. In the South, drought-related conditions continued deteriorating as the hot and dry pattern continued across most of the region. *********************************************************************************** Record-Low Number of Federal Wage and Hour Investigations of Farms The Economic Policy Institute says employers routinely underpay farm workers, among other workplace violations, but federal investigations into problems like these have dropped to an all-time low. The institute says that’s likely because of funding and staffing constraints. A new report says Congress must increase funding for labor standards enforcement to protect farmworkers. Since 2000, the Labor Department’s Wage and Hour Division has seen investigations drop by more than 60 percent. The division only has 810 investigators to protect all 165 million workers in the U.S. That means fewer than one percent of farm employers get investigated every year. From 2000 to 2022, H-2A visa program violations accounted for almost half of back wages and civil money penalties owed by farm employers. The EPI wants Congress to stop hobbling the Department of Labor and provide resources for strong investment in farm worker protections. They also want stiffer fines imposed on chronic offenders. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for USDA Trade Mission to Angola USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small will lead the first-ever agribusiness trade mission to Angola from November 28-December 1. The Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters who want to take part. “When it comes to trade opportunity, Sub-Saharan Africa is both promising and often overlooked,” says Torres Small. “The USDA mission to Angola presents an incredible prospect for U.S. food and agricultural exporters to expand and explore new business opportunities.” Angola is one of the largest markets in Africa, and imports make up more than half of its food market. She says that makes it a perfect location for U.S. exporters to introduce more American-made products to African consumers. Angola has a population of almost 36 million people, many of whom are middle and high-income consumers, which means they’re looking for high-quality imported products. In 2022, U.S. food and ag exports to Angola totaled $236.8 million

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 28, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest forecasts for signs of rain and any new events regarding Ukraine. Monday will have its usual USDA reports of weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A front that crept through the country over the weekend has found itself somewhat stalled across the Southeast on Monday. Scattered showers are forecast there. Another front is dropping south out of Canada and will move through the Midwest Monday night into Tuesday with a few limited showers and a reinforcing snap of cooler air again. Eyes are on the tropics as Tropical Storm Idalia makes its way north into the Gulf of Mexico Monday night as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 25, 2023 |

Drought Threatens Shipping on the Panama Canal The Panama Canal is responsible for facilitating trade as 40 percent of worldwide cargo ship traffic uses it to move between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Marine Insight says almost two-thirds of the canal’s traffic load is either heading to or leaving the United States. The group managing the Canal restricted the number of ships passing through each day, as well as the amount of cargo they could carry. They made the decision because of the decreasing water supply caused by the ongoing drought due to El Niño conditions. That will mean fewer than 34 ships can move through the canal in both directions every day. That’s compared to the 34 to 42 it can handle at peak capacity. The new restrictions are in place until Monday, August 21, and could force companies to find alternative routes. The canal system depends on lakes whose levels are now close to their minimum points. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Publishes 2022 Annual Report Dairy Management, Inc., the planning and management organization running the national dairy checkoff program for America’s dairy farmers and importers posted its 2022 annual report. The report provides checkoff funders and other members of the dairy community with an audited financial report and highlights from 2022 focused on strategies and programs. Those include accelerating dairy sales growth and building trust in dairy foods and dairy farming with youth and other important consumer audiences. “Farmers and importers seek transparency in their checkoff strategies, and the 2022 annual report is a great way to deliver on those expectations,” says Marilyn Hershey, a Pennsylvania farmer and DMI chair. “Our checkoff team works daily to fulfill its goal of building sales and trust in dairy, and this report offers a comprehensive overview of how that plan delivered the results.” More information on the checkoff program’s budget summary and audited financial statements are available at usdairy.com. *********************************************************************************** Breakthrough in Fight Against African Swine Fever Scientists have discovered a gene in pig DNA that’s needed by the deadly African Swine Fever virus to cause an infection. National Hog Farmer says this discovery could be a springboard into the development of pigs resistant to ASF, a swift-acting and severe condition that causes widespread illness and death, leading to steep financial losses for the world’s pork industry. The disease has killed more than 200 million pigs worldwide and is a major issue across Asia. It also has the potential to cause outbreaks in Europe and America. A team of researchers found that the gene is involved in a pig’s immune system and essential for replication of the ASF virus. This finding increases the possibility of changing the gene through gene editing to raise pigs that are resistant to the disease. It could improve how farmers manage the infection for which no vaccine or treatment is currently available. *********************************************************************************** NCGA President Testifies on the Value of Atrazine National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (HAYG) testified Thursday before an Environmental Protection Agency panel on the importance of atrazine to corn farmers. He says NCGA commends the scientific and risk-based analysis and conclusions of the EPA in this reevaluation of the 11 atrazine studies identified by the 2012 Scientific Advisory Panel calling for further review to assess the effects on aquatic plant communities. “NCGA points to conclusions in the white paper that continue to affirm scientific evidence which supports the safe use of atrazine while protecting the vital aquatic plant communities and their related ecosystems,” he says. Haag also points out that management of weeds and their resistance to herbicides is a constant challenge for corn farmers. “Access to atrazine puts an important tool in the hands of U.S. corn growers to effectively adopt conservation practices while managing destructive weeds and delivering an abundant and quality crop,” he says. *********************************************************************************** Potato Exports Break Value and Volume Records America’s potato exports reached record value and volume between July 2022 and June 2023. Export values rose 19 percent to $2.2 billion, and export volume rose almost four percent to 3.3 million metric tons. Those export values increased across all categories, including frozen, fresh, dehydrated, seed, and chips. Double-digit increases in value took place in all categories but seed potatoes. The increase in volume was led by dehydrated potatoes and chips, which rose 25 and 11 percent, respectively. During the year, Mexico became America’s largest potato export market for the first time, followed by Canada and Japan. The entire Mexican market opened to fresh U.S. potato exports in May 2022. The value of exported dehydrated potatoes took the biggest jump, rising 24 percent to reach $257 million. The top destinations for the category were Canada, Japan, and Mexico. Frozen potato exports rose 20 percent in value despite a decrease in volume. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Relaunches its Photo Contest Fields-of-Corn.com, the official photo contest of the National Corn Growers Association is set to relaunch on September 1. Along with a new look that’s built to showcase the rich history of visual storytelling comes a more robust interface for entry. The reboot is just in time for the tenth annual photo contest. “The Fields-of-Corn.com site will house voting for the first time with higher reliability than we had through social media in the past,” says Graphic Communications Manager Beth Musgrove. The contest is open to everyone, and NCGA invites photographers to help tell the story of farming field corn in America. Through this contest, NCGA seeks high-resolution photos to document the rich history of growing corn, captured from seed to harvest as well as the tenacious and hard-working families that grow it. Entries will be accepted through the end of November. Photographers will compete for 26 awards over eight categories.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 25, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment is due out at 9 a.m. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell is expected to speak in Jackson Hole, Wyo., Friday. Knowing energy prices have climbed higher, he will likely mention another rate hike is on the way. Traders continue to pay attention to the latest weather forecasts and any news regarding Ukraine. Weather A pair of fronts across the Corn Belt will be drifting southward on Friday. The extreme heat has ended over northern areas, though it remains hot. The fronts will produce some isolated showers and thunderstorms for the next few days as they move into the South and Southeast. Temperatures will fall back down toward normal after the fronts pass through.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 24, 2023 |

FMMO Hearing Heralds Farmer-Led Progress for Dairy Wednesday marked the first day of a once-in-a-generation hearing on federal milk pricing. USDA’s Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing is underway as dairy producers make their case for changes to the pricing program. National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern says, “Thanks to the tireless efforts of dairy farmers and their cooperatives, this industry is poised for progress as Federal Milk Marketing Order modernization is now in sight.” The industry expects five to seven weeks of testimony and discussion on proposals to modernize the FMMO system. Following USDA’s initial presentations, the hearing will then launch into discussions of specific issues placed within the scope of the hearing. After the hearing’s conclusion, entities involved in the hearing then have a period of time to respond to the testimony, followed by a USDA draft decision, then more discussion, and ultimately a vote among dairy farmers on a final proposal, likely in the second half of 2024. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Funding to Support U.S. Specialty Crop Producers USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service Wednesday announced $72.9 million in grants awarded to 55 states and territories through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The grant program provides funding to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops and support specialty crop growers through marketing, education, and research. Fiscal year 2023 funding is awarded to the departments of agriculture in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. States are encouraged to sub-award funding to projects that address the needs of U.S. producers of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops. Funded projects include investing in food safety, specialty crop research, including research to focus on conservation and environmental outcomes, developing new and improved seed varieties and specialty crops, and pest and disease control. This year's awards mark over $1 billion invested in nearly 12,000 projects supporting the U.S. specialty crop industry. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Supports EPA Refinery Exemption Decisions Growth Energy has filed a motion to intervene in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, supporting the Environmental Protection Agency’s refinery exemptions decision. The motion is in response to the Hunt Refining Company's lawsuit seeking to reverse the EPA decision to reject unwarranted Small Refinery Exemptions. The motion is just the latest in a series of legal efforts Growth Energy has led to protect the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, " EPA made the right call by following the data, which show there is no economic justification for exempting another oil company from its obligations under the RFS." Skor adds, "Past abuse of SREs destroyed demand for billions of gallons of biofuels, undermining our ability to hold down prices at the pump with clean, American renewable fuel.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Lowers Rice Trade Forecasts for 2023 and 2024 Global rice trade forecasts for both calendar year 2023 and 2024 are sharply lowered this month. USDA lowered the forecast in response to India's July 20 immediate ban on further sales of select rice varieties, resulting in urgent buying by some importers and rapid Asian price increases. The 2024 global export forecast is lowered 3.4 million tons to 52.9 million, with exports from India lowered 4.0 million tons to 19.0 million. Increased export forecasts for Brazil, Pakistan, Russia, and Vietnam partially offset the 2024 export reduction for India. For 2023, global exports are reduced 1.9 million tons to 53.8 million, with India's export forecast reduced 2.0 million tons to 20.5 million. Import forecasts are lowered for several major importers in Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa for both 2023 and 2024. The 2023/24 production forecast in the U.S. rice market is raised 1 percent to 203.6 million hundredweight, based on a higher yield of 7,700 pounds per acre. *********************************************************************************** Emergency Allotments Central to SNAP Spending Growth During Pandemic USDA’s Economic Research Service says emergency allotments were central to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program spending growth during the pandemic. SNAP participation and inflation-adjusted spending grew each year from fiscal year 2007–13 following the Great Recession and from FY 2019–21 following the COVID-19 pandemic. Average monthly participation increased faster, for longer, and by a greater amount following the Great Recession than during the pandemic, peaking at 47.6 million participants in FY 2013. Emergency allotments were issued as monthly supplements in response to the pandemic, bringing all recipients’ benefits to the maximum allowed each month beginning in 2020. In 2021, emergency allotments and other disaster supplements accounted for $39.2 billion, almost a third of total spending. Excluding spending on emergency allotments and other disaster supplements, total spending was only $81.6 billion in FY 2021, about $15 billion less than FY 2013 spending, adjusting for inflation. Emergency allotments ended in all states in early 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Publishes Child Nutrition Program Integrity Final Rule USDA Wednesday published a final rule on program integrity to ensure that child nutrition programs are properly operated and managed to protect federal funds and taxpayer dollars. The final rule impacts the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Special Milk Program, Summer Food Service Program, and Child and Adult Care Food Program. The final rule introduces targeted flexibilities in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs that streamline monitoring requirements and lower administrative burdens for states. The rule also finalizes provisions in the Child and Adult Care Food Program, that have already been in place. The provisions streamline processes, provide additional resources, and increase accountability. The rule also allows for more efficient use of state agency resources by ensuring that organizations at risk of serious management issues receive more frequent oversight, and that financial transactions are appropriately reviewed. USDA improved the ability to address the rare instances of severe or repeated violations of program requirements in the child nutrition programs.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 24, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. durable goods orders and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. Thursday. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. and traders remain attentive to the latest weather forecasts. Weather An upper-level dome of high pressure continues to cause extreme heat across the middle of the country for Thursday. The edges of the heat dome are becoming more active, however. We are seeing a slight shift southward of the front across its northern edge, though it will be a system moving through the Canadian Prairies that pushes it southward tonight and tomorrow. On the northeastern edge, heavy rainfall has developed over Ohio this morning. While that may peter out this morning, it will be an area for redevelopment later today

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 23, 2023 |

USDA Announces Forest Management Funding Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Tuesday announced $150 million to help underserved and small acreage forest landowners connect to emerging voluntary climate markets. The markets can provide economic opportunities for landowners and incentivize improved forest health and management. The Forest Service Funding comes from the Inflation Reduction Act. Vilsack announced the funding opportunity at the Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Conference. Forests are powerful tools in the fight against climate change, according to USDA, and emerging voluntary private-sector markets are now creating economic incentives to keep forests healthy and productive. However, high acreage requirements and prohibitive start-up costs have caused many small-acreage and underserved private forest owners to be left behind. Without financial incentives, these landowners may not have the resources to manage forests for long-term health and resilience. Without proper management, forests are more susceptible to wildfire, loss of habitat, and reduced water quality. The Forest Service anticipates future funding opportunities, including one specifically targeted to engage tribal nations. *********************************************************************************** Farmers for Free Trade Calls on Presidential Candidates to Prioritize Trade Farmers for Free Trade this week implored all 2024 presidential candidates to prioritize new market access trade agreements to strengthen U.S. agriculture and decrease reliance on China. The organization also called on the presidential candidates to hold China accountable in a responsible manner that does not endanger U.S. food and agriculture's largest export market or threaten American farmers with new retaliatory tariffs. In a letter, the organization says, "The U.S. needs to again take the lead in negotiating new FTAs with other countries and work to strengthen and reform the rules-based multilateral trading system." Such agreements could protect American workers and the environment, help contain China's growing geopolitical influence, and open new export markets for our farmers by meaningfully reducing and eliminating tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers. The letter, which comes shortly before the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle, was sent to all presidential campaigns. *********************************************************************************** Youth Employment Trends in the Midwest New research shows labor shortages present persistent challenges for regional economies but can also create opportunities for young workers. The research, published Tuesday on the University of Illinois farmdocDAILY website, shows youth employment can also help employers fill the part-time, low-wage, and often seasonal positions. Generation Z is relatively smaller than the millennial generation. As a result, fewer young people are working because there are simply fewer young people. However, every Midwestern state had a higher labor force participation rate among workers aged 16 to 19 than the nation. The highest levels of youth employment occur in relatively small, rural counties. Additionally, the food service and accommodation industry and the retail sector employ the most young workers. The research concludes that connecting young people to beneficial, rather than exploitative, work opportunities is a critical step in building and sustaining the local labor force, but it also directs them toward opportunities that might lead to a career. *********************************************************************************** New Grants to Support Wild Horse Initiatives New grants from the Bureau of Land Management focus on managing and protecting wild horses and burros on public lands. The federal government awarded grants to six organizations and universities in Colorado, Oregon and Utah. The BLM manages and protects free-roaming wild horses and burros on public lands as required by the 1971 Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. Most herds on public lands are in arid environments and lack natural predators that can control herd growth. The grants are part of efforts to work with community partners on projects that will benefit wild horses and burros and their habitat, including increasing the use of fertility control to slow herd growth. The latest population estimates found more than 82,000 wild horses and burros on BLM-managed public lands. Though down from a record high in 2020, this population is more than three times the level that is healthy for the herds and their habitat. *********************************************************************************** Cotton Board Elects New Officers The Cotton Board recently elected a new slate of officers to serve one-year terms. During its Business Session, The Cotton Board elected Mark Nichols, a cotton producer from Altus, Oklahoma, to serve as Chairman of the Board. Nichols is the President of Jess Mark Nichols Farms, Inc. and President of Hess Farms, Inc., a fourth-generation farm he has managed since 1980. He farms with his brother-in-law, son, and son-in-law, growing irrigated cotton, wheat, and milo. Nichols commented on his new role, " During the upcoming year, we will continue to work closely with Cotton Incorporated to ensure our industry is moving forward and leading the way to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton." Other elected officers are Akiko Inui (ah-kee-koh in-you) of New York as Vice Chairman, Matt Famer of Texas as Secretary, and Rusty Darby of South Carolina as Treasurer. The Cotton Board is funded by the cotton checkoff, with efforts managed by Cotton Incorporated. *********************************************************************************** California Continues to Lead U.S. Peach Harvest While Georgia is on many consumers' minds when it comes to fresh, juicy peaches, California is by far the largest peach-producing state in the United States. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that last year, California's harvest yielded 475,000 tons of fruit, with South Carolina a distant second at 67,400 tons, and Georgia in third place with production at 24,800 tons. California has been the leading producer of freestone peaches for the fresh market and clingstone peaches for processing. However, the state's peach production has been trending lower for almost two decades, contributing to an overall drop in U.S. peach production. Total production in the United States in 2022 was estimated at 625,680 tons, eight percent smaller than the crop in 2019. In 2022, California’s peach harvest was about five percent smaller than in 2019 and nearly 27 percent lower than ten years earlier. USDA forecasts 2023 peach production 13 percent lower than last year.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 23, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales in July is set for 9:00 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. USDA's monthly cold storage report is due out at 2 p.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts and news regarding Ukraine. Weather A dome of heat continues to bake the middle of the country with records likely to be broken again today. The remnants of Tropical Storm Harold will continue through the Rio Grande Valley and into the Four Corners area today and across the north, a front may be active with showers, especially for the eastern Great Lakes. Otherwise, the heat comes with complete dryness as soil moisture continues to rapidly evaporate.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 22, 2023 |

USDA Announces Nearly $700 Million in Rural Broadband Funding Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday announced nearly $700 million in grants and loans as part of USDA’s ReConect Program. The funding will connect thousands of rural residents, farmers and business owners in 22 states to reliable, affordable high-speed internet. Vilsack says, “Keeping the people of rural America connected with reliable, high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of our country and creates good-paying jobs along the way.” The high-speed internet investments are part of the fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. Many residents and businesses in rural areas would not have high-speed internet service without the ReConnect Program, as the program is a key part of the Administration’s Internet for All initiative to connect everyone in America to high-speed internet by 2030. Funding for this round of grants comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and includes $667 million of funded projects. A full list of funded projects is available on USDA's Rural Development website. *********************************************************************************** Farmland Partners: Strong Market Still Adding Value Farmland values across the country climbed this year and hit record levels despite challenges like rising interest rates and extreme weather, according to data from the federal government. The Department of Agriculture found that U.S. farm real estate values, which includes all land and buildings on farms, increased 7.4 percent over the past year. Cropland values have grown 8.1 percent since 2022. Nationwide value of farm real estate and cropland also increased sharply from 2021 to 2022, 12.4 percent and 14.3 percent, respectively. Additional reports from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, confirm the USDA data. Farmland Partners Inc. President and CEO Luca Fabbri says, "These studies and similar reports coming from farm country show that the farmland market is still strong and adding value." Farmland Partners is an internally managed real estate that owns and/or manages nearly 186,000 acres in 20 states. *********************************************************************************** USTR Tai Visiting Indonesia, India U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai met with Indonesia's Minister of Trade Monday. Tai and Zulkifli Hasan discussed progress through the U.S.-ASEAN Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement Work Plan, including issues related to trade facilitation, standards and the digital economy. Ambassador Tai and Minister Hasan also discussed progress and updates on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. The ministers also discussed the U.S.-Indonesia Trade and Investment Framework Agreement. Ambassador Tai noted that the United States views this TIFA as an important mechanism for discussing bilateral trade issues. Later this week, Tai will travel to India for the G20 Trade & Investment Ministers' Meeting. Tai will also meet with business leaders and hold bilateral meetings with government officials. The meetings follow last week’s effort with Taiwan, as USR and Taiwan held an in-person negotiating round for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade in Washington, D.C. *********************************************************************************** Healthy Watersheds, Healthy Communities Act Introduced Lawmakers Monday introduced the Healthy Watersheds, Healthy Communities Act. Led by Colorado Democrat Micheal Benet, a bipartisan group of Senators introduced the bill that would improve the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations program. The bipartisan legislation would streamline the planning and administration processes to enable more watershed-wide projects, shift decision-making to local NRCS staff, expand program eligibility, and allow federal funding to count toward state and local match requirements. The bill also prioritizes projects with multiple conservation and public benefits and makes drought resilience an explicit purpose of the program. With more frequent and severe drought and flooding, farmers and ranchers are using the program to mitigate the effects of these natural disasters through watershed improvement projects. However, the lawmakers say as demand for this program grows, inadequate funding and burdensome red tape keeps applicants from accessing its full benefits. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposal to Strengthen Horse Protection Act USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service seeks public input on a proposed rule to strengthen Horse Protection Act requirements. Announced last week, the proposed changes aim to eliminate horse soring, a cruel and inhumane practice that gives horse owners and trainers an unfair advantage in walking horse competitions. Walking horses are known for possessing a naturally high gait, but to be more successful in competitions, some owners and trainers use improper training methods to exaggerate a horse's gait. The methods may cause the horse to suffer from physical pain, distress, inflammation, or lameness while walking and moving. USDA's Jenny Lester-Moffitt says, "By strengthening the HPA regulations, we can all work to eliminate soring, which will improve the welfare of horses competing in these shows and level the competitive playing field.” You can submit comments by searching for the proposal at regulations.gov. APHIS will consider all comments received on or before October 20, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for CattleCon24 Registration and housing are now open for CattleCon24, the cattle industry's largest event of the year. It's "Onward to Orlando," where cattle producers from across the country will gather, January 31-February 2, for business meetings, educational sessions, engaging speakers and family fun. Kristin Torres of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association says, "By opening registration early this year, we hope to give producers the ability to plan a family vacation in conjunction with CattleCon." Attendees can look forward to a variety of educational opportunities, including the CattleFax Outlook Seminar, weather and industry updates, grazing management workshop, sessions featuring guest speakers on the NCBA Trade Show floor and the 31st annual Cattlemen's College. Cattlemen's College is being reimagined in 2024 with classroom sessions and hands-on demonstrations throughout all three days of CattleCon. Also new are trade show cooking demos and a beef culinary tour. A variety of ticket packages are available, as well as payment plan options. Visit convention.ncba.org to learn more.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 22, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. existing home sales for July is set for 9:90 a.m. CDT Tuesday, the only significant report of the day. Traders will continue to watch over the latest weather developments and keep track of news regarding Ukraine. Weather The most intense section of the heat wave starts on Tuesday with widespread 90s and triple-digit temperatures across the middle of the country, which will be in place through Thursday. The outer edges of the heat will continue to be active with showers in the west and far north and across Texas with Tropical Storm Harold moving through.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 21, 2023 |

Farmland Values Resilient as Economy Moderates Strength in farm real estate values persisted in the second quarter despite some moderation in the farm economy and higher interest rates. The Kansas City Federal Reserve says growth in farmland values eased from the surge in recent years but remained strong through the first half of 2023. Broad strength in farm finances during recent years throughout the district continued supporting agricultural credit conditions. Margins for many commodities have thinned in recent months alongside elevated production costs and softening prices. Farm loan performance remained historically strong through early 2023, and liquidity levels at many agricultural banks were well-positioned to meet growth in lending demand that could be on the horizon. Farm incomes moderated in all the participating Districts during the second quarter. Following almost two years of considerable strength, improvement in farm income waned according to Federal Reserve Surveys of Ag Credit Conditions. Loan demand remained subdued despite moderating incomes. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Support USTR in Mexican Trade Dispute The U.S. Trade Representative requested a panel formation under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement over Mexico’s decision to ban imports of biotech corn used in human consumption. “Mexico’s decree runs counter to scientific findings and is in direct violation of USMCA, which negatively impacts American corn growers,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says the U.S. and Mexico have had a long and productive relationship. “It’s our number one market for U.S. corn, and we support this action because it will likely be the quickest way to make sure the positive relationship continues in the future.” Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says his group appreciates U.S. Trade Rep Katherine Tai for her continued commitment to holding Mexico to its agreements under USMCA. “America’s farmers are upholding their obligations by meeting demand while achieving important sustainability goals,” says Duvall. “Mexico must do the same thing.” *********************************************************************************** Most Cow-Calf Operations Remain Small Most cow-calf operations in the U.S. remain relatively small and have fewer than 50 cows. USDA says at the other end of the spectrum, a few very large operations with more than 1,000 cows can be found. USDA data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service Ag Census indicates that between 1997 and 2017, most cow-calf operations remained small. In 2017, 54 percent of farms with beef cows had fewer than 20 animals, down slightly from 1997. However, during the two decades, the overall number of cow-calf operations in the U.S. dropped by 19 percent, while the average herd size on the remaining operations grew. These changes in farm numbers and herd sizes, while notable, haven’t been as significant as industry shifts in hog and dairy production. The combination of relatively lower cow-calf-specific startup costs and pasture as a primary source of feed has resulted in a variety of operation sizes. *********************************************************************************** India’s Rice Export Ban Has Benefits and Challenges for U.S. Growers America’s rice producers and exporters will benefit from India’s recent decision to ban exports of white rice as global demand for U.S. rice will likely rise. The higher world demand will temporarily lift prices for U.S. rice growers, and the industry is well-positioned to meet higher demand for exports. However, CoBank says the short-term benefits of India’s rice export ban will give way to the longer-term consequence of an oversupplied global market and severe price correction when the ban is eventually reversed. New research from CoBank’s Global Knowledge Exchange says higher global rice prices resulting from the export ban will push other countries to expand rice production, increasing global supplies. When India does lift its export ban, the country’s surplus of rice will get dumped on the world export market. That means world rice prices will overcorrect from the sudden boost in supplies. India’s government imposed the ban on July 20. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Drought Monitor Shows a Mix of Dry Weather and Recent Rainfall The latest Weekly Drought Monitor showed similar conditions to last week. Above-normal temperatures and mostly-dry weather continued through parts of Texas and into the lower Mississippi Valley, where ongoing drought conditions continued deteriorating. Drought intensified in eastern Texas, Louisiana, and south-central Mississippi. Increasing short-term drought continued across Arizona, New Mexico, and southwest Colorado. Frequent rounds of heavy rainfall occurred from the Northeast into the Central Mississippi Valley and into southern Missouri and the Upper Midwest. The continued wet conditions are improving drought across parts of the Corn Belt and much of the southern and central Midwest. Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois saw continuing improvement, with D1 removal from Ohio and Indiana. Farther north, drought continued to intensify across northern Wisconsin, North Dakota, Montana, and Washington. Eastern parts of the High Plains saw continued precipitation and below-normal temperatures. Kansas saw heavy precipitation continue from last week, further improving the east and central regions. *********************************************************************************** Corn Export Sales Move Higher Corn sales to overseas buyers for this current marketing year improved in the seven days ending on August 10. USDA data shows that soybean export sales declined during the same period last year. Exporters sold 233,500 metric tons of corn for delivery for 2022-2023, up 55 percent from the previous week and 16 percent above the prior four-week average. In its weekly Export Sales report, the agency says the top three buyers were all unknown destinations. Sales for delivery in the 2023-2024 marketing year that starts September 1 totaled 704,700 metric tons. Soybean sales were 77 percent lower week-over-week and down 42 percent from the four-week average to 93,600 metric tons for 2022-2023. Sales for delivery in 2023-2024 totaled over 1,400,000 metric tons. Wheat sales for the current marketing year dropped 37 percent from the previous week but were up three percent from the four-week average to 359,500 metric tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 21, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Crop Rebound, Pipelines all on Tap This Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Aug. 20. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Rebound crop: There seems little letup on the ongoing discussion on how well the 2023 corn and soybean crops have rebounded following recent rains. We'll continue to have reports from the field as we track grain fill and pod set, leading up the USDA's next World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report Sept. 12. If you participated in our DTN Summit Series event Aug. 15, you know Gro Intelligence added a bit to the 177-bushel-per-acre average estimate on corn revealed during our Digital Yield Tour the week prior. Will those yields hold through August? Stay tuned. 2. Weather: The wall of hot weather taking hold across the country will be the most-watched weather factor, but we're also tracking Hurricane Hilary as it moves onto the West Coast and potentially up into the Pacific Northwest and Idaho, and on into the Canadian Prairies. An early view on the hurricane can be found in our Ag Weather Forum blog; watch for updates in that space as well. . 3. Pipeline dreams: Tuesday marks the beginning of hearings on the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline, which is proposed to cross Iowa and into North Dakota. Summit wants to pipe carbon dioxide to be injected into the Bakken geology formation. The Iowa Utilities Board will hold a hearing in Fort Dodge to discuss the pipeline's permit, including Summit's request for eminent domain rights on parcels of land that have not signed easements. 4. Broadband update: USDA scheduled an update on its investments in rural broadband, something we watch closely here at DTN. We should have results of the latest report early in the week. 5. Weekly reports of note: Monday we'll have USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, USA Crop Progress report comes in at 3 p.m. Tuesday morning we'll see U.S. existing home sales for July, with new home sales numbers out Wednesday. Wednesday also sees U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Then, Thursday features USDA weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. durable goods orders and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. On Friday is the University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 21, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest weather forecasts and any news regarding shipments of grain from Ukraine. USDA will have its usual weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A dome of heat has parked itself across the middle of the country and will be turning it up on Monday with significantly high readings and near-records in some areas between the Rockies and Appalachians. Western states continue to deal with heavy rainfall from the remnants of Hurricane Hilary as it moves north through the region.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 18, 2023 |

U.S. Establishes Dispute Panel on Mexico’s Biotech Measures U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced the United States is establishing a dispute settlement panel under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The U.S. is challenging Mexico’s measures on biotech corn. Mexico set rules in place during a decree in February that banned the use of biotech corn in tortillas or dough. The Mexican government also instructed its agencies to gradually substitute – i.e., ban – the use of biotech corn in all products for human consumption and for animal feed. Mexico’s measures aren’t based on science and undermine the market access it agreed to provide in the USMCA. “The United States has used the tools provided by the USMCA in attempting to resolve concerns with Mexico’s biotechnology measures,” says Tai. “We’re taking the next step in enforcing Mexico’s obligations under the agreement.” She also says Mexico’s approach to biotechnology isn’t based on science and runs counter to decades worth of evidence clearly demonstrating its safety. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Exports to Hit 52-Year Low The U.S. Department of Agriculture says America’s all-wheat exports are projected to be 700 million bushels, the lowest level since the 1971-1972 marketing year. That’s a 25-million-bushel reduction from the prior month’s forecast. Despite an increase in Hard Red Winter Wheat production, exports are cut 25 million bushels to 165 million, the lowest level since by-class supply and utilization records began in 1972-1974. U.S. exports of HRW remain uncompetitive on the global market as shown by shipment and sales data. HRW exports in June were 10 million bushels, down from 19.2 million bushels in June 2022. Using data for the Foreign Agricultural Service’s Export Sales Reporting, all-wheat U.S. total commitments are about 6.4 million metric tons as of August 3, down 26 percent from the same point last year. It’s also 37 percent below the recent ten-year average at this point. HRW total commitments are 53 percent lower compared to last year. *********************************************************************************** Johnson Introduces Bill to Reinstate MCOOL U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) introduced the Beef Origin Labeling Accountability Act to bring clarity and to reinstate mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) for beef products. “Consumers don’t know where their beef comes from,” Johnson says. “It could be South Dakota, Brazil, or Canada. U.S. producers raise better beef, and they’re not getting credit for it.” The act will direct the U.S. Trade Representative and Ag Secretary to work together to determine a process of reinstating Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for beef that is compliant with World Trade Organization rules. It also directs the U.S. Trade Rep to consult with the Canadian and Mexican governments to resolve the outstanding MCOOL trade disputes the two countries have open against the U.S. “This bill is a step in the right direction to get accurate labels back on these products to increase consumer confidence in American-made and grown products,” Johnson adds. *********************************************************************************** Investments to Growing Animal Feed Indoors Forever Feed Technologies announced a multimillion-dollar investment from a renowned group of dairy and agricultural leaders to develop sustainable automated indoor-growing feed mills. The climate-controlled technology will greatly reduce water, land usage, and methane emissions in helping the industry reach its goal of being “climate neutral by 2050. The new investment funds will go to building the largest and most reliably controlled environmental mills, capable of feeding thousands of animals with fresh high-quality feed year-round. In turn, that helps producers to responsibly expand their operations to meet growing demands. Steve Lindsley, Forever Feed Technologies CEO, says, “We’re pleased to have assembled some of the most respected dairy and agricultural leaders in the country to participate in our funding round. Forever Feed is committed to building world class water-saving technology that will allow our customers to sustainably grow cattle feed 365 days a year anywhere in the world.” Information is available at foreverfeed.tech. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Organizations Support Recent Food for Peace Donation Organizations representing Pacific Northwest wheat growers and the U.S. milling industry are celebrating the latest Food for Peace donation of 28,000 metric tons of soft white wheat. U.S. wheat farmers, U.S. Wheat Associates, the National Association of Wheat Growers, and the North American Millers’ Association have partnered with the U.S. international food assistance program for 70 years. Since 2020, America has donated more than one million metric tons of wheat and millions of dollars in food aid every year. The soft white wheat donation was grown in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Wheat growers and the milling industry applauded the introduction of the American Farmers Feed the World Act last June. It would “put the food back into food aid” by restoring Food for Peace to its roots as a purely in-kind commodity donation program and require at least half of all Food for Peace funds be used to buy American commodities. *********************************************************************************** CattleCon24 Registration Opens Early Registration and housing are now open for CattleCon24, the cattle industry’s largest event of the year. “It’s “Onward to Orlando,” where cattle producers from across the country will gather January 31-February 2, for business meetings, educational sessions, engaging speakers, and family fun. “By opening registration early this year, we hope to give producers the ability to plan a family vacation in conjunction with CattleCon,” says Kristin Torres, executive director of meetings and events with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “Orlando and the surrounding areas offer a variety of family-friendly activities, and we want attendees to take advantage of a great location.” Attendees can look forward to a variety of educational opportunities including the CattleFax Outlook Seminar, weather and industry updates, grazing management workshops, guest speakers on the trade show floor, and the 31st annual Cattlemen’s College. Leaders in sustainability, quality, and cattle feeding will get recognized during a stewardship program reception.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 18, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's monthly cattle-on feed report for August 1 at 2 p.m. CDT is the only significant report of the day. Traders will keep up with the latest weather forecasts and news regarding Ukraine's efforts to ship grain, while under attack. Weather A hot ridge is moving into the Plains and bringing the heat on Friday. Cooler temperatures in the Midwest will only be temporary as the heat spreads over the weekend. Western areas are on the watch for Hurricane Hilary, which is expected to induce flooding rains for California and the Desert Southwest over the weekend into early next week.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 17, 2023 |

Fertilizer Prices Continue Decline Fertilizer prices have continued their more than year-long decline through the first two weeks of August 2023. The University of Illinois’ FarmdocDAILY website shows that on a per pound of nitrogen basis, urea and liquid nitrogen fertilizers have historically been priced at a premium of 35 to 40 percent above anhydrous ammonia. However, the premium narrowed in 2022 as the Russia-Ukraine conflict disrupted global fertilizer markets. The premium on liquid, relative to anhydrous, has returned to more historical levels while the gap has continued to narrow between urea and anhydrous prices. This is attributed to continued expansion in global production capacity combined with lower demand prospects. The continued decline in fertilizer prices improves return and income prospects as we look ahead to soon-to-be-released crop budgets for 2024. If the low premium on urea relative to anhydrous extends into the coming months, it may make urea a more attractive nitrogen option for farmers in 2024. *********************************************************************************** US Welcomes WTO Report on China Trade Retaliations The U.S. Trade Representative's Office welcomed a report from the World Trade Organization calling U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs justified for security reasons. The WTO report recognized that U.S. Section 232 actions on steel and aluminum are security measures, and that China illegally retaliated with sham "safeguard" tariffs. The panel rejected China's argument that the U.S. Section 232 actions are safeguard measures that may be "rebalanced" under WTO rules. However, officials from China called on the U.S. to lift the tariffs imposed on Chinese products following the report. China's commerce ministry claims the root cause lies in "the unilateralist and protectionist" nature of the United States. China maintains that its actions "are a legitimate move to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests." Tariffs imposed on American agricultural exports in retaliation for Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum imports led to an overall $27 billion reduction in U.S. ag exports from mid-2018 to the end of 2019. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases August Oil Crops Outlook USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service published its first survey-based forecast of the 2023/24 U.S. soybean yield this month. At 50.9 bushels per acre, the current soybean yield forecast is down 1.1 bushels per acre from last month. The soybean crush forecast is unchanged at 2.3 billion bushels, supported by the greater demand for soybean oil and domestic soybean crush capacity expansion. A waning supply of canola oil and drought conditions in Canada and the United States have elevated prices for both old and new crop soybean oil. The average soybean oil price is forecast at 62.0 cents per pound, up 2.0 cents from last month but down from a revised 2022/23 price of 65.0 cents per pound. Soybean oil used for biofuels production supports strong domestic demand. In contrast, domestic soybean meal demand is lower than expected as livestock growth is slower than anticipated. USDA lowered the forecast for domestic soybean meal demand by .25 million short tons to 39.73 million short tons. *********************************************************************************** New Falling Number Test Prevents Wheat Contamination As wheat harvesting season comes to an end, farmers brace for a potential threat to their crop that costs tens of millions of dollars each year. High levels of alpha-amylase (am-uh-laze) protein in wheat can lead to a low falling number score, a factor that determines the quality and price of wheat. If growers cannot detect wheat with a low falling number, the wheat may mix with sound wheat on farms, in grain elevators or during transport, compromising the entire bushel. The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research is awarding a $835,800 Seeding Solutions grant to Washington State University to develop a faster, cheaper and more accurate test, to prevent mixing of low and high falling number wheat. The current falling number test, developed almost 70 years ago, is slow, expensive, exhibits high variability and does not assess alpha-amylase levels directly. In addition to developing new rapid tests, the grant also includes developing an early warning system to alert grain handlers to weather patterns likely to cause spikes in alpha-amylase. *********************************************************************************** Adult Obesity Rates Increased During First Year of COVID-19 Pandemic New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows that adult obesity increased during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Broad efforts to contain COVID-19 included travel, work, and social restrictions. Such behavioral adjustments disrupted the dietary and activity patterns of U.S. adults. The percentage of adults with obesity was 40.7 percent in early 2020. One year later, the rate grew by 1.8 percentage points to 42.5 percent. There was not an immediate, substantial increase when the pandemic began. Rather, the obesity rate was statistically indistinguishable from the pre-pandemic prevalence during the first three months of the pandemic, March–May 2020, at 40.8 percent. The next three time periods saw statistically significant increases relative to the baseline pre-pandemic period. The total obesity rate increase from March 2020 to March 2021 was more than triple the average yearly growth rate of 0.5 percentage points in the preceding decade, 2011–2019. *********************************************************************************** Ag Lenders Donate to Hawaii Relief Efforts Farm Credit Association American AgCredit, rural banking partner CoBank, and The Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation, also known as Farmer Mac, are donating $40,000 to Maui Food Bank to help aid during the devastating wildfires that are wreaking havoc in Hawaii. AgCredit CEO Curt Hudnutt says, “When natural disasters impact the communities in which we live and work, we stand ready to support.” CoBank’s Brenda Frank adds, “The contribution to the Maui Food Bank is intended to address the immediate needs and reduce suffering of those impacted by the wildfires in Maui.” Farm Credit has had a presence in Hawaii for over 50 years. The association has been a strong provider of financial support to Hawaiian farmers and ranchers. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden says he intends to ensure people in the state have "everything they need" to recover. Biden plans to visit the area Monday. More than 100 deaths were reported, with 1,300 people still missing following the wildfires.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 17, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday. U.S. leading indicators for July are at 9 a.m. and the U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook follows at 2 p.m. Weather A front is pushing a line of showers and thunderstorms through the Great Lakes on Thursday, some of which could be stronger. Temperatures behind the front are going to be briefly cool while heat in the West starts to bulge out into more of the Plains. Drier conditions are expected for most other areas except in the West, which is seeing monsoon showers increasing ahead of the potential flooding from Tropical Storm Hilary that will move in this weekend and early next week.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 16, 2023 |

Thompson: Farm Bill Extension Likely House Agriculture Chairman Glenn GT Thompson says, "We're probably going to need an extension," referring to the timing of the 2023 Farm Bill. At a listening session in Missouri this week, the Pennsylvania Republican acknowledged that "the clock is ticking," with the current farm bill set to expire at the end of the fiscal year, September 30. The event is one of many held by the committee that Thompson calls a "perpetual barnstorming tour" across rural America. The House Agriculture Committee is expected to release a draft version of the 2023 Farm Bill, possibly by the end of the month, according to Thompson. The chairman says, "There's a lot of competition" for time on the House floor next month, with appropriations bills still needing attention, as well. However, any continuing resolution would likely have a farm-bill extension included. Thompson adds, "I hope it's a very short extension," if one is needed. *********************************************************************************** Plant-Based Meat Alternatives Sales Declining U.S. consumers remain interested in plant-based meat alternatives, but higher prices have led many prospective return consumers to taper off their purchases. Plant-based meats are often several dollars a pound higher than equivalent meat and poultry products. Beyond cost, lingering negative perceptions surrounding taste, value and versatility are also obstacles the category has yet to overcome. According to a new report from CoBank, the market for plant-based meats has likely reached a tipping point as the initial period of exceptional sales growth appears to be over. Plant-based meat sales peaked in 2020 when consumers had more discretionary income and were curious about broadening their food spend in the wake of pandemic-era food shortages. But fewer than half of Americans who tried the products at the time repeated their purchase. Sales of meat alternatives have fallen steadily since 2021 and more sharply over the last year. Volume sales dropped 20.9 percent for the 52-week period ending July 2, 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Offers Disaster Program Flexibilities for Flood-Impacted Producers USDA’s Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency authorized flexibilities for disaster assistance programs and crop insurance to aid Northeast farmers impacted by flooding this year. USDA Undersecretary Robert Bonnie says, “The production and physical losses to flooding have devastated farmers and ranchers in the Northeast.” Bonnie visited the region this week, announcing that “USDA is committed to assisting these producers in their ongoing recovery efforts.” FSA has authorized policy exceptions in all flood-impacted counties in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont. The flexibilities apply to Farm Storage Facility Loans, the Livestock Indemnity Program, the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program, and other programs and efforts. Additionally, Producers experiencing financial hardships and finding themselves behind on their FSA Marketing Assistance Loan repayment should contact their USDA Service Center to discuss repayment concerns with FSA staff. *********************************************************************************** Variable Rate Technology Adoption Increasing New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows variable rate technology adoption is on the rise. Farmers use variable rate technologies to control the amount of farm inputs—such as seed, fertilizer, and chemicals—applied as farm machinery moves across a field. Data from USDA’s Agricultural Resource Management Survey show that initial adoption in the late 1990s and early 2000s was sluggish, remaining below ten percent of planted acres for several field crops. However, adoption rates for corn and cotton have increased markedly over the last decade. The adoption rate for corn stood at 37.4 percent of planted acres in 2016, up from 11.5 percent in 2005. Cotton acreage showed a similar increase, rising from 5.4 percent in 2007 to 22.7 percent in 2019. Recent adoption rates across other crops included 13.9 percent for sorghum in 2019, 18.8 percent of winter wheat planted acres in 2017, and 25.3 percent of soybean-planted acres in 2018. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Open Urban Service Center in Philadelphia The Department of Agriculture is opening a new Urban Service Center in Philadelphia as part of a broader effort to support urban agriculture in Pennsylvania. NRCS Pennsylvania State Conservationist Denise Coleman says, “Every producer deserves USDA support in their own community, whether that community is urban or rural. The Urban Service Center in Philadelphia is one of 17 across the country. The Urban Service Centers are staffed by Natural Resources Conservation Service and Farm Service Agency employees. The facilities offer farm loan, conservation, disaster assistance and risk management programs. USDA works with agricultural producers through a network of more than 2,300 Service Centers nationwide, and the new Urban Service Centers will strengthen services to urban producers, according to the department. The Philadelphia Urban USDA Service Center will open the week of August 21, 2023. To learn more about Urban Service Centers, or to find a location near you, visit farmers.gov/urban. *********************************************************************************** Tractor Supply Company to Host National Farmers Market Tractor Supply Company, the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States, will host a nationwide Farmers Market on Saturday, August 19 in all of the retailer's 2,100+ communities. The event will showcase the talent and products of local farmers, growers, craft makers, artisans and other producers. Customers and community members are invited to stop by, explore the wide range of offerings and support their neighbors by purchasing homemade and homegrown goods and products. The free event takes place outside Tractor Supply stores nationwide, with local vendors selling products like fresh fruit and vegetables, arts and crafts, accessories, specialty food and drink and more. Although registration for local sellers is closed, customers can contact their local store for additional information regarding partners and activities. As of July 1, 2023, the Company operated 2,181 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states, including 81 stores acquired from Orscheln Farm and Home in 2022 that will be rebranded to Tractor Supply by the end of 2023.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 16, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts in July is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by U.S. industrial production in July at 8:15 a.m. The Energy Department's weekly energy inventories will follow at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to check the latest weather forecasts and follow the news from Ukraine. Weather An overall quiet day is in store for most of the country. But a system going through Canada will send a cold front through the Upper Midwest on Wednesday. The front could produce some showers and thunderstorms and also bring some breezy winds as it works through.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 15, 2023 |

