| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 11, 2024 |

Illinois Farmers Underutilizing Insurance Product The Pasture, Rangeland and Forage Rainfall Index (PRF-RI) is a crop insurance product underutilized by Illinois livestock and forage producers. Farmdoc Daily from the University of Illinois reports that only 6% of the eligible acres in Illinois were insured in 2024, much lower than use west of the Mississippi. Like other Federal crop insurance programs, PRF-RI is heavily subsidized. Over time, PRF-RI has returned $1.29 in payments for each $1.00 in producer-paid premium. Illinois and Midwest livestock and forage producers should consider using PRF-RI as a risk management tool. PRF-RI has been available as a risk management tool for livestock and forage producers in Illinois since 2016. According to the 2022 USDA Agricultural Census, Illinois producers operated roughly 742,000 acres of pasture and 473,000 acres were harvested for hay production. In 2024, approximately 70,000 acres were enrolled in PRF-RI, meaning less than 6% of eligible forage land in Illinois is enrolled in this subsidized insurance program. ************************************************************************************* New Report Reveals Ag Isn’t On Track to Meet Rising Demand Global agriculture productivity is falling behind the curve according to a new report by Virginia Tech. “Global agricultural productivity growth has slowed from 1.9% annually during 2001-2010 to 0.7% annually during 2013-2022,” said Tom Thompson, the report’s executive editor, associate dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and director of CALS Global at Virginia Tech. “This dramatic slowdown will prevent us from reaching our agricultural production and sustainability goals by 2050, with potentially dire impacts on food and nutrition security, unless we reverse this trend.” Farm Journal reports agricultural productivity growth during this period was even lower in the U.S. – averaging 0.21% annually. The report’s authors attribute this in part to the lack of public funding in agricultural research and development. At the same time, South Asia led progress at 1.4%. Global total factor productivity should be at 1.91% annually to meet the demand projected in 2050, according to the report. But due to current productivity being so far below that level, it may actually need to rise to 2%. ************************************************************************************* Mormon Church pays $289M for dozens of US farms The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ real estate arm is paying $289 million to acquire tens of thousands of acres of farmland across eight states. Farmland Reserve, a nonprofit arm of the Mormon Church, is buying 46 farms from real estate investor Farmland Partners. The farms encompass 41,500 acres of land and include sites in Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and the Carolinas. Doug Rose, CEO of Farmland Reserve, said the company plans to lease “these productive farms to local farmers.” The LDS Church owns approximately 1.7 million acres of land primarily used for agriculture, according to Landgate, a commercial real estate advisory service, making it one of the largest institutional landholders in the U.S. It’s estimated the church owns $16 billion worth of property across the country, with around $2 billion for agriculture land. ************************************************************************************* H5N1 on the Rise in California Dairy Herds As a rapidly increasing number of California dairy farms suffer outbreaks of H5N1 bird flu, industry experts say it remains unclear just how the disease may affect the nation’s milk supply or pricing. As of Oct. 9, the nation’s largest milk producing state had reported 93 H5N1 outbreaks in dairy herds — nearly doubling in the span of a week. The Los Angeles Times reports there have also been three confirmed and two presumptive cases of human infection. All five cases were among Central Valley dairy workers who had no known connection. State and federal health authorities insist that H5N1 poses little threat to humans and that it is safe to drink milk that has been pasteurized, because the process kills the virus. However, dairy farmers and veterinarians are reporting far greater rates of mortality among infected herds than anticipated and steep drops in the rate of milk production among recovered cows ************************************************************************************* Court Denies Petition for Stronger EPA Regulation of Large Livestock Farms A federal judge rejected a petition from environmental activists for more strict regulation of large livestock operations in a win for the U.S. meat industry. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, based in San Francisco, threw out a lawsuit that would have changed how the Environmental Protection Agency regulates concentrated animal feeding operations. Pork producers applauded the decision. The lawsuit, filed and led by Food & Water Watch, challenged the EPA’s decision last year to deny a petition that would have required all farms to obtain permits to operate their CAFOs unless they could prove they’re not a source of pollution. In their petition, activist groups argued livestock operations are releasing pollution into waterways in violation of the Clean Water Act. In its decision, however, the court agreed with the EPA’s approach to regulating livestock production, including the formation of a subcommittee to study water quality issues, saying it was important to “seek information about how best to tackle the problem” before crafting new regulations. ************************************************************************************* USDA