APHIS Proposal to Strengthen Quarantine and Inspection Program USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is seeking comments on a proposed rule to amend regulations governing its Agricultural Quarantine and Inspection program user fees. APHIS and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection jointly administer the program, ensuring that cargo and passenger baggage entering the country is inspected for plant pests and potential sources of animal diseases that could affect U.S. agriculture, trade and commerce. Foreign pests and diseases can devastate U.S. agriculture and the broader U.S. economy, and the AQI program is highly successful at preventing such disruptions. Fees for the AQI program were last updated in 2015. The outdated fee structure and recent changes in international travel and shipping mean that current fees do not generate enough revenue to cover the costs of the AQI services provided. APHIS will consider all comments received on or before October 10, 2023.  Go to www.regulations.gov to search for the proposal and comment. *********************************************************************************** USDA Providing Additional Assistance to Loan Borrowers Facing Financial Risk The Department of Agriculture is providing additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying guaranteed Farm Loan Programs borrowers who are facing financial risk. The announcement is part of the $3.1 billion to help certain distressed farm loan borrowers provided through the Inflation Reduction Act. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "The financial assistance included in today's announcement will provide a fresh start for distressed borrowers with guaranteed farm loans and will give them the opportunity to generate long-term stability and success." Since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed in August 2022, USDA has provided approximately $1.15 billion in assistance to more than 20,000 distressed borrowers as a part of an ongoing effort to keep borrowers farming. The additional financial assistance will provide qualifying distressed guaranteed loan borrowers with financial assistance similar to what was already provided to distressed direct loan borrowers. Based on current analysis, the financial assistance will assist an estimated approximately 3,500 eligible borrowers, subject to change as payments are finalized. *********************************************************************************** Income Spent on Food Increased 13% in 2022 U.S. consumers spent an average of 11.3 percent of their disposable personal income on food in 2022, a level not observed since the 1980s, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Disposable personal income is the amount of money consumers have left to spend or save after paying taxes. Consumers spent 5.62 percent of their incomes on food at supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouse club stores, supercenters, and other retailers in 2022 and 5.64 percent on food at restaurants, fast-food establishments, schools, and other places offering food away from home. In 2022, the share spent on total food had the sharpest annual increase, 12.7 percent. This followed an 8.2-percent decline, the sharpest annual drop in total food spending since 1967, during the first year of the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020. The recent volatility in spending was driven by consumers’ sudden drop in eating out at the beginning of the pandemic followed by a return to food-away-from-home purchases as pandemic-related restrictions and concerns eased. *********************************************************************************** Training Available to Help Producers Manage Phosphorus Losses A series of online training modules is now freely available to farmers, interested in designing on-farm systems to remove phosphorus from field runoff or subsurface drainage. Available on the Internet, the modules comprise seven narrated videos, starting with a basic overview of the need for phosphorus removal systems, followed by how to design, build and install them, as well as how to properly dispose of or recycle the absorbent materials used to help capture the nutrient in drainage water and runoff. Phosphorus is a critical nutrient for optimal plant growth, health and yield. However, phosphorus that leaves agricultural fields in runoff or drainage water can accumulate in bodies of surface water, like rivers and lakes. Management practices and engineered systems that prevent phosphorus loss are vital to maintaining environmental quality. The modules can help users navigate their way through the process, as well as provide “lessons learned” from the field. *********************************************************************************** Graduate Students Encouraged to Apply for Beef Industry Scholarships The National Cattlemen’s Foundation is accepting applications for the annual W.D. Farr Scholarship program. Established in 2007, the scholarship recognizes outstanding graduate students pursuing meat science and animal agriculture careers. Two $15,000 grants are awarded to graduate students who demonstrate superior achievement in academics and leadership and are committed to the advancement of the beef industry. Scholarship recipients recognize that the program not only benefits their work but also the entire industry. Graduate students must apply online by submitting a cover letter, goals and experience, a short essay, statement of belief in the industry, as well as a review of the applicant's graduate research and three letters of recommendation by September 22, 2023. The 2023 scholarship recipients will be recognized at CattleCon 2024. The scholarship honors the successful career of the late W.D. Farr, a third-generation Coloradan, pioneer rancher, statesman and banker known for his extraordinary vision. For more information and to apply for the scholarship, visit www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Gas and Diesel Prices Rise Again For the fifth straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline increased, rising 2.5 cents from a week ago to $3.82 per gallon. The national average is up 29.1 cents from a month ago but 9.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price rose 12.3 cents last week and stands at $4.270 per gallon, 77.3 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says prices "could climb slightly higher as we get closer to Labor Day, as oil prices remain under pressure from recent OPEC+ production cuts." Gasoline prices stand just over a dime away from rising back above their year-ago level—something that is possible by the closing summer holiday. In addition, the largest refinery in the Midwest moved up its seasonal maintenance to several weeks earlier than expected, causing a somewhat unexpected jump at the pump in the Great Lakes.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 15, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales for July will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by the start of DTN's Ag Summit Series at 8:30 a.m. Soybean crush estimates from members of the National Soybean Processors Association will follow later Tuesday morning. Traders will keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts and news from Ukraine. Weather A low-pressure center continues to spin around Michigan and will produce areas of showers there and over the far eastern Midwest on Tuesday, but the focus for showers will be along the East Coast. Quieter and relatively cooler air is flowing through more of the country behind it, though hotter temperatures in the Pacific Northwest are leaking out into the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 14, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be paying close attention to the latest weather data and forecasts. Any news from the Black Sea is also high on the list. USDA's weekly export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT and USDA's Crop Progress report is set for 3 p.m. Weather A storm system that plowed through the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest over the weekend continues eastward for Monday, spreading areas of showers and thunderstorms and heavy rain to portions of the Eastern Corn Belt. Some severe weathe

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 11, 2023 |

U.S. Pork Exports Outstanding in First Half of 2023 U.S. pork exports concluded an excellent first half of the year with another strong performance in June. Pork exports in June hit almost 246,000 metric tons, 12 percent higher than in 2022. Export value rose six percent to $691.4 million. Through the first half of 2023, exports were 14 percent above last year’s pace at 1.47 million metric tons and valued at $4.05 billion, 12 percent higher than in 2022. “While Mexico is the pacesetter for U.S. pork exports, what’s exciting is the industry is achieving broad-based growth internationally,” says USMEF president and CEO Dan Halstrom. While below last year’s record pace, June beef exports topped $900 million in value, pushing first-half export value to almost $5 billion. June’s beef exports totaled 115,107 metric tons, down 12 percent from a year ago and slightly below the May volume. Value was $905.5 million. First-half beef exports were 10 percent behind last year. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Positive Economic Impact of Soil Health The Soil Health Institute and the National Association of Conservation Districts announced the results of a nationwide study showing how improving soil health can improve a farmer’s profitability. The study shows farmers can build resilience across a diversity of soil types, geographies, and cropping systems. Among the key findings across 29 farms, Soil Health Management Systems increased net farm income by an average of $65 per acre. On average, when implementing soil health systems, it costs producers $14 an acre less to grow corn, $7 an acre less to grow soybeans, and $16 an acre less to grow all other crops. Yield increases were reported for 42 percent of farms growing corn, 32 percent of farms growing soybeans, and 35 percent of farms growing other crops. Farmers reported additional benefits like decreased erosion and soil compaction, earlier access to fields in wet years, and increased resilience to extreme weather events. *********************************************************************************** Groups Applaud First Senate Veterinary Medicine Caucus The U.S. Senate has established a Veterinary Medicine Caucus for the first time ever. The caucus will focus on increasing awareness toward veterinary-related matters in Congress, educating lawmakers and their staffs about the challenges facing the profession, and advancing the legislation that benefits the veterinary community. The bipartisan caucus will be led by Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). In past years, the House Veterinary Medicine Caucus led the way in introducing key legislation that impacts veterinary medicine, such as the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act and the Healthy Dog Importation Act. The Senate caucus will extend these efforts to their side of the chamber while also helping secure important funding for veterinary-related federal programs. “The AVMA and American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges are dedicated to working with the caucus on raising awareness of the essential services veterinarians provide and the challenges they currently face,” says Dr. Rena Carlson, AVMA president. *********************************************************************************** June Food Price Index Rebounds Slightly The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization’s Food Price Index averaged 123.9 points in July, up 1.5 points, or 1.3 percent, from June. However, it remains 16.6 points or 12 percent below its value in the corresponding month last year. The July rebound was led by a solid rise in the vegetable oils price index and partially offset by a significant decline in the sugar price index. There were small decreases in the price index for cereals, dairy, and meat. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 129.8 points in July, 14 points, or 12 percent higher, than in June. It’s the first increase after seven straight months of declines. The FAO Sugar Price Index averaged 146.3 points in July, 5.9 points, or 3.9 percent lower, than during June. The Dairy Index was down 0.5 points at 116.3. The Meat Price Index was 117.8 points in July, down 0.4 points from June. *********************************************************************************** Most Americans Are “Food Satisfied” The latest Purdue University Consumer Food Insights Report shows consumers who are most satisfied with their food consumption also spend the lowest share of their incomes on food. The July 2023 survey-based report from Purdue’s Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability assesses food spending, consumer satisfaction and values, support for agriculture and food policies, and trust in their information sources. Three of every four Americans who responded say their food satisfaction is thriving. The researchers found that consumers have yet to embrace meat alternatives as better than beef from cattle. Other results include household food-at-home spending is up 4.6 percent from July 2022, reaching its highest level yet. Consumers’ predictions for food inflation over the next 12 months have dropped to 3.7 percent, the lowest level recorded by the Purdue University survey. Food insecurity is a percentage point down from the previous month but higher than the 2022 average. *********************************************************************************** American Lamb Board Survey Deadline is August 14 The American Lamb Board is gathering data about how sheep are raised, cared for, and fed, for use in U.S. Lamb Checkoff Programs and needs producer input. “Our industry needs this information from America’s producers and feeders for consumers but also to help determine where to invest research and industry outreach funding,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair from Buffalo, Wyoming. One lucky U.S. lamb producer or feeder will win a paid trip, including registration, airfare, and hotel, to the 2024 American Sheep Industry Convention in Denver, Colorado, just for completing the survey. The ALB will compare the results of this survey to the findings from a similar survey done in 2011, and this will let the industry identify areas where the industry has improved and issues that need addressing. Also, the survey data will be utilized to communicate with retailers, chefs, consumers, and guide industry education and research efforts.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 11, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. producer prices for July will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early August at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports are set for 11 a.m., followed by estimates of prevented plantings from the Farm Service Agency at noon. DTN's WASDE webinar begins at 12:30 p.m. Weather A system will bring periods of showers and thunderstorms to the central Corn Belt on Friday. Early morning storms are not likely to be severe but are hitting some of the driest areas in northeast Iowa and southern Wisconsin. Additional development this afternoon and evening could end up being severe from eastern Minnesota and Wisconsin through Missouri and adjacent areas. A front across the southern tier remains active with some clusters of showers as well and continues to bottle-up extreme heat to the south.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 10, 2023 |

Getting More Farmers in Carbon Markets American Farmland Trust and Sierra View Solutions released a report titled “Agricultural Carbon Programs: From Chaos to Systems Change.” The report analyzes 22 agricultural carbon markets and recommends changes that would help these programs succeed. The challenge was underscored by Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack, who says, “Among the many reasons why farmers aren’t enrolling in ag carbon programs, one of the most obvious reasons is the offered payments are too low.” Farmers also don’t take part because the ag carbon programs do not adequately define what a “new practice” is, and they are setting arbitrary caps on participation in different areas. A third problem area is that carbon programs originally designed for forestry projects are being applied to farmers and create unrealistic requirements to sequester carbon for 40 to 100 years. There are also concerns about the length of time for each carbon program and data and technology barriers for agriculture. *********************************************************************************** NASS Releases 2023 Land Values Summary The U.S. farm real estate value, a measurement of the value of all land and buildings on farms, averaged $4,080 per acre for 2023. That’s up $280 per acre, or 7.4 percent, from 2022. The U.S. cropland value averaged $5,460 per acre, an increase of $410 per acre, or 8.1 percent, from the previous year. The U.S. pasture value averaged $1,760 per acre, up $110 per acre, or 6.7 percent from 2022. Among the notable state-level data, the NASS Iowa Field Office says that “Cropland cash rent paid to Iowa landlords in 2023 averaged $269 per acre. Non-irrigated cropland rent averaged $269 per acre, while irrigated cropland averaged $271 an acre, $13 and $19 higher, respectively, compared to last year. Cropland was valued at $10,100 per acre, $750 higher than 2022. In Minnesota, cropland cash rent averaged $198 per acre. Cropland, at $6,820 an acre, was $620 higher than 2022. *********************************************************************************** NACD Targets Local Climate-Smart Conservation Projects The National Association of Conservation Districts is looking for concept papers as it launches the first phase of its $90 million program funded by USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. The program will advance grassroots efforts to ensure producers and local communities are prepared to meet the growing demand for climate-smart commodity markets. Through its network of 3,000 conservation districts and partners, NACD anticipates reaching more than 1,400 producers, more than half of which will be small and underserved producers. With nearly half of the program budget dedicated to producer incentives and payments, it aims to implement climate-smart practices on over 430,000 acres and reduce or sequester over 1.5 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent. NACD wants concept papers detailing innovative ideas that scale implementation of climate-smart practices, advance greenhouse gas measurement, monitoring, reporting, and verification, or support producer participation in resulting markets. The organization will then support project development through a matchmaking process. *********************************************************************************** Bill Would Expand Access to Dairy Products in SNAP A new bipartisan bill introduced in Congress looks to expand access to dairy products for all program recipients. The legislation would amend the Healthy Milk Fluids Incentive program and allow SNAP recipients to get more products like yogurt and cheese. The bill, introduced by Jim Costa and Nick Langworthy, is intended to boost dairy intake and support U.S. dairy farmers. Ninety percent of Americans don’t get enough dairy in their diet. Food Navigator says the bill is endorsed by the International Dairy Foods Association, National Milk Producers Federation, and the National Grocers Association. The bill’s title says it aims to “amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to establish a dairy nutrition incentive program.” The IDFA says the new Dairy Incentives Program Act will enhance the HFMI program’s scope by adding whole and reduced-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt. Michael Dykes of IDFA says milk, cheese, and yogurt are “nutritional powerhouses.” *********************************************************************************** China’s Ag Imports Rise So Far in 2023 China imported more agricultural products in the first six months of 2023 than it did during the same period in 2022 as soybean prices surged higher. The value of those agricultural imports in the first half of this year rose over eight percent compared with the same time in 2022. USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service report says exports overall were relatively flat. Soybean imports jumped 11 percent to a value of $30 billion, while volume rose 14 percent to 52.6 million metric tons. Grain import purchases were up seven percent year-over-year to $45.4 billion as volume gained 4.% percent to 83.4 million metric tons. The agency says Edible vegetable oils saw the biggest percentage increase as the value of those imports rose 139 percent to $5.3 billion, and volume jumped 79 percent higher to 4.5 million metric tons. Chinese imports of U.S. soybeans. gained 12 percent to almost 20 million metric tons. *********************************************************************************** Drought Covers 100% of Iowa A few consecutive dry weeks are giving crops in Iowa varying degrees of drought stress. An Iowa State University Extension expert says there hasn’t been much measurable rainfall for as many as three weeks in many areas. Prior to that dry spell, Iowa had been getting just enough rain at times to get by. Much of the dry weather came when corn and soybeans entered their reproductive stages, which is when those crops need rain the most. A corn or soybean crop typically needs 20 inches of moisture from rainfall and subsoil moisture to produce a crop. However, ISU expert Gentry Sorenson told Successful Farming, “We had a couple of counties that didn’t get any substantial soil moisture recharge through this year. ” Over 17 percent of Iowa’s acres are abnormally dry while 52 percent of the state is in D1 moderate drought. D2 severe drought is impacting 26 percent of the state.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 10, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, consumer price index for July and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Treasury budget for July at 2 p.m. Weather A system that moved through the southern end of the Corn Belt over the past couple of days is pushing into the Southeast where clusters of thunderstorms continue, some of which may be severe. Another system is moving through the Northern Plains. While showers are scattered and light Thursday morning, they are expected to intensify this afternoon and evening as they go through the eastern Dakotas and Nebraska, then into Minnesota and Iowa this evening and overnight.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 9, 2023 |

States Pushing for Year-round E15 Ethanol groups welcome efforts by Nebraska and Iowa prompting the Environmental Protection Agency to create regulations to allow for year-round sales of E15 in at least eight Midwest states. Earlier this year, the governors of Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, and Ohio sent letters to EPA calling for parity between E10 and E15 in their states. EPA proposed a rule in March to make regulatory changes to implement year-round sales of E15 in those states beginning in the summer of 2024.EPA issued temporary emergency waivers to allow continued E15 sales this summer and last summer, but the industry seeks a long-term solution. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "We're hopeful that the action taken by Iowa and Nebraska today will help break the logjam and cause EPA to complete the process as soon as possible." Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor adds, “EPA needs to act now so that fuel retailers have the regulatory clarity they need to make investments and expand access to E15.” *********************************************************************************** NCBA Slams Presidential Overreach in Latest Antiquities Act Designation the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association slammed President Biden’s use of the Antiquities Act to put sweeping federal designations on over a million additional acres of land in Arizona. NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says, “NCBA is strongly opposed to the continued abuse of the Antiquities Act, and we urge President Biden to listen to the local communities that will be hurt by this designation.” The organization says the designation “adds insult to injury” for communities that are unheard and intentionally removed from land management conversations. Additionally, the Biden administration failed to communicate with the affected landowners prior to the designation and their so-called public opinion meeting and poll failed to gather perspective from the people most impacted by this decision. The Antiquities Act gives the President of the United States broad power establish national monuments from existing federal lands. NCBA says the designations are especially harmful to rural communities that rely on federal lands for their livelihood, such as public lands ranchers. *********************************************************************************** EPA Affirms Farmers’ Right to Repair In a letter to the National Farmers Union, the Environmental Protection Agency affirmed that the Clean Air Act cannot be used as a basis to restrict independent repair of farm equipment. In their opposition to Right to Repair legislation, equipment manufacturers and dealers have invoked EPA regulations and the Clean Air Act – specifically related to tampering with emissions control systems – as justification for their need to restrict repair. NFU President Rob Larew says, “EPA confirmed what farmers have known all along – equipment manufacturers have been using bad faith justifications to restrict independent repair.” EPA Administrator Michael Regan stated that “Like NFU and its members, EPA believes barriers to the proper repair and maintenance of nonroad equipment is harmful to the environment.” NFU strongly supports a federal legislative solution that guarantees farmers and independent mechanics the Right to Repair farm equipment on fair and reasonable terms and costs. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Suppliers Meet with Latin American Buyers Red meat buyers from Central and South America and the Caribbean recently met with U.S. suppliers in Colombia, during the 11th edition of the U.S. Meat Export Federation Latin American Product Showcase. With 70 U.S. exporting companies exhibiting at the showcase, 220 importers had the opportunity to meet U.S. suppliers and arrange purchases of a wide range of U.S. red meat products. The value and versatility of underutilized pork, beef and lamb cuts were a focus of the educational activities during the showcase. U.S. industry leaders in attendance also toured a distribution center and several types of retail outlets. Randy Spronk, a farmer from Edgerton, Minnesota, who serves as USMEF chair-elect, attended his third Latin American Product Showcase. He says, "It's great for those that fund USMEF to be able to see what those funds actually do and show the return on their investment." *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Foods Closing 35 Missouri Hog Farms Smithfield Foods will close 35 hog farm operations in Missouri, according to a state-required workforce adjustment notification. The notice indicated 92 employees would be affected by the closures, slated for August. Murphy Brown LLC, a division of Smithfield Foods, is reducing hog farming operations in Missouri and "must reduce its workforce accordingly," a company spokesperson told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Employees impacted by the closures were offered the chance to relocate to other hog-producing facilities operated by the company. Smithfield Foods is the world's largest pork processor and is owned by Hong Kong's WH Group. The announcement follows Tyson Foods' plans to close four chicken processing plants across the United States. Tyson plans to close operations next year at four facilities located in Arkansas, Indiana and Missouri. The U.S. meat industry is facing demand struggles in both pork and poultry thanks to increased prices and inflation, amid higher feed and labor costs. *********************************************************************************** USDA: WIC Participation Increased in 2022 USDA's Economic Research Service reports an increase in participants in the Women, Infants and Children, or WIC program, in 2022. The increase represents the first growth in the program in more than a decade. Participation averaged 6.26 million people a month, up from 6.24 million a month in fiscal year 2021. This was the first increase in overall participation since the record high 9.18 million in fiscal year 2010. Women participants increased by 1.5 percent in fiscal year 2022 after declining for the previous 12 fiscal years, whereas infant participants continued to decline. Declines in the number of births in the United States, beginning in 2008, may be a factor in drops in infant participation, according to USDA. WIC provides supplemental food packages, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and health care referrals at no cost to low-income pregnant and postpartum women, infants younger than one-year-old, and children one to five years old who are at nutritional risk.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 9, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report, including ethanol production is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT, Wednesday's only significant report. Traders will continue to keep close watch on weather and events in Ukraine. Weather A system in the Central Plains will move eastward through the southern half of the Corn Belt Wednesday and into Thursday as well. Widespread showers and thunderstorms, some heavy and strong, will follow the system. Other showers will develop over northern areas with a front dropping south.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 8, 2023 |

Tyson Foods to Close Four Chicken Facilities Tyson Foods Monday announced the planned closure of four chicken processing facilities in the United States. Tyson Foods will close facilities in North Little Rock, Arkansas, Corydon, Indiana, Dexter, Missouri and Noel, Missouri. The company will shift production to other facilities and cease operations at the impacted locations in the first half of fiscal year 2024. Donnie King, Tyson Foods President and CEO, says, "While current market dynamics remain challenging, Tyson Foods is fully committed to our vision of delivering sustainable, top-line growth and margin improvement." Tyson made the announcement as part of its third-quarter fiscal year 2023 results. The company reported a 7.5 percent, or $324 million, operating loss on chicken operations, and a 5.6 percent loss in pork. Tyson Foods will evaluate the financial statement impact of the closures for charges related to contract terminations, impairments, accelerated depreciation, severance and retention and estimates total charges of $300 to $400 million. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Shifts Schools Strategy The dairy checkoff marked its 13th year of impact through Fuel Up to Play 60 –while preparing a strategy to bring more partners together. Beginning this school year, the checkoff will shift to the "Fuel Up" platform. The effort will expand opportunities to increase access to dairy with other foods and engage youth around healthy eating and food production. With the announcement, Dairy Management Inc. is transitioning from a partnership with the NFL to a no-cost collaboration, which paves the way to co-create programs that support youth wellness. DMI President and CEO Barbara O'Brien says, "We need to think differently to protect farmers' ability to deliver long-term value to children and in schools." Fuel Up will work with schools and partners to deliver solutions and resources that increase access to dairy products, expand meal participation and educate students on the role of nutrition in physical wellness and academic achievement. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests Nearly $30 Million to Boost School Nutrition The Department of Agriculture Monday announced nearly $30 million in subgrants to improve school nutrition. The funding is part of USDA's Healthy Meals Incentives Initiative, Action for Healthy Kids. The funding will span 264 school districts across 44 states and the District of Columbia. USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (So-CHEEL) Torres Small says, "With these funds, small and rural school districts will be able to modernize their operations and provide more nutritious meals." Each small or rural school district will receive up to $150,000 to support improving the nutritional quality of their meals and modernizing their operations. The efforts include innovative staff training, kitchen updates and renovations, redesigning food preparation and service spaces, and school-district-led initiatives. An online map features the selected school districts and their grant amounts. The map will be updated on a rolling basis as schools formalize their grant agreements. To learn more about other resources USDA provides to strengthen school meal programs, visit the USDA Support for School Meals webpage. *********************************************************************************** Organic Fresh Produce Sales up 1.5% Organic fresh produce grew slightly in sales dollars and volume in the second quarter of 2023, reversing a trend of volume loss seen in 2021 and 2022. Overall, organic fresh produce dollar sales increased by 1.5 percent for Q2 2023 compared to the same period last year, with sales for the quarter topping $2.4 billion. Volume movement nudged up slightly less than one percent, reversing a downward volume trend that started in 2021. During Q2 2023, conventional produce dollar sales grew by two percent, while volume declined by 1.3 percent, as total sales topped $18.8 billion. The Organic Produce Network and Category Partners reports, “The rate of organic sales growth--while still positive--slowed compared to past years, giving volume a chance to match that growth.” In the second quarter of this year, 11 of the top 20 organic fresh produce categories posted increases in dollar sales compared to the same period last year. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Membership Reaches All-Time High The National FFA Organization Monday announced a record-high student membership of 945,988, an increase of 11 percent from last year. In addition, the number of FFA chapters continues to grow — increasing by 168 this year, resulting in 9,163 chapters in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. National FFA CEO Scott Stump says, “It’s exciting to see our numbers grow and know we continue to influence the next generation of leaders,” adding, “We’re excited to see the enthusiasm for agricultural education and FFA reflected in our membership.” The top five membership states are Texas, California, Georgia, Illinois and North Carolina. This year, the organization has more than 150,000 Latino members, more than 50,000 Black members, more than 9,000 Asian members, more than 14,000 American Indian and Alaska Native members, and more than 2,400 Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander members. More than 43 percent of the membership is female, and 49.8 percent is male. *********************************************************************************** Gas and Diesel Prices Move Higher Again The nation's average price of gasoline rose 7.8 cents last week to $3.79 per gallon, and diesel jumped 14.9 cents to $4.14 per gallon. The increases follow the rise in oil prices and pressure from hot weather that impacted refineries. However, the pace of increases has started to slow and appears to have peaked over the weekend and is beginning to gently fall, according to GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan. The fuel market expert says, “Diesel will likely continue to see upward momentum while gasoline price increases should become more limited.” The price of crude oil has rallied for six straight weeks. In recent days, fundamentals have remained solidly in control behind the upward move, as Saudi Arabia continues its severe one million barrel per day production cut, driving prices higher. In addition, government data last week showed the largest weekly decline in U.S. crude oil inventories on record.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 8, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. trade deficit for June is due out at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, followed by the Energy Department's Short-Term Energy Outlook later Tuesday morning. Traders will continue to keep a close watch on weather and events in Ukraine. DTN's Digital Yield Tour continues Tuesday with closer looks at Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. Weather A front that has set up from Oklahoma to the Southeast will be active Tuesday with scattered showers and thunderstorms occurring. A piece of energy moving into the Central Plains will produce more widespread showers and thunderstorms, some of which could be severe. With a front dropping south into the northern states as well, it remains an active pattern for Tuesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 7, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Yield Tour, WASDE, and Drought Relief OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Aug. 6. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms. 1. DTN Digital Yield Tour: Monday we'll have national yield numbers to kick off the sixth DTN Digital Yield Tour Powered by Gro Intelligence. With all the hit-and-miss rains, the heat, and relatively low pest issues so far this season, it will be truly interesting to see what the satellites and yield models see in terms of yield potential in corn and soybean fields. 2. August WASDE Friday: It will be a market-critical week, culminating in the August World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report. As always, we'll have flash coverage moments after 11:00 a.m. CDT, with updates and analysis throughout the morning. 3. Heat continues retreat: The slow-moving front that drove weather this past week will move south, bringing rain potential to Kansas, Oklahoma, and areas further south. We'll look for the U.S. Drought Monitor update Thursday morning, which will only add to a week full of information on crops as they work through pollination and fill periods. Expect more rains where it has rained, driven by the humidity in those areas. 4. Prop 12 news continues: We had extensive coverage this past week on the influence of California's Proposition 12, which regulates pork sales in that state. Look for more discussion around federal efforts to overrule those regulations. 5. Expected economic reports: We'll be watching and responding to a host of government economic reports. Monday sees USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT and the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Note that Canada markets are closed. On Tuesday, the U.S. trade deficit report for June hits at 7:30 a.m., with the Energy Department's Short-Term Energy Outlook later that morning. Wednesday the Energy Department releases weekly energy inventory numbers at 9:30 a.m. On Thursday, we'll look for USDA weekly export sales report, the U.S. weekly jobless claims, and the consumer price index for July. Those and U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy report on natural gas storage hits at 9:30 a.m., with the Treasury budget for July at 2 p.m. On Friday the U.S. producer prices for July are revealed at 7:30 a.m., while the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early August comes at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 7, 2023 |

Minneapolis Fed Says Interest Rates Hit Least-Profitable Producers Hardest The Minneapolis Federal Reserve took a look at interest rates and how they are affecting producers in recent months. Interest rates have risen dramatically since last year, raising the cost of borrowing money. Ag producers in the Ninth District face additional expenses arising from supply issues and economic uncertainty. Interest rates have doubled since 2022 for agricultural producers after a decade of historically low and stable rates. The district’s least-profitable producers have higher debt per crop acre compared with the most profitable ones. As rates rapidly increase, cash flow projections for the least-profitable farmers are more sensitive to interest expenses. Increased production expenses could require them to secure even more funding due to lower working capital levels per acre farmed. In most years, the least-profitable producers spend up to three times more on interest expenses per crop acre farmed. Elevated interest rates will continue impacting producers this year and beyond. *********************************************************************************** Large Pork Producers Don’t Favor Overturning Prop 12 Legislation has been introduced in Congress that would overturn California’s Prop 12. Reuters says some of the country’s biggest pork producers who’ve already spent money to comply with the California requirements don’t favor throwing out Prop 12. The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act would curb states’ ability to regulate agricultural products sold within their borders. The bill was introduced in the Senate by Roger Marshall (R-KS) and the House by Representatives by Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and supported by the National Pork Producers Council. Prop 12 bans sales within California of pork, veal, and eggs from animals whose housing conditions fail to meet certain standards. Clements Food Group, the fifth-largest pork processor in the country, says it won’t support the EATS Act. Some of the larger producers in the country like Tyson Foods and Smithfield have said publicly that they’ll be complying with the law when it takes effect on January 1. *********************************************************************************** Support for Crop Insurance is a Theme at Minnesota Farmfest Farmers and policymakers gathered at Farmfest in Minnesota to discuss the important issues in rural America. One regular topic during the House Ag Committee’s listening session was crop insurance. Farmers asked the elected officials in attendance to protect and strengthen crop insurance as they write the next farm bill. Richard Syverson, President of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, said, “On behalf of thousands of farm families in this state, as you craft this bill, please do no harm to crop insurance. It’s the cornerstone of the farm safety net.” Bob Worth, president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers, expressed the need to protect and strengthen crop insurance so that younger farmers can afford crop insurance coverage. Without the protection provided by crop insurance, those young farmers might not be able to get the working capital they need to plant another season.” House Ag Chair G.T. Thompson was a part of the panel. *********************************************************************************** Drought Conditions Persist in the Missouri River Basin July runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 3.3 million acre-feet, 99 percent of the average. Runoff was near or above average in all reaches except the Fort Peck reach, which was 68 percent of the average. “Soil moisture conditions deteriorated in Montana, North Dakota, and northern South Dakota over the last month and improved across southern South Dakota and into the lower basin,” says John Remus, Army Corps of Engineers Chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. Precipitation was below normal over most of the upper Missouri River basin last month except for small areas in Wyoming and southern South Dakota. The lower basin saw a mix of above-and-below-normal precipitation. The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City is 28.5-million-acre feet, 111 percent of average. System storage on August 1 was 56.3-million-acre feet, 0.2-million-acre feet above the base of the Annual Flood Control and Multiple Use zone. *********************************************************************************** USGC Host Japanese Delegation to Show Off Ethanol Benefits A Japanese delegation recently visited the U.S. to meet with several key policymakers, U.S. Grains Council Staff in Washington, D.C., and visit corn fields and ethanol plants. As part of the Council’s ethanol promotion efforts in Japan, this program aimed to promote ethanol direct blending and new uses of ethanol, including sustainable aviation fuel. The delegation was able to learn more about U.S. policies and incentives in place related to climate change and ethanol. The delegation was led by Akira Amari, a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and the House of Representatives in Japan. “It was important to make sure that Mr. Amari, an influential policy maker, and a strong biofuel advocate, understands the supply capacity of U.S. corn ethanol to meet the growing demand for direct blending and SAF in Japan,” says Tommy Hamamoto, USGC director in Japan. “He was impressed by our robust corn production and ethanol supply.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Holds Ribbon Cutting at New Texas Lab The USDA’s Agricultural Research Service held a dedication last week for the opening of a newly-renovated Grassland, Soil, and Water Research Laboratory in Temple, Texas. The new building will help scientists continue their mission of developing solutions for more efficient use of soil and water resources, enhancing forage and crop production, and supporting sustainable agricultural production by utilizing modern technology. The new lab will focus on several research projects, including enhancing decision support tools for crop and forage production and watershed management. Other projects include developing improved soil, water, and crop management techniques and developing sustainable crop, forage, and biofuel production systems. The scientists also want to increase rangeland productivity and quality and mitigate global climate change effects on agriculture.. ARS Laboratory Research Leader Dr. Douglas Smith says they’re excited to have the facility ready to meet the research needs to support agricultural producers and decision-makers in the years ahead.”

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 7, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check rainfall amounts and look at the new forecasts. There will also be interest in any news regarding Ukraine. DTN's Digital Yield Tour kicks off Monday with national corn and soybean estimates from Gro Intelligence. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Canada's markets are closed. Weather A system from the weekend that brought widespread precipitation to the Corn Belt will continue over eastern areas on Monday, exiting to the east overnight. The system left behind a front from Oklahoma to the Southeast which will remain active today as well. Another system moving through the West will get into the Central Plains Monday evening, sparking additional showers and thunderstorms as the week becomes very active.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 4, 2023 |

Farm Credit System’s Net Income Drops in 2023 The Farm Credit System’s combined net income decreased 1.4 percent to $1.78 billion for the three and six months ending on June 30, 2023. That’s compared with net income of $1.81 billion and $3.57 billion for the same periods during 2022. “Despite a challenging external environment, the System recognized solid financial results for the first half of 2023,” says Tracey McCabe, president and CEO of the Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corporation. “A strong balance sheet and seasoned underwriting professionals continue to position the System to support the needs of our member-borrowers.” Net income increased $200 million or 7.6 percent to $2.8 billion for the second quarter of 2023 and $420 million or 8.1 percent to $5.6 billion for the six months ending on June 30, compared to the same periods last year. The net income increases primarily resulted from higher levels of earnings driven in part by increased loan volume. *********************************************************************************** Mandatory Base Acre Update Creates “Winners and Losers” For more than 20 years and the last four farm bills, farm program payments were based on a farm’s historical planted acreage, or base acres, and not on actual plantings each year. Several agricultural groups and stakeholders are pushing for an update to base acres in the next farm bill. However, Senate Ag Committee Republicans released a report saying a mandatory base acre update would force farmers to update their farm’s base acres to reflect a more recent snapshot of their planting history. The economic effects would be significant and are conservatively estimated to result in an overall loss of $2 billion to farmers and rural communities because of a decline in farm program benefits in fiscal years 2024 to 2033. “Few in agriculture would benefit from a base acre update,” the report says. “It would create winners and losers and would certainly complicate efforts to pass a farm bill.” *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Create a Permanent Disaster Relief Program Four elected officials from California introduced the “Agricultural Emergency Relief Act” to create a permanent USDA structure that would provide relief to farmers hurt by natural disasters. While Congress routinely provides disaster relief to farmers hurt by natural disasters, the lack of a permanent program has resulted in multiple administrative changes. That can cause confusion for farmers and result in unnecessary delays in implementation. Representative Mike Thompson of California was one of the co-sponsors. He says, “California and many other states have been hit hard by disasters. It’s clear we need a permanent disaster relief program. This bill will help streamline the process for all farmers and growers to receive the relief they deserve.” The legislation would formally authorize a program that already has funding from 2022 and 2023 omnibus bills. It will require farmers who apply for relief payments to purchase crop insurance for two years after receiving a payment. *********************************************************************************** Young Agricultural Leaders Win Awards at Ag Media Summit During the 2023 Ag Media Summit in California, agricultural communications students were honored for their excellence, professionalism, and leadership. The Livestock Publications Council Student Award, sponsored by Alltech, provides travel scholarships for four students to attend the AMS. Following a competitive application and interview process, Carlye (CAR-lee) Winfrey of Texas Tech University won the LPC Forest Bassford Student Award. She’s a senior currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Communications and minoring in political science. “In my future career, I want to help shape policy to best serve the people of rural America,” Winfrey says. “My degree will allow me to walk through the halls of Congress and share the stories that rural America is so desperately needing to be told.” Jenn Norrie, Alltech’s communications manager for North America and Europe, says, “Alltech is proud to support the next generation of agricultural communicators as the ambassadors and voice of our industry.” *********************************************************************************** House Farm Bill Will Address California’s Prop 12 The House Ag Committee Chair says he plans to use the upcoming farm bill to deal with California’s Prop 12 that was upheld by the Supreme Court. Roll Call says pork producers across the country have said this will lead to patchwork laws between states that will interfere with commerce. At Minnesota’s Farmfest, Glenn “GT” Thompson said the Supreme Court did say in its decision that Congress has the power to address the issues caused by Prop 12. However, Congress has chosen not to deal with those issues in the past. Thompson addressed the audience during a farm bill listening session and said the court let it stand because they’re tired of handling Congressional work. Thompson didn’t specify if the Ag Committee would write its own legislation or use pending legislation to deal with California’s law. Bills have already been introduced in both congressional chambers that would nullify Prop 12. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production and Stockpiles Fall Energy Information Administration data shows that ethanol output and inventories dropped to three-week lows during the week ending on July 28. The biofuel production dropped to an average of 1.06 million barrels a day during the week. The EIA report says that’s down from 1.094 million barrels the previous week and the lowest level since July 7. In the Midwest, the largest producing region in the country, output dropped to 1.005 million barrels a day, on average, from 1.02 million a week earlier. The agency said that’s also the lowest point in three weeks. West Coast production was closer to normal levels of 13,000 barrels a day, down from the previous week’s record total of 25,000 barrels. Production on the Gulf Coast, Rocky Mountain region, and East Coast levels were unchanged from the previous week. Ethanol inventories shrank to 22.86 million barrels a day, down from 23.28 million a week earlier.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 4, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for July at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the only significant reports of the day. Traders will remain focused on the latest weather forecasts and events in Ukraine. Weather A stalled frontal boundary continues to be active from the Central Plains to the Tennessee Valley Friday morning, producing areas of heavy rain and flooding. A system is moving out of the central Rockies and into the Northern Plains and is forecast to produce areas of thunderstorms, some of which may be severe toward the front in the south, as well as bouts of heavy rain which may improve soil moisture, but also lead to potential flooding. As has been the case all week long, areas south of the stalled front continue to be very hot.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 3, 2023 |