Projects a Record Ag Trade Deficit in 2024 U.S. agricultural exports were at $13.01 billion in August, essentially unchanged from July, against imports of $17.19 billion, which were down 2% from July, resulting in a monthly trade deficit of $4.18 billion. AgWeb reports exports thus far this fiscal year total $161.3 billion compared to imports of $188.82 billion, creating a cumulative deficit of $27.52 billion. The sector has recorded monthly deficits in 10 out of 11 months in FY 2024, with three months seeing deficits of $4 billion or more and eight months with a deficit of $1 billion or more. USDA forecasts agricultural exports at $173.5 billion and imports at a record $204 billion for a projected record trade deficit of $30.5 billion. In FY 2023, the trade gap was $17.1 billion. Based on the FY 2024 forecasts and cumulative trade data, agricultural exports in September would need to reach $12.2 billion to meet the USDA forecast, while imports would need to be $15.18 billion.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 11, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the U.S. Labor Department will report on producer prices for September. The University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment for early October is scheduled for release at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports are due out at 11 a.m., followed by DTN's report webinar at 12:30 p.m. Weather Quiet conditions are found across most of the country for Friday. A cold front going across the north could produce some isolated showers. A shower or two could continue over eastern Oklahoma as well. Otherwise, warm and dry conditions continue again.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 10, 2024 |

NCBA Releases Tax Producer Survey Results The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association released a report analyzing a nationwide tax survey of America’s cattle producers. With the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire at the end of 2025, NCBA wanted to better understand how key tax provisions like Death Tax relief and business deductions impact family-owned cattle operations. The survey showed producers’ strong support for provisions like the 1031 Like-Kind Exchange, Section 179 Expensing, bonus depreciation, and Section 199A Small Business Deduction. The survey also showed that a quarter of the respondents spend more than $10,000 every year on tax preparation, filing, and potential audits. Those expenses only add to the pressure agricultural operations remain under. “When I was starting in the ranching business, I saw the devastating impact of the Death Tax firsthand,” said NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “The tax nearly killed my dream of ranching with my family.” *********************************************************************************** Interest in Plant-Based Products is Cooling Off Plant-based products started quickly in the grocery sector a few years ago. However, Supermarket News says that the market is beginning to settle and evolve. The plant-based meat sector, a hot topic a few years ago, is currently experiencing growing pains. Fresh meat alternatives had volume sales of 36.9 million pounds for the 52 weeks ending on May 19. That’s 21 percent lower year-over-year. Volume sales for frozen alternatives totaled 90.1 million during the same period, down almost 12 percent year-over-year. Plant-based dairy is also going through a significant downcycle. Through May 19, non-dairy milk dollar sales were down 29 percent versus the same time in 2023, and volume was 18 percent lower. A Chicago-based marketing firm that specializes in plant-based products says the overall plant-based industry has been struggling, but the dairy category is especially lagging. When milk supplies dropped, plant-based milks had to increase their prices to cover costs. *********************************************************************************** McDonald’s Sues Meatpackers for Collusion McDonald’s has filed a lawsuit against Tyson Foods, JBS, and other major meat packing companies. The fast food chain is accusing the packers of colluding for years to limit beef supplies. The suit says that the collusion allowed the companies to boost their profits while forcing McDonald’s to pay inflated prices for their meat supplies. McDonald’s says the companies conspired to reduce production levels beginning on January 1, 2024, which would artificially drive up market prices. The companies have significant control over the cattle and beef industry, so they could manipulate prices “at their will.” In the suit, McDonald’s says, “Only colluding meatpackers would expect to benefit by reducing their prices and purchases of slaughtered cattle, fully aware that their conspiracy would shield them from the pressures of a competitive market.” In 2018, the “Big Four” beef companies controlled 80 percent of fresh and frozen beef sold in the U.S. *********************************************************************************** Many Cattle Producers Still Optimistic About Their Futures Cattle producers, like other farmers, are generally an optimistic bunch. A Drover’s beef industry survey shows that 64 percent of the respondents remain optimistic about the future. Over half (51 percent) of the producers plan to grow their herd size in the next five years, and another 38 percent will maintain their herd sizes. Parts of the U.S. still face dry conditions, but the situation is better than at this time in 2023. Producers are looking to the future, with 59 percent saying they’re planning to add a family member to the operation within the next five years. That number was 54 percent last year. While beef cow