USDA Partnership Will Strengthen Rural America’s Workforce The U.S. Department of Agriculture is partnering with the Community College Alliance for Agriculture Advancement to strengthen the nation’s rural workforce. USDA’S Acting Rural Development Undersecretary Roger Glendenning made the announcement this week. Through this partnership, USDA and the Alliance will provide community college students in the Midwest with the resources and skill sets that will help them advance in careers in agriculture and rural economic development. This will help ensure America’s rural communities have the leaders and workforce needed to thrive. “USDA works with rural communities to make sure people everywhere have the resources they need to access quality education and good-paying jobs,” Glendenning says. “That’s why we’re finding new ways to work with our partners to ensure our students have the tools they will need to succeed in their coursework today so they can thrive in their careers tomorrow.” For more information on the partnership, go to rd.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Battle Continues Over EATS Act Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) recently said, “We’re getting the heck beat out of us” on the Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression Act. While Marshall led the Senate introduction, U.S. Representative Ashley Hinson (R-IA) introduced a companion bill in the House. For two months, members of the Organization for Competitive Markets, Competitive Markets Action, the Kansas Cattlemen’s Association, and several other groups and organizations have declared their opposition to the EATS Act. The groups call the measure “an assault on state’s rights, and a gift to Chinese pork conglomerates like Smithfield. They are determined to prevent the measure from marginalizing American family farmers and “opening the floodgates” to China’s takeover of American agriculture. Enacting the EATS Act via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws and pave the way for even more foreign intrusion without guardrails. OCM and CMA are spearheading an anti-EATS Act campaign that began in June. *********************************************************************************** RFA Asks EPA to Approve Midwest E15 Petition The Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter this week to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan regarding the E15 RVP Petition from several Midwest Governors. The association wants Regan and his agency to finalize its regulations accepting the petition of eight Midwest governors that would reduce evaporative emissions and allow summertime sales of the lower-cost, low-carbon E15 fuel blend in their states. “Three months have passed since EPA’s public comment period ended, and more than a year has passed since EPA’s statutory deadline to promulgate a final rule approving the Governors’ petition,” wrote RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “And yet, despite strong public support for EPA’s proposal, the agency still has not finalized the rule or publicly provided a schedule for doing so.” He also said the RFA wants the final rule published as soon as possible because the 2024 summer ozone control season is only nine months away. *********************************************************************************** Fertilizer Prices Continue Dropping From Peak Levels in 2022 After reaching historic highs in 2022, prices for major fertilizers have trended consistently lower since then. Farmdoc Daily from the University of Illinois says supply and demand fundamentals, as well as some resolution of the ongoing impacts of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, were contributing factors. Fertilizer prices peaked during the second quarter of 2022. Anhydrous ammonia reached $1,635 per ton in June 2022 and has since declined by almost 47 percent to $870 per ton on July 27. Urea and liquid nitrogen, at $497 per ton and $536 per ton on July 27, have dropped over 50 percent and almost 22 percent, respectively, from their highs reached in 2022. DAP prices have fallen by 20 percent from more than $1,000 per ton in June 2022 to $822 per ton on July 27. Potash prices have fallen over 35 percent to $558 a ton from a peak of $865 in April 2022. *********************************************************************************** Pork Producers Sue Massachusetts Over Animal Housing Law Triumph Foods and a group of Midwest pork producers are suing Massachusetts over its Question 3 law and others that set minimum housing requirements for livestock. The plaintiffs are challenging the constitutionality of the Q3 law and seeking immediate relief from the law before it takes effect on August 24. They also want enforcement stayed until the litigation is complete. The law was approved by voters in 2016, and the plaintiffs say it creates challenges to interstate commerce and places burdensome costs on pork producers outside of Massachusetts. The complaint comes months after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of California’s Prop 12 animal housing regulations. While both California and Massachusetts laws impose housing standards for pork, producers argue Q3 goes further by not allowing the transshipment of whole pork throughout the state. That nuance in the Massachusetts law set off multiple lawsuits filed by restaurant, hospitality, and agriculture groups. *********************************************************************************** Corn Used for Ethanol Down Compared to Last Year USDA data shows corn used to make ethanol and other fuels increased month-to-month in June but were down year-over-year. The amount of corn used to make fuel alcohol was 442.5 million bushels during June, up from 439 million in May. But that was down from the 444.2 million bushels processed during the same month in 2022. The bulk of the corn, at 407.7 million bushels, was used in dry milling, and the rest was wet-milled. Dried Distiller’s Grain production fell six percent on a monthly basis to 390,664 metric tons. The output of DDGs with solubles rose five percent to 1.79 million tons. Processors are expected to use 5.23 billion bushels of corn to produce ethanol in the 2022-2023 marketing year that ends on August 31. Corn use is forecast to rise to 5.3 billion bushels in the next marketing year. Production is projected to be 13.73 billion bushels this year.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 3, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly jobless claims, a report on second-quarter productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for June are set for 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Traders remain attentive to weather and Ukraine. Weather A front that has been stalled out from the Central Plains through the Tennessee Valley all week remains active on Thursday with areas of showers and thunderstorms Thursday morning and likely again later in the day. Some heavy rainfall across the eastern end of the front could produce some flooding. Another system will be moving through the central Rockies, inducing some stronger thunderstorms on the western end of the front Thursday afternoon and evening. Some severe weather and heavy rain will be possible there as well. South of the front it continues to be very hot.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 2, 2023 |

Farmers Remain Cautiously Optimistic About Ag Economy Farmer sentiment rebounded in June as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 17 points to a reading of 121. June’s sentiment improvement left the index near the April reading of 123 after a one-month swoon in May. Producers report a more optimistic view of the future as the Index of Future Expectations rose 25 points to 123, while their perception of the current situation was unchanged. The Index of Current Conditions reading, at 116, was the same as in May. This month’s Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from June 12-16, 2023. The more optimistic view of the future held by respondents was reflected across the board as the Farm Financial Conditions, Short and Long-Term Farmland Value Expectations, and Farm Capital Investment indices all improved in June compared to May. Looking ahead, one-fourth of corn/soybean producers said they expect farmland cash rental rates to rise in 2024. *********************************************************************************** House Ag Chair Hoping for September Farm Bill Markup The Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee plans to release a draft Farm Bill at the end of August. During a Farm Bill listening session in Maine this week, Representative Glenn GT Thompson told the Hagstrom Report he plans a markup "in mid-September," but only if the leadership has told him what week the bill will be scheduled to come up on the House floor. However, that depends on when House leadership will schedule floor time for the bill. The Pennsylvania Republican told attendees of the listening session, "This farm bill is going to be bipartisan, bicameral, on time and highly effective," adding, "Now the time part, we only control the House, we do not control the Senate, but we are doing our job." The House Agriculture Committee is holding additional listening sessions, including one Wednesday (today) at FarmFest in Minnesota. The current Farm Bill expires at the end of the Fiscal Year, September 30, 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases 2022 Farm Expenditures Report At the end of July, the Department of Agriculture released the 2022 United States Total Farm Production Expenditures summary. Farm production expenditures in the United States are estimated at $452.7 billion for 2022, up from $392.9 billion in 2021. The 2022 total farm production expenditures are up 15.2 percent compared with 2021 total farm production expenditures. The four largest expenditures totaled $219.6 billion, accounting for 48.5 percent of total expenditures in 2022. These include feed, 18.5 percent, farm services, 10.8 percent, livestock, poultry, and related expenses, 10.1 percent, and labor, 9.2 percent. In 2022, the United States total farm expenditure average per farm is $226,986, up 15.8 percent from $196,087 in 2021. On average, United States farm operations spent $41,917 on feed, $22,864 on livestock, poultry, and related expenses, $24,469 on farm services, and $20,858 on labor. California contributed most to the 2022 United States total expenditures, with expenses of $46.0 billion. Iowa, the next leading state, has $35.7 billion in expenses. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Bill Supports Rural Fishing Communities New legislation would allow businesses that directly support the fishing industry to access existing agriculture loan programs. Introduced by Representatives Chellie Pingree, a Maine Democrat, and Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican, the Fishing Industry Credit Enhancement Act would allow businesses that provide direct assistance to fishing operations, like gear producers or cold storage, to access loans from the Farm Credit System. Pingree says, “Small businesses that directly help our iconic fishing industry should be able to depend on the Farm Credit System as countless farmers, ranchers, and loggers have for decades.” Higgins adds, “Our legislation provides greater parity for America’s seafood producers and the supporting industries.” Farm Credit Council President and CEO Todd Van Hoose says, “Supporting rural communities is a vital piece of Farm Credit’s mission, and this bill will provide more financing options for our rural fishing communities.” Senators Angus King, an Independent from Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, introduced a companion bill in the Senate. *********************************************************************************** Draft Guidance Not Enough to Prevent Misleading Labeling, NMPF Tells FDA The National Milk Producers Federation says the Food and Drug Administration’s plant-based beverage proposal “falls woefully short of ending the decades-old problem of misleading plant-based labeling using dairy terminology.” In comments to the FDA on the proposal, NMPF emphasized the importance of transparent product labeling to ensure consumer understanding. NMPF president and CEO Jim Mulhern says, "FDA's draft guidance is an encouraging first step toward promoting labeling transparency in the marketplace, but it's not enough." In its comments, NMPF commended FDA for its acknowledgment of consumer confusion over the nutritional content of dairy imitators. Still, NMPF cautioned FDA to adhere to the law by going through the proper legal process, as outlined in NMPF's Citizen Petition and comments. Because of the voluntary nature of the proposed guidance and FDA's undependable labeling enforcement history, NMPF continues its work in Congress to pass the bipartisan, bicameral DAIRY PRIDE Act, which would direct FDA to enforce its own rules and clarify that dairy terms are for true dairy products. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Groups Welcome Flex Fuel Fairness Act Ethanol groups welcome new legislation that seeks to level the playing field for vehicles running on low-carbon liquid fuels like ethanol. Senators Pete Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, and Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, introduced the Flex Fuel Fairness Act last week. The legislation, according to the lawmakers, would provide a meaningful incentive for automakers to manufacture flex-fuel vehicles in addition to battery electric vehicles. Currently, the Biden administration's Environmental Protection Agency has prioritized regulations that favor dramatically increasing production of EVs and forcing them on consumers, according to Senator Rickets, who says, "The Biden EPA has made a mistake and ignored the proven benefits of flex fuel vehicles that can run higher ethanol blends.” Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This bill would level the playing field, so both electricity and low-carbon biofuels can drive progress toward a net-zero future.” Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper adds, “This legislation helps unlock the potential of renewable fuels and puts more tools in the toolbox for automakers.”

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 2, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The Energy Department's weekly energy inventories will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday and is the only significant report of the day. Traders continue to keep close watch over the weather and any news regarding Ukraine's grain shipments. Weather A stalled boundary around Missouri is especially active early Wednesday morning with heavy rain and training thunderstorms from southern Iowa and along the Mid-Mississippi Valley. This zone is forecast to be especially active for much of the day, which could bring flooding rains to areas in significant drought and potential severe weather. The boundary will be active across the Central Plains as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 1, 2023 |

Farmer to Farmer Education Act Introduced in Senate Senators recently introduced the Farmer to Farmer Education Act. Senators Ben Ray Luján, a New Mexico Democrat, and Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, introduced the bill last week. The legislation would leverage existing technical assistance resources by supporting farmer-led education networks and build capacity for new ones—particularly for communities historically marginalized from existing systems—as a key strategy to increase adoption of conservation practices. As farmers and ranchers are met daily with unique challenges, including unexpected weather, droughts, and floods, they often turn to colleagues to find the right answer. The lawmakers say the bill fills a critical gap in federal programs to support and provide guidance to those networks. Specifically, the bill would authorize the National Resources Conservation Service to enter into cooperative agreements with community-based organizations in each state that can identify and build on established and burgeoning peer-to-peer networks, and/or create new ones. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Importing More Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Imports are vital and increasingly important in ensuring fresh fruit and vegetables are available year-round in the United States. Since the 2008 completion of the North American Free Trade Agreement, U.S. fresh fruit and vegetable imports have increased with few interruptions, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Between 2007 and 2021, the percentage of U.S. fresh fruit and vegetable availability supplied by imports grew from 50 to 60 percent for fresh fruit and from 20 to 38 percent for fresh vegetables. The import share increased by more than 20 percentage points during this period for ten crops: asparagus, avocados, bell peppers, blueberries, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, raspberries, snap beans, and tomatoes. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, implemented on July 1, 2020, continues NAFTA's market access provisions for fruit and vegetables. In 2022, Mexico and Canada supplied 51 percent and two percent, respectively, of U.S. fresh fruit imports, and 69 percent and 20 percent, respectively, of U.S. fresh vegetable imports in terms of value. *********************************************************************************** Precision Technology Growth Continues The 2023 Precision Agriculture Dealership Survey shows continued growth in technology to streamline and increase the efficiency of operations, such as in sprayer boom section/nozzle control, turn compensation, fleet management and telemetry. These are possible reactions to input costs and skilled worker shortages, according to Purdue University and CropLife America, organizers of the survey. The enthusiasm continues for applying crop inputs with drones. More dealers will offer drone imagery, but fewer dealers are offering satellite or aerial imagery, and dealers say imagery use is declining on farms. On-farm data continues to be used the most for fertilizer-related decisions and for hybrid/variety selection, but in the last few years, dealers have not increased their use of on-farm data for decision-making. The survey shows 89 percent of dealers use auto guidance on their application equipment/GPS-guided boom section/nozzle controllers on sprayers, which reduce doubling-up and skips, are used at 82 percent of dealerships, and sprayer turn compensation continues to grow, now at 41 percent. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Wildfire Protection Grants The Department of Agriculture Monday announced the application period for the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program. Now in its second year, the competitive program is designed to assist at-risk communities, including Tribal communities, non-profit organizations, state forestry agencies and Alaska Native Corporations with planning for and mitigating wildfire risks. Applications will be accepted for 90 days. The announcement comes after $197 million was awarded to 99 project proposals across 22 states and seven Tribes during the first year of funding. The projects directly support the Forest Service’s ten-year strategy to treat up to 20 million acres of national forests and grasslands and 30 million acres of other lands to reduce wildfire risks. Individual grants will fund up to $250,000 to create and update community wildfire protection plans and up to $10 million for associated wildfire resilience projects. The number of projects selected will be determined by available funding, which is up to $250 million. *********************************************************************************** Brent Boydston Elected U.S. Grains Council Chairman The delegates of the U.S. Grains Council elected Brent Boydston, corn, cereal grains, digital agriculture and carbon lead at Bayer Crop Science, as chairman of its Board of Directors. USGC elected Boydston as chair last week during its 63rd Annual Board of Delegates Meeting in Calgary, Canada. Boydston grew up in a family farming operation near Centerville, Kansas, that raised cattle, corn and soybeans. He assumed his current position with Bayer Crop Science in 2016 and has been on the Council’s Board of Directors ever since. Previously, Boydston served as vice president of public policy at the Colorado Farm Bureau and spent more than seven years working on Capitol Hill. In addition to Boydston, Verity Ulibarri of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program was nominated as vice chairwoman and Mark Wilson of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board was elected secretary-treasurer. Jim Reed of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board and Jim O’Connor of the Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council were also elected as at-large directors. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Surge as Heat Hits Refinery Output The nation’s average gasoline price soared 16.5 cents in the last week to $3.72 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average diesel price jumped 15.5 cents last week, reaching $3.99 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Prices suddenly soared over the last week due to heat-related refinery outages that impacted some of the largest refineries in the country.” The outages come at a time when summer gasoline demand peaks and as gasoline inventories slid to their lowest July level since 2015. Average gasoline and diesel prices are rising at the fastest pace in over a year, but the rise seen in the last week should now start slowing. As we get closer to the peak of hurricane season, any new issues could easily push the national average over $4 per gallon for the first time in 2023, according to De Haan. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 0.9 percent fall last week, potentially having peaked for the summer as August brings the return to school for millions.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 1, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Manufacturing reports from the world will roll in overnight and the ISM index of U.S. manufacturing will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. Traders will keep track of the latest forecasts and any news regarding Ukraine. NASS's Fats and Oils report will be out at 2 p.m. Weather A front continues to be stalled from the Central Plains to the Tennessee Valley where heavy rain is already falling in Missouri early Tuesday morning. Additional showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop near the front later Tuesday and could become severe with potential for heavy rain as well. The more likely scenario for severe storms occurs farther north as a system moving through Canada brings a front through the Northern Plains. Scattered thunderstorms are likely to develop and could be severe around North Dakota, possibly into northern Minnesota as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 31, 2023 |

NPPC Releases Q3 Economic Update The National Pork Producers Council released its third-quarter pork industry economic update covering the top pork industry issues, current trends, and marketing issues impacting U.S. farmers. Among the biggest takeaways, California’s Prop 12 creates significant challenges and market uncertainty for pig farmers across the country and has far-reaching implications beyond the pork industry. High production costs continue to be a major challenge to pig farmers’ profitability. The average cost and breakeven levels are nine percent higher than a year ago and have risen 60 percent in the last three years. Hog slaughter and pork production increased an estimated 1.2 percent and 0.3 percent respectively through mid-July 2023. USDA now says pork production will increase 1.4 percent this year, while domestic pork availability is expected to drop 2.5 percent to 49.8 pounds per capita for this year. “Despite the challenges, our pork industry is incredibly resilient,” says Scott Hays, NPPC President. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Target Farm Payments Where Needed Most Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) introduced legislation to rein in abuse of the farm payment system and ensure support goes to those actively engaged in farming. The “Farm Program Integrity Act” would create a hard cap of $250,000 in total commodity support for any one farm operation and require beneficiaries of the system to spend at least 50 percent of each year engaged in farm labor or management. Currently, just ten percent of farm operations receive 70 percent of all yearly farm payment subsidies. “It isn’t right to send bloated farm payments to people who are more familiar with an office chair than a tractor seat,” says Grassley. “This bill brings honesty to the farm payment system and prioritizes farming families over mega-farms.” Brown also says, “Too often, farm program payments have gone to producers who don’t need support or to people who aren’t even involved in farming.” *********************************************************************************** Rabobank Issues Quarterly Hog and Pig Update The latest Rabobank quarterly pork report shows global pork markets are being influenced by sluggish economic growth, weak consumption, and recurrent disease outbreaks. After a strong first half of 2023, global trade is expected to weaken in the months ahead. Despite lower food prices, production costs should remain above pre-COVID levels. The first-half strength was driven by an increase in Chinese imports. Sales in the Philippines saw a major decline. Japan, another major U.S. pork importer, saw flat trade, with a slight shift in sourcing pork from Europe to the U.S. The EU and United Kingdom pork supply dropped in the first four months of 2023, with some countries seeing declines at double-digit rates. Sluggish economic growth has been impacting pork consumption around the world. But pork is still cheaper than beef and premium seafood and more expensive than poultry, so it holds a relatively stable position on consumers’ palates. *********************************************************************************** Farmers, Ranchers Storm Capitol Hill Opposing EATS Act The Organization for Competitive Markets and the Competitive Markets Action led several organizations on a trip to Capitol Hill to oppose the EATS Act. The groups say the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws, effectively paving the way for even more foreign intrusion without safety measures in place. The absence of these rules, especially those that support family farms and ranches, would mean Chinese corporations like Smithfield Foods could easily expand into all 50 states. The groups support the OFF Act, or “Opportunities for Fairness in Farming.” The OFF Act would create a system of checks and balances within USDA’s Commodity Checkoff Programs, prohibit checkoffs from utilizing taxpayer dollars to lobby against farmers’ best interests and prohibit disparagement of one product by another. The groups say that practice has long allowed the federal government to pick winners and losers in the marketplace. *********************************************************************************** CNH Industrial Net Income Jumps 35 Percent CNH Industrial reported Q2 consolidated revenues of $6.57 billion, eight percent higher than the same quarter in 2022. The company’s net income totaled $710 million and Adjusted Net Income was $711 million. Net cash used by operating activities totaled $139 million and Industrial Free Cash Flow generation hit $386 million in the second quarter of this year. Net sales for industrial activities hit $5.95 billion, up $341 million compared to the second quarter of last year. The company saw significant improvements in Gross Profit Margin for the Agriculture and Construction segments. A release from the company says, “The CNH Industrial team delivered great results in Q2 as we capitalized on favorable market fundamentals and solid operational execution. Our Agriculture segment set margin records, and for the first quarter in the company’s history, Construction net sales surpassed $1 billion. We are transforming the business and expanding our technology investments to drive growth.” *********************************************************************************** Export Sales of Corn, Soybeans, and Wheat Rise A report says corn, soybean, and wheat export sales all rose week-to-week during the seven days ending on July 20. USDA data says corn sales during the week rose 33 percent from the previous week to 314,000 metric tons, 15 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Mexico was the biggest buyer at 175,900 metric tons. For the next marketing year beginning on September 1, sales hit 335,800 metric tons. Soybean sales were noticeably higher from the previous week and surged 73 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Sales totals for 2023-2024 totaled 544,6000 metric tons, with China as the biggest buyer at 275,000 metric tons, followed by Mexico’s 70,300 metric tons and Egypt at 63,000 metric tons. Wheat export sales of 233,200 metric tons for the 2023-2024 marketing year were up 37 percent from the previous week. However, that total was down 17 percent from the prior four-week average.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 31, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Temperatures Cool, Heat Effects Linger on Crops, Congress and Markets OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 30. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Heat brings feedlot deaths: The weekend saw scattered reports of cattle deaths from feedlots in Nebraska and other sweltering states. Numbers, while devastating locally, seemed to not be at the level to move market prices. We'll monitor those areas. 2. Welcome cooling: Scattered rains late last week and into this week bring a slight cooling to major cropping areas. Monday's USDA weekly Crop Progress Report will give a look at crop condition going into those rains, we'll watch through the week for signs of improvement. For our latest thoughts on weather and markets, 3. Ukraine watch: Markets so far have calmed following the crumbling of the Ukraine grain deal and subsequent shelling of the Odesa grain port. But at some point, the bushels missing in the global grain bin could regain traders' attention, noted DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman. 4. Recess lights dumpster fire on House playground: With Congress taking summer recess without passing an appropriations bill, the scene is set for another government shutdown threat come September. It bears watching whether the time back home soothes divisions or whether hanging with the base simply throws gas on this smoldering dumpster fire. 5. Reports to watch: In addition to Monday's Crop Progress report, there is a stream of business and economic news coming throughout the week. On Tuesday the latest world manufacturing indices come out at 9 a.m. CDT. Latest NASS Fats and Oils report hits at 2 p.m. that day. The Energy Department's weekly energy inventories is released at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Thursday morning, we'll watch USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, second-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due out at 7:30 a.m. The latest (June) report on U.S. factory orders is at 9 a.m.; the U.S. Energy Department natural gas storage numbers hit at 9:30 a.m. Then, Friday sees Labor Department reports on nonfarm payrolls and U.S. unemployment at 7:30. We'll also gear up for the sixth DTN Digital Yield Tour, powered by Gro Intelligence, which kicks off the week of Aug. 7.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 31, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will remain focused on changes in weather and events from Ukraine. As usual, USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Monday being the final day of July is also first notice day for August soybean and soy product futures. Weather A frontal boundary has stalled out from the Central Plains to the Tennessee Valley on Monday. South of the front, it remains hot with stressful conditions for both crops and animals. The front will be a focus for showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, as will a weak system sliding south along the Mississippi River. Yet another system moving through the Canadian Prairies will keep that area and the Northern Plains a bit active as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 28, 2023 |

New Jersey Signs Gestation Crate Legislation New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill into law that bans crates used to confine mother pigs and calves. The bill requires the state’s Department of Agriculture to update humane standard regulations allowing the animals to move more freely and turn around. A coalition including the Humane Society of the U.S. and the Animal Legal Defense Fund included over 60 businesses, environmental organizations, and animal protection groups in pressing the case. They said this kind of measure enhances public health, promotes food safety, and reduces animal suffering on “factory farms.” They also point out that numerous scientists and a landmark United Nations report on pandemic risks have noted that the extreme confinement of farm animals is one of the top drivers of diseases transmitted from animals to humans and the spread. “Now, we can properly address both animal misery and public health risks,” says Elissa Frank, N.J. HSUS State Director. *********************************************************************************** Partnership to Combat Misinformation on Animal Agriculture The Animal Agriculture Alliance and the National Institute for Animal Agriculture have partnered to combat misinformation about animal ag. The combination will maximize their areas of expertise to ensure sound scientific information about animal agriculture is getting communicated effectively to key audiences. As part of the relationship, NIAA will serve as a resource for scientific research and educational expertise. The AAA will work to communicate this information to key audiences. “This partnership will give us greater access to technical experts to make sure we’re communicating accurate, science-backed, and expert-supported information to these audiences,” says Hannah Thompson-Weeman, Alliance President and CEO. JJ Jones, NIAA executive director, says, “Working alongside the AAA means we are positioned to better support the animal agriculture community in communicating science while combating misinformation.” The partnership will entail coordinating media responses on technical issues with third-party expertise and hosting regular issue updates with key stakeholders from each organization. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Producers Direct Action on Cell-Cultured Products Members of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association passed a directive to continue advocating for transparent labeling and inspection of cell-cultured protein products. While NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says cattle producers aren’t afraid of competition, he knows that consumers will continue choosing real high-quality beef over cell-cultured imitations. “Our priority is ensuring that consumers know the difference between real beef and cell-cultured products through transparent and accurate labeling,” Wilkinson says. “We have already been successful at encouraging the USDA to conduct robust inspections and oversight to protect food safety.” The directive was brought forward by the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association, California Cattlemen’s Association, and the Florida Cattlemen’s Association and passed during the NCBA’s summer business meeting. All policies passed at the meeting get forwarded to NCBA’s general membership for a full vote this fall. Earlier this year, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued two grants of inspection to cell-cultured chicken imitation products. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Videos Tell Farm Bill Stories The National Corn Growers Association released a video series featuring corn growers from around the nation telling their stories about how the farm bill affects each of their operations. The videos were unveiled at Corn Congress, which was recently held in Washington, D.C. The series features four farmers from Pennsylvania, Texas, Kansas, and Ohio. These NCGA members shared the importance of crop insurance, trade, farm safety net programs, and USDA’s conservation programming. Brooke Appleton, NCGA vice president of public policy, says the project’s goal is to help directly communicate with policymakers and their staff about the importance of the farm bill to corn growers and their families. “Nearly half of all House members weren’t around during the 2018 Farm Bill debate,” Appleton says. “We’ve known for some time that new member education would be key to our comprehensive advocacy efforts on the farm bill.” Check out the videos at ncga.com. *********************************************************************************** Biotechnology Organization Lists Farm Bill Priorities The Biotechnology Innovation Organization says the next farm bill offers opportunities to invest in long-term food security, climate resiliency, and growing the national bio-economy. The group has submitted recommendations to the agriculture committees in both chambers of Congress as they work on writing the new legislation. “A farm bill centered on innovation stands to incentivize the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and practices, resulting in benefits to the environment and rural economies,” says Beth Ellikidis, BIO’s vice president of agriculture and environment. Among their recommendations, they say they’d like increased funding for the Biobased Markets or BioPreferred Program, which directs federal agencies to increase their biobased and renewable product purchases. They’d like to see Congress increase funding and make administrative improvements to the federal program to help build or retrofit facilities to produce advanced biofuels, renewable chemicals, and other biobased products. Among several other recommendations, BIO wants streamlined regulations for biotechnologies. *********************************************************************************** House Bill Would Help Farmers and Ranchers Combat Drought Congresswoman Yadira (Yah-DEER-ah) Caraveo (Care-ah-VEY-oh) (D-CO) introduced a bill that would help family farmers and ranchers fight drought. The Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program. The legislation comes as aquifers in the Western U.S., a crucial source of water for rural communities and farmers, are in decline. The bill creates a new Groundwater Conservation Easement Program at USDA to encourage voluntary, compensated reductions in groundwater consumption on agricultural land and advance local, regional, or state groundwater management goals. Additionally, it will guarantee long-term management flexibility for a producer to continue farming and choose how they reduce water use, as long as they conserve the amount they’ve committed to reducing. Producers would also get paid based on the market value for the water right instead of per acre.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 28, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. index of personal consumption expenditures, an inflation gauge for June, is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending for June and the Labor Department's employment cost index for the second quarter. The University of Michigan's final index of consumer sentiment for July follows at 9 a.m. For grain traders, weather and events in Ukraine remain high on the list of interest. Weather Heat continues to envelop most of the U.S. on Friday, stressing areas with inadequate moisture. But the northern edge of the heat continues to be a good place to produce showers and thunderstorms. That is especially true with a cold front across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest slowly sagging southward. Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and evening in and around Iowa and extending east through the southern Great Lakes in a couple of waves. Any rainfall will be welcome to limit the effects of the heat during a critical time for corn and soybean development.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 27, 2023 |

USDA: Food Inflation Mostly Lower in 2023 Compared to 2022 Retail food prices increased 4.8 percent in the first six months of 2023, lower than the rate of midyear inflation in 2022, of 8.2 percent. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports the 20-year average for midyear inflation from 2002 to 2021 was 1.6 percent. All food categories except for sugar and sweets experienced smaller price increases through the first half of 2023 compared with the same period in 2022. Prices for eggs increased the most, 13.7 percent, so far in 2023, followed by fats and oils and cereals and bakery products. All food categories increased in price in the first six months of 2023 compared with 2022, but the increases for meats, fresh fruits, fish and seafood, and fresh vegetables, were below their historical average price increases. Inflationary pressures and trends differ by food category. Prices will continue to change during the remainder of 2023, according to USDA, and may affect the annual inflation rate. *********************************************************************************** Global Shocks Disproportionately Hurt Farmers Global shocks over the past few years have created an unprecedented “polycrisis” that has disproportionately hurt small-scale farmers and people living in food-deficit countries. The data comes from a new report commissioned by Farm Journal Foundation. The COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts including the Russia-Ukraine war, and climate change have created far-reaching impacts across global food systems, affecting food, fertilizer, feed, fuel, and financing available to producers. The resulting polycrisis has left humanity vulnerable to future “black swan” moments that could have even more severe and far-reaching consequences for global food supplies. One of the researchers says, “Already, millions of smallholder farmers and their families were teetering on the edge of survival due to long-term structural challenges, and this polycrisis has pushed countless into disaster.” To alleviate global food insecurity, the report says the U.S. should invest more in international agricultural research and innovation. More research is needed across climate change adaptation and mitigation, soil health and nutrient management, crop diversity and nutrition, access to markets and finance, supply chain infrastructure, and local capacity building. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Reject Anti-checkoff Legislation Agriculture checkoff groups jointly announced opposition to legislation they say attacks commodity checkoff programs. An Amendment by Representative Victoria Sparts, a Republican from Indiana, would prohibit USDA from using any tax dollars to administer commodity Checkoff programs. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association, American Soybean Association, National Pork Producers Council, and National Milk Producers Federation, along with the Indiana Beef Cattle Association, jointly voiced opposition to the effort. NCBA Policy Division Vice Chair Tim Schwab, an Indiana cattle producer, says, "Representative Spartz's amendment targets programs like the Beef Checkoff and is a direct attack on America's farmers and ranchers." The groups say the legislation is "frivolous" as "no taxpayer dollars are being used to administer Checkoff programs." USDA oversees 22 commodity Checkoff programs that boost demand for products like beef, eggs, lamb, cotton, blueberries, honey, mangos, peanuts, mushrooms, watermelons, dairy, cotton, popcorn, and even Christmas trees. Farmers and ranchers invest in these programs, and that funding supports agricultural research and promotional efforts. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Sides with EPA in Lawsuit Growth Energy recently filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in The San Antonio Refinery, LLC, v. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The case pertains to a group of refineries seeking to avoid complying with the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. The petitioning refineries allege that the EPA's "Alternative RIN Retirement Schedule for Small Refineries"--an adjustment made to allow refineries to meet their RFS obligations over an extended period of time--did not go far enough and should have allowed the refineries not to comply with the RFS at all. Growth Energy's amicus brief reiterates the fact that the oil industry continues to look for ways to avoid complying with the RFS. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, "The oil industry should stop playing the victim and get on board with the most successful climate policy enacted to date." *********************************************************************************** USDA Continues Field Evaluation of Oral Rabies Vaccine USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wednesday announced it will continue field evaluation of the oral rabies vaccine bait ONRAB in eight states. The effort is part of a larger-scale rabies prevention effort and will assess distribution methods and effectiveness in raccoons, skunks, and other wildlife. Beginning in late July, APHIS and cooperators will distribute approximately 3.5 million vaccine baits in parts of Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia to test the immune effects in targeted wildlife. During October, APHIS also will distribute vaccine baits in parts of Tennessee. The vaccine bait is a blister pack filled with the vaccine and coated with a sweet attractant. When an animal bites into one of the baits, it will release the vaccine into their mouth and, with an adequate dose, develop immunity to rabies. Humans and pets cannot get rabies from contact with the bait but are asked to leave the bait undisturbed if they encounter it. *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches Pilot to Increase Affordable Homeownership on Tribal Lands USDA Wednesday announced it is launching two pilot programs to increase affordable homeownership opportunities for people on Tribal lands. USDA Rural Development Acting Under Secretary Roger Glendenning says, "The assistance I'm announcing today will help people across this nation have the resources they need to build, purchase or repair homes in Tribal communities." USDA is launching the Tribal Property Valuation Pilot Program. It provides approved lenders the opportunity to obtain desktop appraisals for mortgage transactions on Tribal land. This program will help decrease the cost and eliminate potential inaccuracies of appraisal reports completed on properties located on Tribal land. The Department is also launching the Tribal Rehabilitation Pilot Program to help people remain in safe and improved housing on Tribal lands and improve their quality of life. Many homes on Tribal lands have been passed on from one generation to the next and need renovations to make them safe and bring them up to current codes. Funds under this program may be used to finance repairs to these homes.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 27, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be released at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly jobless claims, U.S. durable goods orders for June, a report on second-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Weather A hot ridge continues to dominate the U.S. with widespread heat and humidity causing stress to anything living outside. The northern edge of the ridge continues to be an active place with thunderstorms expected to develop across the Corn Belt, some of which may be significantly severe across the Upper Midwest Thursday afternoon and evening. A cold front has worked itself through Canada and will bring relieving temperatures from north to south in the coming days.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 26, 2023 |

USDA Introduces Data to Show Crop Rotation Patterns The Department of Agriculture Tuesday unveiled a geospatial product called Crop Sequence Boundaries that offers national-scale visual crop rotation data for the first time. Crop Sequence Boundaries, or CSB technology, is a cutting-edge map of agricultural fields that provides crop acreage estimates and historical planting decisions across the contiguous United States. The open-source product uses satellite imagery and other public data to allow users to analyze planted U.S. commodities, enhancing agricultural science and research and providing producers an innovative resource to help make farming decisions. The new tool was developed by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service and Economic Research Service, two of the department's statistical scientific research agencies. CSB incorporates technological advances in satellite imagery and high-performance cloud computing with Google Earth Engine. It is one of several tools that NASS and its partners have developed to support agricultural analyses and make data more accessible and valuable to the public. Access CSB at nass.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Emergency Rural Health Care Grants The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced Emergency Rural Health Care Grant recipients. Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small made the announcement in Charlottesville, Virginia. The funds will expand access to health care for more than five million people living in 39 states and Puerto Rico. Torres Small says, "USDA's Emergency Rural Health Care Grants are helping strengthen rural America's health care infrastructure to build for the future." USDA is awarding $129 million to improve healthcare facilities in rural towns nationwide. These grants will help 172 rural healthcare organizations expand critical services. The investments will help regional partnerships, public bodies, nonprofits and Tribes solve regional rural healthcare challenges. For example, in the Midwest, Southern Illinois Hospital Services is partnering with local healthcare organizations to build an in-patient psychiatric unit to address a regional need to expand access to mental healthcare services for people in Southern Illinois. Find a list of grant recipients at USDA.gov. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Egg Production Increased in June United States egg production totaled 9.08 billion during June 2023, up four percent from the same time last year. USDA’s monthly Chicken and Eggs report shows production included 7.78 billion table eggs, and 1.3 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.2 billion were broiler-type and 95.8 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during June 2023 totaled 387 million, up five percent from last year. June egg production per 100 layers was 2,348 eggs, down one percent from June 2022. Total layers in the United States on July 1, 2023, were 386 million, up five percent from last year. The 386 million layers consisted of 317 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 65.0 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.69 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on July 1, 2023, averaged 78.5 eggs per 100 layers, down one percent from July 1, 2022. *********************************************************************************** Bayer Lowers Outlook on Reduced Glyphosate Sales The Bayer Group adjusted its full-year outlook for 2023 downward this week, mainly due to a significant further decline in sales of glyphosate-based products. For full-year 2023, Bayer now anticipates sales of between 48.5 billion and 49.5 billion euros, or roughly $54 billion in U.S. funds. The company also adjusted its forecast for core earnings per share to between 6.20 and 6.40 euros, which was previously forecasted at 7.20 to 7.40 euros. Bayer already guided towards the lower end of its Group sales and earnings forecast for this year. Further price declines and lower volumes due to channel de-stocking, especially for glyphosate-based products, as well as adverse weather conditions, have increased pressure. Based on the anticipated market development, in particular with respect to the glyphosate business, Bayer also expects to record a goodwill impairment of approximately 2.5 billion euros. This will result in negative Group net income of approximately two billion euros for the second quarter of 2023. *********************************************************************************** AFIA Accepting Nominations for Friend of Pet Food Award The American Feed Industry Association is now accepting nominations through August 28 for its annual Friend of Pet Food Award. Launched in 2019, the award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to support the growth of the pet food industry. Louise Calderwood, AFIA director of regulatory affairs, says the award “recognizes the tireless efforts of those committed to ensuring the well-being and happiness of our furry friends through cutting-edge nutritional discoveries.” An ideal nominee will be currently employed and active in the pet food industry or an associated area, such as new product development, transportation, regulatory, academia, media or promotion. There is no restriction by company or industry affiliation, or the function performed by the nominee. The award winner will be invited to attend the 2024 AFIA Pet Food Conference , which is being held in conjunction with the International Production & Processing Expo in Atlanta, Georgia, in January. To nominate someone, visit afia.org. *********************************************************************************** RFA Safety Programs Win National Awards The Renewable Fuels Association’s nationally recognized safety programs have been honored with their 11th consecutive National Achievement Award from the Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response, a national hazardous materials safety coalition. RFA's Director of Safety and Technical Programs, Missy Ruff, received an Individual Recognition Award for her efforts. More than 12 years ago, RFA created comprehensive training programs for first responders and other stakeholders on the topics of ethanol safety and emergency management. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "The ethanol industry continues to maintain an impeccable safety record, which is a direct result of RFA's ongoing safety efforts." In 2022, more than 1,200 attendees were trained via 37 training opportunities supported by RFA. Since its inception in 2010, RFA's safety program has been responsible for training over 15,000 individuals and conducting over 400 training sessions and events. RFA has trained individuals from all 50 U.S. states and 40 other countries.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 26, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. new homes sales will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. The Federal Reserve announcement is scheduled at 1 p.m., followed by a press conference with Fed Chairman Powell. Traders remain focused on the latest weather forecasts and on Russia's attacks on Ukraine. Weather A system moving through Canada is providing enough energy across the northern Corn Belt for thunderstorm development early Wednesday from Minnesota into Wisconsin. A little disturbance with these thunderstorms will continue eastward Wednesday, which may turn into more severe clusters across the Great Lakes later in the day. Additional storms may develop in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies as well. All of this activity is coming on the northern end of a ridge of heat that continues to spread throughout the U.S. with significantly hot temperatures.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 25, 2023 |

Legislation Would Exempt Farms From Emission Reporting A group of lawmakers last week introduced legislation to exclude reporting of routine emissions from livestock farms to state and local emergency response authorities. The National Pork Producers Council supports the legislation. Pork producers and other livestock industries have engaged with federal and state regulators for decades over permitting and reporting of air emissions. This engagement has included both the air consent agreements that many producers signed, exempting them from having to file emergency reports to first responders. In 2018, Congress permanently exempted livestock farmers from having to report emissions under the Superfund law to the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Response Center. At the same time, EPA exempted those same farms from making similar reports to state and local first responders. Following litigation, the Biden Administration agreed to re-open that rulemaking to reconsider the exemption from the emergency release reporting rule. The new legislation would clarify that the 2018 Farms Act, and EPA’s prior regulations, were correct and that livestock farms should not be required to inundate local fire departments with emission reports. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests in Research, Extension and Education at 1890 Land-grant Universities The Department of Agriculture announced Monday an investment of more than $33 million to support capacity-building efforts at 1890 Land-grant Universities. The investment, administered through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, will support 82 research, Extension, and education projects across the nation’s 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities designated as 1890 Land-grant Universities. The projects are part of NIFA’s 1890 Capacity Building Grants Program, which is designed to build capacity for teaching, research, and Extension activities. Eligible institutions are receiving funding for a range of activities, including curriculum design, materials development, faculty development, student recruitment and retention, and Extension program development support. Research investments will strengthen the quality and diversity of the nation’s higher-education workforce, bolster research and knowledge delivery systems, and equip 1890 Land-grant Universities with resources needed to better address emerging challenges and create new opportunities. All 19 eligible 1890 Land-grant Universities will receive funding through the program. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Elects Corn Board Delegates Delegates attending the National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Congress last week elected four farmers to serve on the organization’s Corn Board. The leaders will take office October 1, the start of NCGA’s 2024 fiscal year. The new board members are Troy Schneider of Colorado, Kelly Nieuwenhuis (new-in-house) of Iowa and Bill Leigh of Illinois. Current board member Jed Bower of Ohio was re-elected. All four candidates were elected to three-year terms. NCGA Nominating Committee Chairman Chris Edgington says, “This year’s Corn Board candidates brought impressive records of service to their fellow farmers." The NCGA Corn Board represents the organization while directing policy and supervising day-to-day operations. Board members represent the federation of state organizations, supervise the affairs and activities of NCGA in partnership with the chief executive officer and implement NCGA policy established by the Corn Congress. Members also act as spokesmen for the NCGA and enhance the organization's public standing on all organizational and policy issues. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Mostly Use Manure Sources from Their Own Operations Farmers who utilize manure as a fertilizer mostly get the aromatic livestock byproduct from their own operations. New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows most manure applied to U.S. cropland, 78 percent, comes from animals raised on the same operation. Meanwhile, 14 percent is purchased, and eight percent is obtained at no cost from other animal operations. In 2020, manure was applied to about 8 percent of the 240.9 million acres planted to 7 major U.S. field crops. For most crops, farmers use manure that either comes from their own farm or at no cost from other farms. However, cotton and peanut producers are the most likely to purchase manure, typically from poultry growers. Among all animal manure types, poultry litter has the highest nutrient content, making it less costly to transport. Animal producers who apply their operations’ manure to their own crops account for a high proportion of manure used on oats, corn, and barley crops, followed by soybean and wheat. *********************************************************************************** California Consumes Nearly All U.S. Renewable Diesel California accounts for nearly all renewable diesel consumption in the United States, according to data released last week by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. California's consumption of renewable diesel was more than eight times the amount produced there in 2021. Instead, most of California’s renewable diesel was produced in other states or was imported. California’s renewable diesel consumption grew substantially after its Low Carbon Fuel Standard went into effect in 2011. Between 2011 and 2021, consumption grew from one million barrels to 28 million barrels per year, over 18 times its original volume. Six states—Louisiana, North Dakota, California, Wyoming, Washington, and Kansas—accounted for all renewable diesel production in the United States in 2021. Many of the plants in the other states have exclusive agreements to send all of the renewable diesel they produce to distributors in California. U.S. renewable diesel production capacity could more than double by 2025, boosting domestic production. *********************************************************************************** Gasoline Supply at Lowest Level Since 2015 The nation's average price of gasoline increased 2.1 cents last week to $3.55 per gallon. The national average diesel price increased 2.7 cents in the last week and stands at $3.83 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "It's been a remarkably quiet summer for gas prices, which have been far less active than normal." The national average gas price has remained in the same ten-cent range since April. The rally in oil prices has been sustained into a fourth straight week, with refined products joining in with oil to show impressive strength, with the last week seeing a sharper upside than previous weeks. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 0.6 percent rise last week as demand pushed higher into late July, typically when summer demand peaks. Diesel prices at the top ten percent of stations in the country average $4.90 per gallon, while the bottom ten percent average $3.30 per gallon.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 25, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets An index of U.S. consumer confidence in July is set for 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. The Federal Reserve begins a two-day meeting Tuesday that is expected to result in a quarter-percent increase on Wednesday afternoon. USDA's monthly cold storage report will be out at 2 p.m. CDT. Traders remain fixated on the latest weather developments and events from Ukraine. Weather A dome of high temperatures continues to expand and intensify across the U.S. on Tuesday. On the northern edge of the heat, a system going through Canada will make for some showers across the Northern Plains and into the Upper Midwest, some of which may be severe and lessen the impact of the increasing heat.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 24, 2023 |

Milk Producers React to USDA Announcement on FMMO U.S. dairy farmers applaud the USDA for moving forward by including the full scope of the National Milk Producers Federation proposal on the Federal Milk Marketing Order system, which the agency is in the process of modernizing. The recognition of National Milk’s consensus-based leadership allows the industry to continue the momentum for the changes achieved so far. Each piece of the proposal - from returning to the “higher-of” Class One mover as soon as possible to updating both Class One price differentials and manufacturing cost allowances - has been crucial toward building that consensus. “All the components of our plan are critical to a successful update to this important program,” says NMPF Board chair Randy Mooney. “There is still a long journey ahead toward a modernized federal order system that works better for farmers, but NMPF is ready.” The Federation is excited to help lead the industry toward solutions that work for everyone. *********************************************************************************** Senate Bill Would Bring Transparency to Foreign Land Purchases Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase the transparency and oversight of foreign ownership in America’s agricultural industry. The “Farmland Security Act of 2023” builds on the “Farmland Security Act of 2022” by ensuring that all foreign investors, including “shell companies,” who buy American agricultural land report their holdings and strengthens the penalties for those who evade the required filing. It also invests in research to better understand the impact foreign ownership of American farmland and agricultural production capacity has on our domestic food supply, family farms, and rural communities. Current reporting shows that foreign-owned agricultural acreage has increased in recent years. However, the data that’s been collected is incomplete or inaccurate. The new legislation will direct USDA to conduct an annual compliance audit to ensure accuracy and provide annual training to state and county-level USDA staff on identifying non-reporting of foreign-owned agricultural land. *********************************************************************************** CBO Director Responds to Complaints on Farm Bill Numbers House and Senate Agriculture Committee leaders recently sent a letter to the Congressional Budget Office complaining about the slow response to their requests for scores on farm bill provisions. CBO Director Phillip Swagel said in a letter that they have already responded to more than 1,000 requests, and they expect to respond to hundreds more in the weeks ahead. The Fencepost says the leaders’ letter strongly encouraged the Budget Committees in both Chambers of Congress to use all their available resources to reorganize the CBO staff to prioritize farm bill requests. They also encouraged the office to hire or contract additional staff or find qualified professionals outside the agency to help. However, Swagel says, “Securing additional personnel from outside the agency isn’t practical at this point as it would delay work on the current legislation. It would take too much time to bring them up to speed on CBO’s procedures.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Providing $250 Million to Ukraine Farmers U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Samantha Power says the U.S. will provide another $250 million in aid to Ukraine’s agricultural producers. Feedstuffs says the money will get distributed through AGRI-Ukraine, an initiative that began in 2022 to help support Ukraine’s agricultural exports and to combat global food security issues made worse by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Power says multiple groups are working together to keep Ukraine farming and producing commodities. USAID has already been helping Ukraine’s farmers store the grain they can’t sell. It’s also working with private sector partners to provide financing, seed, and fertilizer. Power says the additional investments should help Ukraine’s producers to plant new crops even if they can’t sell grain from their previous harvests. “These investments that the U.S. and partners are making will not only help Ukraine win the war but also help them to build a much more resilient future,” Power adds. *********************************************************************************** Students Hit Capitol Hill A select group of nine college students from around the nation completed the Ag Voices of the Future Program July 10-13 while in Washington, D.C. The program, sponsored by the American Soybean Association and Valent, U.S.A., gives students an inside look at how agricultural policies are made in the nation’s capital. The class was held in conjunction with ASA’s summer board meeting and other soy events. “It’s important that young people have an understanding of the significant policy issues that directly impact the productivity and economic well-being of our farms and the soybean industry,” says ASA President Daryl Cates. “ASA appreciates Valent’s support of this valuable program that helps to cultivate future voices for agriculture in D.C." The three-day program was busy with multiple activities and networking opportunities. Students heard from ASA and Valent’s industry and government affairs representatives and a House member about their current position and past career experience. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing in Urban Agriculture, Food, and Market Access USDA announced a series of investments that will increase market access and revenue streams for producers while strengthening the food system. The investments will also give consumers better access to locally-grown foods and healthier choices. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and Deputy Secretary Xochitl (So-CHEEL) Torres Small made the announcement in Philadelphia. “The USDA announced 17 new Urban Service Centers and ten new urban county committees, as well as approximately $10.7 million in investments in Farm to School and an expansion of the Healthy Food Financing Initiative,” Vilsack says. “It also includes $30 million in funding availability for the new Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Initiative.” The secretary also says these investments will allow families and farmers alike to benefit from healthier food produced close to home. “Families should have access to locally grown food wherever they live, and farmers should have profitable markets regardless of zip code,” says Torres Small.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 24, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Heat Domes, Missiles and Wheat Tour Lead Stories This Week 1. Missiles Fall, Temperatures Climb: The drivers in grain markets short-term are the oncoming heat (see below) and Vladimir Putin's ongoing onslaught of Ukraine grain ports. That puts pressure on overland movement of grain out of Ukraine through neighboring countries, and the storage backlog will eventually influence how much farmers there can plant. . 2. Weather Patterns Quiet, Hot: Recent rain systems, and the active weather pattern that spawned them, have improved soil moisture conditions in a lot of areas. But the patterns, they are a changing, says our Ag Meteorologist John Baranick. A high-pressure dome and less active patterns will bring heat and dryness. The critical question is did rains bring enough soil moisture reserves to help crops get through the coming heat, which could generally last through the end of July and into August? There is a lot of pollination, grain fill and pod set going on as things heat up. Baranick notes the predicted conditions are pushing the boundaries of current weather models; some have spit out temperature possibilities above 110 Fahrenheit in the western and central Corn Belt. It's unlikely temps will get that high in any sustained way, Baranick adds, but it will be unpleasant. Stay hydrated, take breaks out of the sun and heat, and pay special attention to livestock and those that can't take care of themselves 3. Spring Wheat Tour: We'll have daily coverage of the 2023 Hard Spring Wheat and Durum Tour. DTN Crops Editor Jason Jenkins will be on the tour, with his reports starting Tuesday evening. This year's tour, sponsored by the Wheat Quality Council, will cover North Dakota and Western Minnesota. It will not include South Dakota due to low wheat acres there. Final yield predictions will be out mid-day Thursday. 4. Preparing for 2023 DTN Digital Yield Tour: The sixth DTN Digital Yield Tour, powered by Gro Intelligence, kicks off Aug. 7. In the weeks ahead, DTN reporters and editors will be out gathering on-the-ground information on crop conditions as we prepare to learn where Gro's satellite-driven yield models put the 2023 crop. This year we'll also get additional dirty-boots data from our friends at Farmers Independent Research of Seed Technologies, or FIRST. 5. Economic News This Week: We'll cover the latest USDA Crop Progress reports, hitting Monday afternoon. Wednesday will see news on latest U.S. new homes sales out at 9 a.m. CDT, followed by the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. The latest Federal Reserve announcement is scheduled at 1 p.m., followed by a press conference with Fed Chairman Jerome Powell. Thursday sees USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, durable goods orders for June and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's natural gas report follows at 9:30 a.m. Friday brings a collection of reports to help gauge inflation: At 7:30 a.m. we'll see the U.S. index of personal consumption expenditures for June, the report on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending for June and the Labor Department's employment cost index for the second quarter. The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment for July hits at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 24, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be paying close attention to the latest weather reports and any news from the Black Sea region. USDA's weekly inspections report is set for 10 a.m. CDT and will be followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A cluster of thunderstorms is moving down the Missouri Valley early Monday and some additional showers and thunderstorms are expected in the Midwest Monday as a ridge of heat over the West spreads eastward. Heat will be stressful this week, but some areas are going to see rain and potential severe weather.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 21, 2023 |

USDA Accepts Almost 2.7 Million Acres in CRP The USDA is accepting offers for nearly 2.7 million acres from agricultural producers and private landowners in this year’s Grassland Conservation Reserve Program signup. The program received a record-setting signup of 4.6 million acres in offers. The working lands program allows producers and landowners to continue grazing and haying practices while protecting grasslands and furthering the CRP’s impacts. “This year’s Grassland CRP signup demonstrates the continued popularity and success in voluntary, producer-led, working lands conservation programs,” says Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency Administrator. “Grassland CRP clearly demonstrates that conservation priorities and agricultural productivity can coexist, complement, and enhance one another.” USDA had to accept fewer acres and a lower percentage of offers than in 2022 because the program has reached its acreage cap. “With the low number of future expiring acres, getting closer to the statutory cap of 27 million acres would hinder the ability to conduct future signups,” Ducheneaux adds. *********************************************************************************** USB Sets Fiscal Year 2024 Budget The 77 people serving on the United Soybean Board approved $191.5 million for the 2024 fiscal year budget. The budget supports research, promotion, and education investment portfolios selected through USB’s Portfolio Development Process. These investments help drive demand for U.S. soy and return value to all U.S. soybean farmers. The total budget also includes execution, oversight, and program support. “I hope U.S. soybean farmers are proud of their checkoff as we pool our resources to improve our reliability and sustainability in delivering our crop to the global marketplace,” says Meagan Kaiser, USB Chair and Missouri farmer. “As we look to next year, we know that soy delivers solutions, and in many cases, it serves as a drop-in replacement to improve our carbon footprint across thousands of products.” She also says it’s important to make significant gains and drive return on investment back to farmers. “The future is bright,” she adds. *********************************************************************************** Animal Ag Alliance Releases Extremism Report The Animal Agriculture Alliance released reports detailing the interconnectedness of the animal rights movement and their tactics targeting animal agriculture. “No matter the animal rights extremist group or the tactics used, they all share the same goal of eliminating animal agriculture and taking meat, dairy, poultry, eggs, and seafood off grocery store shelves and family tables,” says Abby Kornegay, AAA manager of issues and engagement. Almost one-third of all animal rights extremist attacks documented in 2022 targeted farmers and food workers, putting them and the animals in danger. Some of their documented actions against animal ag include 95 vandalism incidents, 70 stolen animals, 60 criminal trespasses, ten arson cases, and nine harassment and intimidation incidents. “Extremists are getting ever bolder in their efforts against animal agriculture, and direct actions at the farm, processing facility, and retail store continue rising,” Kornegay adds. For information about proactive security measures, go to animalalliance.org. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Introduced to Improve Credit for Critical Rural Facilities The Investing in Rural America Act was introduced in the House of Representatives, and the Farm Credit Council reacted positively. “We thank those who introduced the legislation for their commitment to rural communities,” says FCC President and CEO Todd Van Hoose. “This legislation will spur the development of critical facilities in rural communities, such as hospitals, childcare centers, schools, and more.” He also says the bill will facilitate partnerships between Farm Credit, community banks, and other lenders to provide much-needed capital to build, renovate, and modernize rural community facilities. “Those kinds of facilities are critical to the viability of rural communities because they play key roles in improving the quality of life for rural families,” Van Hoose adds. “Yet, many communities lack these essential facilities, while many other facilities need modernization.” Minnesota Rep Michelle Fischbach says one way Congress can support rural communities is by eliminating unnecessary barriers to capital investment. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Cotton Ending Stocks Set to Increase The USDA cotton projections for August-July indicate that global cotton ending stocks will increase by 570,000 bales (0.6 percent) to 94.5 million bales. That’s the second-highest level since 2014-2015. As production exceeds mill use for a second year in a row, world cotton prices are forecast lower than the $1.01 per pound estimated for 2022-2023 and the recent high in 2021-2022 of almost $1.32 per pound. Although the world harvested area is projected to increase two percent, or 600,000 hectares, a projected decrease in the global yield reduces the production estimate year-over-year. Global cotton production is forecast to decrease by 1.1 million bales, or one percent, from 2022-2023 to 116.8 million bales in 2023-2024. The largest gains in the world are expected to come from Pakistan and India. World trade expectations (43.5 million bales) show a considerable increase from 2022-2023, rising with the projected rebound in 2023-2024 global cotton mill use. *********************************************************************************** MN Rep Wins NCGA President’s Award Minnesota Representative Angie Craig is the winner of the National Corn Growers Association’s 2023 President’s Award. She was honored during the organization’s annual Corn Congress summer meeting in Washington, D.C. Tom Haag (HAYG), NCGA President and a Minnesota corn grower, had high praise for the congresswoman. “Whether it’s ensuring that consumers have access to higher levels of ethanol or it’s working to advance corn grower priorities in the farm bill, Craig has been a tireless advocate for growers and is one of our biggest Congressional allies.” Craig, Minnesota’s Second District Representative, says, “My district is home to so many of the corn growers who get food on our tables and fuel in our vehicles. I’m honored to represent them.” Craig has championed many issues important to corn growers. Earlier this year, she joined a bipartisan group of House members in re-introducing a bill that would allow year-round access to E15.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 21, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's monthly cattle on-feed inventory and U.S. cattle inventory reports, both for July 1 are due out at 2 p.m. CDT, the only significant reports on Friday. Traders continue to keep close watch on the latest weather developments and happenings in Ukraine. Weather A cold front pressing south through the country will continue to produce areas of showers and thunderstorms, some possibly severe with heavy rain. Fairly comfortable temperatures remain north of the front with largely drier conditions. Some isolated showers may be possible farther north in the Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 20, 2023 |

USDA Partnership to Reduce Anticompetitive Barriers USDA launched a partnership with bipartisan attorneys general in 31 states and the District of Columbia to enhance competition and protect consumers in food and agricultural markets. Through the agreement, this partnership will assist the state attorneys general in tackling anticompetitive market structures in agriculture and related industries that are raising prices and limiting choices for consumers and producers. “Through these cooperative agreements, we can ensure a more robust and competitive agricultural sector,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “I’m happy to see that a bipartisan group of states is committed to joining USDA in better protecting the fair and competitive markets that are a critical cornerstone of the American economy.” Areas of focus for the Agricultural Competition Partnership include anti-competitive market structures and practices, as well as price gouging and other anti-consumer practices in food, retail, meat, and poultry processing. Others include a lack of choices for consumers and producers. *********************************************************************************** Methane Emissions Reduction for Beef Cattle Cargill recently partnered with TREES Consulting to develop a new Gold Standard-approved methodology giving beef producers a way to measure methane emissions reductions. The methodology uses feed supplements incorporated into beef cattle diets. The new methodology defines a set of parameters that beef producers can adopt to quantify reductions in methane emissions, a greenhouse gas derived from the digestion process in cattle as well as manure handling. It’s now available for beef producers to quantify, audit, and verify methane reductions, enabling them to register their GHG mitigation projects for Gold Standard Certification. Those verified emissions reductions can be traded in carbon markets, allowing credit purchasers to directly support the projects. “We are committed to finding ways to ensure that producers can get recognized and rewarded for their emissions reduction efforts,” says Margaret Kim, CEO of Gold Standard. For more information about the new methodology, go to Cargill’s “Feeding Intelligence” site. *********************************************************************************** Newhouse Launches ESA Working Group Washington Representative Dan Newhouse, the Congressional Western Caucus, and the House Committee on Natural Resources launched the Endangered Species Act Working Group. The new group will look into how the Endangered Species Act is being implemented by federal agencies, the practical impacts on the American people, how litigation is driving ESA decision-making, and how success is currently defined under the act. The group intends to publish a series of policy recommendations that reform the ESA to the benefit of the American people and species conservation. “It’s clear the ESA desperately needs reform,” Newhouse says. “Not just for the sake of our species, but for the people who are negatively impacted because of its land-use restrictions, impact on property values, and costly permitting requirements.” Hundreds of species are listed under the act, but only three percent have been delisted. “Clearly, something is not working,” says Natural Resources Chair Bruce Westerman of Arkansas. *********************************************************************************** NACD 2023 Summer Conservation Forum Held This Week in ND The National Association of Conservation Districts held the 2023 Summer Conservation Forum and Tours in Bismarck, North Dakota. This summer’s meeting brought together conservation leaders from across the country to discuss emerging natural resource concerns and innovative solutions. The meeting included a grassland conservation and grazing management panel, as well as remarks from Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief Terry Cosby and Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. North Dakota Senator John Hoeven spoke about the importance of locally-led conservation, partnerships, and an approach that isn’t one size fits all. “Make the approach fit farmers and ranchers,” he said. NACD President Kim LaFleur emphasized the importance of developing next-generation leaders at all levels and engaging new audiences and partners. The event also gave attendees the opportunity to see conservation in action, including a tour of the Black Leg Ranch. Several other conservation leaders addressed changing natural resource challenges in their regions. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for Southeast Asia Trade Mission USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Malaysia and Singapore from October 30-November 3. The Foreign Ag Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters wanting to take part in the trade mission. “Malaysia and Singapore are important markets in our efforts to diversify prospects for U.S. food and agricultural exports in Southeast Asia,” Taylor says. “These markets provide both a source of stability for American exports and a tremendous opportunity to further expand U.S. trade in the region.” She also says consumer demand for American products in both countries is on the rise, making this agribusiness trade mission extremely timely. America’s agricultural and related product exports to Malaysia reached $1.13 billion in 2022. U.S. agricultural exports to Singapore grew 190 percent between 2012 and 2022, reaching a record $1.4 billion in 2022. For more information or to apply, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Organization Names American Star Finalists The National FFA Organization has announced the 16 finalists for its 2023 top achievement awards. The awards include the American Star Farmer, American Star in Agribusiness, American Star in Agricultural Placement, and the American Star in Agriscience. The American Star Awards represent the best of the best among thousands of American FFA Degree recipients. The award recognizes FFA members who have developed outstanding agricultural skills and competencies by completing a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) program. A required activity, the SAE allows members to learn by doing. Members can own and operate an agricultural business, intern at an agricultural business, or conduct an agriculture-based scientific experience and report the results. Other requirements for receiving an award include demonstrating top management skills, completing key agricultural education, scholastic, and leadership requirements, and earning an American FFA Degree, the organization’s highest level of student accomplishment. For more information about the American Star Awards, go to FFA.org/Stars.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 20, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday. U.S. existing home sales and U.S. leading indicators, both for June are out at 9 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to pay close attention to the weather and latest events out of Ukraine. Weather A system moving through the eastern Midwest will continue to produce areas of showers and thunderstorms on Thursday, some of which may be severe with wind and hail. The front to the system will be an area to watch for significant severe storms Thursday afternoon and evening across Colorado and Kansas with a significant severe wind threat and heavy rain potential. To the south of the front, heat and humidity continue to be intense.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 19, 2023 |

Russia Attacks Ukraine Grain Port One day after Russia terminated the Black Sea Grain Initiative, the country attacked Ukraine grain facilities at the Odesa port. Russia terminated the deal following an attack by Ukraine on a bridge in the Crimean Peninsula. The port attacks were in retaliation to the Ukraine attack. The Black Sea grain export deal allowed for the safe transport of grain through the Black Sea by Ukraine. Reuters reports that any attempt to reopen Ukrainian grain shipments without Russia's participation would depend on insurance companies agreeing to provide coverage. Russia could return to the grain deal, but only if its demands are met for rules to be eased for its own exports of food and fertilizer. The country, for now, has not guaranteed the safety of ships in the Black Sea carrying products from Ukraine. Ukraine has invested in other ports, and could shift grain to those, but at a reduced shipping capacity. *********************************************************************************** Ad Hoc Government Payments Caused Farmers to Store More Grain University research shows ad hoc payments result in farmers holding more grain in storage. Published by the University of Illinois’ FarmdocDAILY, the research estimated the impact of the unprecedented surge in ad hoc farm payments from 2018 to 2020 on grain inventories held by farmers. Under the Market Facilitation Program, U.S. farmers received approximately $23 billion during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 marketing years. While USDA designed MFP to avoid distorting farmer planting and production decisions, these payments may still have affected farm decision-making, in particular, the decision to store production after harvest. However, the research estimates the impact of MFP payments on the market-level inventories was modest. Even in the case of soybeans in December 2018, the market and quarter where with the largest impact, U.S. soybean stocks were only 226 million bushels or six percent higher than they would have been in the absence of MFP payments. The conclusion: MFP did impact outcomes relevant to commodity price levels, though any potential market distortion was likely small. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Again a Top Beef Supplier to Japan The United States is again a top supplier of beef to Japan, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. U.S. market share collapsed in 2004 after a single case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy, commonly referred to as “mad cow disease,” was detected in a cow shipped from Canada to the United States. In response, Japan placed an embargo on all U.S. and Canadian beef products. In 2006, Japan began phasing out the ban on U.S. beef and fully lifted it in May 2019. Over this period, U.S. beef imports rebounded nearly to pre-ban levels, shipping 233,000 metric tons to Japan in 2021. The U.S. is now the second largest supplier of beef to Japan, behind Australia. Recently ratified trade agreements between Japan and these partner countries are expected to contribute to changes in Japan’s market for imported beef. Researchers estimate that by 2033, annual scheduled reductions in Japan’s import tariffs will increase imports of U.S. beef by 27 percent, or $413.8 million, from 2018 levels. *********************************************************************************** AEM Study Shows Environmental Benefits of Precision Agriculture A new study for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers shows the environmental benefits of precision agriculture. The study examined the impact of various technologies on the production of row crops, broad acre crops, roots and tubers, as well as forage. The data overwhelmingly shows that precision agriculture can have a positive environmental impact in all of these areas. Precision agriculture leverages technologies to enhance sustainability through more efficient use of land, water, fuel, fertilizer and pesticides. Essentially, farmers who use precision agriculture technologies use less to grow more, reducing both cost and environmental impact. In consultation with several environmental groups, AEM identified five areas with the most potential to impact the environment. Precision agriculture results in a four percent increase in crop production, seven percent increase in fertilizer placement efficiency, a nine percent reduction in pesticide use, a six percent reduction in fossil fuel use and a four percent reduction in water use. *********************************************************************************** USTR Announces Fiscal Year 2024 WTO Sugar Tariff-Rate Quota Allocations The U.S. Trade Representative’s office Tuesday announced the country-specific and first-come, first-served in-quota allocations of the tariff-rate quotas for imported sugar. The tariff-rate quotas, or TRQs, apply to raw sugar, refined and specialty sugar, and sugar-containing products, for fiscal year 2024, that begins October 1. TRQs allow countries to export specified quantities of a product to the United States at a relatively low tariff, but subject all imports of the product above a pre-determined threshold to a higher tariff. Earlier this month, the Department of Agriculture announced the establishment of the in-quota quantity for raw cane sugar for FY 2024. The in-quota quantity for the TRQ on raw cane sugar for FY 2024 is 1,117,195 metric tons raw value, which is the minimum amount to which the United States is committed under the World Trade Organization Agreement. USTR is allocating the raw cane sugar TRQ of 1,117,195 metric tons raw value, to a set of countries included in the announcement. *********************************************************************************** Hot Summer Means More Natural Gas Consumption The U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts record-high natural gas consumption in the United States for electricity generation in July and August. The forecast comes as another hot summer increases demand for air conditioning. In its July Short-Term Energy Outlook, EIA expects about four percent more U.S. electricity generation from natural gas in July and August 2023 than in 2022. Natural gas will provide about 46 percent of U.S. electricity for those two months and provide 41 percent of U.S. electricity for the year, according to EIA's forecast. EIA also expects a six percent increase in electricity generation from renewables and a two percent increase in generation from nuclear energy. Also, EIA reduced its forecast for growth in U.S. renewable diesel production from previous forecasts. An EIA spokesperson says, "We still expect significant growth in renewable diesel production, but changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard slightly lower the growth rate in the short term.” EIA expects the United States to produce about 161,000 barrels per day of renewable diesel in 2023, which is a 66 percent increase from 2022.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 19, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts for June will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to pay close attention to the latest weather developments in a summer of volatile pricing for corn and soybeans. Events in Ukraine are also getting attention as summer fighting escalates. Weather A front across the Tennessee Valley and a system moving through the Upper Midwest are producing areas of showers and thunderstorms for Wednesday, under mainly mild temperatures for the Corn Belt. Some stronger storms may be possible from Nebraska into Minnesota and Wisconsin. Heat continues to be in place across the Southern Plains and across the Southeast.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 18, 2023 |

EPA Denies 26 RFS Small Refinery Exemptions The Environmental Protection Agency has denied 26 Small Refinery Exemption petitions for the Renewable Fuel Standard spanning compliance years 2016-2018 and 2021-2023. The action demonstrates the agency’s continued commitment to ending the backlog of pending SREs. The American Soybean Association welcomed the continued transparent and fair assessment of SREs through more stringent hardship and economic impact requirements. Historically, significant SRE approvals without clear and consistent metrics for evaluation created vast market uncertainty and undermined the intent of the RFS, creating a challenging environment for continued growth in the biomass-based diesel industry. EPA has worked in recent years to develop new parameters for petition approvals that have proven effective at strengthening the RFS. ASA is pleased with this progress and hopes EPA will continue to work with the biofuels industry to implement the RFS as intended. With the finalization of these 26 SRE petition denials, EPA has cut down SRE backlogs significantly, with only two outstanding petitions remaining from compliance year 2018. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: U.S. Economic Slowdown Likely Ahead The U.S. economy continues to defy gravity and remains strong despite lingering inflationary pressures, higher borrowing costs and a barrage of other headwinds. However, looming risks to the economy are increasing in number and size. CoBank's Knowledge Exchange says the full impact of monetary policy actions--raising interest rates, quantitative easing and contracting the money supply--have yet to be felt. Those policy actions, combined with depleted consumer savings, tighter commercial bank lending standards and the persistently inverted yield curve are likely to result in a mild recession by the fourth quarter of 2023. Ag retailers faced a more challenging environment in the second quarter as fertilizer prices continued to fall. Despite an overall slowdown in inflation, ag retailers continued to face rising costs, especially for property insurance. While food manufacturers generally indicate they are back to business as usual in the post-pandemic era, many consumers continue to harbor a crisis-management mentality regarding food costs. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Introduce Women in Agriculture Bill Lawmakers recently introduced the Women in Agriculture Act. The legislation would establish a research priority for agriculture machinery and equipment designed to be used by women, and create a funding set aside for childcare facilities in rural areas. The bill also creates a Women Farmers and Ranchers Liaison position at the Department of Agriculture. Although the number of women in the agriculture industry is growing, the majority of tools are designed and manufactured the height, strength and body type of a man. Representative Chellie Pingree, a Democrat from Maine, led the introduction of the bill. She says, “The Women in Agriculture Act provides resources specifically for women farmers and ranchers to level the playing field and work towards a fairer agriculture industry." In 2019, women accounted for 26 percent of the farm labor workforce, a 19 percent increase since 2009. However, farms operated by women earn 40 percent less income compared to male-dominated farms. *********************************************************************************** Deadline July 26 to Apply for Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Organic Dairy producers have a few days left to apply for Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance from the Department of Agriculture. The Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program assists certified organic dairy producers facing unique challenges in recent years, including higher costs attributed to the pandemic and drought conditions across the country. USDA's Farm Service Agency provides financial assistance for a producer's projected marketing costs in 2023 based on 2022 costs. The program provides a one-time cost-share payment, based on marketing costs, on pounds of organic milk marketed in the 2022 calendar year. The financial assistance provides immediate support to certified organic dairy operations during 2023, keeping organic dairy operations sustainable until the markets return to more normal conditions. SDA will invest $104 million in financial assistance to certified organic dairy producers. Organic dairy producers should apply by July 26, 2023, at their local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Consumers’ Food Spending Hit Record High in 2022 New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows consumer spending on food reached a record in 2022. Real, or inflation-adjusted, annual food spending in the United States increased steadily from 1997 to 2022, except in 2008 and 2009 during the Great Recession and in 2020 during the Coronavirus pandemic. Food spending includes food at home, described as food intended for off-premises consumption from retailers such as grocery stores, and food away from home, described as food purchased at outlets such as restaurants or cafeterias. Total food spending increased 70 percent from 1997 to 2022. During this period, food at home spending increased at a slower rate, 53 percent, than for food away from home at 89 percent. Total food spending increased on an annual basis by 7.2 percent in 2021 and 4.5 percent in 2022. Food away from home spending increases, 19 percent in 2021 and eight percent in 2022, drove overall increases in food spending. *********************************************************************************** MGP Ingredients to Close Industrial Alcohol Distillery MGP Ingredients last week announced the planned closure of its industrial alcohol distillery expected in January 2024. The facility in Atchison, Kansas, produces grain neutral spirits, industrial alcohol products and related co-products. The decision to close this distillery is consistent with the company’s plan to address profitability headwinds associated within the sector. MGP Ingredients will continue to operate and invest in its Ingredient Solutions business located in Atchison, Kansas, including the previously announced $16.7 million-dollar texturized protein facility scheduled to be completed by the end of the year. The company will also continue to operate and invest in its Lawrenceburg, Indiana, distillery operations. MGP President and CEO David Colo says, “The additional supply of grain neutral spirits and industrial alcohol that has entered the market during the past few years has had a meaningful and structural impact on the market.” The company also cited the increase in local corn basis costs that reduced profitability.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 18, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales in June is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook is due out at 2 p.m. Traders will keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts. Weather Remnants of a storm complex from western South Dakota Monday night will continue across eastern Nebraska and Missouri Tuesday morning. By Tuesday afternoon, storms will expand into the Tennessee Valley and Ohio Valley. More scattered storms will also form across the eastern Dakotas, Minnesota, and northern Iowa by Tuesday evening. The strongest storms are expected across Missouri, southern Illinois, eastern Kentucky and Tennessee, as well as eastern North Dakota. Damaging winds and isolated, large hail will be the main threats with thunderstorms Tuesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |

CoBank: U.S. economic slowdown likely ahead Full impact of monetary policy actions have yet to be felt. The U.S. economy continues to defy gravity and remains strong despite lingering inflationary pressures, higher borrowing costs and a barrage of other headwinds. Consumers continue to spend aggressively on services, businesses are still investing and the labor market remains incredibly strong. Secure jobs are the most important element in consumer spending and well-employed Americans have powered the economic recovery for three years. However, looming risks to the economy are increasing in number and size. According to a new quarterly report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, the full impact of monetary policy actions—raising interest rates, quantitative easing and contracting the money supply—have yet to be felt. Those policy actions, combined with depleted consumer savings, tighter commercial bank lending standards and the persistently inverted yield curve are likely to result in a mild recession by the fourth quarter of 2023. “There is still a lot of wind at the back of this economy, and we don’t believe a severe contraction is coming,” said Dan Kowalski, vice president of CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange. “But we do believe it is important to not misinterpret delayed impacts for minimal impacts. Monetary effects can be slow in developing, and history tells us that the economy can seem just fine right before a recession hits.” The labor market remains relatively tight, but the situation has improved significantly as female and non-native workers have stormed back into the work force. The labor force participation rate for women between the ages of 25-54 now stands at an all-time high, up more than 4% from the low in April 2020. Foreign-born employment has increased at roughly double the pace of native-born employment since April 2020. The successes in these two groups have been critical so far in the economic recovery. But looking forward, it raises the question of how many more workers are available to be coaxed in off the sidelines. Ultimately, the U.S. labor force challenges are far from over. Grains, farm supply & biofuels With the corn and soybean growing season in full swing, drought across the Central U.S. is driving heightened seasonal market volatility. Markets are balancing the quickly deteriorating crop conditions against the potential for El Nino to bring wetter conditions later in the growing season. Wheat harvest is advancing northward in the U.S. and is revealing high variability in crop quality. USDA expects the U.S. hard red winter wheat crop to be the smallest since 1957 on substantially higher abandonments and lower yields. Ag retailers faced a more challenging environment in the second quarter as fertilizer prices continued to fall. Prices were weighed down by reduced demand, as farmers took advantage of pre-payment programs last fall to purchase fertilizer in advance. Despite an overall slowdown in inflation, ag retailers continued to face rising costs, especially for property insurance. Grain and farm supply cooperatives paid about 50% more for property and casualty insurance coverage during the January and April 2023 renewal seasons. The ethanol complex delivered strong second quarter results with steady production and above-average profitability. Operating margins averaged 45 cents per gallon, nearly double the long-term average. While the finalized blending requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) were somewhat disappointing for ethanol, they were incrementally positive for biomass-based diesel. The new rules call for 2.82 billion gallons of biodiesel and renewable diesel in 2023 and 3.35 billion gallons in 2025. Animal protein & dairy As the summer grilling season kicked off, beef demand remained incredibly resilient despite elevated prices for consumers. Retail beef prices averaged $7.50 per pound in May, a record high for the period, and an increase of 2% year-over-year. Robust demand combined with tighter cattle supplies spurred market momentum for cattle. Fed cattle values reached record levels, above $180 per cwt. and feeder cattle shot above $240 per cwt. While consumers have yet to balk at higher beef prices, things could quickly change when seasonal support wanes. Excess hog supply and weak pork demand put hog prices in jeopardy this spring. After a steady start to the year, the CME lean hog index tumbled about $10/cwt., to $72 from mid-March to late April. However, more favorable market conditions across the animal protein segment drove lean hog values up 30% through May and June. While still down about $15 year-over-year, the pork cutout landed in the upper $90s, gaining about $20 per cwt. through the quarter. Domestic chicken consumption was up about 4% year-over-year through June 1, which has helped chip away at elevated cold storage holdings. Wholesale broiler meat prices have largely rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, following significant declines in late 2022 and early 2023. Feed costs have come down about 10% from last year but remain well above their historic averages. For broiler integrators, increased feed costs coupled with higher operational expenses have crimped profitability. U.S. milk producers continue to struggle in the current price environment. The national all-in mailbox milk price has dropped below the $20/cwt. mark after averaging $25.34/cwt. in 2022. While several factors are to blame for this year’s milk price decline, the sharp drop in American/cheddar-style cheese prices is the most significant. Prices for the category have dropped by one-third since the beginning of the year. Milk and feed futures suggest producer profitability should improve considerably by October when Class III milk prices are anticipated to increase by about $3.00/cwt. Cotton, rice & specialty crops U.S. cotton production is rebounding from last year’s crop that was devastated by extreme drought across the southwest. Recent rainfall in top-producing Texas is expected to reduce abandonment following three years of severe drought. The U.S. cotton crop is now estimated at 16.5 million bales, up 14% from last year. Price inflation for clothing and apparel in the U.S. continues to ease with the moderation of cotton prices, which may work to draw in new consumer demand. U.S. rice production is expected to recover from last year’s small crop, although concerns over dryness and worsening conditions in the mid-South have led to increased volatility of rough rice prices. With improved water availability this year, California medium grain rice production is also expected to rebound with planted acreage at 465,000 acres. That’s a substantial increase from last year’s planted acreage of 220,000 acres that were restricted by historic drought conditions. Sugar prices remain historically high as markets ration tight global supplies. USDA currently calls for a rebound in world sugar production for 2023-2024, but concerns are growing that El Nino will result in smaller harvests in 2023-2024. In the U.S., there is no relief in sight for high prices as wet weather delayed planting across northern states this spring, which resulted in a smaller U.S. sugarbeet crop. The tight farm labor market continues to be especially challenging for U.S. specialty crop producers. The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco reported that weekly median wages for farm workers swelled to a record high $915 in April, a 24% increase from the year earlier. In June, the House Agriculture Committee created a bipartisan working group, tasked with evaluating the H-2A program and finding solutions for the labor supply challenges facing farmers. Food & beverage While food manufacturers generally indicate they are back to business as usual in the post-pandemic era, many consumers continue to harbor a crisis-management mentality when it comes to food costs. Rising food prices are challenging both at-home and away-from-home food spending. The Consumer Price Index for all food in May was 6.7% higher than May 2022, while food away-from-home prices were up 8.3%. To offset higher prices, consumers are continuing behaviors initially seen during the pandemic, namely eating more meals at home. Foot traffic in restaurants remains well below pre-pandemic levels.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |

High Production Costs Won’t Ease Next Year USDA’s first cost of production forecast for major field crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, rice, and others shows that input costs are expected to remain elevated into the next growing season. The costs will likely be at the third-highest level of all time and only slightly lower than the record high in 2022. While some input costs like fertilizer and chemicals are expected to decline from 2023 to 2024, other expenses like seed costs, labor, machinery and equipment, taxes, and insurance are expected to rise. Since 2020, the total costs paid by farmers to raise crops and care for livestock have increased by more than $100 billion, or 28 percent, to an all-time high of $460 billion this year. Based on USDA’s current input cost projections, trend yields, and commodity price trends, several major field crops may experience marketing year average prices below breakeven levels this year and possibly into 2024. *********************************************************************************** White House Hosts Event on Competition in the Farm Bill The USDA and White House co-hosted a meeting to discuss competition priorities in the farm bill. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew took part, saying that the U.S. needs a farm bill that prioritizes fair and competitive markets. “Today’s event shows the need for this issue to be addressed in the 2023 Farm Bill,” Larew says. “Our Fairness for Farmers Campaign has sounded the alarm on monopolies, and this meeting is a sign our concerns are being heard by our decision-makers.” The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association also took part in the event. USCA Vice President Lia Biondo says the discussion marked progress toward a fairer, more competitive marketplace. “A Texas A & M study shows that without the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act, negotiated trade in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico is expected to fall to zero by 2026,” she says. “Zero percent negotiated trade is a wholly vertically-consolidated industry.” *********************************************************************************** Minnesota Company Launches Relief Effort for Ukrainian Farmers The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization says Ukraine’s farmers have suffered $3.9 billion in losses since Russia invaded in February 2022. A U.N. study says cultivated area has decreased nine percent since last year, and 12 percent of Ukraine’s farms report unexploded ordinances in their fields. EarthDaily Agro of Maple Grove, Minnesota, launched ‘Farmerhood,’ a fund-raising initiative to help farmers impacted by war. A Twin Cities TV station says the group’s fundraising goal is $1 million, enough to help 200 farmers. Dave Gebhart of EarthDaily says they’ve reached about $300,000 thanks to corporate sponsors. The group has received 300 requests for help from farmers in Ukraine. The farmers must have 1,200 acres or less to be eligible for assistance. The group says there is a thorough audit of the farmer’s property and location to make sure they can help those who suffer the most. For information, go to Farmerhood.org. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Producers Praise Congressional Support of Beef Checkoff Cattle industry leaders praised the introduction of a bipartisan congressional resolution recognizing the importance of commodity checkoff programs, including the Beef Checkoff. As a cattle producer who invests in the checkoff, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Todd Wilkinson says he knows how important the program is to the industry’s success. “The Beef Checkoff was created by cattle producers and provides immense benefits to those producers,” he says. “I’m grateful for the resolution and the fact that lawmakers are standing with cattle producers to recognize the importance of checkoff programs.” He’s also hopeful that more members of Congress will listen to farmers and ranchers and reject animal rights activist-led proposals like the OFF Act that undermine producer control of checkoffs. “Checkoff-funded programs have led to the development of new cuts of beef and strengthened consumer trust in the cattle industry’s animal welfare and sustainability,” says NCBA Policy Division Chair Gene Copenhaver. ‘*********************************************************************************** Lamb Industry Sustainability Survey Needs Producer Input The American Lamb Board is looking for help from U.S. lamb producers and feeders regarding their environmental stewardship and other sustainability practices. The goal is to better inform consumers and direct checkoff programs about those practices. The survey runs until Monday, August 14. “It’s so important to have solid data that actually represents what our diverse American Lamb industry does, the progress we’ve made, and that helps us continually improve productivity, animal care, and sustainability,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair from New York. “The U.S. lamb industry is often misrepresented, so we need solid, new data to correctly tell our story.” The ALB says the sustainability survey will help them communicate with retailers, chefs, and consumers. Also, the ALB will use the information to guide its industry education and research efforts so that checkoff funds are invested where they will make the most difference. For more information, go to bit.ly/USLambSurvey. *********************************************************************************** USDA Requests Input on GHG Measurement Plans USDA is requesting public input on the draft “Federal Strategy to Advance Greenhouse Gas Measurement and Monitoring for the Agriculture and Forestry Sectors.” The draft Federal Strategy outlines a framework for enhancing greenhouse gas measurement, monitoring, reporting, and verification within the agricultural and forestry sectors, with a special focus on the administration’s Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Initiative. It also aligns with ongoing work across the federal government to quantify carbon sequestration and carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide emissions. USDA recently announced a $300 million investment to advance priorities set by the strategy. The Notice in the Federal Register seeks information on four topics: general comments or questions about the draft Federal Strategy; animal agriculture; croplands; and data & data sharing. Comments are invited from a variety of stakeholders, including users and providers of agriculture and forestry data, methods, and analyses, state and local agencies, private sector researchers, and non-governmental organizations.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Emergency Haying, WASDE Fallout Among Coming Stories OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 9. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. OMAHA (DTN)-- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 16. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Market Maneuvers: Last week's WASDE kicked off all kinds of market reactions. The "will he or won't he" on Russian President Putin extending the Black Sea export agreement is also playing with the trade. Watch for the latest in our Markets sections. 2. Tar Spot Spread: Several areas of Iowa, Indiana, Missouri and surrounding states are seeing outbreaks of tar spot in corn. We're continuing to track the spread of the disease, which can cut yields by as much as 50 bushels per acre. For our latest information on the disease, see Crop Editor Jason Jenkin's story here: 3. Some hay relief: USDA last week approved haying and grazing on some CRP acres due to drought. We're continuing to watch the tight forage and hay situation and will keep you informed on what that means to cattle and dairy. 4. Be safe in that hay field: In addition to CRP release, many states have opened roadside areas to haying by local farmers. It's a helpful resource, but it also puts hay crews out among speeding vehicles and potentially inattentive drivers. Be safe, use cones, flags or flashers (or all the above) in haying areas and have a guide vehicle on hand when moving equipment and hay bales in and around public roadways. 5. Learning top cuts: The "field to fork" movement, and concern over meat packer concentration, have driven a number of colleges and universities to either start or expand meat cutting education. We'll be looking into where that's happening and if it's keeping up with local slaughter demand. Watch for those stories coming soon.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check over the latest weather forecasts and news happenings. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT and will be followed later Monday morning by soybean crush estimates for June from the National Oilseeds Processors Association. USDA's Crop Progress report is set for 3 p.m. Weather Daytime thunderstorms will develop across the Ohio Valley and Mid-Mississippi Valley Monday afternoon. Later Monday evening and into Monday night, more storms will develop across South Dakota and Nebraska. Some storms could become strong to severe across Kentucky, southern Indiana, and far southern Illinois Monday afternoon while the main threat for severe storms across the Plains Monday night will be in southwest South Dakota into northeast Nebraska.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 14, 2023 |