inventories continue to stabilize this year, the industry could experience a longer transition period as significant risks mute profit signals that would normally jump-start herd rebuilding efforts. Rabobank is forecasting a stable cow herd between 27.9 and 28.3 million over the next three years. *********************************************************************************** Ordering Food Through Phone Apps Continues Growing Two-thirds of U.S. consumers have used a food-ordering app at least once for takeout, delivery, or both. That’s according to the September 2024 Consumer Food Insights Report. Over half have used an app for a delivery order. Nearly half of those consumers say they use an app for delivery or takeout at least once a week. The survey-based report comes from Purdue University’s Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability and assesses food spending, consumer satisfaction, values, support of agriculture and food policies, and trust in information sources. The report breaks down per-person weekly food expenditures into three groups: thrifty (less than $50 a week), moderate ($50 to $85 a week), and liberal (over $85 a week). Most consumers don’t seem to mind the additional fees associated with ordering food. The survey also revealed that most consumers say they tip between 10 percent and 19 percent for each food delivery order. *********************************************************************************** USDA Awards First $25 Million to Help Specialty Crop Exports The USDA announced it has awarded more than $25 million to support eight projects under the new Assisting Specialty Crop Imports (ASCE) Initiative. USDA launched the initiative in January 2024 as part of the agency’s commitment to create more and better markets for U.S. producers and agribusinesses. “Specialty crop exporters face many import requirements in every foreign market they enter, yet they often don’t have the economies of scale to develop the required certifications or negotiate favorable terms,” says Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. “This innovative partnership between USDA and the specialty crops sector focuses on projects to address the non-tariff trade barriers that hinder America’s exports of fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, horticultural crops, and related products.” U.S. exports of specialty crops totaled $25.8 billion last year, increasing the bottom line for producers nationwide and driving economic development in their local communities and beyond.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 10, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT. Weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. consumer price index for September and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor are also out at 7:30 a.m. CDT. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is out at 9:30 a.m. Weather Hurricane Milton is leaving Florida after devastating destruction across the state Wednesday night. With it going away, very little weather is in the cards across the U.S. There is a front moving into the Northern Plains, but it should remain dry there today.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 9, 2024 |

NCBA Responds to Misguided White House Event National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane responded to a questionable agriculture event hosted by the White House. “Real cattle producers have faced not one but two hurricanes in two weeks and multiple months of wildfires across the West, and instead of addressing the problems of hurting farmers and ranchers, the Biden-Harris administration hosted a pep rally to try to prop up their failing Bidenomics agenda at the White House, with animal rights advocates front and center,” he said. “Had we been invited, we could have discussed much more pressing issues like much-needed disaster relief, regulatory overreach, and USDA’s questionable approval of South American beef imports.” Lane also said the event makes clear what cattle producers have known for quite some time: “When it comes to agriculture, this administration has prioritized politics over policy that supports cattle producers.” For more information on NCBA news, go to ncba.org. *********************************************************************************** Export Exchange Ongoing in Texas Nearly 250 international buyers and end-users of coarse grains and co-products from more than 50 countries are in Fort Worth, Texas, for Export Exchange 2024. It’s an opportunity for buyers to meet with nearly 300 U.S. suppliers and service providers across the value chain. Co-sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy, and the Renewable Fuels Association, Export Exchange 2024 offers attendees an unparalleled opportunity to meet and build relationships with domestic suppliers of corn, distiller’s dried grains with solubles, sorghum, barley, and other commodities. Export Exchange focuses on bringing together international buyers and end-users of coarse grains and co-products, including dried distiller’s grains with solubles, with U.S. suppliers and agribusiness representatives. “Ninety-five percent of potential customers and three-fourths of the world’s purchasing power are outside of the U.S., which is another reason Export Exchange is a long-standing event that’s so critical to our industry,” says USGC Chair Verity Ulibarri (oo-lih-BAR-ee). *********************************************************************************** USDA Assistance for Distressed Farm Loan Borrowers USDA announced an additional $250 million in automatic payments for distressed direct and guaranteed farm loan borrowers. This step continues USDA’s commitment to keeping farmers and ranchers