Farm Lending Slows as Interest Rates Climb Farm lending activity at commercial banks in the Kansas City Fed’s district slowed through the first half of 2023 as interest rates continued pushing higher. The volume of non-real estate farm loans at commercial banks declined for the second-consecutive quarter. The survey of commercial banks shows the volume of non-real estate loans was 15 percent below last year, and the drop was attributed to a lower average size of loans and a smaller number of loans compared with 2022. The average interest rates on agricultural loans increased for the sixth-consecutive quarter. The U.S. farm economy outlook has moderated in recent months as risks of more limited profit opportunities have grown alongside softening in commodity markets and elevated production expenses. Broad strength in farm finances has continued to support historically-strong loan performance, but farm profitability will remain important for agricultural credit conditions and lending demand in the coming months. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Brazil’s Higher Corn Exports Not a Trend Brazil is positioned to surpass the U.S. in corn exports this year. However, the National Corn Growers Association says the data shows the trend leading to this development won’t continue. The South American country faces several challenges when it comes to agriculture and trade. “U.S. exports have been hindered by droughts that have affected key areas of the Corn Belt,” says NCGA Lead Economist Krista Swanson. “But the U.S. has several relative advantages in the global corn market that can be harnessed to support our $90 billion corn industry.” The U.S. is bolstered by superior infrastructure and sustainable farming practices. While there is additional pasture area available to expand Brazil’s cropland, efforts are also underway to rein in deforestation of valuable rainforest critical to global sustainability. NCGA is calling on Congress to double farm bill funding for important trade programs like the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program. *********************************************************************************** U.N. says 122 Million More People Facing Hunger Since 2019 Over 122 million more people around the world are facing hunger since 2019 due to COVID-19 and repeated weather shocks and conflicts like the war in Ukraine. That’s according to the latest “State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World” report published this week by the United Nations. Several agencies within the U.N. says if the trends remain as they are, the Sustainable Development Goal of ending hunger by 2030 won’t be reached. The latest report shows that between 691 and 783 million people faced hunger in 2022. While the numbers have stalled between 2021 and 2022, there are many places in the world facing increasing hunger. Hunger was still rising in western Asia, the Caribbean, and throughout all the subregions of Africa in 2022. Africa remains the hardest-hit region in the world with one in five people facing hunger on the continent, more than twice the global average. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investments in Lowering Energy Costs for Rural America The USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service is making $21 million in technical assistance grants available through the Rural Energy for America Program. The funds will help agricultural producers and rural small businesses access federal funds for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements. “This will make sure rural Americans get access to the grants to make energy more affordable, create new economic opportunity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says Rural Business-Cooperative Service Administrator Dr. Karama (kah-RA-mah) Neal. Grant recipients can include state, tribal, or local governments, colleges and universities, electric cooperatives and utility companies, and for-profit and non-profit organizations. “The technical assistance grants will provide hands-on support to farmers, ranchers, and rural small business owners seeking federal funds for renewable energy systems like wind and solar,” she says. “This will help small businesses and producers lower energy costs and strengthen their operations.” Interested applicants should contact their USDA Rural Development state Office for information. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Lower the Cost of Biofuel-Blending Compliance A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants to lower the cost of complying with biofuel-blending mandates. Reuters says legislation was introduced that would direct the White House to let oil refiners purchase compliance credits (RINs) for biofuel blending laws at a lower cost than they’d pay on the open market. The group behind the bill says it would help struggling refineries stay afloat during a time of upheaval in the energy markets across the globe. Refiners have said for years that the costs of complying with the Renewable Fuel Standard mandates is too high. However, biofuel proponents like ethanol producers and corn farmers say the RFS increases the marketplace for their products. A news release says under the proposal, refiners could buy those biofuel credits at a fixed price only if they aren’t able to purchase them at cost-effective levels on the open market. The bill’s introduction caused RIN prices to drop. *********************************************************************************** CHS Reports Third Quarter Earnings Agribusiness cooperative CHS Inc. released the results for its third quarter that ended on May 31. The company reported a quarterly net income of $547.5 million. That’s compared to a record third-quarter net income of $576.6 million in fiscal year 2022. For the first nine months of fiscal year 2023, the company reported a net income of $1.6 billion and revenues of $36.1 billion. During the same period in 2022, the company reported net income of $1.2 billion and revenues of $34.4 billion. Third-quarter highlights include the energy segment delivering strong earnings, reflecting sustained favorable market conditions in their refined fuels business. Another highlight is improved soybean and canola crush margins due to strong meal and oil demand resulting in higher earnings in the company’s oilseed processing business. “Entering the end of our fiscal year, opportunities remain for profitability and growth in the agriculture industry,” says CHS President Jay Debertin.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 14, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets An index of U.S. consumer sentiment is set for 9 a.m. Friday and this is also the last trading day for July grain futures. Traders continue to keep close track of changes in weather and watch for an occasional export sale announcement. Weather A thunderstorm complex currently extends across western Arkansas while another cluster of storms is moving out of the Texas Panhandle. Farther north, a line of storms is moving through southern Wisconsin into northern Illinois while another complex of storms extends across southern South Dakota and northern Nebraska. The storms across northern Nebraska may try to expand and become stronger across eastern Nebraska early Friday afternoon and eventually extend into eastern Kansas, southern Iowa, and northern Missouri late Friday afternoon into the evening. Strong to severe storms will be possible across southern Kansas and northern Oklahoma, with damaging wind gusts and large hail being the main threats.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 13, 2023 |

U.S. consumers less willing to pay for beef, pork in June U.S. consumers have lowered their willingness-to-pay for six evaluated retail products, including ribeye steak, ground beef, pork chops and bacon, in June compared to May, according to the latest Meat Demand Monitor. WTP also decreased for all evaluated food service meals last month. Retail and food service demand in June 2023 was also lower than the year prior for all examined beef and pork offerings. The combined beef and pork projected market shares for June are 32% and 21%, respectively at the grocery store, and 39% and 13% at the restaurant. "I think base willingness-to-pay is declining, consistent with the general demand statement around June 2023 having lower domestic meat demand than June 2022," says Glynn Tonsor, professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University. "Per the extended chart above, this aligns with higher rates of no-protein, particularly among those indicating their finances have stagnated or declined from last year." Launched in February 2020, the MDM project is funded in-part by Beef Checkoff and Pork Checkoff and tracks U.S. consumer preferences, views and demand for meat with separate analysis for retail and food service channels. The monthly survey is conducted online with more than 2,000 respondents reflecting the national population. Taste, freshness, price and safety remain most important when purchasing protein, however freshness increased most since May, with environmental impact declining. Consumers are also eating lunch and dinner at home more often since last month's report. The survey noted 54% of respondents dined in for lunch and 69% for dinner in June, compared to May's 48% for lunch and 65% for dinner. In June, 14%, 21% and 33% had beef their prior day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, while pork was included in 18%, 12% and 18% of these meals. The protein source for at-home meals was predominantly grocery stores. Meals consumed away-from-home vary in frequency, however quick service is the most popular for breakfast and lunch meals, casual dining for dinner. Consistent with a special report shared in late May on the role of financial sentiment in meat consumption and demand, in June a small minority (16%) indicated their household finances have improved over the past year. The survey noted 47% of respondents indicated their finances are the same while 36% said their finances are worse. Inclusion of beef and pork in prior day meals is much higher for those reporting improved household finances reaffirming the role of macroeconomic conditions in domestic beef and pork demand. Tonsor says the trend of those 16% reporting household finances that are better than last year including meat protein in prior day meals at higher rates is not unique to beef and pork. This holds true for chicken and fish/seafood as well. "Those indicating their household financed are the same (47%) or worse (36%) than last year report much higher cases of other (something besides beef, pork, chicken and fish/seafood) or no protein in prior day meals," Tonsor says.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 13, 2023 |

USDA Releases July WASDE Report The Department of Agriculture Wednesday Issued the latest Monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand report. This month’s corn outlook is for fractionally higher supplies and ending stocks. Corn production is forecast up 55 million bushels as greater planted and harvested area from the June 30 Acreage report is partially offset by a four-bushel reduction in yield to 177.5 bushels per acre. The season-average farm price is unchanged at $4.80 per bushel. Oilseed production is projected at 127.6 million tons, down 5.6 million from last month. Harvested area, forecast at 83.5 million acres in the June 30 Acreage report, is down four million from last month. The season-average soybean price is forecast at $12.40 per bushel, up $0.30 from last month. Changes this month to the wheat outlook increase supplies and domestic use, leave exports unchanged, and increase ending stocks. The projected season-average farm price is forecast at $7.50 per bushel, down $0.20 from last month. *********************************************************************************** Monthly Food Prices Unchanged in Consumer Price Index The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.2 percent in June, after increasing 0.1 percent in May, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The index for food at home was unchanged over the month, while the index for food away from home rose 0.4 percent in June. The index for fruits and vegetables increased 0.8 percent in June, following a 1.3 percent increase in May. The cereals and bakery products index rose 0.1 percent over the month, while the index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs decreased 0.4 percent in June. The other food at home index decreased 0.2 percent in June after increasing 0.4 percent the previous month. The index for dairy and related products fell 0.3 percent over the month, and the index for nonalcoholic beverages declined 0.1 percent in June. The food at home index rose 4.7 percent over the last 12 months, while the index for food away from home rose 7.7 percent. *********************************************************************************** AEM Releases June 2023 Equipment Sales Numbers Total farm tractor unit sales in the U.S. turned positive for the first time in 2023, led by continued strength in large tractors and combines. The Association of Equipment Manufactures reported Wednesday gains in the U.S. market were led by 100-plus horsepower two-wheel-drive units, up 25.4 percent, closely followed by four-wheel-drive units, up 21.9 percent. However, a change from the previous month is a small gain in the sub-40 horsepower two-wheel-drive segment, up 0.2 percent, that took overall sales positive since they represent more than 66 percent of total unit sales volume for the month. U.S. combines also marked another large gain of 9.8 percent. At the mid-year mark, year-to-date unit sales of farm tractors are down 9.7 percent despite a gain of 45.5 percent in the four-wheel-drive segment over that same period, and combines are up 51.5 percent. Total farm tractor unit sales year-to-date in Canada are down 14.4 percent, while combines are up 81.8 percent. *********************************************************************************** Farm, Forestry, Environmental and Hunger Advocates Unite Behind 2023 Farm Bill Twenty groups representing agricultural, environmental, forestry, wildlife, nutrition and hunger advocates have launched the “Farm Bill for America’s Families: Sustaining Our Future” campaign. The effort urges lawmakers to pass the 2023 farm bill this year. Farm Bill for America’s Families brings together stakeholders who support the farm bill and recognize its impact on all Americans. The campaign seeks to engage consumers, leaders and lawmakers alike on the importance of the farm bill and highlights five core objectives: food security, job creation, conservation, risk management and addressing hunger. The groups say the farm bill’s impact extends beyond the farm by protecting our nation’s food supply – providing millions of jobs, ensuring access to nutrition for families facing hunger; protecting farms from risks like weather disasters; advancing conservation efforts; and spurring innovation through agricultural research. Other organizations that share the campaign’s mission are invited to join at FarmBillforAmericasFamilies.com/join. *********************************************************************************** Baldwin, Blackburn Introduce Bill to Support American Dairy Businesses Lawmakers just introduced the Dairy Business Innovation Act of 2023, bipartisan legislation that will reauthorize and strengthen the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives. Senators Tammy Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, and Marsha Blackburn, a Tennessee Republican, introduced the bill Wednesday. Baldwin created the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives through the Dairy Business Innovation Act in 2018, which passed as part of the 2018 Farm Bill. Baldwin says, "expanding this program will give more small- and medium-sized dairy businesses the tools and opportunity to reach new markets." The Initiatives provide resources to serve prospective and established businesses that produce a product made from milk from a dairy animal, including dairy farms with their own production facilities and dairy processors with cheese, ice cream, and bottling facilities. Since the program was established in 2019, Initiatives have supported over $150 million in awards through regional centers across the country. FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative, along with other members of the Midwest Dairy Coalition, endorsed the legislation. *********************************************************************************** Land Sales Slowing, Prices Remain High The agriculture real estate market entered a period of de-escalation beginning in the fourth quarter of 2022. The market experienced a reduction in both sales volume and value growth since that time, as interest rates increased, and inflation pressures became more apparent, according to Farmers National Company. That trend has continued into the first half of 2023 with fewer properties being offered for sale and market values that are dramatically off the pace seen in the first half of 2022. Value growth is still positive across the Midwest, but increases are now in the single digits instead of the double digits seen in 2021 and 2022. Farm operators remain the largest group of buyers through Farmers National Company, accounting for nearly 80 percent of all land sale transactions. The sales volume at Farmers National Company through the first half of 2023 continues to exceed the five-year average but is slightly off the "exceptional" pace set in 2021 and 2022.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 13, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, a report on producer prices and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders will keep close watch over the latest weather developments. Weather Remnants of a storm complex are exiting southern Missouri and southern Illinois Thursday morning. By Thursday afternoon and through the evening, scattered showers and storms will develop across the Northern and Central Plains as well as the Ohio Valley. Some of the strongest storms are expected across western Nebraska, western Kansas, the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles, and southern Ohio. Damaging wind gusts and large hail will be the main threats with storms that develop Thursday, but an isolated tornado or two also cannot be ruled out.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 12, 2023 |

Senate Confirms Torres Small as Deputy Agriculture Secretary The Senate Tuesday confirmed (SO’chill) Xochitl Torres Small as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, welcomed by agriculture groups and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. In a statement following the vote, Vilsack says, "I have witnessed her lead with energy, authenticity and personal investment that I know will leave an impact on USDA for years to come." Since October 2021, Torres Small has served as Under Secretary for Rural Development at USDA. Effective July 14, Rural Development Chief Operating Officer Roger Glendenning will serve as Acting Under Secretary. Before joining USDA, Torres Small was a United States Representative for the fifth largest district in the country. As a Member of Congress, she served as a member of the House Agriculture Committee, the House Armed Services Committee, and chairwoman of the Oversight, Management, and Accountability Subcommittee of the House Homeland Security Committee. She was the first woman and first person of color to represent New Mexico's second congressional district. *********************************************************************************** USDA Spending Accountability Act Introduced A group of farm-state Senators Tuesday introduced the USDA Spending Accountability Act. The bill was introduced by Republican Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa, Roger Marshall of Kansas and Mike Braun of Indiana. The legislation would limit the disbursal of funds through the USDA’s financing institution, known as the Commodity Credit Cooperation, to be permitted only when authorized by Congress. The Secretary of Agriculture has broad discretionary authority in spending excess CCC funds. This includes reimbursing farmers for losses due to trade disputes and funding climate grants, often to multinational corporations. Recent instances of discretionary spending abuse have prompted bipartisan concern, as these programs are enacted without input from Congress and allow USDA to act as authorizer and appropriator. By removing this discretionary authority, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that the USDA Spending Accountability Act would save $8 billion over ten years. The substantial savings created by this bill would assist Congress in its goal to find savings in the Farm Bill. *********************************************************************************** National 4-H Council Appoints New President And CEO The National 4-H Council Tuesday announced the departure of Jennifer Sirangelo, the current President and CEO. Sirangelo will depart on August 18, 2023, when she will transition leadership of the organization to an experienced National 4-H Council executive and 4-H alumna, Jill Bramble. After an 18-month, externally-led executive succession process, the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees unanimously supported the appointment of Bramble, current Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer, as its new President and CEO. She has more than 18 years of successful leadership experience at the organization and a deep commitment to National 4-H Council's mission, values, and goals. Sirangelo has been an executive leader at National 4-H Council for 17 years, including nearly ten years as President and CEO. As the new President and CEO of National 4-H Council, Bramble brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the organization's mission, as she is a fourth-generation 4-H alumna. *********************************************************************************** Gavins Point Releases Increased After System Storage Check Above-average rainfall and fast-melting snow led to above-average runoff in the upper Missouri River Basin in June. Runoff above Sioux City, Iowa, was 6.7 million acre-feet, 122 percent of average. The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa is 29.2-million-acre feet, 114 percent of average, and about 2.4 million acre-feet higher than last month's forecast. Precipitation was normal to much-above-normal for June in much of Montana, southern and east-central North Dakota, and western South Dakota. Below-normal precipitation occurred in eastern South Dakota and into the lower Basin. Based on the July 1 System storage, flow support for navigation increased from minimum service to 1,500 cfs below full-service level. Per the guidelines in the Master Manual, this will also result in a full navigation flow support season ending December 1 at the mouth of the Missouri River. Gavins Point releases were increased to 29,000 cubic feet per second in early July to account for the increase in navigation flow support. *********************************************************************************** FMC Decreases 2023 Outlook FMC Corporation Tuesday updated its expectations on the second quarter and full-year 2023 outlook. Revenue in the second quarter is now expected to be between $1.00 billion and $1.03 billion. The revised guidance is driven by substantially lower-than-expected volumes due to an abrupt and significant reduction in inventory by channel partners, which only became evident towards the end of May and continued through the remainder of the quarter. Based on current channel dynamics, the company is revising its full-year financial outlook, with revenue now expected to be $5.20 billion to $5.40 billion. FMC President and CEO Mark Douglas says, "Towards the end of May, we experienced unforeseen and unprecedented volume declines in three out of our four operating regions, as our channel partners rapidly reduced inventory levels." FMC is a global agricultural sciences company with approximately 6,600 employees at more than 100 sites worldwide. *********************************************************************************** Wholesale Egg Prices Tumble as Egg Supplies Recover Wholesale egg prices reached record highs in 2022 after avian flu resulted in significant reductions in egg-laying flocks, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Avian flu is a disease that spreads rapidly in birds and poultry and is often lethal. Cumulative losses attributable to the disease amounted to more than 43 million egg-laying hens. At the height of the disease, in the last weeks of December 2022, weekly egg inventories were 29 percent lower than at the beginning of the year, and prices reached a high of $5.37 per dozen. With no new outbreaks reported in 2023, the size of the egg-laying flock has gradually increased since late 2022. In turn, wholesale prices have fallen sharply, reaching $0.89 per dozen in the first week of May 2023. As of the week ending June 30, 2023, egg inventories were about 24 percent higher than the lowest 2022 values. During the same week, the average price was $1.23 per dozen, about 77 percent lower than the highest average weekly price in 2022.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 12, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Department of Labor's consumer price index for June is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. USDA's WASDE report and the Crop Production report from NASS are both out at 11 a.m., followed by DTN's report webinar at 12:30 p.m. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will be released at 1 p.m. Weather Scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue to develop across southern and Eastern areas of the Corn Belt Wednesday, with some of the strongest storms expected across southern Iowa, eastern Kansas, western Indiana, and most of Illinois and Missouri. A thunderstorm complex may form across Missouri Wednesday evening and lead to a threat of strong to severe wind gusts up to 75 mph.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 11, 2023 |

USMEF Releases May Export Data Led by another outstanding month in Mexico and robust demand for variety meat, exports of U.S. pork continued to gain momentum in May, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. While well below the record-large volume and value posted in May 2022, beef exports improved from April and were the second largest, behind March 2023. May pork exports reached 261,361 metric tons, up 16 percent from a year ago, the ninth largest on record and the largest since May 2021. Export value climbed 12 percent to $731.1 million, also the highest since May 2021 and the seventh highest on record. Pork variety meat exports were particularly outstanding in May, setting a value record of $127 million. Beef exports totaled 116,159 metric tons, down 14 percent from the May 2022 record but up four percent from the previous month. Export value was $874.7 million, down 19 percent year-over-year but two percent above April. *********************************************************************************** Canned, Frozen Corn Industry Struggling For those whose primary experience with corn is the butter-drenched cob variety, it might come as a surprise that other forms of sweet corn are in trouble. A new University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign analysis shows sweet corn production for frozen and canned products has been steadily shrinking in the U.S. over the past 27 years, particularly in rainfed portions of the Midwest. Study author Marty Williams says, "We saw a decline in acreage throughout production areas in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest, the regions where most processing sweet corn production is happening." Although the analysis was designed to illustrate long-term trends, not causes, the study found a strong relationship between extreme temperatures and sweet corn yield loss, implicating climate change. The dataset can't predict where the industry will go next, but Williams sees potential regional shifts in production areas, such as moving into locations with more irrigation infrastructure. *********************************************************************************** USDA Opens Financial Assistance for Borrowers Who Have Faced Discrimination The Department of Agriculture recently opened the financial assistance application process for eligible farmers who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs prior to January 2021. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "The opening of the application process is an important step in delivering on our commitment of providing financial assistance to those who faced discrimination in USDA farm lending." The program website, 22007apply.gov, is now open. The website includes an English- and Spanish-language application that applicants can download or submit via an e-filing portal, information on how to obtain technical assistance in-person or virtually, and additional resources and details about the program. Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination by USDA in its farm loan programs prior to January 1, 2021, and/or are currently debtors with assigned or assumed USDA farm loan debt that was the subject of USDA discrimination that occurred prior to January 1, 2021, are eligible for this program. *********************************************************************************** Food-at-home Spending Varies by Race and Ethnicity U.S. households shifted away from buying foods at restaurants and other food service venues to food-at-home outlets such as grocery stores and other retail establishments in 2020. The largest shifts came from a category designated by USDA’s Economic Research Service as "all other FAH," which includes prepared meals and salads, desserts, and foods not elsewhere classified such as soups, savory snacks, candy, sweeteners, margarine, and butter. "All other FAH" was by far the largest category before 2020, and its share of the household food budget increased by 2.6 percentage points in 2020 compared with the period from 2016 to 2019. However, this increase was unevenly distributed across racial and ethnic populations and subcategories. All U.S. racial and ethnic subpopulations except Hispanic households increased their total food budget share for “all other FAH” during this period. Black households increased their budget shares for “all other FAH” the most, followed by Asian households. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Program Unveils Curriculum for Grades Kindergarten through 12th The United Sorghum Checkoff Program recently launched its first Farm-to-School Curriculum. The curriculum is an agricultural education initiative that aims to integrate the science and production of sorghum, in addition to its nutritional value, into classrooms across the United States. The curriculum provides educators with an array of engaging resources that introduce students to the importance of sorghum as a sustainable, versatile and flavorful grain that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. The program also aims to ignite the passion for agriculture in the next generation, cultivating an understanding and appreciation for sorghum. The Sorghum Farm-to-School curriculum engages students of all grade levels, from Kindergarten to 12th grade, through experiential learning. Tailored modules for elementary, middle, and high school students offer rich, multisensory experiences. Students not only grow and taste sorghum, but they also explore various subjects by writing about and applying their knowledge of sorghum. Find tailored curriculum content and activities by exploring SorghumCheckoff.com/educators. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Demand Plummets After Holiday The nation's average price of gasoline has remained unchanged from a week ago, holding at $3.50 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average diesel price fell 1.3 cents in the last week and stands at $3.79 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “After declining going into July 4, average gasoline prices have struggled to find much momentum in either direction as the price of crude oil has continued to bounce around.” U.S. retail gasoline demand saw an 8.6 percent drop last week as the July 4 holiday closed and motorists returned from their holiday plans. However, De Haan says there is a risk of hurricane season and potential disruptions. Colorado State University recently released its third forecast for the 2023 hurricane season, showing a sharp uptick in the number of expected major hurricanes. Oil markets have seen a rally over the last week after Saudi Arabia extended its 1-million-barrel-per-day production cut to August, and Russia joined in by slowing oil exports.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 11, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's Short-Term Energy Outlook is the only significant report on Tuesday's docket. Wednesday will be busier with the consumer price index for June and USDA's WASDE report for July set for release. As usual, traders will be watching the latest changes in weather as export sales have been a rare sight. Weather A cold front will continue to provide chances for scattered rain showers and thunderstorms across the Dakotas, Iowa, Nebraska, northern Missouri, and northern Illinois Tuesday into Tuesday night. Some of the strongest storms are likely across South Dakota, eastern Nebraska, and western Iowa. Damaging hail, wind gusts, and tornadoes are all threats with storms that develop across these states.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |

Ag Groups Motion Court to Vacate Biden WOTUS Rule Instead of Issuing Stay LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- Agriculture groups have asked a federal court to order the Biden administration to implement immediate changes to the waters of the U.S. rule following the Supreme Court's ruling in Sackett v EPA that essentially left the current rule unenforceable. Among the immediate changes sought in a motion filed by the groups in federal court in North Dakota is for the agencies to apply the Sackett ruling and formally declare ephemeral and isolated waters as no longer jurisdictional. A preliminary injunction against the WOTUS rule remains in place in 24 states, as ordered by the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota. A federal judge in Texas also issued a preliminary injunction in Texas and Idaho. In Sackett v EPA, the Supreme Court ruled the agency's use of the "significant-nexus" test in making Clean Water Act determinations was unconstitutional. The test is one of two the Biden rule uses to make determinations. The Biden administration had asked the federal court in North Dakota for a stay in the case, telling the judge the agency plans to issue a rewrite by September. "Federal defendants assert that a stay will preserve resources because the 'new rule may resolve, or at least narrow, the issues in this case,'" the ag groups led by the American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, said in a motion they are against a stay. "... Sackett already narrowed the issues in this case," the groups stated in their motion. "Indeed, all five of the categories of WOTUS as defined in the rule are invalid as a result of Sackett's rejection of the agencies significant-nexus test, definition of adjacency to mean having a continuous surface connection and not merely neighboring, adoption of the relatively permanent test from Rapanos, limitation of federal jurisdiction to interstate waters and further limitation of federal jurisdiction to navigable waters." The groups said they have no confidence that any new rule put forward by the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will "fairly account" for the Sackett opinion. "As the Supreme Court highlighted, federal defendants have 'sought to minimize (prior WOTUS rulings') impact," the ag groups said. "And businesses have watched federal defendants evade prior WOTUS decisions in SWANCC and Rapanos. The EPA has provided no details to the court on how it will apply Sackett, has given the Corps no direction as to how to apply Sackett and instead has only stated that it plans to issue a new rule by Sept. 1, 2023." The groups argue that allowing the Biden rule to remain in effect until a new rule is promulgated would put farmers, ranchers and other landowners at "continuing risk of criminal and civil penalties" for "ordinary" use of their property. Injunctions against the Biden rule are in effect in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. EPA and the Corps of Engineers have used significant nexus for years. The standard essentially allows regulators to claim jurisdiction over even dryland features if there is scientific evidence of a chemical and biological connection to an actual navigable water such as lakes, streams and rivers. The Sacketts have filed many appeals on the EPA decision in the past 15 years. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit had sided with EPA's wetland assessment on the Sacketts' property. The court's ruling sends the appeals court decision back to the court for reconsideration. Justice Samuel Alito said in writing the majority opinion that EPA's interpretation of the law "gives rise to serious vagueness concerns in light of the CWA's criminal penalties." "Due process requires Congress to define penal statutes 'with sufficient definiteness that ordinary people can understand what conduct is prohibited,'" Alito wrote, "and 'in a manner that does not encourage arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.' Yet the meaning of 'waters of the United States' under the EPA's interpretation remains hopelessly indeterminate. "The EPA contends that the only thing preventing it from interpreting 'waters of the United States' to 'conceivably cover literally every body of water in the country' is the significant-nexus test."

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |

Food Price Index Continues Downward Trend The U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization’s World Food Price Index averaged 122.3 points in June, down 1.7 points from May, continuing a downward trend. The current level is 37 points or 23 percent below the peak in March 2022. The monthly decline reflected drops in sugar, vegetable oils, cereals, and dairy products, while the meat price index was virtually steady. The Sugar Price Index took the biggest drop, averaging 152 points in June, down 5.1 points from May, the first drop after four consecutive increases. The Cereal Price Index averaged 126.6 points in June, down almost three points from May and almost 40 percent below last year. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 115.8 points in June, three points lower than May and the lowest level since 2020. The Dairy Price Index was 116 points in June, down one point, and the Meat Index was unchanged at 117.9 points in June. *********************************************************************************** Still Mostly Dry in the Weekly Drought Monitor Heavy rains fell during the week in parts of the Midwest, Ohio River Valley, and the Northeast. That led to widespread improvements from southeast Nebraska to central Illinois and parts of Indiana and Kentucky. Further south and west, in southern Missouri, the Texas-Louisiana border, and other parts of central Texas, drier weather led to larger precipitation deficits and significant hay production problems in parts of Missouri. Many warmer-than-normal temperatures covered the South as it is blanketed by the continuing heat wave, especially in eastern Texas and Louisiana. Dry weather in parts of the Upper Midwest led to worsening conditions in parts of Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Conditions in parts of the western Great Plains led to some improvements in long-term dryness and long-term moderate drought in the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandle region and in western Nebraska and eastern Wyoming. A mix of worsening and improving conditions occurred in the Pacific Northwest. *********************************************************************************** PLC Leads Coalition Comments on BLM Proposal The Public Lands Council submitted grazing coalition comments raising concerns with the Bureau of Land Management’s proposed “Conservation and Landscape Health” rule. The PLC’s comments had signatures from 55 state and national organizations, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, American Sheep Industry Association, and the American Farm Bureau. PLC President Mark Roeber says public lands ranchers lead conservation out West. “Our cattle and sheep are the tools we use to feed this country and protect these landscapes,” he says. “We are committed to protecting these lands and the legacies we’ve built on them, especially when it means working to oppose government efforts that will cause more harm than good.” He also says if BLM is serious about lasting conservation, they should have talked to ranchers first and not forged ahead blindly with a controversial rule that will cause billions of dollars in harm to our western states and the American economy. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Risk Management Options The USDA is expanding insurance coverage options for specialty crops and other actual production history crop programs. Through the Risk Management Agency, it will expand the availability of enterprise units to crops where they were previously not available, giving agriculture producers greater options to manage risk. An enterprise unit allows a producer to insure all acres of the insured crop in the county together, as opposed to other unit structures that separate the acreage for insurance. Enterprise units are beneficial because of the lower premium rates offered to recognize the lower risk associated with geographic diversification. In general, the larger the enterprise unit, the lesser the risk and the greater the enterprise discount. “This expansion gives producers more choices on how they can protect themselves,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. Several crops will have enterprise units available next year, including alfalfa seed, cultivated wild rice, forage production, onions, and others. *********************************************************************************** “Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner” Live Cook Along Cookbook author and social media influencer Shereen Pavlides (Sheh-REEN Pav-LEE-days) will host a live cook-along from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Culinary Center. The event is on Tuesday, July 11, at 4 pm Mountain time. Pavlides will showcase beef on her popular “Cooking with Shereen” Instagram page. Her social media work has earned her more than six million followers across her Instagram, Tik Tok, and Facebook pages. Her followers will be invited to visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com prior to the cook-along, where they’ll see a grocery list and the event details. During the event, she’ll teach her audience how to make one of her favorite recipes – Jamaican Jerk Steak with Coconut Rice. The NCBA is excited to partner with a well-known influencer. “Partnering with an influencer like Shereen allows us to tap into a new audience and introduce the brand to thousands of consumers,” says Clark Price, Federation Division Chair for NCBA. *********************************************************************************** River Level “Whiplash” Continues The Upper Mississippi River experienced high water conditions due to significant snowfall in the Upper Midwest in late winter and early spring. Even after the high-water conditions that resulted from the snow melt, Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook) of the Soy Transportation Coalition says he was worried about quickly returning to low water levels on the river system. “I was worried that any prolonged stretch of dry weather could result in swinging right back to low water conditions,” Steenhoek says. “That has unfortunately occurred.” He also says it serves as a reminder that drought not only inhibits the ability to grow a crop, but it also inhibits our ability to transport that crop. Recent low river gauge readings in St. Louis and Memphis show how barge transportation could be challenging when our export season picks up in late summer and early fall. Low levels may again force companies to reduce tow sizes and freight amounts.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - July WASDE and Weather Patterns OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 9. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. WASDE Wednesday: Markets get an early week shot of news, with Tuesday's WASDE (World Supply and Demand Estimates) report from USDA. A preview of report expectations will be available on all our digital platforms Monday. On Tuesday, we'll have initial numbers in our Flash story just after 11:00 a.m. Central, followed by updates and analysis through the following half hour. As always, DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will have an online discussion of the report at 12:30. 2. Acreage Flip-Flop: In addition to the WASDE report, we'll be watching continued market reaction to recent flip-flops between corn and soybeans news. Last month USDA set planting estimates at 94.1 million acres of corn. DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman notes that even with drought-stricken conditions, 94 million acres can produce a lot of corn, and that could begin to weigh on prices, frustratingly so to those in the dry. Soybeans did on 180 on that, with USDA's June 30 report pegging acres in at 83.5 million: That's not enough, even with bushel-per-acre averages in the mid-50s, to meet all the demand folks have been talking about for a year. 3. Did we Mention the Weather? The week of July 9 temperatures will be near to below normal across the Corn Belt, near to above normal elsewhere. The southern U.S. should continue to see showers from an active front. A low in Canada sends a couple of cold fronts into the Corn Belt, which also ups the shower potential there. But these will unlikely be enough to fix any shortages of subsoil moisture. DTN subscribers can get more details from our Ag Weather Brief, prepared daily by DTN ag meteorologists. 4. Hear our Experts: To catch the latest on the markets and weather crossroads, see our new weekly video "In the News." DTN Farm Business Editor Katie Dehlinger hosts this chat with analyst Todd Hultman and DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick. 5. Weekly Economic Reports: In addition to WASDE, we'll continue to track ag and non-ag economic signals throughout the week. Monday we'll see export inspections numbers at 10 a.m. CDT, with reaction to USDA Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Wednesday will see the release of the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for June at 7:30 a.m.; the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories is at 9:30 a.m., followed by USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports at 11 a.m. On Thursday morning we'll see USDA's weekly export sales report, the U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT. U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. We finish the week with USDA's export sales report and the U.S. unemployment report are set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the latest weather events and forecasts affecting crops. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. DTN's preview of Wednesday's USDA reports will also be out early Monday. Weather A disturbance will bring scattered, strong to severe storms to the central and Southern Plains and portions of the Upper Midwest Monday afternoon into Monday evening. Most areas will see less than a half inch of rain from these storms, but isolated higher amounts up to one inch are possible.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 7, 2023 |

Purdue Study Reports 40% More Injuries in Grain Storage Facilities Last year saw a 40 percent increase in the number of injuries and fatalities in confined spaces across agriculture. Purdue University released its 2022 summary of accidents involving agricultural confined space-related injuries and deaths. The summary reported 83 cases, 24 of which were fatal and 59 nonfatal cases involving agricultural confined spaces. That’s almost a 41 percent increase over the 59 cases in 2021. These numbers are approximate, as the study authors realize not every case gets reported. Additionally, the 42 grain-related entrapments represented a 45 percent increase over 2021. Of the 41 non-grain-related cases, incidents included livestock waste handling facilities, entanglements inside confined spaces, falls from confined space structures, and grain dust explosions or fires. Edward Sheldon of Purdue’s Agricultural Safety and Health Program says confined-space incidents continue to result in a significant number of injuries and fatalities. “Use best-management practices to keep yourself and employees safe,” Sheldon says. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Don’t Pick Winners and Losers The National Corn Growers Association submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding its proposed emissions standards. The corn growers are calling on the agency to open pathways for all low-carbon fuels and technologies as it finalizes its multi-pollutant emissions standards for light- and medium-duty vehicles for model years 2027-2032. “For automakers to use new technologies and enhanced engines to meet stringent standards, they need updated fuel that enables new vehicles and fuels to work as a system to enhance greenhouse gas and other tailpipe emissions reductions,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). NCGA says the proposal picks winners and losers and places ethanol on the losing side. “Clean octane from today’s ethanol is 50 percent lower in GHG emissions than gasoline and replaces the most harmful hydrocarbon aromatics to improve air quality and prevents adverse health impacts,” Haag says. “EPA failed to broaden the solutions that reduce transportation emissions.” *********************************************************************************** Soybean Meal Opportunities in Animal Nutrition Collaboration between animal nutritionists and the soy checkoff could bring additional value opportunities for U.S. soybeans, ultimately benefiting both animal agriculture and American farmers. The impact spans the poultry, pig, dairy, and aquaculture sectors. The checkoff brings together industry leaders as a part of its Animal Nutrition Working Group. The group advises checkoff leaders on research investments with the highest value for farmers and the industry. USB’s new strategic plan consists of three priorities for soybean meal, including the overall nutritional composition, improved measurement of anti-nutritional factors, and the resulting benefit to animal production, performance, and health. Soybean meal continues to be the standard for all other protein feedstuffs. This team of nutritionists examines how soybean meal can get used properly beyond just its protein content. One big goal of the collaboration is to encourage a shift toward total value-based ingredient decisions on the production and processing sides of the supply chain. *********************************************************************************** EU Agency Sees No Reasons to Block Glyphosate The European Food Safety Agency says it hasn’t identified areas of concern that would stop the reapproval of glyphosate for use in the EU. Market Screener says EU approval of the widely-used chemical is set to expire at the end of 2023. The agency’s conclusion is a key part of the process of deciding whether renewal will happen. The World Health Organization decided in 2015 that glyphosate was “probably” carcinogenic to humans. Bayer points out that decades worth of health studies show that glyphosate is safe for humans to use. The European Commission will determine whether to propose glyphosate for renewal based in part on the EFSA conclusion. Bayer says it welcomes the agency’s finding and feels it laid the groundwork for successfully renewing glyphosate in the European Union. The food safety agency says even with missing residual trials, its experts concluded there would not be a major concern for consumers. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bill Doubtful to Override California’s Prop 12 Farmers and ranchers are slightly more optimistic that Congress will get a new farm bill passed this year. However, Successful Farming says they don’t think the farm bill will get used to overturn California’s Prop 12 animal welfare law. The pork industry is looking for a legislative way to override the requirement after losing a Supreme Court challenge. About 36 percent of the farmers surveyed in the Purdue University/CME Group’s Ag Economy Barometer say it’s not likely that Congress will overturn Prop 12 in the new farm bill, while 40 percent say they are uncertain about the prospects of a legislative fix. One-fourth of the farmers in the most recent Purdue Survey say it’s at least somewhat likely that Congress will take on Proposition 12 in new farm bill legislation. In contrast, only 37 percent of farmers say it’s still likely a farm bill will get put into law this year. *********************************************************************************** Organic Association Elects New President The Organic Trade Association announced its new leadership team consisting of the board of directors and the president. Tracy Favre (FARV) is the new president and is excited to jump into her new role. She’s worked in natural resource management and the organic sector for over 30 years. Favre served on the National Organic Standards Board from 2012-2017, ending her tenure as the board president. “I’m honored to be serving as the new OTA Board president,” she says. “The organic industry is at an important point in its growth.” Tom Chapman, CEO of the OTA, says they’re excited to welcome the new president and board. “We look forward to working with these dedicated volunteer leaders to keep moving organic forward,” he says. “The new board is committed to working together with members and staff to achieve OTA’s mission of growing and protecting organic.” The 15 board members serve three-year terms.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 7, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as the U.S. Labor Department provides nonfarm payrolls and the monthly unemployment report for June, and Canada provides its unemployment report -- possible clues for future interest rates. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts. Weather A disturbance in the Plains will continue to bring areas of showers and thunderstorms eastward into the western half of the Midwest on Friday. Some of these thunderstorms could be strong to severe, but most likely in the Southern Plains. Milder temperatures are filling in across the Corn Belt and will continue to trend that way through next week.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 6, 2023 |

Farmer Sentiment Rebounds on Future Optimism Purdue University/CME Group’s Ag Economy Barometer Index rose 17 points in June to a reading of 121. The upswing in farmer sentiment was driven by producers’ more optimistic view of the future. However, their perception of current conditions remained unchanged from May. The Index of Future Expectations rose 25 points to 123, while the Index of Current Conditions held flat at 116 in June. Optimism about U.S. agriculture’s future and a more optimistic outlook on interest rates helped explain producers’ more positive view of the future in the June survey. But current conditions continue to present challenges for some producers. This month, four out of ten producers stated that their financial situation has deteriorated compared to a year ago. The Farm Financial Performance Index also rose this month, up ten points from May. The Farm Capital Investment Index rose five points in June to 42, while optimism on farmland values also rose. *********************************************************************************** Three Years of USMCA July 1 was the third anniversary of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement going into effect, and the U.S. pork industry is happy to celebrate the occasion. Pork exports to America’s neighbors, especially Mexico, have soared under the successor to the North American Free Trade Agreement. Since USMCA took effect, U.S. pork exports to Mexico have increased from almost $1.2 billion in 2020 to more than $2 billion last year. Exports to Canada have grown from about $853 million in 2020 to $867 million in 2022. For the first four months of this year, both countries are on pace to take in record amounts of American pork during 2023. Exports to Mexico and Canada totaled nearly $3 billion, accounted for 38 percent of all U.S. pork exports in 2022, and supported more than 16,000 jobs. The USMCA maintained the zero-tariff rate on pork traded in North America which was first established under NAFTA. *********************************************************************************** Groups Want Fairness in Tailpipe Emissions Standards America’s farmers, fuel marketers, retailers, and renewable fuel producers called on the Environmental Protection Agency to change its proposed standards for tailpipe emissions. The groups want the agency to adopt a market-oriented, technology-neutral approach to transportation decarbonization in its final tailpipe emissions standards for 2027-2032 light- and medium-duty vehicles. In a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, the groups say the proposed rule favors electric vehicles while failing to consider the decarbonization potential of existing biofuels that can improve the emissions profile of a majority of cars on the road today. “EPA should use the best available science to accurately account for the full lifecycle carbon intensity associated with particular fuels and technologies,” the groups say. They also feel the proposed rule “artificially tilts the scale” toward electric vehicles without considering other options. The National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, and Growth Energy were among the groups signing the letter. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Program Celebrates 15 Years Sorghum industry leaders marked a milestone on July 1, the 15th anniversary of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program. Since its founding, the Sorghum Checkoff has dedicated its efforts to advancing sorghum profitability through innovative research, promotion, and education. “We’ve made significant strides in the past 15 years, and we’re deeply committed to continuing to advance the crop for U.S. sorghum producers and end-users around the world,” says Sorghum Checkoff CEO Tim Lust. “Our board has invested more than $46 million into research aimed at optimizing sorghum as a robust, profitable crop for several value-added end-use markets.” The Checkoff has invested in cutting-edge research to advance production techniques. Key agronomic milestones include introducing the first-ever over-the-top weed and grass control in sorghum. The Sorghum Checkoff also plays a key role in expanding international markets, including countries like China, and it’s boosted public awareness about the nutritional and environmental benefits of sorghum. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for AFTs Brighter Future Fund American Farmland Trust has opened applications for 2023’s Brighter Future Fund Program. It helps farmers nationwide improve farm viability, access, transfer, or permanently protect farmland or adopt regenerative agricultural practices. The last day to submit applications is July 15. The Brighter Future Fund provides grants of up to $10,000 per project. A project may involve one or more individual farmers or farm families, and projects will be awarded on a one-per-farm basis. “Farmers and ranchers work hard to provide for their communities, their families, and their land, but they sometimes need help,” says an AFT news release. “The Brighter Future Fund can provide that help.” The Brighter Future Fund was launched in 2020 to help farmers launch, grow, and sustain farms despite forces impacting the food and agricultural system, including COVID-19, changing markets, and severe weather. Applications will be reviewed and awarded in the order they are received. Go to farmland.org. *********************************************************************************** Retailers Support Reliable Rail Service Act The Agricultural Retailers Association applauded Senator Tammy Baldwin’s Reliable Rail Service Act. “ARA appreciates Senators Baldwin (D-WI) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) for leading legislative efforts to address the continuous rail service problems faced by our industry,” says ARA President and CEO Daren Coppock. “Those challenges have caused supply chain disruptions and negatively impacted other shippers within the agricultural industry.” The retailers want Congress to tackle head-on the significant cost increases and service disruptions that harm the businesses of its ag retailer members and their farmer customers who rely on freight rail transportation to deliver the critical crop input products to feed and fuel the nation. Common carrier obligations still lack a clear definition. “This proposal will provide some needed clarity to the common carrier obligation, improve the Surface Transportation Board’s oversight authority and help ensure railroads provide a reliable service at reasonable rates for shippers, which ultimately benefits consumers,” says Coppock.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 6, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. weekly jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for May and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor will all be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. USDA's weekly export sales report will be out Friday, due to this week's holiday schedule. Weather A cold front has stalled in the Southern Plains where some heavier showers are located Thursday morning. The eastern section of the front will continue to relieve heat across the eastern Midwest and will produce some showers as well. An old front will also be active across the Southeast, but it will be back in the Plains that will garner most of the attention Thursday. The front will be a focal point for severe storms but so will a disturbance moving toward the Rockies this evening across the central High Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 5, 2023 |

NCGA Call to Action on EPA’s Emissions Standards Proposal The National Corn Growers Association is urging farmers to submit comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding a new proposal on multi-pollutant emissions standards. The call-to-action was launched after the agency first announced the proposal in April. The comment period deadline closes on July 5. The new standards would effectively force automakers to produce electric vehicles at an increasingly rapid rate to comply with the stringent proposed rule. NCGA leadership believes with this one-size-fits-all approach, EPA is ignoring other low-carbon solutions like ethanol. The proposal picks winners and losers in the energy sector and puts biofuels on the losing side. If it’s left unchanged, this rulemaking has the potential to remove hundreds of millions of bushels of domestic corn demand from the market each year. The NCGA is encouraging all members and advocates to let the EPA know that ethanol is a low-carbon solution to emissions reduction that is readily available. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Planted More Sorghum in 2023 Growers planted 6.81 million acres of sorghum for all purposes this year, up eight percent from last year. Kansas and Texas, the top sorghum-producing states, account for 77 percent of the country’s acreage. Growers expect to harvest 5.94 million acres for grain, up 30 percent from last year. Approximately 73 percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was planted by June 18, five percentage points behind the previous year and nine percentage points behind the five-year average. By, June 18, 15 percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage had reached the headed stage, equal to last year but one percentage point behind the five-year average. Sixty percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was rated in good to excellent condition on June 18, three percentage points above the previous week and 14 percentage points above the previous year. In the meantime, the National Sorghum Producers are now accepting entries for the 2023 National Sorghum Yield Context. *********************************************************************************** USDA: SNAP Payment Error Rates Rise The combined payment error rate for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payments went from 7.3 percent in fiscal year 2019 to 11.5 percent in fiscal year 2022. During those years, USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service says states were providing pandemic-related benefits while coping with staff shortages. The individual state error rates varied dramatically. The report says Alaska was the highest state at almost 57 percent, while many other states were far below the national average. ‘”As part of the flexibilities granted to states beginning in the spring of 2020, Congress removed the requirement for states to conduct quality control reviews, which resulted in USDA being unable to publish the annual national and state payment error rates for fiscal years 2020 and 2021,” FNS said in a release. Stacy Dean, USDA Undersecretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services, says, “The circumstances put an incredible strain on program administration. The rates reflect those challenges.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Crop Insurance Coverage for Camelina The Risk Management Agency announced it will expand insurance for camelina (Kam-eh-LEE-nah) in the Southern Plains and the Pacific Northwest. The move is intended to provide additional grower certainty as demand for the renewable fuel feedstock crop rises across the U.S. The newly adopted program by the RMA now allows written agreements in select counties in many states, including Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and several others. Global Clean Energy Holdings and its subsidiary, Sustainable Oils, Inc., the world’s largest camelina producer, collaborated with the USDA to make this expansion happen. “We like to say that camelina protects like a cover crop and pays like a cash crop, benefits that are increasingly important to strengthening our soil health and rural agricultural communities,” says Mike Karst, President of Sustainable Oils. Camelina is a nonfood crop used as an ultra-low carbon feedstock for renewable fuel. For information, go to the USDA Risk Management website. *********************************************************************************** New ASF Variant Found in China Chinese scientists say they’ve identified what appears to be a new strain of the African Swine Fever virus working its way through three counties in the country. A paper published in the journal Nature Communications says the new virus appears to be a hybrid of the new genotype 2 strain that caused the 2018 outbreak of ASF that began in China and a more recent but less deadly strain identified in 2021. Chris Netherton, head of ASF Vaccinology at the Pirbright Institute, says that the new variant is called genotype 1 for its apparent similarities to older versions of the virus. It causes chronic disease in pigs, but it’s not as deadly as genotype 2, which can kill over 80 percent of the hogs it infects. Feed Strategy Magazine says the data from the Chinese study doesn’t appear to show the new strain is more contagious than the existing variants of ASF. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for the Research Ambassador Program The National Corn Growers Association is looking for qualified graduate students to apply for the Research Ambassador Program. If you’re interested in building a personal network of future agricultural leaders as you begin your career, apply today. To ensure all interested applicants have a chance at this opportunity, NCGA has extended the deadline for applications to its Research Ambassador Program to July 15. Graduate students who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States and are involved in research broadly related to corn production are eligible to apply. Selected students get a $2,500 award, up to $750 to offset travel and registration costs for scientific conferences, and fully-funded travel to participate in NCGA events throughout the year. Ambassadors must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and be actively involved in research relevant to producing corn. The program’s goal is to build a network of future leaders in the agriculture sector.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 5, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Back from the 4th of July, U.S. grain and livestock futures open at 8:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by a report on U.S. factory orders for May at 9 a.m. and minutes from the latest Fed meeting at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to keep a close watch on weather and the latest forecasts. Weather An old front continues to be active across southern portions of the country on Wednesday. But it's one that is moving through the Corn Belt garnering most of the attention as it produces areas of showers and thunderstorms over some of the driest parts of the country. Not all areas will be hit as the front moves through, but chances are good across the Central Plains into the southern Midwest for another round of good rain but also some severe storms.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 3, 2023 |

USDA Releases June Planted Acreage Estimates The USDA released its June Planted Acreage Estimates Report, and it shows corn planted area in 2023 is estimated at 94.1 million acres, up six percent or 5.52 million acres higher than last year. It’s the highest planted acreage in the United States since 1944. Soybean planted area for 2023 is estimated to be 83.5 million acres, down five percent from last year. The all-wheat planted area for 2023 is estimated at 49.6 million acres, up nine percent from 2022. At 37 million acres, the 2023 winter wheat planted area is up 11 percent from last year but down one percent from the previous estimate. Of that total, about 25.7 million acres are Hard Red Winter Wheat, 7.66 million acres are Soft Red Winter Wheat, and 3.68 million acres are White Winter Wheat. The all-cotton planted area for 2023 is estimated at 11.1 million acres, down 19 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grain Stocks Report Shows Lower Corn, Beans, and Wheat The USDA released its June Grain Stocks Report, and corn, soybean, and wheat stocks are all down compared to June 2022. Corn is down six percent from last year, soybean stocks are down 18 percent, and all-wheat stocks are 17 percent lower than last June. Corn stocks in all positions on June 1 totaled 4.11 billion bushels. Of that total, 2.22 billion bushels are stored on farms, five percent higher than last year, while off-farm stocks were 1.89 billion, 15 percent lower. Soybeans in all positions were 796 million bushels. On-farm stocks at 323 million bushels were three percent lower. Off-farm stocks were down 26 percent from last year at 473 million bushels. Old crop all-wheat stored in all positions was 580 million bushels, down 17 percent from June 2022. On-farm stocks were 124 million bushels, up 34 percent, and off-farm stocks of 456 million bushels were 25 percent lower. *********************************************************************************** Derecho Hits Farm Country A derecho (deh-RAY-cho) storm system hit parts of the Midwest last week. Hundreds of thousands had no power, homes and cars were smashed, and fields of crops were flattened by the high winds. The line of severe thunderstorms contained wind gusts of 90 miles per hour. The storm moved quickly, starting in southeast Nebraska and northeast Kansas before pushing further east into Illinois and Indiana. “It was a classic line of severe thunderstorms that met all of the criteria for a typical derecho,” says Jonathan Erdman, a senior meteorologist with weather.com. “These types of storms typically form in late spring or early summer and are long-lived, widespread, and damaging wind events.” A derecho typically forms along the edge of an excessively hot and humid airmass like the heat dome that’s been parked over the Southern Plains and lower Mississippi Valley. “They often ride the northern edge of heat domes,” Erdman says. *********************************************************************************** Farmers’ Share of July Fourth Food Dollar Continues to Shrink The National Farmers Union released the 2023 numbers for the Farmers’ Share of the Food Dollar Report covering several items typically found at a Fourth of July cookout. The NFU says every year, the troubling trend of farmers earning less of the dollars Americans spend at the grocery store is continuing. “Whether it’s the highly consolidated meatpacking industry or harmful mergers in the private sector, farmers and consumers are being squeezed out of their hard-earned money,” says NFU President Rob Larew. “It doesn’t have to be that way.” For example, eight-count hamburger buns retail for $3.49, but the farmers’ share is only ten cents. Party-size potato chips are $5.99, but the farmers’ share is 29 cents. Two pounds of ground beef is $11.07, but farmers get just $3.42. Last year, the USDA said the farmers’ share of the food dollar bottomed out at only 14.5 cents of every dollar spent. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory is Slightly Higher As of June first, U.S. farms contained 72.4 million hogs and pigs, which was up slightly from June 2022 and down one percent from March 1, 2023. That’s according to the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report published last week by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Of the 72.4 million hogs and pigs, NASS says 66.2 million were market hogs, while 6.15 million were kept for breeding purposes. Between March and May 2023, 32.9 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms, one percent higher than last year. During the same period, America’s hog and pig producers weaned an average of 11.36 pigs per litter. Producers intend to have 2.94 million sows farrow between June and August of this year and 2.95 million sows farrow between September and November. Iowa hog producers had the largest inventory among the states at 23.8 million head. Minnesota had the second-largest inventory of 8.7 million head. *********************************************************************************** ERS Finds Increasing Concentration in Ag and Food Sectors The USDA’s Economic Research Service looked into market concentration and its impact on competition. It’s a subject that’s attracted growing public scrutiny. The ERS study says market concentration, which is measured by the share of industry sales held by the largest firms, has increased sharply over the last four decades in many seed, livestock, and food retail markets. From 2018-2020, two seed companies accounted for 72 percent of planted corn acres and 66 percent of planted soybean acres in the U.S. In 2019, the four largest meatpackers accounted for 85 percent of steer and heifer slaughter and 67 percent of hog slaughter. In most metropolitan areas, five to six store chains account for most supermarket sales. Economic theory and empirical analysis demonstrate that high concentration can facilitate the exercise of market power, with firms driving sales prices above or livestock prices below the prices that would prevail in competitive markets.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 3, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - High Winds and Market Holidays OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 2. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Weather Damage Updates: We'll continue to watch and update how these strong weather systems bring good and not-so-good news to various parts of the country. Rain will be easing drought conditions, and looks to be particularly good for the southern half of the U.S. Hopefully that won't include more damaging winds and hail. 2. Happy Independence Day: Markets will be closed July 4, with electronic markets reopening at 8:30 CDT Wednesday. We'll have grain and livestock market updates first thing Wednesday morning. Have a safe day celebrating and don't eat too many hotdogs. 3. Field Day Season: If you're traveling rural roads you can't help but see the sudden flush of bright field signs, a clue that field day season is upon us. The DTN/Progressive Farmer crew will be out and about, reporting on new products and things to come, as well as connecting with you. If you spot us at a field day in your area, say hello! 4. Hay and Forage Conditions: We're continuing to watch hay markets and forage conditions, particularly in the drier areas of the country. Farmers are in general reporting smaller grass hay crops, and prices remain strong. 5. Key Reports through the Week: Markets will key up on a number of economic reports coming out in the shortened week. Monday will see world manufacturing indices, including one from the U.S., at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is at 10 a.m. and the Crop Progress report hits at 3 p.m. A new Fats and Oils report is due out at 2 p.m. Wednesday markets reopen, and we'll get the May U.S. factory orders report as well as the minutes from the latest FOMC (Fed) meeting. Thursday sees the weekly U.S. jobless claims report, the U.S. trade deficit for May and the highly anticipated U.S. Drought Monitor update. All those hit at 7:30 a.m. U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage comes in at 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. Friday we'll be watching the USDA export sales and the latest U.S. unemployment report, both set for 7:30 a.m. CDT.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 3, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Manufacturing indices from around the world will be out early Monday, along with one for the U.S. at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m., followed by the Fats and Oils report from NASS at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. U.S. grain futures close at their normal times Monday and open next at 8:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. Weather A front from the weekend over the South and another moving down from Canada into the Northern Plains will produce areas of showers and thunderstorms Monday. Some severe weather will be possible in both areas. Some leftover heat remains across the Southeast and temperatures will be quite warm from Texas up into Minnesota as well, but fall dramatically behind the second front in the Northern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 30, 2023 |

NCBA Files Motion to Strike Down WOTUS The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association filed a motion in the U.S. District Court of Southern Texas asking it to strike down the Biden administration’s Waters of the U.S. Rule. The motion comes in light of the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA. “A full rewrite of the Biden administration’s WOTUS definition is the only path to comply with the Sackett decision,” says NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. “NCBA is seeking summary judgment in our lawsuit against the Biden WOTUS rule and urging the Southern District of Texas to strike the rule from the books.” Separate from the Sackett case, NCBA led a coalition in filing suit against the Biden rule to keep it from taking effect. NCBA helped secure injunctions in 27 states to temporarily halt the rule. “NCBA has been fighting the overreaching WOTUS rules for years, and this is the latest example of our fight,” says Hart. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investments Promote Competition and Strengthen the Supply Chain The USDA is making investments to increase independent meat and poultry processing capacity, expand market opportunities for farmers, and support a growing workforce in rural areas. “While American farmers and ranchers have been responding to the demand to produce more, their communities have struggled to see their share of benefits,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We’re committed to championing meat and poultry processors, increasing competition, and lowering the costs for working families.” USDA is providing 15 awards totaling $115 million in 17 states. The agency is also providing another five awards totaling $38 million through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program. USDA will also provide ten awards totaling $77 million under the Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program. The announcement supports projects from Colorado, Connecticut, Maryland, Montana, and several other states. The investments will build a pipeline of well-trained meat processing workers and support safe workspaces with fair wages. *********************************************************************************** Colombia Lifts Ban on U.S. Poultry Exports Quick action resolved an issue that temporarily stopped American poultry product exports to Colombia, the tenth-largest market for those products. Colombia’s Ag Ministry instructed all Colombian ports to deny import permits to any poultry products beginning June 1 due to concerns about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Approximately $1.1 million worth of U.S. exports were impacted between June 3 and June 8. The Foreign Ag Service, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, and the U.S. Trade Representative worked together to leverage the free trade agreement to pressure Colombian officials to lift the ban. The cooperative effort brought a reversal to fruition on June 8. The previous denial of import licenses, stuck shipments of U.S. poultry, and the uncertainty of market access directly impacted consumers and American businesses. Tyson Foods, PriceSmart, and McDonald’s were some of the main companies hit by the ban. The market accounted for over $100 million in 2022. *********************************************************************************** Drought Tightens Grip on Midwest, Eastern Great Plains The Midwest and east-central Great Plains saw conditions worsen with widespread crop stress and lower stream flows in this week’s Drought Monitor. Heavy rains in parts of Ohio and Kentucky led to some improvements in the short-term drought. However, much of the Midwest saw conditions stay the same or get worse, especially in central Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, southwest Wisconsin, southeast Minnesota, and southeast Iowa. Almost completely-dry weather in Missouri and southern Illinois created potential problems for corn and soybean production. In southeast Iowa, producers reported rolling corn leaves and stunted soybeans. The weather was varied in the High Plains. Much of the northern parts, except for eastern Nebraska and eastern Kansas, saw widespread precipitation, some of it heavy. Conditions got drier in southeast Nebraska and northeast Kansas. Much warmer than normal temperatures covered the western half of the South. Most of the West was near to below-normal in temps during the week. *********************************************************************************** Former NCGA President to Lead MAIZALL John Linder, a former president of the National Corn Growers Association, was elected to serve as the president of MAIZALL (Mayz-all). The Ohio corn grower will lead the international farm organization that focuses on eliminating regulatory obstacles to innovation in agriculture. The group contains members from the U.S., Brazil, and Argentina. His one-year term starts on July 3, and NCGA’s current leadership expressed enthusiasm over the news. “John is a dedicated leader, and he will no doubt do an outstanding job leading MAIZALL,” says current NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). MAIZALL engages private sector stakeholders, national government officials, and leaders from international organizations like the World Trade Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The goal is to work towards alignment on regulatory barriers to trade. “Trade is vital to American farmers,” Linder says. “As MAIZALL president, I will encourage foreign governments and international organizations to embrace science-based regulatory decision-making.” *********************************************************************************** NMPF Issues Letter on Lab-Produced “Milk” The National Milk Producers Federation sent a letter to the Food and Drug Administration regarding lab-produced fake “milk.” A company called Bored Cow calls its product milk, which the U.S. dairy industry says is completely false. “They take water and add what we believe to be one unidentified, lab-engineered ‘whey protein’ along with a highly processed concoction of food additives, preservatives, oil, sugar, and several added vitamins, and claims it is ‘animal-free dairy milk,” says NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “It’s baseless, absurd, and preposterous to call the resulting product ‘milk.’” The federation has repeatedly called on FDA to enforce its identity standards for milk as plant-based fakes have proliferated. It’s now warning the agency that lab-based milk imposters will be next without agency action. Lab-based milk imitators are following the plant-based playbook and plastering “milk” and other standardized dairy terms on products that have nothing in common with true dairy.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 30, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets Reports on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, along with the PCE index for May, the Federal Reserve's favorite inflation indicator. The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment is set for 9 a.m., followed by USDA's Acreage and Grain Stocks reports at 11 a.m. Weather A hot ridge continues over the South-Central U.S. on Friday, and areas of thunderstorms will pass along the northern rim from Kansas and Nebraska through the Ohio Valley again throughout the day. While another derecho, like one that occurred on Thursday, is not anticipated early this morning, some areas of severe weather are likely to occur.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 29, 2023 |

Ag Groups Motion Texas Court to Vacate Biden Waters of US Rule as EPA Starts Rewrite LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- Agriculture groups asked a federal court in Texas to strike down the Biden administration's waters of the U.S. rule (WOTUS) even as the EPA announced this week it would rewrite and issue a new proposed rule by Sept. 1. Ag groups led by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, American Farm Bureau Federation and others filed a motion for summary judgement in the U.S. District Court for the District of Southern Texas in Galveston on Wednesday, telling the court the recent ruling by the Supreme Court in Sackett v EPA establishes the Biden rule as "unlawful." The Texas court previously issued a preliminary injunction against the rule for the states of Texas and Idaho. The ag groups asked the court to require the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to apply the Supreme Court's decision as the "operative framework" for making jurisdictional determinations and approving permit applications, until the administration promulgates a new rule. The Supreme Court declared unlawful the agencies' use of the significant-nexus test when making Clean Water Act determinations. The EPA motioned for a stay in a lawsuit filed in a federal court in North Dakota this week, telling the court the agency will be issuing a new proposed rule by or before Sept. 1. "Business plaintiffs' members and their clients who operate in every state remain subject to that rule in the 23 states in which it is not enjoined," the ag groups said in their Texas motion. "Worse, although Sackett determines the agencies' jurisdiction in the vast majority of circumstances, the Corps has announced that it will not issue AJDs (jurisdictional determinations) anywhere until the agencies promulgate a new rule, putting business plaintiffs' members and their clients at continuing risk of criminal and civil penalties for ordinary use of their property. Only vacatur of the rule, agency adherence to Sackett to process AJDs and permits and prompt promulgation of a new rule can end this arbitrary roadblock to the lawful use of the land." NCBA's Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart said in a press release, "A full rewrite of the Biden administration's WOTUS definition is the only path to comply with the Sackett decision." In its motion for summary judgement the ag groups said the court should "immediately supply clear directions to Corps offices and other stakeholders that ephemeral and isolated waters are no longer jurisdictional" and that jurisdictional determinations should reflect that. "Delay in providing clear direction perpetuates the conduct for which the agencies were admonished in Sackett," ag groups said. "There is no warrant for the agencies, after nearly two decades during which they unlawfully expanded their authority by imposing a significant nexus test on land users, to continue to hold the threat of criminal and civil sanctions over businesses for ordinary land uses now that the Supreme Court has established clear jurisdictional rules."

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 29, 2023 |

Reintroduced Legislation Would Improve Freight Rail Service Lawmakers in the U.S. Senate Thursday reduced the Reliable Rail Service Act. The legislation seeks to help address the unreliable service and high costs of rail shipping for American businesses. Supported by members of the agriculture industry, labor organizations, energy producers, and manufacturers, the bill ensures the largest freight railroads provide American businesses reliable services at reasonable rates. Rail shippers, including farmers, continue to face poor service, significant service disruptions, and sky-high prices that are impacting communities, and consumers, all while the nation's largest railroads' profits are at record highs. Senators Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, and Tammy Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, reintroduced the legislation. Marshall says, "Service failures hurt our shippers who use the rail to deliver their products to key export facilities." The bill establishes specific criteria for the Surface Transportation Board to consider when evaluating whether carriers are meeting their common carrier obligation to give shippers much-needed certainty that is currently lacking. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Seek PFAS Farm Bill Funding A group of lawmakers is asking for Farm Bill funding to help rural communities with PFAS contamination. In a letter to leadership of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees, the lawmakers say, "It is imperative that we take decisive action to provide assistance and relief to those affected by PFAS.” The use of PFAS chemicals in various industrial and commercial applications has led to widespread contamination, posing a significant threat to our environment, public health, and agricultural systems. Farmers and rural communities, in particular, bear the brunt of PFAS contamination, according to the letter, as it affects their drinking water, soil quality, and livestock health. The lawmakers urge Farm Bill writers to include the Healthy H2O Act within the legislation. The bill aims to address PFAS contamination in water supplies by funding water testing, treatment, and remediation. The effort was led by Senator Democrat Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine. *********************************************************************************** USDA Solicits Nominations to the Tribal Advisory Committee The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced it will establish a Tribal Advisory Committee and is requesting nominations for membership. The notice is among USDA’s efforts to remove barriers to service for tribal governments, citizens, and tribal nations. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called the committee “an important step towards ensuring tribal perspectives are well represented at USDA and positioned to inform how the Department meets its trust responsibility to tribes across the nation." Authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill, the Tribal Advisory Committee provides advice and guidance to the Secretary of Agriculture on matters relating to tribal and Indian affairs. As a federal advisory committee, the Tribal Advisory Committee will provide invaluable recommendations on USDA programs and policies, including through an annual report to Congress. The nomination period for membership to serve on this advisory committee will be open through August 14, 2023. Specific information and nomination instructions are available in the Federal Register. *********************************************************************************** Genetically Modified Seed Prices Rising Faster Than Non-GM Prices farmers paid for crop seed increased significantly faster than the prices farmers received for crop commodities between 1990 and 2020. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that during that period, the average price farmers paid for all seed rose by 270 percent, while the crop commodity price index rose 56 percent. For crops planted predominantly with genetically modified seed – corn, soybeans, and cotton – seed prices rose by an average of 463 percent between 1990 and 2020. During this period, GM seed prices peaked in 2014 at 639 percent above 1990 price levels. Despite their higher cost, GM crop varieties have provided significant productivity gains for farmers, partly through higher yield, but also by lowering farm production costs. For example, GM traits for insect resistance reduce the need for insecticide applications. Similarly, GM traits for herbicide tolerance provide a substitute for mechanical tillage, thus reducing labor, machinery, and fuel previously used for controlling weeds. *********************************************************************************** Survey Highlights Barriers to Effective Herbicide-Resistant Weeds Management A recent survey of certified crop advisors in all 50 U.S. states shows they are concerned about the escalation of herbicide resistance and the impediments to effective weed management. The Weed Science Society of America survey found that four out of ten crop advisers were concerned about the challenges in managing herbicide-resistant weeds over the next five years – a significantly higher percentage than those concerned about resistance to insecticides or fungicides. Concern was greatest among those working with large-scale growers in the West or the Great Plains states and those supporting corn, rice or beet production. Crop advisors listed economics as the number one barrier to effective management of herbicide-resistant weeds, followed by management complexity, supply constraints, limited available technology, time constraints and the misguided perception that a "silver bullet" will emerge to support the management-resistant weeds. In addition, 82 percent of those surveyed agree or strongly agree that growers need to evolve how they think about resistance management. *********************************************************************************** NACD Applauds USDA Bolstering Working Lands for Wildlife Program The National Association of Conservation Districts welcomed this week’s expansion of USDA’s Working Lands for Wildlife program. The expansion includes close alignment of the Natural Resources Conservation Service and Farm Service Agency, centered around WLFW Frameworks for Conservation Action. The frameworks are biome-level conservation strategies rooted in the latest science and best practices. Their research and conservation tools are used to align stakeholders and prioritize conservation actions to achieve landscape scale objectives and benefit both people and wildlife. NACD President Kim LaFleur says, “This strategy will provide producers and land stewards in critical biomes across the country the opportunity to voluntarily implement conservation that enhances wildlife habitats. Since 2010, more than 8,400 producers in 48 states have teamed up under WLFW to conserve and enhance nearly 12 million acres of working agricultural lands. Conservation districts, land operators, and partners can learn more about participating in the WLFW program by visiting the program’s webpage and talking with their local NRCS staff.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 29, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, first quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas supplies follows at 9:30 a.m. and traders will continue to pay close attention to the latest weather forecasts. Weather Disturbances moving through the Corn Belt will bring rounds of showers and thunderstorms on Thursday, especially from Nebraska to Indiana. Some of these storms may become severe with wind and hail the most likely threats and centered on Illinois, where the rain would be most welcome. South of this zone of precipitation, heat continues to build with triple digits extending up into Missouri and perhaps southern Illinois.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 28, 2023 |

Cost of Summer Cookout Down Slightly From 10-Year High Celebrating the 4th of July with a cookout will cost significantly more than two years ago, although prices have fallen slightly from record highs in 2022. Families will pay $67.73 to host an Independence Day cookout with ten family members or friends, based on the 2023 American Farm Bureau Federation marketbasket survey. The $67.73 grocery bill is down three percent from 2022, but still approximately 14 percent higher than prices were just two years ago. Last year set a record high since AFBF began the survey in 2013, and 2023 comes in as the second-highest cost. The cookout favorites include cheeseburgers, chicken breasts, pork chops, homemade potato salad, strawberries and ice cream, among other products. The marketbasket survey shows a year-to-year increase in the cost of hamburger buns, beef and potato salad, while there are drops in the cost of chicken breasts, lemonade and cookies. Although historically high, the cost of the cookout breaks down to less than $7 per person. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Cost of Home-grilled Cheeseburger up 10 Cents From 2022 Following the Farm Bureau marketbasket survey, USDA’s Economic Research Service Tuesday reports that cheeseburgers will cost more this year for an Independence Day cookout. USDA says that in May 2023, the ingredients for a home-prepared ¼-pound cheeseburger totaled $2.17 per burger, an increase of 10 cents from 2022. Prices for cheeseburger ingredients grew more slowly over the year than prices for all groceries, which rose 5.8 percent from May 2022 to May 2023. Ground beef made up the largest cost of the burger at $1.24, and Cheddar cheese accounted for $0.37. Both these items increased in price by 3.5 percent between 2022 and 2023 and together accounted for half the increase in costs. Bread prices rose the fastest, by 21.5 percent, and added 4 cents to the cost of a burger between 2022 and 2023. Tomato prices fell slightly over the year, but an increase in lettuce prices added one cent to total costs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Investment in Wildlife Conservation The Department of Agriculture Tuesday expanded wildlife conservation investments by $500 million over the next five years. The effort leverages all available conservation programs, including the Conservation Reserve Program, through its Working Lands for Wildlife effort. The commitments will ramp up the conservation assistance for farmers, ranchers, private forest owners and tribes with a focus on working lands in key geographies across the country. The funding will help deliver a series of cohesive Frameworks for Conservation Action, which establish a common vision across the partnership of public and private interests and goals for delivering conservation resources in a given ecosystem, combining cutting-edge science with local knowledge, according to USDA. The new funding includes $250 million from the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program and $250 million from the Environmental Quality Incentives Program. USDA Undersecretary Robert Bonnie says, “Working Lands for Wildlife is ready to go to the next level, and today’s incorporation of the Conservation Reserve Program into its vision is a major leap forward.” *********************************************************************************** CFTC Announces Second Voluntary Carbon Markets Convening July 19 The Commodity Futures Trading Commission announced the second voluntary carbon markets convening set for next month. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 19, at the CFTC's Washington, D.C. headquarters at 11:30 a.m. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss recent private sector initiatives for high-quality carbon credits, current trends and developments in the cash and derivatives markets for carbon credits, and public sector initiatives related to carbon markets. CFTC Chairman Rostin Behnam says, “The voluntary carbon markets are at a critical point in their development and growth, and the has an important policy responsibility to promote product innovation, price discovery, and liquidity for high-quality carbon credits.” As the voluntary carbon markets evolve, the goal of the meeting is to build upon the information discussed at the CFTC’s first convening and the information learned from public comments as submitted in response to the Commission’s June 2022 Request for Information on Climate-Related Financial Risk. *********************************************************************************** Animal Food Manufacturers Vital to US Economy New research from the American Feed Industry Association shows the industry drives economic growth across the national and local economies. The organization's economic contribution study estimates that in 2023, the total animal food industry, including indirect and induced effects, will generate $267.1 billion in sales. The industry will employ roughly 760,000 full- and part-time and contract employees, paying out $55 billion in salaries and employee benefits before year-end. At the local, state and national levels, the industry will file $18.5 billion in taxes in 2023. The 83-page report showed that the top five states for feed and pet food sales this year will be California, with an estimated $19.5 billion, Missouri at $18.6 billion, Texas at $17.1 billion, Iowa at $16.5 billion, and Kansas at $16.2 billion. The states with the most feed mills included Texas, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. Missouri employs the most animal food manufacturing employees with over 54,350, followed by California, Texas, Iowa and Pennsylvania. *********************************************************************************** Biden Administration Announces Allocations for High-Speed Internet Program The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration this week today announced allocated funding for reliable high-speed internet. States, D.C., and territories will use funding from the $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program to administer grant programs within their borders. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo says, “What this announcement means for people across the country is that if you don’t have access to quality, affordable high-speed Internet service now – you will.” The funding will be used to deploy or upgrade broadband networks to ensure that everyone has access to reliable, affordable, high-speed Internet service. Once deployment goals are met, any remaining funding can be used to pursue eligible access-, adoption-, and equity-related uses. States, Washington D.C., and territories will receive their formal notice of allocation on June 30, 2023. To view state-by-state funding across the Biden Administration's high-speed Internet portfolio, visit InternetforAll.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 28, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT, including ethanol production. Traders continue to keep a close watch on weather and the latest forecasts ahead of Friday's Acreage and Grain Stocks reports from USDA. Weather A few weak disturbances will be moving through the Corn Belt on Wednesday with areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms. Some severe weather will be possible, mostly centered on Wisconsin, though we may see that threat expand elsewhere in the region. Heat that had been over Texas early this week will expand up into Kansas and the Ozarks Wednesday and farther north and east the rest of the week with triple-digit readings for a few days.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 27, 2023 |

Biden Administration Set to Issue New WOTUS Rule by Sept. 1, Asks for Court Stay LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- EPA plans to complete a proposed rewrite of the 2023 waters of the U.S. rule on or before Sept. 1, 2023, after a Supreme Court ruling in May essentially struck down the Biden administration rule. The agency filed a motion to stay an ongoing WOTUS lawsuit in federal court on Monday, telling the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota that a rewrite is on the way. "Federal Defendants respectfully request that the court stay this case," EPA said in its motion. "Good cause exists for this request. Federal defendants are developing a new rule to amend the 2023 rule consistent with Sackett." The agency said in its motion it would be best to preserve resources and conserve "judicial economy" by staying the case. The federal court in North Dakota had issued a 24-state preliminary injunction against the Biden rule. "Federal defendants' new rule may resolve, or at least narrow, the issues in this case," the agency said in the motion. "A stay will allow the parties time to assess the new rule and determine whether to continue to litigate this case. A stay will also serve the interest of judicial economy because it may result in avoiding unnecessary litigation and/or narrowing the issues." The injunction is in effect in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. In addition, an injunction is in place in Texas and Idaho as a result of a lawsuit filed in Texas. In Sackett v EPA, the Supreme Court ruled that a tract of land owned by Michael and Chantell Sackett in Idaho was not a WOTUS. In addition, the court struck down the agency's use of the so-called "significant-nexus" standard to make Clean Water Act determinations. EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have used significant nexus for years. The standard essentially allows regulators to claim jurisdiction over even dryland features, if there is scientific evidence of a chemical and biological connection to an actual navigable water such as lakes, streams and rivers. The Sacketts have filed many appeals on the EPA decision in the past 15 years. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit had sided with EPA's wetland assessment on the Sacketts' property. The court's ruling sends the appeals court decision back to the court for reconsideration. Justice Samuel Alito said in writing the majority opinion that EPA's interpretation of the law "gives rise to serious vagueness concerns in light of the CWA's criminal penalties." "Due process requires Congress to define penal statutes 'with sufficient definiteness that ordinary people can understand what conduct is prohibited,'" Alito wrote, "and 'in a manner that does not encourage arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.' Yet the meaning of 'waters of the United States' under the EPA's interpretation remains hopelessly indeterminate. "The EPA contends that the only thing preventing it from interpreting 'waters of the United States' to 'conceivably cover literally every body of water in the country' is the significant-nexus test." Alito's ruling noted in defining "waters of the U.S.," the court revisits what has been "a contentious and difficult task." Alito said the phrase "waters of the U.S." has sparked decades of EPA action and litigation. The boundary between "significant" and insignificant is far from clear, Alito wrote. EPA argued that "waters" also include wetlands. But Alito points to the presence of puddles and noted in an earlier decision that ponds are not considered part of waters of the U.S.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 27, 2023 |

Plan Would Increase Access to Crop and Livestock Insurance Representatives Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Angie Craig (D-MN) introduced the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act. It would equip new producers, beginning farmers, and U.S. veterans with the crop insurance protections they need to be productive, profitable, and successful. The legislation would align the definition of “Beginning Farmer” to match most other beginning-farmer programs, extending crop and livestock insurance protections to ten years for new and beginning farmers. This increase to ten years would apply to all federal crop insurance programs, including livestock policies. “We have to do a better job of helping new farmers build successful operations,” Craig says. “We’re working to strengthen the farm safety net and ensure we’re preparing the next generation of family farmers.” Recent estimates say 34 percent of all U.S. producers are over 65 years old, while only eight percent were under 35. Forty percent of all farmlands will transfer ownership over the next 20 years. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing $500 Million to Expand Domestic Biofuels The USDA is planning to invest up to $500 million to increase the availability of domestic biofuels and give Americans additional cleaner-fuel options at the pump. “By expanding the availability of homegrown biofuels, we’re strengthening our energy independence, creating new market opportunities and revenue streams for American producers, and bringing good-paying jobs and other economic benefits to rural and farm communities.” The first group of applicants for funding through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program will receive $25 million for 59 infrastructure projects. In July, the USDA will start accepting applications for another $450 million in grants through the HBIIP. These grants will support the infrastructure needed to lower out-of-pocket costs for transportation, fueling, and distribution facilities to install and upgrade biofuel-related infrastructure like pumps, dispensers, and storage tanks. Grants cover up to 75 percent or $5 million of total project costs to help facilities convert to higher-blend fuels. *********************************************************************************** BLM Extends Public Comment Period on Conservation Rule The Bureau of Land Management extended the public comment period on its new land use rule through July fifth. The bureau wants more feedback on its proposal to elevate conservation on federal lands. The announcement is getting significant pushback from the Public Lands Council, conservatives, energy companies, and ranchers in the Mountain West. Under the proposal, conservation would get equal footing to other land uses like oil and gas drilling, mining, grazing, and timber harvesting. Environmental groups would be allowed to lease federally owned parcels for preservation and habitat restoration. Opponents say changes to the rules for 246 million acres of land would undermine the industries that rely on those lands. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon says, “Simply put, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. It pits productive uses of public lands against conservation – a gross mischaracterization of the concept.” The House and Senate already have bills to halt the rule. *********************************************************************************** Lawmaker Reintroducing Bill to Get EV Industry into Biofuel Program A Democratic lawmaker announced plans to reintroduce a bipartisan bill that would get electric vehicles into the national biofuel blending program. The legislation would allow electricity generated from renewable biomass to qualify for credits under the Renewable Fuel Standard. The White House recently stopped plans to do so for fear of lawsuits. Under the bill, companies that produce power generated from renewable gas used for charging EVs would be eligible to generate lucrative credits under the RFS. That’s a slight but important difference from the Environmental Protection Agency’s approach, which would have allowed EV manufacturers like Tesla to generate the credits. “The manufacturers don’t produce the electricity,” says California Representative John Garamendi, the bill’s sponsor. “We know that the biomass/biogas industry can produce electricity in a way that benefits the overall economy and ecology of the nation.” The bill directs the EPA, which oversees the RFS, to implement the plan. *********************************************************************************** USDA Approves Lab-Grown Chicken The USDA gave two startup companies the go-ahead to sell lab-grown chicken. GOOD Meat, a subsidiary of food tech company Eat Just, Inc., and UPSIDE Foods will be allowed to sell their products that have been cultivated from real animal cells. Investopedia says chicken from GOOD Meat and UPSIDE has been declared safe to eat by the USDA. The announcement followed a “no questions” letter from the Food and Drug Administration earlier this year. Cultured meat, also called cell-based or lab-grown, uses stem cells from animal fat or muscle tissue to feed cells, allowing them to grow. It’s then grown to the proper density in bioreactors before getting separated by a centrifuge. “This news was a major moment for our company, the industry, and the food system,” says Josh Tetrick, CEO of GOOD Meat and Eat Just. Analysts predict the cell-cultured meat industry will eventually be worth approximately $25 billion. *********************************************************************************** Lawmaker’s Working Group to Address Farm Labor Shortage Members of the House Agriculture Committee have formed a bipartisan Agricultural Labor Working Group to tackle the ag industry’s continual labor shortage and address other workforce issues. The group is chaired by Representatives Rick Crawford (R-AR) and Don Davis (D-NC). It will look at solutions to the agriculture industry’s labor needs, including reforming the existing H-2A visa program. Those visas currently allow agricultural employers who meet specific requirements to bring a limited number of foreign nationals to the U.S. to fill temporary, seasonal farm jobs. However, in recent years the number has been insufficient to meet the workforce needs of livestock farmers that need year-round employees. The National Pork Producers Council supports expanding the H-2A visa program to year-round agricultural laborers. It also backs reforming the visa system to help with complexity, backlogs, predictability, and costs. The committee will issue an interim report detailing both the challenges and potential solutions.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 27, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. durable goods orders in May will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by May U.S. new home sales and a report on U.S. consumer confidence in June at 9 a.m. Traders remain keen on the latest weather forecasts and USDA has not had a daily export sales announcement since June 9. Weather Another couple of disturbances will be moving through the Plains on Tuesday, over the top of a strong heat ridge in Texas. Thunderstorms could be very strong in a few areas, especially along the Kansas-Oklahoma border, where conditions are more favorable for very strong winds out of a convective system that may invoke the term derecho if it comes together.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 26, 2023 |

U.S. and India Announce Resolution on Key Trade Issues U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced that the United States and India have agreed to terminate six outstanding disputes at the World Trade Organization. India also agreed to remove retaliatory tariffs that it imposed in response to the U.S. Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum. The Indian tariffs included American products like chickpeas, lentils, almonds, walnuts, and apples. These tariff cuts will restore and expand market opportunities for U.S. agricultural producers and manufacturers. “This agreement represents the culmination of intensified bilateral engagement over the last two years to deepen our economic and trade ties,” Tai says. “The result is U.S. producers and manufacturers will now enjoy renewed access to a critical global market, and we will strengthen our trade relationship with one of our closest partners.” As India’s Prime Minister makes an official state visit to the U.S., Tai says the agreement opens a new chapter of bilateral cooperation. *********************************************************************************** Ag Reacts to the Dispute Settlement Between the U.S. and India Farmers for Free Trade issued a statement responding to the resolution of a number of trade disputes between India and the U.S. FFT Executive Director Brian Kuehl (KEEL) says India has always represented an enormous market for America’s ag exports. “While there has long been frustration over unnecessary barriers to entry into the Indian market, this announcement is a positive step forward in removing tariffs and opening trade,” he says. “The fact that India placed tariffs on U.S. products in the first place is a reminder of the damage trade wars caused here at home.” Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the removal of the tariffs is a major win for America’s farmers. “Producers will now be able to increase sales of apples, chickpeas, lentils, almonds, and walnuts to one of America’s top trading partners,” Vilsack says. “USDA applauds the Office of the USTR for their diligence in reaching this welcome agreement.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Supporting American Producers, School Meals, and Emergency Operations Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA is providing $2.7 billion to support American farmers, students participating in school meal programs, and emergency food operations. Almost $1.3 billion goes to states to purchase foods to be distributed to schools for their meal programs, and almost $1 billion for states to order commodities from USDA vendors for emergency food providers. Those emergency providers include food banks and community kitchens that face high demand and supply chain disruptions. USDA is also making up to $400 million in grants available to help support domestic fertilizer production capacity and lower costs for producers. “American agriculture has continued to be resilient in the face of significant and unpredictable challenges,” Vilsack says. “Today’s comprehensive set of investments will help producers by increasing commodity purchases for schools and emergency food providers and supporting expanded domestic fertilizer capacity to help lower costs. This better prepares us for the future.” *********************************************************************************** Senate Appropriations Approves Ag-FDA Funding Bill Senate appropriators unanimously approved a bill to fund the Agriculture Department and Food and Drug Administration through fiscal year 2024. That’s a level of consensus that stands in stark contrast to the deep partisan divides on display during the House’s markup of their agriculture and FDA spending bill last week. The Senate spending bill, which the panel approved 28-0 after just over an hour of discussion, would fund the agencies at $25.993 billion, more than $8 billion above the funding level in the Republican-led House bill. That House spending proposal drew intense pushback from Democrats on the Appropriations Committee over the course of a more than eight-hour markup on June 14. That session ended very abruptly after a particularly heated exchange between Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD) and committee chair Kay Granger (R-Texas). New Mexico Democrat Martin Heinrich, chair of the subcommittee, lauded the bipartisan collaborative nature of the Senate’s spending bill. *********************************************************************************** American Agri-Women Release Vision for 2023 Farm Bill The American Agri-Women released their vision for what’s important in the 2023 Farm Bill. “Agriculture is on the front lines of challenges like dealing with climate, food security, national security, and world-class telecommunications to enable further developments in natural resource management,” says AAW President Heather Hampton-Knodle (Kuh-NO-dle). The group’s recent work builds on concepts the group published in 2022 that include fundamentals like well-funded, flexible crop insurance; revitalizing research infrastructure; access to markets and inputs and credit to help pay for exponential increases in inputs and equipment; and modernizing aging utilities for water and underserved telecommunications in rural areas. Their additions to the original vision include using export programs to secure global supply chains, increasing programs to support rural large-livestock veterinarians, and workforce development for the timber industry. “The farm bill is needed for food security and national security as well as playing roles in a positive trade balance,” says Hampton-Knodle. *********************************************************************************** Drought Intensifies in Several Parts of Rural America Despite mostly near- to below-normal temps in much of the Midwest, excluding the Upper Midwest and Western Corn Belt, much of the region didn’t see appreciable rainfall. As a result, short-term dryness continued to worsen, leading to widespread deterioration. The only improvements took place in the Eastern Corn Belt and Kentucky. Much of the Northern Plains had below-average rainfall during the week, adding to short-term precipitation deficits. Above-normal temps and high winds only made drought conditions worse by increasing moisture loss from soils and vegetation. Several rounds of heavy rainfall with thunderstorms traveled through the south from Oklahoma to Mississippi, leading to targeted improvements in abnormal dryness. Improvements took place in the Texas Panhandle because of well-above-average rainfall. However, the Lower Mississippi and Tennessee Valleys saw short-term dryness continue to increase. Another week of above-normal rainfall across many areas of the Intermountain West resulted in widespread but targeted improvements.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 26, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will examine rainfall amounts and the latest forecasts. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A cold front moving through the Mid-Atlantic and South will keep areas of showers and thunderstorms going for Monday, after bringing widespread rains to much of the Corn Belt over the weekend. The Great Lakes will see some showers as well as small parts of the Plains and Prairies. South of the front it will be very hot, with another round of triple digit heat for Texas and nearby areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 23, 2023 |

Lawmakers Introduce American Farmers Feed the World Act Lawmakers this week introduced the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023. The bipartisan bill would “keep food in America’s international food aid programs.” Specifically, the legislation aims to restore the original intent of the Food for Peace program without spending additional Farm Bill resources, all while safeguarding the interests of U.S. farmers. U.S. Wheat Associates joined the National Association of Wheat Growers and other agricultural organizations for the introduction of the bill Thursday. USW Director of Trade Policy Peter Laudeman says, “The reforms in the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 will ensure that more food gets to more people in need throughout the world, without spending any additional resources.” Representative Tracy Mann, a Kansas Republican who joined colleagues to introduce the legislation, says, “This bill puts a stake in the ground: it’s a noble thing to feed hungry people, and we should use American commodities as we do it.” *********************************************************************************** Vilsack to Announce Biofuels Funding Monday Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack heads to the Twin Cities area in Minnesota Monday. The Department of Agriculture says Vilsack will announce significant new funding being awarded by USDA to bolster and expand the availability of homegrown biofuels nationwide. During the event, USDA says Vilsack will also underscore USDA's efforts to invest in climate-related research and development in states like Minnesota, which helps result in scientific breakthroughs such as innovative biofuel technologies that combat the climate crisis, lower costs for American producers and families, and boost American energy independence. In the briefing regarding the announcement, USDA did not announce an exact location for the event. The announcement is part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda to rebuild our economy from the bottom up and middle out by rebuilding our nation's infrastructure, creating good-paying jobs, and building a clean energy economy to tackle the climate crisis and make our communities more resilient. *********************************************************************************** California Delays Prop 12 Implementation California this week delayed the implementation of Proposition 12. Granting six months of additional relief for products in the supply chain allows grocery stores to remain stocked so Californians have uninterrupted access to pork products, especially with rising food prices, according to the National Pork Producers Council. In a statement, NPPC claims, “While this temporary solution does not solve the challenges and uncertainty California Proposition 12 brings to our industry, NPPC looks forward to working with Congress to find a permanent solution to this problem.” The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of the law earlier this year, stating Congress, not the courts, has the authority to block the law. Proposition 12 requires veal calves, breeding pigs, and egg-laying hens to be housed in systems that comply with specific standards for freedom of movement, cage-free design, and specified minimum floor space. Implementation of Proposition 12 is now set for January 1, 2024. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces $300 Million Investment for Underserved Producers The Department of Agriculture Thursday announced its selection of 50 projects for potential award, totaling approximately $300 million, for underserved producers funding. The projects will help improve access to land, capital, and markets for underserved farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners. The funding comes from the Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access Program. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "By providing the resources, tools and technical support needed to directly help local farmers and ensure we have a strong agricultural system across the country." For one of the projects, the Community Development Corporation of Oregon will work to provide long-term and sustainable land access to disadvantaged refugee and immigrant beginning farmers in Oregon's east Multnomah and Clackamas counties. Another project by Maine Farmland Trust will work with low-income farmers on access to low-interest capital for land purchase or business operations, farm upgrades and infrastructure investments. See the full list of Increasing Land Access Program selected projects at www.fsa.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Access to Primary Care Varies Across the Country New data released this week from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows access to primary care physicians varies across the United States. The number of primary care physicians per 10,000 residents is generally higher in much of the Northeast, along the West Coast, in Hawaii, and parts of the mountainous West and upper Midwest. The availability of primary care physicians per capita is generally lower in much of the Great Plains—especially the Southern Great Plains—and the Lower Mississippi Delta and Southeast. However, there are substantial variations in the availability of physicians within these regions. For instance, in rural counties, there are fewer physicians per capita in counties adjacent to urban counties than in those farther from urban areas. USDA says this is likely because residents travel from nearby rural areas to urban doctors. The lowest rates of physicians per capita are in rural counties with an urban population of less than 2,500. *********************************************************************************** Pivot Bio Releases First Impact Report Pivot Bio, a sustainable agriculture company, released its inaugural impact report this week. The report documents how farmers are using their products to improve their productivity and profitability without synthetic fertilizer polluting local rivers or contributing to climate change. In 2022 alone, Pivot Bio helped its customers replace over 32,000 tons of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer, avoiding roughly 226,400 metric tons of CO2e - equivalent to powering 44,000 U.S. homes for a year. Pivot Bio CEO Karsten Temme says, "This data shows farmers are using biological nitrogen to reliably increase their productivity, profitability, and sustainability." The company's microbial nitrogen is manufactured with an emissions footprint that is just two percent that of synthetic fertilizer and uses 1,000 times less water. Pivot Bio's microbial nitrogen can replace approximately a quarter of a farmer's synthetic nitrogen. In 2022, it was used by farmers on over three million acres in the United States, and the company reported revenue of over $60 million.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 23, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, but expectations are low as the week only had one modest soybean sale announcement, reported to unknown destinations. At 2 p.m., USDA's June 1 cattle on-feed and monthly cold storage reports are set to be released. The latest weather forecasts remain the primary concern of grain traders. Weather A front that has been stuck in the Northern Plains all week continues to be active on Friday. Showers and thunderstorms have been rather sporadic this week but are expected to increase in intensity as a system in the West approaches Friday night. Additional severe storms are possible near the Texas Panhandle yet again today. An upper-level system continues to spin around the East Coast where showers will be possible across the far eastern Midwest. In between the two, another day of hot and dry conditions continue to stress crops.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 22, 2023 |

EPA Sets Final Renewable Fuel Volumes for 2023-2025 The Environmental Protection Agency Wednesday released final volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard for 2023, 2024 and 2025. EPA Administrator Michael Regan says, “Today’s final rule reflects our efforts to ensure stability of the program for years to come.” The announcement provides for annual growth in total renewable fuel volumes, although with lower conventional biofuel volumes than EPA had proposed. For 2023, EPA set an implied 15.25-billion-gallon requirement for conventional ethanol, which includes a supplemental 250 million gallons a prior court decision required EPA to restore to the RFS. For 2024 and 2025, EPA holds the implied conventional volume level at 15 billion gallons, despite proposing 15.25 billion gallons for those two years. National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag says, “A multi-year RFS volume rule offers stability and certainty for renewable fuels. However, when it comes to addressing pressing energy, environmental and economic challenges, EPA’s final rule falls short of the emission reductions and cost-saving benefits the higher proposed ethanol volumes would have provided.” *********************************************************************************** Grassley Condemns Biden Biofuels Bait-And-Switch Senator Chuck Grassley Wednesday criticized the Environmental Protection Agency’s final rule setting minimum biofuels blending levels for the next three years below current production capabilities. The Iowa Republican says, “For an administration obsessed with reducing carbon emissions, this rule makes absolutely no sense.” While the plan makes modest increases to blend levels for certain biodiesel products, the overall biofuels volume remains unchanged, and ethanol volumes were reduced from proposed rule levels. The American Soybean Association also criticized the EPA announcement, as the rule does not accurately reflect the growth expected in the industry and falls far below the industry's current production. ASA President Daryl Cates of Illinois says the announcement fails "to account for the progress being made in biofuels investment and growth." Expanded crush capacity coming online in the next few years translates into about 700 million gallons of renewable diesel, far above EPA's three-year RVO growth of only about 590 million gallons. *********************************************************************************** Ernst, Stabenow, Introduce FARMLAND Act Senators Joni Ernst and Debbie Stabenow this week introduced The Foreign Agricultural Restrictions to Maintain Local Agriculture and National Defense, or FARMLAND Act. The legislation would overhaul the current system that has allowed China’s malign influence to threaten American food security and national security by buying up agricultural land in the United States. Ernst, an Iowa Republican, says, “America needs to know how our foreign adversary has been allowed to use loopholes to attempt to exploit any potential vulnerability and assert control over our agriculture industry.” Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, adds, “This bill safeguards our nation’s farmland and food supply by overhauling the system for federal oversight of foreign land ownership.” Foreign ownership and investment in U.S. agricultural land has nearly doubled over the last decade, according to USDA. Among other things, the FARMLAND Act would develop a publicly available database of agricultural land owned by foreign persons, and prohibit them from participating in Farm Service Agency programs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Reminds Producers to File Crop Acreage Reports by July 17 Agricultural producers who have not yet completed their crop acreage reports after planting should make an appointment with their local USDA office before the applicable deadline, which for many places and crops is July 17. USDA’s Farm Service Agency also reminds producers with login access to farmers.gov of several features that can help expedite acreage reporting, such as the ability to view, print and label maps. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says, “Filing an accurate and timely crop acreage report is an important step in receiving USDA program benefits, including safety net, conservation, and disaster assistance support.” July 17 is a major deadline for most crops, but acreage reporting deadlines vary by county and by crop. Producers should also report crop acreage they intended to plant but were unable to plant because of a natural disaster. Producers can contact their FSA county office for acreage reporting deadlines that are specific to their county. *********************************************************************************** 2022 USDA Nutrition Assistance Spending Declines Federal spending on USDA’s food and nutrition assistance programs totaled $183.0 billion in fiscal year 2022, down six percent from the record-high spending of $194.7 billion in 2021, adjusted for inflation to 2022 dollars. Before adjusting for inflation, total 2021 spending was $183.3 billion. In 2022, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program maximum allotment permanently increased after the Thrifty Food Plan was re-evaluated, and several States also ended SNAP emergency allotments, which temporarily raised all recipients’ benefits to at least the maximum for their household size. SNAP spending totaled $119.5 billion in FY 2022, one percent less than the inflation-adjusted record-high spending in 2021. Spending on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC, totaled $5.7 billion—an increase of seven percent from inflation-adjusted spending in 2021, reflecting an increase in program food costs per participant. Combined spending on child nutrition programs totaled $35.1 billion in FY 2022, increasing 19 percent from the inflation-adjusted total in the previous year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Promoting Summer Food Safety Whether you’re a grill master or a first-time barbecue cook, food safety should always be part of your routine to ensure a healthy and happy Fourth of July. USDA is promoting summer food safety tips as consumer behavior studies have shown that individuals don’t always properly wash their hands or use a food thermometer. Ensure your food is safe to eat this Fourth of July by following a series of food safety steps. Start with cleaning the grill and other items before the touch food, avoid cross contamination of raw meats and vegetables, and use food thermometers to ensure your grilled food is ready. Although frozen products may appear to be pre-cooked or browned, treat them as raw food and cook thoroughly. The final tip is to chill food properly. Perishable food should be consumed or refrigerated within two hours, one hour if outdoor temperatures are 90 F and above.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 22, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Thursday morning activities start with weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor at 7:30 a.m., but no export sales report until Friday. U.S. existing home sales and leading indicators for May follow at 9 a.m. U.S. Energy Department's report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. Federal Chairman Jerome Powell goes before the Senate, likely repeating Tuesday's testimony to the House. Weather A persistent weather pattern this week continues on Thursday with a front stuck up in the Northern Plains that should remain active and a system in the Southeast that continues to spin. Thunderstorms are expected to develop in the High Plains yet again Thursday, which may be severe. Elsewhere in the Corn Belt it will be hot and dry, with stresses continuing to mount as the region looks forward to weekend rainfall.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 21, 2023 |

Poll Shows Voters Think Rural Health Care Lags Behind Urban Areas A new survey from One Country Project shows that voters think health care in rural communities is markedly worse than in the rest of America. Those findings were revealed soon after the OCP hosted its annual Rural Progress Summit. Stakeholders from across the U.S. gathered to discuss challenges facing rural communities and the importance of elevating rural priorities on the national stage. “Access to quality, affordable health care shouldn’t be determined by your zip code,” says OCP Founder and former Senator Heidi Heitkamp. More than 130 rural hospitals have closed since 2010. That leaves rural residents with no option but to travel hours to the nearest medical center, which is especially dangerous in a life-threatening emergency. Air ambulances are often relied on, and the survey shows overwhelming support, at 84 percent, for increasing the Medicare reimbursement rate for air medical services. Medicare currently covers just 50 percent of the associated costs. *********************************************************************************** Rural Mainstreet Index Reaches Highest Level Since 2022 After dropping below growth neutral in March, the June Rural Mainstreet Index expanded above the threshold for a third-straight month to its highest point since May 2022. That’s according to the June monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a ten-state region dependent on agriculture. The overall June reading is 56.9, the highest since 2022 and up from May’s 55.8. The index range is zero to 100, with 50 representing growth neutral. “After negative growth during the first quarter of 2023, the Rural Mainstreet economy experienced positive but slow economic growth for the second quarter,” says Ernie Goss of Creighton University. The region’s farmland price index jumped from 56.3 in May to 59.3 in June. Bank CEOs ranked Federal Reserve rate hikes as the greatest challenge ahead during the next 12 months. Bankers also continue to have a positive outlook for payment of farm loans in the next year. *********************************************************************************** Five Benefits of Modern Dairy Practices Dairy is an important part of the diets of millions of Americans. The average person consumes about 276 pounds of dairy in a year. However, despite its positive impact, a significant portion of the population often misunderstands dairy. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ Dairy Leadership Group put together the top five benefits of modern dairy. The first is the U.S. dairy industry produces more milk than in 1944 with 16 million fewer cows. The dairy industry accounts for 3.5 percent of total U.S. GDP. By way of comparison, the entire auto industry accounts for three percent. Dairy is also more environmentally friendly, having reduced its GHG footprint by 17 percent and water usage by 10 percent in the last 15 years. Ninety-seven percent of the 34,000 dairy farms are family-owned and operated. Dairy is also an excellent source of 18 of the 22 essential nutrients needed for a healthy life. *********************************************************************************** American Farmland Trust Applauds No EMIT’s Act Representatives from Wisconsin and California introduced the “Naturally Offsetting Emissions by Managing and Implementing Tillage Strategies” or “NO EMIT’s Act.” The bill would help support farmers in improving soil health. American Farmland Trust applauded the bipartisan bill’s introduction and its inclusion of one of AFT’s top farm bill priorities: establishing a federal match for state and Tribal soil health programs. “In recent years, states have begun creating innovative soil health programs that fill current gaps in support and help producers voluntarily adopt soil health practices in locally tailored ways,” says Tim Fink, AFT Policy Director. “State programs can struggle to keep pace with producer demand, so creating a federal program to match state and Tribal funding would help leverage existing soil health programs and incentivizes others to create programs of their own.” Creating that federal matching program has broad support from AFT, six state agencies, and stakeholders from 29 states. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Applications for Chile Agribusiness Trade Mission The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for a trade mission to Santiago, Chile, September 25-29. American agribusinesses will participate in business-to-business meetings with potential importers from both Chile and Peru. The trade mission coincides with Peru’s USDA-endorsed food trade show that offers additional networking opportunities for participants. “This year, we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of U.S.-Chile diplomatic relations,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “Chile and the neighboring Peru are some of our key trading partners, representing the second and third-largest markets in South America.” Total agricultural exports to these markets have grown significantly since establishing the Chile Free Trade Agreement and the Peru Trade Promotions Agreement. Exports to this region exceeded $2 billion in 2022. During January-April 2023, U.S. ag exports to Chile have increased by four percent from the same period last year. The region features relatively high per capita incomes and purchasing power. *********************************************************************************** PLC Leads Grassroots Campaign Against BLM Land Rule The Public Lands Council launched a grassroots campaign regarding the Bureau of Land Management’s Proposed rule titled “Conservation and Landscape Health.” The proposed rule creates significant concerns about changes to the BLM’s authority to manage the nation’s public lands and opens the door to removing livestock grazing from the range. “The BLM must follow the law in managing our nation’s public lands for multiple uses and sustained benefits for all,” says PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover. “Public lands grazing is an important conservation tool that protects these landscapes and is integral to national food security.” PLC also wants to remind the bureau that grazing is an essential use of America’s public lands, and they hope all stakeholders will join the agency in sending a letter to the BLM’s leadership underscoring the responsibility to be good partners, especially since they’ve “fallen short,” according to Glover. The agency stops accepting comments on July 5.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 21, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders will be paying attention as Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell speaks to Congress Wednesday and to the Senate Thursday, interested in any comments about the future of interest rates. The Environmental Protection Agency is expected to release renewable volume obligations sometime Wednesday, as rumored numbers began circulating Tuesday. Traders will stay close to the latest weather forecasts and consider Tuesday afternoon's lower crop ratings for corn, soybeans and spring wheat. Weather A system continues to spin in the Southeast on Wednesday, which will continue to produce scattered showers and thunderstorms. A front in the Plains will be active as well. Between the two, hot and dry conditions will pressure remaining soil moisture.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 20, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, traders will be paying close attention to weather data and the latest forecasts, the main focus of June's grain markets. A report on May U.S. housing starts is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. The Crop Progress report will have the latest crop condition ratings at 3 p.m. Weather A pair of ridges are trying to connect up early this week, causing heat to build from Texas into parts of the Midwest. The ridges have stalled a front across the Northern Plains and eastern Canadian Prairies, where showers will come in waves the next few days. A system stuck in the Southeast will see showers continue there as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 19, 2023 |

USDA Investing $320 Million to Strengthen Supply Chains The USDA is investing $320 million to create new and better markets for agricultural producers and food businesses in 19 states across rural America. “Our goal is to expand processing capacity, create fairer markets and more revenue streams and market opportunities to help bring down food costs for families at the grocery store,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We’re partnering with entrepreneurs in rural areas to build brighter futures, connect business owners to new markets, and create good jobs for generations to come.” USDA is investing the funds to strengthen food supply chains and create more opportunities for producers and entrepreneurs in 19 states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Iowa, Minnesota, and others. For example, family-owned businesses like a meat market and a bison processing facility will be able to expand their production capabilities, maintain the highest quality control possible, and save jobs. For more information on opportunities through USDA Rural Development, go to rd.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** National Drought Summary Showing a Mixed Outlook The Weekly Drought Monitor showed above-normal precipitation and below-normal temperatures resulting in another week of some improvements in the western U.S. The exception is the Pacific Northwest, where drought conditions continue to worsen along the northern Cascade Mountains. The monitor shows a mix of improving and worsening conditions in the Great Plains. Improvements are confined mainly in the western Great Plains. The Corn Belt is seeing widespread degradation of moderate drought and abnormal dryness. High evaporation rates have resulted in significant loss of soil moisture. Any rainfall over the past week in the Southeast U.S. fell in areas that didn’t need it. Virginia is showing moderate drought and abnormal dryness is showing in other locations through the southeast. The Southern U.S. has more mixed totals. Locations in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee experienced increasing dryness. In western parts of the Southern Plains, pockets of heavy rainfall continued adding to 60-day precipitation surpluses. *********************************************************************************** Young Cattlemen’s Conference Graduates 71 Leaders The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Young Cattlemen’s Conference program concluded its successful relaunch after a three-year hiatus. This year’s class included 71 leaders from across the country and every sector of the beef industry. After nine days of intensive training, including a five-city tour showcasing every facet of the beef industry, members completed the trip with a full day of representation in Washington, D.C. The event is designed to expose participants to the full supply chain. Completing the YCC prepares participants to serve as leaders within their state associations in addition to being advocates for the NCBA and the beef community. “During the YCC, each member of the class has had the opportunity to better understand the cattle and beef industries and the complex relationships that represent the industry today,” says 2023 YCC Chair Jake Feddes of Montana. “Each member has also made connections that will benefit them in the future.” *********************************************************************************** County Committee Nominations are Now Open The USDA is accepting nominations for county committee members. Local elections will occur later this year. County committee members make important decisions on how federal farm programs are administered locally. All nomination forms for the 2023 election must be postmarked or received by the local Farm Service Agency by August 1. “Producers serving on FSA county committees play a critical role in the day-to-day operations of the agency, serving as the eyes and ears of the producers who elected them,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. Elections for members will take place in certain Local Administrative Areas (LAA). Ag producers who participate or cooperate in a USDA program or reside in the LAA that’s up for election this year may be nominated for candidacy. Nationwide, more than 7,700 dedicated members of the agricultural community serve on FSA county committees, which are made up of three to 11 members serving three-year terms. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Supports Advancements in Ag Research and Innovation Several senators introduced legislation to invest in public research, develop regionally adapted seed varieties and animal breeds, and enable the U.S. to maintain a robust food and ag system. The Seeds and Breeds for the Future Act promotes the development of ready-to-use, regionally adapted, and publicly available seed varieties and animal breeds. This would give farmers more tools to confront drought and varying growing conditions, and to have plant and animal varieties that are better suited to their area. Regionally developed seed varieties often result in substantial increases in hardiness and yields. It will also ensure America’s farmers have access to domestically produced seeds and breeds that are developed through publicly available research. “We must make sure our farmers and producers have the tools they need to adapt and compete on a global stage,” says bill co-sponsor Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin. “This will make sure our research keeps up with farmer innovation.” *********************************************************************************** Lamb Board Building Local Relationships The continuing trend toward local food sourcing has put hometown butchers and specialty meat shops on the radar of likely lamb consumers. In June, the American Lamb Board connected with 50 of these U.S. businesses through its new “Butcher Box” direct mail kit. The goal is to reengage with this audience for long-lasting relationships that lead to increased sales of domestic lamb. ALB research found that 24 percent of consumers made retail lamb purchases at independent markets and-or butcher shops. Of those consumers, 30 percent were heavy lamb users, and 35 percent were light lamb users. Some of the selected shops already carry lamb, while some don’t routinely offer it. The initial 50 butchers have a chance to get selected as one of 25 “American Lambassadors” to advocate for American lamb. For information on the new list of the 25 American Lambassadors and places to buy lamb, go to americanlamb.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 16, 2023 |

Tentative Labor Agreement at West Coast Ports On Wednesday night, the Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union announced a tentative agreement on a new six-year contract. The agreement covers all of the West Coast ports and must still be ratified by both sides. “We are pleased to have reached an agreement that recognizes the heroic efforts and personal sacrifices of the ILWU workforce in keeping our ports operating,” says MPA President James McKenna and ILWU President Willie Adams in a joint statement. “We’re also pleased to turn our full attention back to the operation of the West Coast Ports.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom says this is tremendous news for U.S. red meat exporters and their overseas customers. “This agreement will restore stability and confidence in the performance of the West Coast ports and is essential for our industry,” Halstrom says. “We thank both sides for their hard work.” *********************************************************************************** Senate Bill Will Address Prop 12 Kansas Senator Roger Marshall will introduce a bill designed to address California’s Prop 12, which was recently upheld by the Supreme Court. The Hagstrom Report says Marshall’s bill would stop states from enacting laws that affect agricultural production in other states. The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act will preserve the right of states and local governments to regulate agriculture within their jurisdictions free from the interference of other jurisdictions. “U.S. agriculture currently lacks access to new markets because of non-tariff trade barriers overseas,” Marshall says. “The last thing we need is a big state like California imposing its will on ag-heavy states with regulations that will restrict our ability to trade among the states.” Bill co-sponsor John Cornyn of Texas says California shouldn’t be able to tell ranchers in his state how to do their jobs. Iowa Representative Ashley Hinson plans to introduce a companion measure at a later date. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Continues Advancing Farmers’ Right to Repair The American Farm Bureau Federation signed a memorandum of understanding with CLAAS (CLAHS) of America regarding the right to repair. This brings the number of signed MOUs with ag manufacturers to five. Combined, the agreements cover about three-quarters of the agricultural machinery sold every year in the United States. “The MOU with CLAAS demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring farmers have access to the tools they need to keep their farms running and America’s families fed,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farmers and ranchers are more dependent on technology than ever, and they asked us to find a private-sector solution on the right to repair.” Eric Raby, senior VP for the Americas with CLAAS says, “We’re providing the promised solutions for our customers’ businesses, as their success and ours go hand in hand.” The agreement means farmers and independent repair shops can now access everything needed to self-repair their machines. *********************************************************************************** USDA Updates ERP Phase Two The USDA is updating the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) Phase Two. The goal is to provide a method for valuing losses and accessing program benefits to eligible producers of certain crops. Those crops can include grapes grown and used by the same producer for wine production or forage that’s grown, stored, and fed to livestock, that don’t generate revenue directly from the sale of the crop. These updates ensure that ERP benefits better reflect these producers’ actual crop losses resulting from 2020 and 2021 natural disaster events. The Farm Service Agency will begin accepting Phase Two applications from eligible wine grape and forage producers once the technical correction to ERP is published in the Federal Register, which should happen by this Friday (today), June 16. The deadline to submit applications for ERP Phase Two is July 14. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says these updates address the unique needs of different producers. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Elects New Leadership The National Corn Growers Association’s Board of Directors elected Ken Hartman, Jr., as the organization’s next first vice president for the new fiscal year starting on October 1. He’s a fifth-generation farmer operating a grain farm with his wife, Anita, daughter, Amanda, and mother, Joan, in Illinois. “I’m honored to continue serving America’s corn farmers with NCGA,” says Hartman. “I look forward to working with my fellow officers as we tackle issues that are critically important to corn growers and rural America.” Hartman currently chairs the NCGA Finance Committee. Hartman was honored by Prairie Farmer magazine with a Master Farmer Award in 2021 for his exceptional ag production skills and commitment to family and service. On October 1, Tom Haag (HAYG) of Minnesota becomes chairman, and the current first vice president, Harold Wolle (WO-lee) of Minnesota, becomes NCGA president. In October 2024, Wolle becomes chairman, and Hartman becomes the organization’s President. *********************************************************************************** Public Lands Council, Western Governors Lead BLM Rule Opposition A proposed rule allowing the Bureau of Land Management to offer conservation-only leases was written without consulting people like farmers and ranchers who depend on the land. In a letter to BLM director Tracy Stone-Manning, about 60 livestock groups say cattle and sheep producers have partnered with BLM in managing 245 million acres of federal land in the West for generations. However, BLM didn’t engage them in developing the proposed rule and gave no warning ahead of time that it was developing a rule. “Individually, each of the components of the proposal would have required detailed discussion,” the letter says. “Together, the components demand BLM do the necessary work of engaging stakeholders to avoid conflict and develop lasting outcomes.” BLM’s five public information sessions have done little to compensate for the agency’s lack of advanced discussions. Instead of engaging stakeholders where they operate, BLM is holding briefings in urban areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 16, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets Other than the University of Michigan's report on U.S. consumer sentiment, due out at 9 a.m. CDT, there are no significant reports Friday. Traders will be closely watching the latest weather forecasts. Markets will close at their normal times Friday, ahead of the Juneteenth market holiday on Monday and resume trading at 7 p.m. CDT Monday evening. Weather A system that has moved into the Plains will continue to slowly progress eastward on Friday. Areas of showers and thunderstorms continue to be possible there as well as across the Gulf Coast. Some severe weather cannot be ruled out but should not be as widespread as the last few days.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 15, 2023 |

USDA Launches Effort to Strengthen Substantiation of Animal-Raising Claims The Department of Agriculture Wednesday began implementing a multi-step effort to strengthen the substantiation of animal-raising claims. The agency says the effort builds on the work of USDA to protect consumers from false and misleading labels. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack adds, "USDA is taking action today to ensure the integrity of animal-raising claims and level the playing field for producers who are truthfully using these claims." Animal-raising claims, such as "grass-fed" and "free-range," are voluntary marketing claims that highlight certain aspects of how the source animals for meat and poultry products are raised. These claims must be approved by USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service before they can be included on the labels of meat and poultry products sold to consumers. FSIS will conduct a sampling project to assess antibiotic residues in cattle destined for the "raised without antibiotics" market. FSIS will also issue a revised industry guideline to recommend that companies strengthen the documentation they submit to the agency to substantiate animal-raising claims. *********************************************************************************** Biden Administration Outlines Strategic Priorities for Wildfires The Biden administration Wednesday announced guidance to federal agency leaders with wildfire responsibilities outlining their vision and goals for managing wildland fires this year. The guidance comes from a joint memo issued by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. The memo highlights other strategic priorities to reduce wildfire risk, restore ecosystems, engage in post-fire recovery, and make communities more resilient to fire. The memo also references the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy as a guide to working with partners to restore and maintain landscapes and help communities become fire adapted. Vilsack says, “We need to better support our firefighters and that’s why President Biden has proposed long-term reforms that will provide permanent pay increases, better housing, better mental and physical health resources, and better work-life balance.” USDA and the Interior Department aim to have more than 17,000 wildland firefighters on board by the end of this year to help support communities increasingly impacted by wildfires. *********************************************************************************** Midwest Lawmakers Aim to Expand Biofuel Production Opportunities Midwest lawmakers this week introduced the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Accuracy Act of 2023. The bipartisan legislation would update federal standards to align with the definition of sustainable aviation fuel at the Federal Aviation Administration. The bill would also require agencies to adopt the Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Technologies, or GREET Model, the most accurate tool for measuring lifecycle emissions. Iowa Republican Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst introduced the bill along with Deb Fischer from Nebraska, and Democrat Tammy Duckworth of Illinois. Grassley says, “Our bill fixes the problem by requiring the FAA reference the most accurate GREET model for emissions assessments, consistent with many other federal agencies.” The GREET Model was commissioned by the Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory. It considers crops, land uses and carbon reduction practices and is the best available model that recognizes the agriculture industry’s contributions to advancing domestic energy goals. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Bring Whole Milk Access to All Schools Senator Roger Marshall this week introduced legislation that amends the Richard Russell National School Lunch Act to allow schools participating in the program to serve whole milk. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans reports that nearly 90 percent of Americans do not meet their daily dairy intake recommendations. The Kansas Republican says, "I truly believe food is medicine, and by increasing kids' access to milk, we will help prevent health complications down the road and encourage nutrient-rich diets for years to come." In 2010, Congress passed the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act which amended nutrition standards in the School Lunch Program. Among the changes, the law mandated that flavored milk must be fat-free within the program. In May of 2017, USDA announced a rule that allowed schools to receive waivers for low-fat flavored milk, rather than only fat-free. Leading nutritionists have found that whole dairy fats have no negative effect on a diet, and may even reduce risk of heart disease. *********************************************************************************** CRP Reaches 22 Million Acres in 2022 USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that in 2022, Conservation Reserve Program acreage rose to 22 million acres. USDA's Conservation Reserve Program was established by Congress in 1985. By 1986, the program began to use contracts to retire highly erodible cropland from crop production for 10–15 years. Enrollment grew quickly, reaching 33 million acres in 1990. After the initial contracts were awarded, program goals expanded to include water quality and wildlife habitat improvements in addition to soil erosion reduction. Between 1990 and 2008, CRP enrollment fluctuated around 33 million acres before falling to a 30-year low in 2021. Annual enrollment caps for eligible land are set at each iteration of the Farm Bill. Earlier this week, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced USDA would accept more than one million acres from the signup period this year. Offers for new land in the general signup totaled about 295,000 acres. Producers submitted re-enrollment offers for about 891,000 expiring acres. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeks Fiscal Year 2024 Suggestions for Plant Protection Projects USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service seeks input for fiscal year 2024 Plant Protection Act funding to protect American agriculture and natural resources. The open period for submitting suggestions for Plant Pest and Disease Management and Disaster Prevention Program funding runs through August 9, 2023. APHIS will provide $75 million in plant protection funding for the projects, including at least $7.5 million for projects under the National Clean Plant Network. APHIS will set aside up to $4 million in funding to support Tribes, Tribal organizations and universities, as well as other minority-affiliated organizations. Under the Plant Pest and Disease Management and Disaster Prevention Program, APHIS provides funding to its partners to help them safeguard against, detect, and respond to invasive plant pests and diseases. Climate change has increased the level of plant pest infestations and disease infection, allowed pests to produce more generations each year, and extended the suitable habitat for plant pests. To submit suggestions, visit www.aphis.usda.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 15, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. retail sales in May and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, followed by a report on U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m. and USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook comes out at 2 p.m. Traders will continue to keep close track of the latest weather forecasts. Weather A front that has remained stalled across the southern tier of the country with active weather continues to be active on Thursday. Clusters of strong to severe storms will again be possible near the Gulf Coast while a more significant severe threat exists in the Southern Plains, including the word derecho. More areas of showers and thunderstorms will spread north through the rest of the Plains and Canadian Prairies, being heavier in Alberta and easing drought concerns there. Some needed showers will go through eastern areas of the Midwest as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 14, 2023 |

USDA Enrolls Over One Million Acres in CRP Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says that USDA is accepting over one million acres in this year’s Conservation Reserve Program general signup. This is one of several signups that the Farm Service Agency is holding for the program. The results of CRP’s general signup reflect the continued importance of the program as a tool to help producers invest in the long-term health, sustainability, and profitability of their land and resources. Offers for new land in the general signup totaled about 295,000 acres nationwide. Producers submitted re-enrollment offers for about 891,000 expiring acres, reflecting the success of participating in CRP for the long term. The total number of acres will climb when FSA accepts acres from the Grassland CRP signup that closed on May 26. Producers will still need to develop a conservation plan before contracts go into effect on October 1. The number of accepted acres will be confirmed later this year. *********************************************************************************** Over $700 Million Available to Expand Rural Internet Access USDA is making $714 million dollars in grants and loans available to connect thousands of rural residents, farmers, and business owners to reliable high-speed internet. “High-speed internet is a key to prosperity for people who live and work in rural communities,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “With this funding, we can ensure that rural communities have the internet connectivity needed to continue expanding the rural economy to make sure it’s a place of opportunity to live, work, and raise a family.” The announcement includes $714 million available for investments in 19 states, including Arizona, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, and several others. USDA continues connecting more and more people to high-speed internet in this fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. The department has invested in a total of 142 ReConnect projects that will bring high-speed internet access to 314,000 rural Americans. More information on rural investment resources is available at rd.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Food Prices Rise Slightly in May After two straight months of flat food prices, the cost of food increased slightly during May. Overall food prices rose 0.2 percent from April to May. The New York Times says U.S. grocery prices rose 0.1 percent in May, up from April, when prices dropped 0.2 percent. The price of food at restaurants continued climbing, up 0.5 percent during the month. Food prices are rising at a slightly slower rate than they were during recent months but are still much higher than the prices were before COVID-19. Food prices have risen 6.7 percent higher during the past 12 months. After rising 0.5 percent in April, fruit and vegetable prices rose 1.3 percent in May. The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs dropped 1.2 percent during May after dropping 0.3 percent in April. The price of eggs dropped almost 14 percent, the largest drop in that index since January 1951. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Leadership Academy Applications Are Now Open Applications for the National Corn Growers Association’s Leadership Academy Class are now open. The program is designed to bring together a diverse group of grower-leaders who want to improve their ability to serve their state organizations, enhance their communication skills, and understand the important role of advocacy – all to advance the priorities of the nation’s corn growers and build the next generation of industry leaders. Through the program, NCGA members are empowered to pursue their leadership journey and utilize their skills to inspire others to act. The 2023-2024 class will meet in St. Louis, Missouri from August 7-9, for sessions on leadership, communication, and personal branding. The class then comes together in Washington, D.C., from January 22-24, 2024, for advocacy training. NCGA puts on the program with help from sponsors like UPL and FMC. First launched in 2019, the NCGA Leadership Academy has become the organization’s primary leadership development tool. *********************************************************************************** Concerns Remain at West Coast Ports Agricultural exporters are paying close attention to contract negotiations at the nation’s West Coast ports. The Pacific Maritime Association is accusing workers of deliberately slowing down operations. The union says that’s not happening. The association says terminal operations at the Port of Seattle halted over the weekend. Capital Press says International Longshore and Warehouse Union President Willie Adams points out that the West Coast ports are open while negotiations continue. Over 22,000 workers at 29 ports on the West Coast are working without a contract and have done so since July 1, 2022, and negotiations have lasted 13 months. During the last lengthy negotiations as recently as 2015, farm goods were delayed in getting shipped out. “We aren’t hearing about delays yet,” says Washington Potato Commission director of government affairs Matt Harris. “That doesn’t mean it can’t happen, and it would potentially disrupt the export growth that we’re trying to achieve.” *********************************************************************************** Soybean Stocks Rise Higher in June The Economic Research Service issued its June Oil Crops Outlook that predicted higher soybean ending stocks for the month. A higher carryover raised the 2023-2024 U.S. soybean ending stocks forecast by 15 million bushels to 350 million bushels. The increase in expected carryover stocks is due to a reduced 2022-2023 soybean export forecast from 2.01 billion bushels to two billion bushels on strong foreign competition. Despite an unchanged soybean crush volume in June, the higher extraction rates increased U.S. soybean meal supply. With higher supply and lower domestic demand, soybean meal exports for the 2022-2023 marketing year increased this month by 0.2 million short tons to 14 million short tons. The 2023-2024 global soybean ending stocks are estimated higher this month at 123.3 million metric tons on increased carryover from 2022-2023 and reduced crush in Argentina. Reduced soybean meal supplies in Argentina are partially offset by Brazil’s higher soybean meal exports.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 14, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release its May report of producer prices at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. from the Energy Department. Many will tune in at 1 p.m. to see if the Federal Reserve raises the federal funds rate target or not, followed by a press conference for Fed Chairman Jerome Powell. The Environmental Protection Agency was supposed to announce final renewable volume obligations for biofuels Wednesday, but postponed the deadline one week to June 21. Weather remains the main attraction for grain traders. Weather A disturbance moving along an old frontal boundary will continue to create widespread areas of showers and thunderstorms from the southeastern Plains through the Southeast on Wednesday. Conditions favor some strong thunderstorms with potential for significant severe weather. All hazards are possible out of these storms. Meanwhile, another system is moving into the Canadian Prairies with promises for heavier rain in dry parts of Alberta. The front to that system will move into Montana with scattered showers later in the day.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 13, 2023 |

Farm Credit System Issues Ag Economic and Outlook Report The Farm Credit Administration board received a quarterly report on economic issues affecting agriculture recently. According to the report, inflation remains elevated in certain sectors of the economy despite interest rate hikes and supply chain improvements. For agriculture, drought has declined substantially across the western half of the country, and good spring weather conditions sped up planting progress for many crops. For several states in the Great Plains and Southwest, drought conditions will need to continue to be monitored. With strong prospects for large crops and the building of grain stocks in 2023, prices have weakened. While many input costs also have fallen, crop producers are likely facing tighter margins this year. Because of rising interest rates and seasonal lending fluctuations, Farm Credit System growth was slower in the first quarter of 2023 than it was for the same quarter the previous three years. The loan portfolio continued to perform well, but nonperforming assets increased. Despite the increase, the overall level of nonperforming assets remained low, at 0.53 percent of loans outstanding and other property owned. *********************************************************************************** Safe American Food Exports Act Introduced Lawmakers Monday introduced the Safe American Food Exports Act. The legislation would codify USDA’s role in negotiating regionalization agreements that allow livestock, poultry, and other animal products from unaffected areas of the country to continue to be safely exported in the event of an animal disease outbreak. Although USDA already works with the U.S. Trade Representative to develop the agreements, the legislation explicitly expresses congressional support for establishing regionalization agreements and promoting robust agricultural trade policies before any animal disease impacts the nation. Representative Randy Feenstra, an Iowa Republican, and Jimmy Panetta, A California Democrat, introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives. Feenstra says, “Like every producer fears, foreign animal disease can devastate flocks and herds, preventing our farmers from selling their high-quality product on the global market.” Feenstra says his bill ensures a disease outbreak in one part of the country does not impact other regions' ability to produce and export agricultural goods. *********************************************************************************** Canada Canola Council Supports Canada Joining USMCA Dispute Settlement The Canola Council of Canada supports the Government of Canada in joining the dispute settlement consultation with Mexico on agricultural biotechnology. The consultation was initiated by the United States under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, and Canada joined today as a third party. There have been challenges to regulatory predictability in Mexico over the last few years, according to Canola Council. Regulatory approaches not grounded in sound science risk stifling access to innovations that farmers need to contribute to food security challenges, address climate-related production issues, and remain competitive and profitable. Canola Council of Canada President Jim Everson says, “It is essential that Canada's trading partners support and implement science-based regulatory systems.” Everson says more formal and substantive assurance is required to provide clarity and certainty about the regulatory approach moving forward. Mexico is a leading and valued market for Canadian canola and is Canada's largest agri-food export to that country, valued at $1.6 billion in 2022. *********************************************************************************** USDA Welcomes 2023 Tribal College Fellows to Washington, D.C. The Department of Agriculture Monday welcomed five faculty and staff from tribal colleges and universities and one state land-grant university to learn about USDA. The visitors are learning about research opportunities, programs, and services through The Tribal Fellowship. The program is part of USDA’s commitment to remove barriers to service for tribal nations. The Tribal Fellowship Program is administered by USDA’s Office of Tribal Relations. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Tribal colleges are anchors in their communities, and these fellowships enhance the collaborations between tribal nations and USDA." The fellows will participate in intensive cross-training with USDA program leaders across the Department to identify areas for collaboration. At a later date, select fellows will spend a week at a USDA Agricultural Research Service research facility to collaborate on research between the tribal colleges and USDA. On their return home, the fellows can share their insights and experiences with students and colleagues in their communities. *********************************************************************************** Rural Social Connections Draw Healthcare Professionals The availability of healthcare professionals in rural areas lags that of urban areas, partly because of difficulties in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. USDA's Economic Research Service reports that when choosing rural locations to practice, healthcare professionals most often cite social aspects, such as the friendliness of the town, as an important factor in their decision. Similar factors come into play when these professionals choose to stay in their rural small towns. Other factors that reflect the importance of social relationships included being a good place to raise a family, having relatives or friends living nearby, familiarity with the area, the quality of professional contacts, and if the professional's family was settled in the town. Other factors, such as the quality of the medical community, the quality of schools, and opportunities for professional growth, also were cited as important. USDA compiled the data for its Healthcare Professionals Seek Social Connections When Moving to Rural Towns publication. *********************************************************************************** Demand Pushing Gas Prices Higher After falling last week, the nation’s average price of gasoline rebounded, rising 5.6 cents from a week ago to $3.57 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “The good news has continued for average diesel prices, which again fell last week to their lowest since early 2022, helping to relieve some pressure on hard-hit consumers of diesel.” The national average diesel price fell 1.6 cents in the last week and stands at $3.87 per gallon. Diesel prices at the top ten percent of stations in the country average $4.91 per gallon, while the bottom ten percent average $3.17 per gallon. While oil prices had rallied last week on OPEC+’s production cuts announced for 2024 and Saudi Arabia’s July cut of 1 million barrels, markets are still jittery over the potential for more rate hikes amidst stubborn inflation and banking sector challenges. In addition, Goldman Sachs cut its price forecast for crude by nearly ten percent as it sees Russian supply recovering.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 13, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for May will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday and the Federal Reserve will begin its two-day meeting with a rate announcement due out Wednesday at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest forecasts and will consider USDA's latest crop ratings from Monday afternoon. Weather A system wrapped up in the Great Lakes will bring scattered showers to some areas that missed out over the weekend on Tuesday. The front to that system has settled across the South, which will remain active today, potentially with more severe weather and heavy rainfall.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |

Despite WOTUS Loss at Supreme Court, EPA Continues Fight for Biden Rule LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- Despite a significant loss in the Supreme Court that likely will require the EPA to rewrite the Biden administration's waters of the U.S. rule, the agency on Monday filed an appeal seeking review of a preliminary injunction against the rule in 24 states. The Supreme Court on May 26 sided with Michael and Chantell Sackett in their ongoing wetlands battle with the EPA. In particular, the court ruled the agency has no legal basis to use the so-called significant-nexus test when making Clean Water Act determinations. The significant-nexus test is the backbone of the Biden administration's rule, meaning the administration likely has no choice but to withdraw and rewrite the rule. On the same day as the court's ruling, the Biden administration asked for and received an extension to June 29 of a court deadline in the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota. That court issued a preliminary injunction, stopping the EPA from enforcing the rule in 24 states. On Monday, the EPA filed an appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit in St. Louis, Missouri, asking for review of the preliminary injunction. So far, the Biden administration has given no indication of its intentions with the WOTUS rule. That injunction is in effect in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. The Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the significant-nexus test used by the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was illegal. EPA Administrator Michael Regan issued a statement following the court's ruling, saying in part the decision "erodes longstanding clean water protections." Regan added, "The Biden-Harris administration has worked to establish a durable definition of 'waters of the United States' that safeguards our nation's waters, strengthens economic opportunity, and protects people's health while providing the clarity and certainty that farmers, ranchers, and landowners deserve. These goals will continue to guide the agency forward as we carefully review the Supreme Court decision and consider next steps." The Sackett case is considered by many experts to be a turning point in determining the reach of the Clean Water Act. Writing the majority opinion in the May 26 ruling, Justice Samuel Alito said the CWA's reach was far narrower than EPA and the Corps of Engineers have interpreted for years. "The EPA, however, offers only a passing attempt to square its interpretation with the text and its 'significant nexus' theory is particularly implausible," Alito wrote. He said the definition of waters of the U.S. is more limited. "And, in any event, the CWA never mentions the 'significant nexus' test, so the EPA has no statutory basis to impose it," Alito stated. The Sacketts have been battling EPA since 2007 for the right to build on land the agency has deemed to be a wetland. Their property sits on a lakefront and they've argued that there is no surface connection between the lake and their land.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |

USDA Releases June WASDE Report USDA Friday released the June World Agricultural Supply and Demand Report. The forecast includes a decline in exports for corn and soybeans. The 2023/24 U.S. corn outlook is little changed from last month with increases to both beginning and ending stocks. Corn area and yield forecasts are unchanged. The season-average farm price received by producers is unchanged at $4.80 per bushel. This month’s U.S. soybean supply and use projections include higher beginning and ending stocks. Higher beginning stocks reflect reduced exports for 2022/23, down 15 million bushels to 2.0 billion based on lower-than-expected shipments in May and competition from South America. The soybean price is forecast at $12.10 per bushel, unchanged from last month. The outlook for wheat this month projects larger supplies, unchanged domestic use and exports, and higher stocks. The 2023/24 season-average farm price is lowered $0.30 per bushel to $7.70 on larger U.S. and foreign wheat supplies. *********************************************************************************** Commodity Groups Oppose OFF Act A coalition of 18 commodity groups recently voiced opposition to the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming, or OFF Act, in a letter to leadership of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees. If enacted, the groups say the legislation would substantially undermine their members’ ability to promote U.S. agriculture- and natural resource-based commodity products. The Trade Associations represent American farmers, ranchers, foresters, and processors of raw materials. The letter states, “Each of these industries plays a critical and irreplaceable role in the U.S. economy through the production of food, fiber, and other essential goods—all while creating jobs, stewarding resources, and supporting local communities across the country.” Proponents of the bill argue this legislation would increase transparency and close perceived loopholes in the statutes enabling checkoff programs. However, the commodity groups charge, “The bill would not create any new checks and balances to ensure compliance and fairness.” The groups urge lawmakers to oppose the legislation. *********************************************************************************** New USDA Tool Available for Small Businesses A new tool from the Department of Agriculture seeks to help industry and small disadvantaged entities identify potential opportunities for selling their products and services to the department. USDA's Procurement Forecast lists the types of anticipated solicitations that small businesses, small, disadvantaged businesses, women-owned businesses, HUBZone businesses, service-disabled veterans, and other businesses may be able to participate in contracts with USDA, or through subcontracting opportunities. USDA has eleven organizations that issue solicitations for anticipated purchases tied to the procurement forecast. Using the tool, interested parties can search USDA's procurement forecasts, filter the results, manipulate the display and download the results. Currently, forecast data for Fiscal years 2023 to 2025 is available. The effort complies with the Business Opportunity Development Reform Act of 1988, which amended the Small Business Act to place new emphasis on acquisition planning. The law requires agencies to compile and make available small business contracting opportunities. To learn more, visit usda.gov/procurement-forecast. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Dairy Industry Grants The U.S. Department of Agriculture last week announced $23 million in grant funding for the dairy industry. The funding is available to support processing capacity expansion, on-farm improvements, and technical assistance services to producers through the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives. The Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives provide valuable technical assistance and subgrants to dairy farmers and businesses across their regions, supporting them with business plan development, marketing, and branding, as well as increasing access to innovative production and processing techniques to support the development of value-added products. The funds will be awarded noncompetitively to the current initiatives at the California State University Fresno, the University of Tennessee, Vermont Agency of Agriculture - Food & Markets, and the University of Wisconsin. Through the Request for Applications, the initiatives will have an opportunity to submit proposals for this year’s funding. Dairy farmers and businesses interested in the program must contact the appropriate initiative to be considered for direct technical assistance or a subaward. *********************************************************************************** Survey Details Farmland Ownership in Iowa As the average age of Iowa's farmland owners continues to rise, other trends in landownership have begun to emerge. According to an Iowa State University study, 58 percent of Iowa's farmland is now leased out, a significant increase from the last time the same study was conducted in 2017. An Iowa State researcher says, “This represents a relative increase of roughly one million acres over five years, which is quite significant.” Conducted by Iowa State since the 1940s, the Iowa Farmland Ownership and Tenure Survey--completed every five years--focuses on forms of ownership, tenancy and transfer of farmland in Iowa, and characteristics of landowners. Farmland leases also increasingly favor cash rent over crop sharing and owner-operating arrangements. In 2017, 82 percent of leased farmland was cash rented, but cash rent, predominantly fixed-cash rental contracts, now account for 87 percent of leased land. The survey found that the average age of Iowa's farmland owners is still increasing. *********************************************************************************** SNAP Online Purchasing Now Available in All 50 States Online purchasing using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits is now available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The expansion represents a major milestone in the history of SNAP and continues to provide greater convenience and access to healthy food options for tens of millions of Americans. Alaska recently became 50th state to join the steady expansion since USDA first launched SNAP online purchasing four years ago as a pilot in New York. The availability of online purchasing in Alaska is an important step in promoting equity and access to food in remote and rural areas. The Department of Agriculture has been expanding the SNAP online purchasing pilot by approving and adding additional retailers. Since March 2020, 208 additional retailer chains have joined the program, representing thousands of actual stores. USDA’s Stacy Dean says, “Expanding the diversity and reach of SNAP online shopping helps advance our goal of modernizing SNAP and providing better access to healthy, safe, affordable foods.”

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Rain Systems, Grain Mergers and Trade Disputes OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of June 11. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Weather systems get active: A persistent upper-level ridge of high pressure has dominated Canada for quite some time now, putting a lid on the jet stream and directing it northward. That has kept conditions rather stagnant for the last several weeks, focusing rain into the Plains states instead of the Corn Belt. DTN meteorologists expect that ridge to fall apart, creating a more "active" weather pattern that should gin up thunderstorms across more of the U.S. in the coming weeks. 2. Brazil corn crop in crosshairs: USDA raised Brazil's current corn production expectations by 2 million metric tons in its June 9 report. But cool weather and frost potential looms, potentially taming those yield increases. We'll keep an eye on temperatures and weather reports from that country. 3. Grain mergers: We'll be continuing to follow the commentary around the proposed merger of grain giants Viterra and Bunge. Already the Wheat Growers Association in Canada has expressed concern over the grain sourcing share the combined company would have. 4. Cattle under stress: Whether hot and dry, or torrential storms, the coming weather patterns are adding to livestock stress. Watch for our coverage on what to look for, and what to do, if conditions get tough on your herd. 5. Reports to watch: This week sees a number of market-critical commodity and economic reports that we'll either be reporting on directly or including in our commentary and analysis through the week. Monday we'll have USDA's weekly grain export inspections and the Crop Progress report. Tuesday sees the U.S. consumer price index for May announced at 7:30 a.m. CDT, and the Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting. Wednesday we'll have the U.S. producer prices for May, the Energy Department's weekly inventory and a Fed rate announcement at 1 p.m. CDT. Thursday's news is packed with government reports: The USDA weekly export sales report, weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. retail sales and another update of U.S. Drought Monitor -- all at 7:30 a.m. U.S. industrial production rings in at 8:15 a.m., followed by U.S. Energy Department's natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. and the USDA Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook at 2 p.m. All times CDT. Friday sees that latest U.S. index of consumer sentiment at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will pay close attention to observed rainfall amounts, coverage and the latest forecasts. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Outside markets will be aware of the Federal Reserve's next rate announcement on Wednesday. Weather A system that went through over the weekend is wrapping up in the Great Lakes Monday where showers are dwindling but remaining possible. The front to the system has settled across the South where showers and thunderstorms will be active throughout the day, including chances for severe weather and heavy rainfall. Cooler temperatures have settled into much of the country, but it is warmer in the Canadian Prairies again.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 9, 2023 |

Clean Fuels, RFS Stakeholders Send Letter to President Biden on RFS BBD Volumes Clean Fuels Alliance America and 75 industry stakeholders delivered a letter to President Joe Biden on Thursday. The letter urges the president to ensure that the Environmental Protection Agency substantially increases the biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels volumes in the Renewable Fuel Standards for 2023, 2024 and 2025. The letter points out that EPA's proposed volumes fall far below the industry's current production and, if finalized, would undermine investments in the industry's expansion. EPA is expected to finalize the RFS volumes by June 14. The letter states, "The low volumes threaten the ability of new market sectors, like marine and aviation, to decarbonize in the near term." Clean Fuels was joined in the letter by several national industry associations and their members, including American Soybean Association, 22 state soybean associations, Diesel Technology Forum, National Energy and Fuels Institute, National Oilseed Processors Association, North American Renderers Association, and U.S. Canola Association. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Emissions-Reducing Benefits of E15 A new study from the University of California – Riverside shows that the E15 ethanol blend provides notable emissions reductions compared to California's regular reformulated gasoline. The Renewable Fuels Association hailed the report as proof of the value of E15 for The Golden State, which has yet to allow the E15 blend to be used. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, “This new study shows what we've been arguing all along--that E15 offers emissions benefits that would help meet environmental goals in California.” According to the study, emissions of total hydrocarbons, non-methane hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide all showed either marginally or statistically significant reductions for E15 compared to regular California gasoline. In addition, particulate matter and solid particle number emissions dropped substantially with E15, and E15 showed lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions savings when compared to E10. Nitrogen oxide emissions when using E15 showed marginal reductions in many cases, but the changes in Nitrogen oxide emissions were not statistically significant. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Board of Directors Approves Comprehensive Farm Bill Recommendations The National Milk Producers Federation this week approved a suite of farm bill policy priorities covering the commodities, conservation, trade, and nutrition titles. In the Commodities title, NMPF seeks to build on its successes in the last farm bill to strengthen the dairy safety net and provide producers with access to a range of risk management tools. NMPF’s board voted to support continuing the Dairy Margin Coverage safety net while updating the program’s production history calculation. NMPF seeks farm bill language to direct USDA to conduct mandatory plant cost studies every two years to provide better data to inform future make allowance reviews. This would complement the near-term make allowance update NMPF is pursuing through its Federal Milk Marketing Order initiative via the USDA hearing process announced last week. Similarly, the board also pursues restoring the previous “higher of” Class I mover in the most expeditious manner possible, either administratively via the FMMO process or legislatively through the farm bill, in which the mover was last changed in 2018. *********************************************************************************** R-CALF Opposes Paraguayan Beef Import Proposal In comments submitted to the Department of Agriculture, R-CALF USA requested the agency immediately withdraw its proposal to allow the importation of fresh beef from Paraguay. Historically, the United States has not engaged in trade of beef from Paraguay because APHIS has considered Paraguay to be a country affected with foot-and-mouth disease. The government of Paraguay has requested that the U.S. allow fresh Paraguayan beef to be imported into the United States. In response to this request, APHIS conducted a risk analysis, with the most recent on-site visit to Paraguay being nearly ten years ago, in 2014. The USDA has proposed a rule seeking to allow the importation of fresh beef from Paraguay. In its comments, R-CALF USA urged APHIS to withdraw its proposed rule on the grounds that it will cause an unnecessary and avoidable risk of introducing FMD into the United States, and subject U.S. consumers to beef from cattle that were not raised in compliance with United States' more stringent production standards. *********************************************************************************** Nebraska Farm Bureau Working with SpaceX to Expand Broadband Nebraska Farm Bureau is working with SpaceX’s Starlink to expand broadband access in the state. Mark McHargue, Nebraska Farm Bureau president, says, “We are excited to work with Starlink to deliver high speed broadband to rural areas in Nebraska that are underserved.” Starlink is engineered and operated by SpaceX. Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency broadband internet capable of streaming, online gaming, video calls, and more to users worldwide. While the carriers, providers, and telecoms continue to grapple with federal and state monies to get quality broadband to rural areas of the country, Starlink and NEFB thought it was important to take this broadband service issue into our own hands and deliver the connectivity to our farm, ranch, and rural members in a way that avoids the regulatory hoops and the high cost of getting fiber to the "last mile.” Nebraska Farm Bureau members can take advantage of this new member benefit by visiting the Nebraska Farm Bureau website at nefb.org. *********************************************************************************** United States Serves up Large Chunks of Cheese to Top Destinations In 2022, the United States exported more than 450,000 metric tons of cheese, valued at approximately $2.3 billion. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that top export markets include Mexico, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and Canada. U.S. cheese is a mainstay among imported cheeses in these countries. In 2022, U.S. cheese accounted for nearly one-fifth of cheese imported by Canada and Japan by value and nearly one-fourth of cheese imported by Australia. More than 43 percent of cheese shipped to South Korea originated from the United States. U.S. cheese dominates the import market in Mexico, with 87 percent of Mexico's cheese imports coming from the United States in 2022. Altogether, these five countries have accounted for nearly two-thirds of U.S. cheese exports since 2019, and U.S. cheese constitutes about a third of the value of all cheese imported by these five markets combined. Free trade agreements have partially supported U.S. cheese exports to each of these markets, including the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 9, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports for June are due out at 11 a.m. CDT Friday with coverage on DTN following the reports. DTN's WASDE webinar starts at 12:30 p.m. The latest weather forecasts continue to capture attention with much of the Midwest in dire need of rain after Thursday's Drought Monitor showed worsening conditions. Weather Isolated showers will be possible yet again for the Plains on Friday, mostly due to a stalled front from north to southeast in the region. But a cold front is sweeping into the Northern Plains and the combination of the two fronts should give rise to more widespread showers there through Friday night.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 8, 2023 |

Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act Moves Out of Committee The Committee on Education and the Workforce this week voted to advance a bill restoring whole milk in schools. The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023 highlights milk's health benefits and nutrients to young Americans, including better bone health, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease or Type 2 diabetes. According to the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans, milk is a source of three out of four under-consumed nutrients – calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. The bill would allow for unflavored and flavored whole milk to be offered in school cafeterias. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson, a Pennsylvania Republican and Chair of the House Agriculture Committee, says, “For too long, milk has been demonized, depriving a generation of students of 13 essential nutrients that are key to their overall health and academic success.” *********************************************************************************** NPPC Speaks Up on Policy Priorities at World Pork Expo The National Pork Producers Council hosted a policy panel this week at the 2023 World Pork Expo. NPPC board officers and experts discussed the pork industry’s current priorities vital to protecting producers’ livelihoods and ensuring pork production remains a pillar of the U.S. economy. NPPC President Scott Hays says, “Advocating for reasonable public policy, expanding exports, protecting our animals from foreign animal diseases and defending efforts to restrict what we do all help keep our farms successful.” Preparing for and preventing foreign animal diseases, addressing the agricultural labor shortage, and increasing pork exports are some of the top public-policy issues for pork producers. NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys commented that recent policy successes and disappointments will impact producers for years to come. With the Supreme Court’s decision upholding California Proposition 12, another NPPC priority is working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture to ensure a smooth transition for farmers and consumers who want to continue buying pork at California grocery stores and restaurants. *********************************************************************************** Office of Small Farms Establishment Act Introduced in House and Senate New legislation introduced this week would increase support for farmers, ranchers, and foresters with small-acreage operations across the country. The Office of Small Farms Establishment Act would create a new office within USDA. The office would ensure that small-acreage operations have equitable access to the critical federal programs that provide farm loans, conservation funding, and crop insurance. New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker introduced the bill in the Senate, and Democrat Representatives Marilyn Strickland of Washington, Alma Adams of North Caroline and Jim McGovern introduced the bill in the House. Small farms are essential to local and regional food supply chains, bolstering rural economic vitality, food security, and community resilience, according to the lawmakers. Although they only cover eight percent of agricultural land, they are responsible for 20 percent of all agricultural sales. American Farmland Trust supports the legislation, as a spokesperson for the organization says, “This bill is really about ensuring equitable access to the full range of essential support” for farmers. *********************************************************************************** Avian Flu Losses in 2022 Impact on Consumer Prices USDA’s Economic Research Service reports frozen wholesale turkey breast prices climbed abruptly in response to the 2022 avian flu outbreak. Before the outbreak started in February 2022, both frozen whole bird and wholesale turkey breast prices had been increasing gradually. Cumulative losses because of avian flu surpassed seven million turkeys, and breast prices peaked at $2.98 per pound in the week ending October 7, 2022. Prices remained elevated for the remainder of the year. Once reports of new outbreaks slowed in mid-December 2022, whole turkey hen prices leveled off. At the same time, breast prices declined, averaging $2.34 per pound in the week ending April 28, 2023. This is $0.32 higher than a similar week in 2022, but down $0.64 from the peak price last year. Divergence in prices between frozen turkey breast meat and whole bird prices is, in part, explained by seasonality. Demand for whole birds is much more seasonal than wholesale demand for turkey breast meat. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Board of Directors Names Gregg Doud New President and CEO The National Milk Producers Federation's Board of Directors unanimously voted to name Gregg Doud as its next president and CEO. Doud will follow Jim Mulhern, who announced his retirement at the end of the year earlier this week. NMPF board chairman Randy Mooney says, “Dairy farmers across the nation are pleased to endorse a true champion of agriculture, someone who both understands the hard work we do and the opportunities and challenges we face both here and abroad.” Doud has served in numerous leadership roles in trade associations and government work in his more than 30-year career in agricultural policy and economics, most recently at Aimpoint Research. From 2018 to 2021, he served as Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the U.S. Office of the Trade Representative. Doud will begin official work at NMPF in September as its chief operating officer before assuming the role of president and CEO upon Mulhern’s retirement. *********************************************************************************** Teachers Share FFA and Agricultural Opportunities Teachers around the country are sharing the word about agriculture and agricultural education. More than 70 agricultural education teachers are sharing the message of agriculture as part of the National Teacher Ambassadors for FFA program. The program began in 2016 and provides teachers with the tools to share information about FFA and agricultural education with their communities. Teachers selected for the program receive intensive training in June and July to learn and collaborate on educational resources. Similar to last year, this year’s training will be virtual. Throughout the year, the ambassadors will present workshops and work with teachers nationwide to brainstorm and share ideas. The ambassadors will also serve as a voice of the organization to teachers. FFA senior educational consultant Sarah Dickinson says, “Through this program, we equip teachers with the tools they need to be successful in not only developing future leaders but also in telling their stories.”

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 8, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to pay close attention to the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front is backing its way westward through the Corn Belt with a string of showers that continues on Thursday. Some locally heavy amounts remain possible from that. A cold front that is sagging through the Canadian Prairies will be another area of isolated showers into Montana. Parts of the Southern Plains may also see some isolated showers as well. Cooler temperatures continue to settle into the Midwest, easing drought stress.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 7, 2023 |

Farmer Sentiment Sours as Crop Prices Decline Producer sentiment fell to its weakest reading since July 2022, as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index declined 19 points to 104 in May. This month's weak sentiment reading was fueled by declines in both of the barometer’s sub-indices. The Index of Future Expectations declined 22 points to 98, while the Index of Current Conditions fell 13 points below a month earlier to 116. Crop price weakness helped trigger the sentiment decline. Eastern Corn Belt fall delivery bids for corn fell over $0.50 per bushel, down ten percent, and soybean bids declined over $1.00 per bushel, down eight percent. Nearly half of producers feel that the most important aspect of new Farm Bill legislation will be the Crop Insurance Title, while a fourth of producers say the Commodity Title will be the most important. Almost half of corn and soybean producers expect Congress to raise PLC reference prices for both crops when a new Farm Bill becomes law. *********************************************************************************** Barchart Releases 2023 Crop Production and Yield Estimates Barchart Tuesday released their initial 2023 crop production and yield forecasts for U.S. corn and soybeans. The report indicates a cutback to USDA’s projected figures from the May 12 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Report. The Barchart forecast calls for 15 billion bushels of corn production, compared to USDA’s 15.3 billion. Corn yield is projected at 177.9 bushels per acre, compared to USDA’s 181.5. Soybean production is forecasted at 4.4 billion bushels, compared to USDA’s 3.5 billion. Soybean yield is projected by Barchart at 50.6 bushels per acre, compared to USDA’s 52 bushels per acre. Barchart provides market data and services to the global financial, media, and commodity industries. Barchart’s Crop Production and Yield Forecasts provide users with decision-making support for crop marketing and ingredient purchasing ahead of traditional forecasts from the USDA. Bi-weekly crop production forecasts are available to the public for free, while enterprise data and cmdtyView Pro clients have access to daily forecast updates. *********************************************************************************** Research: CRP is Regionally Concentrated New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service finds the Conservation Reserve Program is regionally concentrated. The Conservation Reserve Program, or CRP, covered 22 million acres of environmentally sensitive land at the end of fiscal year 2022, with an annual budget of roughly $1.8 billion. This made CRP the USDA's largest single conservation program in terms of spending in FY 2022. Enrollees receive annual and other payments for taking eligible land out of production for at least ten years. Program acreage tends to be concentrated on marginally productive cropland that is susceptible to erosion by wind or rainfall. A large share of CRP land ranges from Texas to Montana across the Great Plains, where rainfall is limited, and much of the land is subject to potentially severe wind erosion. Smaller concentrations of CRP land are found in eastern Washington, southern Iowa, northern Missouri, the Mississippi Delta, southeastern Idaho, and northwestern Utah. *********************************************************************************** Rapid Snowmelt Results in Higher Missouri River Runoff Warm temperatures in the mountainous region of the upper Missouri River Basin has led to a quick melt of the mountain snowpack. The rapid melting combined with precipitation in the western half of the Basin resulted in above-average inflow into the reservoir system. May runoff for the Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 4.9 million acre-feet, 144 percent of average. John Reemus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says, "With much of the mountain snowpack already melted, the basin will need additional rainfall to continue the trend of above-average runoff." The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa, is 26.8 million acre-feet, 104 percent of average. While portions of the Basin received above-normal rainfall, precipitation was below normal during May. Gavins Point Dam releases will provide minimum-service navigation flow support at all four target locations of Sioux City, Omaha, Nebraska City, and Kansas City through the first half of the navigation season which ends on July 1. *********************************************************************************** Corteva, USAID, Announce Support for Ukrainian Farmers Corteva and the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, recently announced a new collaboration to support Ukrainian farmers. Through the collaboration, USAID and Corteva Agriscience will advance the shared goals of increasing farmer access to crop inputs, financing, and post-harvest storage. A Corteva spokesperson says, “Ukrainian farmers are entering this planting season facing immense challenges.” Corteva Agriscience, which previously announced its decision to withdraw from Russia, is increasing its production of hybrid corn and sunflower seeds in the region by 30 percent over the next five years. The effort will help ensure a stable supply of seeds for Ukrainian farmers. Corteva is also increasing Ukrainian farmer access to the latest crop protection technologies, agronomic support, and financing tools - all key components required to plant a high-yielding, profitable crop. USAID is advancing the $100 million Agriculture Resilience Initiative (AGRI) - Ukraine to bolster Ukrainian agriculture exports and to help alleviate the global food security crisis exacerbated by the war in Ukraine. *********************************************************************************** Mulhern to Retire as NMPF President and CEO National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern announced Tuesday that he will retire at the end of this year. Mulhern will conclude a decade of service leading the organization and capping a 45-year career in U.S. agricultural and dairy policy. Mulhern says, "Directing the policy efforts of the nation's dairy farmers and their cooperatives has been the highlight of my professional career." Mulhern began as President and CEO in 2013 and guided NMPF through two completed farm bills, the COVID-19 crisis, and an ever-quickening pace of change in the industry. After coming to Washington to work on Capitol Hill in 1982, he began his first stint with NMPF in 1985, directing the organization's government affairs activities and shaping NMPF's strategy in the face of earlier farm crises. The topic of naming a new top executive at NMPF will be discussed at NMPF’s Board Meeting this week in Arlington, VA.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 7, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will report on the trade deficit for April at 7:30 a.m. CDT and provide export data that will be released by USDA later Wednesday morning. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out, including ethanol production. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front continues to push south and west through the Midwest on Wednesday, which is bringing in some cooler air into the region from Canada. It is also bringing some isolated showers on the western half of the front, which are sorely needed but not nearly enough. Additional showers and thunderstorms will move again through the Prairies and Plains to the Gulf Coast as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 6, 2023 |

USDA Kicks Off Agribusiness Trade Mission to Japan USDA Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Undersecretary Alexis Taylor Monday launched an agribusiness trade mission to Japan. The U.S. delegation includes representatives from 11 state departments of agriculture, numerous farm organizations, and 40 agribusinesses looking to connect with future business partners in Japan. Taylor says, "As one of the largest world economies, Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States." Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States. Every year over the past two decades, Japan has imported at least $10 billion worth of U.S. food and agriculture products, reaching a record-high $14.6 billion in 2022. Throughout the week, USDA will help facilitate business-to-business meetings between participating small and medium-sized U.S. agribusinesses and Japanese buyers seeking to import American food and farm products. The trade mission itinerary also includes meetings with Japanese and local government officials and industry groups to discuss trade issues and unique opportunities. *********************************************************************************** AFT Releases White Papers Detailing Farm Bill Recommendations American Farmland Trust Monday released two new white papers that further illustrate its priorities to increase adoption of conservation practices in the next Farm Bill. The priorities include the creation of a federal match to help states and Tribes build up their soil health programs, and increased support for farmer-to-farmer education to accelerate adoption of conservation practices. AFT Policy Director Tim Fink says, “AFT’s is working this Farm Bill to keep land in farming, keep farmers on the land, and to help farmers adopt sound farming practices.” Creating a Federal Match for State and Tribal Soil Health Programs in the Next Farm Bill urges Congress to build up locally-led programs that supplement and fill gaps in NRCS conservation support. Improving On and Increasing Access to Conservation Programs in the Next Farm Bill focuses on how programs can continue their work supporting voluntary, locally-led conservation while ensuring equitable access for farmers. AFT also recommends Congress establish an Office of Small Farms at USDA to support lower-acreage producers. *********************************************************************************** Noble Research Institute Launches Regenerative Ranch Management Program Noble Research Institute Monday announced the launch of its Essentials of Regenerative Ranching program. The effort is designed to help ranchers monitor and improve the health of their land, livestock and livelihood. Essentials provides producers with practical tools, hands-on experience and guidance to break free from the cycle of high inputs and low returns. Farmers and ranchers navigate uncertainty from weather, fluctuating market prices and skyrocketing inputs. Many producers seek new skills and tools that offer greater control and reduce operational uncertainty. While regenerative ranching can help mitigate or avoid some of these issues altogether, ranchers may struggle to find reliable information about implementation or fail to receive support needed for lasting success. In response, Noble Research Institute designed Essentials of Regenerative Ranching to offer farmers and ranchers guidance in using core principles and proven monitoring methods. The first in-person training will be offered July 11-12, 2023, at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. Registration is open now at www.noble.org/. *********************************************************************************** FFA Members Attending Washington Leadership Conference For more than 50 years, thousands of FFA members from across the country have converged in our nation's capital each summer to engage with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects to take back to their cities and towns. National FFA Organization members are in Washington, D.C., this week as part of the National FFA Organization's Washington Leadership Conference. The more than 50-year tradition brings thousands of FFA members to Washington, D.C., to interact with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects. More than 2,000 FFA members from throughout the country are expected to attend the 2023 conference. FFA members will spend the week under the guidance of agricultural and leadership professionals, facilitators, and FFA staff. FFA members will also have the unique opportunity to participate in congressional visits with legislators from their states during the week. Members can share concerns and challenges from their communities and discuss agricultural-related legislation. *********************************************************************************** “Natural” Labeled Foods Account for 16% of Consumer Spending New Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows foods labeled “natural” accounted for slightly more than 16 percent of consumer retail food purchases in 2018. USDA and the Food and Drug Administration require producers to adhere to specific standards or processes to use certain label claims, such as USDA Organic. The “natural” claim, however, has minimal requirements and using the claim on a food product’s packaging does not require that the product provide any health or environmental benefits. Regulatory agencies treat the claim as meaning nothing artificial was added, and the product was minimally processed. Even so, consumers sometimes attribute benefits to products labeled "natural," research studies show. The share of products labeled "natural" varies by food category. The share of spending on "natural" products in 2018 was highest for dairy products, at 27.7 percent, and lowest for fruits and vegetables, at 5.9 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively. *********************************************************************************** OPEC Could Derail Fuel Price Declines With the summer driving season now underway, the nation's average price of gasoline declined 3.9 cents from a week ago to $3.51 per gallon. The national average diesel price fell 3.4 cents last week and is $3.88 per gallon. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan warns OPEC could change the course of fuel prices this summer. OPEC+ agreed Sunday to additional production cuts, while Saudi Arabia is going above and beyond and cutting July production. As a result, De Haan says, "oil prices are likely to see upward pressure as global supplies, which have remained tight, promise to become even tighter as a result." Oil prices could rally this week and push fuel prices higher, but De Haan says any rise in average prices should be fairly small. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 2.3 percent fall last week, with the most common U.S. gas price at $3.39 per gallon.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 6, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's Short-term Energy Outlook is due out Tuesday with interest in its estimates of world oil supply and demand after OPEC decided to cut production by one million barrels a day Sunday. There are no other significant reports Tuesday, but traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front is slipping south through the Midwest on Tuesday, with part of it pushing southwestward toward the Plains. The front will be somewhat active with some isolated showers developing along it. Isolated to scattered showers will develop in the Southern Plains to the Gulf Coast as well as the Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 5, 2023 |

USTR to Initiate USMCA Dispute Settlement with Mexico The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced that it is filing a dispute settlement under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement in response to Mexico’s ban on biotech corn for human consumption. The National Corn Growers Association has called on the administration to act and praised the development. “Mexico’s actions, not based on sound science, have threatened the financial well-being of corn growers and rural communities,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). Under the agreement, once a dispute settlement gets filed, a group of objective experts will hear the case and make a final determination based on the commitments of both parties under the free trade agreement. Tai says Mexico’s measures are inconsistent with several of its obligations in the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures and Market Access chapters of the agreement. “The USMCA was written to ensure that all producers in the three countries have full access to each other’s markets,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposes Action Plan to Modernize FMMOs The National Milk Producers Federation applauds USDA for proposing its “Action Plan” for a national hearing based on NMPF’s proposal to modernize Federal Milk Marketing Orders. The federation looks forward to the next phase of creating a federal order system that better reflects today’s market conditions and dairy producer needs. “We’re grateful USDA recognizes the comprehensive nature of our proposal and are looking forward to it being considered in full because the whole of our plan adds up to more than the sum of its parts,” says NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “We held more than 150 meetings and wide consultation across dairy producers and the entire industry in coming up with our plan.” The agency says the action plan may include a tentative hearing start date of August 23, 2023. The USDA received the federation’s formal proposal to amend the pricing provisions of all 11 FMMOs on May 2. *********************************************************************************** USB CEO Ruhland Stepping Down Polly Ruhland, CEO of the United Soybean Board, will leave her position effective December 31, 2023. Ruhland has led the organization for six years and played a pivotal role in driving significant organizational changes and setting a foundation for USB’s future. “Polly has been a visionary leader for USB during a very transformative time,” says Meagan Kaiser, USB Chair. “A true servant-leader, her biggest contribution and lasting legacy is building a first-class staff that we can rely on.” During the past six years, USB embarked on a transformative journey marked by numerous accomplishments and milestones, including developing and implementing a comprehensive strategic plan. The plan also reinforced USB’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and market development. Kaiser will form a search committee to identify a new Chief Executive Officer. The committee will begin the search after USB’s July board meeting to have a new CEO in place by the end of 2023. *********************************************************************************** Senate Ag Chair Comments on Debt Agreement Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow of Michigan was pleased that the Senate voted to pass the bipartisan bill to avoid a debt default, calling it critical for our economy and families. “I’m pleased this agreement protects the important steps that we’ve taken over the last two years to rebuild America, bring jobs home, lower the costs of health care, and tackle the climate crisis,” Stabenow says. Stabenow also says she’s deeply disappointed by the changes that were agreed to in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. “As the Ag, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee Chair, I intend to produce a bipartisan farm bill that protects critical nutrition and food assistance programs for all Americans,” she said. “And as far as I’m concerned, the work requirements issue is settled for this Congress.” She intends to in no way further erode the dignity of Americans who need roughly $6 a day to buy food. *********************************************************************************** Milk Producers Oppose Shortsighted Infant Formula Legislation The National Milk Producers Federation strongly opposes legislation introduced in both chambers of Congress that would increase U.S. vulnerability to infant formula supply disruptions. The bill would increase U.S. reliance on imported formula and formula inputs. It would also unilaterally and permanently remove tariffs and tariff rate quotas on infant formula and infant formula base powder, resulting in lost jobs and foreign dependence. “This bill puts in place new one-way street trade conditions that would harm dairy farmers, cooperatives, and processors,” says Jim Mulhern, NMPF president and CEO. “We vehemently object to putting unilateral import expansion on the backs of U.S. dairy farmers.” The organization says the bill is a misguided response to the dire shortages of infant formula that occurred last year after a temporary production crisis at a large U.S. formula manufacturing plant. The FDA says formula stocking levels are higher than those seen before last year’s shortage. *********************************************************************************** Legislators Oppose Discriminatory Brazilian Tariffs on Ethanol A bipartisan group of congressional members is asking U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to prioritize ethanol export competitiveness and address unfair import tariffs Brazil has in place on U.S. ethanol. The letter, signed by 21 members, highlighted the importance of biofuel and ethanol production for rural communities throughout the country. Recently announced import tariffs by Brazil on American ethanol would negatively impact American agriculture, which previously received duty-free treatment from Brazil. “We believe the tariff imbalance is unjustified and puts American ethanol and farmers at risk,” the letter says. “We strongly urge you to prioritize American ethanol export competitiveness in the Brazilian market by addressing these unfair policies.” The letter also says should Brazil’s unfair treatment continue, the lawmakers then stand ready to work with Tai to consider measures that protect American farmers and biofuel producers to help counter these unfair trade practices. Brazil’s tariff was reinstated on February 1.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 5, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - WASDE, El Nino and Debt Next Steps 1. WASDE week again: Friday will see the June World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report from USDA. We'll share expectations in our preview story Wednesday. As for the report itself, our initial report flash posts after 11 a.m. CDT, with updates through the morning. 2. El Nino takes hold: The shift from La Nina to El Nino, something DTN meteorologists have talked about since early winter, appears to be moving along. Already we see winners and losers in terms of timely rainfall, a variability that is common with the "Little Boy" pattern. 3. Debt ceiling next steps: The government default may be averted, but there is much yet to learn about federal spending, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) discussions. All this could affect farm bill negotiations going forward. We'll continue to watch and report what we learn as the details eke out. 4. GOP hopefuls: A smattering of potential Republican presidential candidates gathered in Iowa the last few days and on June 3. DTN Policy Editor Chris Clayton will follow up and what was said and what was heard. 5. Reports to watch: We'll have the weekly USDA Crop Progress Report Monday afternoon. Wednesday sees the U.S. trade deficit numbers and the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory reports. Thursday USDA releases its weekly export sales, plus the weekly U.S. jobless claims numbers come out and we'll see an update of U.S. Drought Monitor.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 5, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and note any news from OPEC's meeting on Sunday. U.S. factory orders are scheduled for 9 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. USDA's Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. will include initial crop ratings for soybeans and spring wheat. Weather After a weekend of widespread rainfall across a lot of the Plains and western Midwest, Monday looks to be a quieter day for many areas. There will still be isolated to scattered showers from the Prairies to the Gulf Coast, however, and more frequent for those southern areas. Temperatures remain quite warm for many areas for this time of year.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 2, 2023 |

USDA Lowers 2023 Ag Exports The USDA says America’s agricultural exports in fiscal year 2023 are forecast at $181 billion, down $3.5 billion from the February forecast. The revision is driven by decreases in corn, wheat, beef, and poultry exports. Corn exports are forecast $2.1 billion lower to $14.5 billion on lower unit values and volumes as Brazil is projected to harvest a record second-corn crop. Wheat exports are projected down $900 million to $7.4 billion because of lower volumes and values, as well as increased competition. Soybean exports are projected up $300 million to $32.3 billion on slightly higher volumes. Total livestock, poultry, and dairy exports are expected to decrease by $1.2 billion to $39.3 billion. Declines in beef and poultry exports will more than offset increases in dairy exports. Cotton exports will be $6 billion, up $200 million, as higher volumes more than offset lower unit values. Ethanol exports were unchanged at $3.6 billion. *********************************************************************************** Rising Cost of Carry is Hitting Grain Elevators’ Bottom Lines A new report from CoBank says grain merchandisers have endured rising costs of storing or carrying grain and oilseed inventories during the past year because of rising interest rates. Higher crop prices and rising operating costs like transportation, insurance, fuel, electricity, and labor are also squeezing grain elevators. CoBank forecasts the financial cost of carry will reach record highs in the upcoming 2023-2024 crop year for corn, wheat, and soybeans. Grain elevators are required to buy and market members’ crops, regardless of whether the economics are favorable. The one thing elevators do control is their local bids. Inverted futures markets further penalize elevators for having to store grains and oilseeds. If interest rates stay at their current high level and futures markets remain inverted into the new crop year, then many grain cooperatives are expected to lower their bids and widen their basis to cover the high cost of storing commodities. *********************************************************************************** National Dairy FARM Excellence Award Nominations Open The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management Program Excellence Awards are back for a third year. The awards recognize farms and evaluators who demonstrate excellence in the FARM Program. Awards are given in four categories, including Animal Care and Antibiotic Stewardship, Environmental Stewardship, Workforce Development, and FARM Evaluator. “We are so proud of the farms that participate in our program areas and our dedicated evaluators,” says Emily Stepp, executive director of the FARM Program. “We believe it’s important to publicly recognize the people that make the FARM Program so successful.” Farms or FARM evaluators can be nominated by fellow dairy farmers, community members, extension, cooperative and processor staff, veterinarians, and themselves. Nominations are open through August 1. Nominated farms must have a current FARM Program evaluation in the respective category area and must be in good standing with the program. Evaluators must be FARM Program certified. More information is at nationaldairyfarm.com. *********************************************************************************** Legislation will strengthen America’s Food Supply Congressman Tom Tiffany of Wisconsin reintroduced the Guaranteeing Robust Agricultural Independence and Nutrition for America (GRAIN) Act. It would place a one-year moratorium on the enrollment of farmland in the Conservation Reserve Program, which pays farmers to leave land uncultivated. After the one-year moratorium, the bill would prevent prime farmland from getting enrolled in the CRP. “Food security is national security, and America needs to be taking the necessary steps to shore up our food supply,” Tiffany says. “We can only have a prosperous future if we allow our nation’s farmers to unleash their full production potential.” He also says the bill came about because the administration expanded the CRP in a “green fantasy” attempting to achieve net-zero emissions. Tiffany’s GRAIN for America Act would not impact farmland that is already a part of the CRP. Additionally, farmers who already have land in the CRP can re-enroll during the moratorium. *********************************************************************************** Reps Push USTR for Actions on Mexico Under the USMCA Representatives Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota and Adrian Smith of Nebraska led 62 colleagues in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai regarding Mexico. The House members are calling on Ambassador Tai to fully utilize the tools available under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to hold Mexico accountable for its commitments. They’re asking Tai to proceed with a formal USMCA dispute to address Mexico’s discriminatory policies banning U.S. biotech corn. “Now that the thirty-day period for consultations has lapsed without Mexico making any changes, we urge you to take swift enforcement action by initiating a USMCA dispute,” the letter says. “Two months have passed since you made strong comments on Mexico during Congressional testimony, and we strongly believe it’s time to take additional steps in the matter.” The letter also points out that a lack of action would create a dangerous precedent that promises made under USMCA can be ignored with