financially viable and supporting agricultural companies. “USDA continues to invest in the future of producers through our loan portfolio,” says Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency Administrator. “The payments announced today help to ensure that more than 4,600 producers across the country will see another production season.” He also says these ongoing investments come on the heels of critical Farm Service Agency Loan Reforms that recently went into effect. Building on the momentum, USDA announced an estimated additional $250 million in assistance to approximately 4,650 distressed direct and guaranteed farm loan borrowers. This includes about $235 million in assistance for an estimated 4,500 delinquent direct and guaranteed borrowers who have not received prior IRA assistance. Producers should reach out to local FSA staff for assistance. *********************************************************************************** NCBA President Calls for Action at White House Meeting National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. told Biden administration officials that farmers are living through difficult economic times. However, he also said Congress and the administration can help by removing barriers so growers can access expanding markets for U.S. corn. Hartman’s comments came during an event called “Farmers and Ranchers in Action” hosted by the White House. “On behalf of my fellow growers, I spoke about the need to make it possible for producers to access tax credits for sustainable aviation fuels,” Hartman says. “The tax credit would help us expand the ethanol market, which is important for growers while boosting the airline industry’s efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions.” He touched on a number of other priorities that growers hope Congress will tackle and asked administration officials to help in any way they can with pending legislation, including the long-awaited farm bill. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn and Wheat Export Inspections Decline Inspections of corn and wheat for export dropped while soybean assessments surged during the week ending on October 3. Corn inspections for overseas delivery fell to 933,274 metric tons, down from 1.15 million tons inspected a week earlier. That’s still above the 804,000 tons examined during the same week in 2023. Wheat examinations for offshore delivery declined to 363,500 tons from almost 551,000 tons during the previous week. USDA says that the total was still higher than the 306,000 tons assessed during the same week in 2023. Soybean inspections rose to 1.43 million tons from 682,000 the previous week. That total also topped the 1.4 million tons assessed during the same week last year. Since the start of the marketing year on September 1, corn inspections totaled 4.27 million metric tons, up from 3.5 million last year. Soybean assessments are at 3.36 million tons versus the 3.39 million last year. *********************************************************************************** TSC Sending FFA Students to National Convention Tractor Supply Company surprised five high school FFA chapters across the country with the funds needed for students to attend the 97th Annual National FFA Convention and Expo. The convention is in Indianapolis and takes place in October. It’s the pinnacle event for students involved in FFA, providing opportunities to learn, compete, and develop. Tractor Supply Company’s contribution will cover travel costs for a total of 75 students to attend. “The National FFA Convention is an invaluable experience for these students as they seek to further their agricultural education,” says a TSC news release. “We are honored to support them in this opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate each other with this formative event.” Schools in South Dakota, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas were surprised by TSC’s donations. Each year, chapters raise money to send students to the convention. TSC has donated almost $24 million through initiatives supporting FFA’s work.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 9, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by minutes from the latest Fed meeting at 1 p.m. Livestock and Meat International Trade Data from USDA will be released at 11 a.m. Stay updated on U.S. and South American weather forecasts with U.S. harvest in full swing and Brazilian soybean planting attempting to get up to speed. Weather Fairly calm and dry conditions continue across the bulk of the U.S. for Wednesday, but Florida is watching Hurricane Milton as it approaches the Gulf Coast. Though some weakening is expected prior to landfall Wednesday night, the hurricane is currently a Category 5 early this morning, and should remain a destructive hurricane at landfall.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 8, 2024 |

USDA Makes Changes to Assist Producers After Helene In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated communities, homes, farms, and businesses across the Southeast, USDA is taking several steps to help. The agency has deployed staff to assist with response and recovery efforts and is putting contingency plans and flexibilities in place to ensure farmers, foresters, and communities can get the help they need. USDA estimates there are more than 38,000 crop insurance policies covering more than 4.8 million acres in the affected areas. USDA instructed crop insurance companies to expedite loss adjustments that are necessary to make payments and expects those payments to be made within 30 days. The agency also reminds producers to document damage and losses, including gathering farm records, herd inventory, receipts, and pictures of damage or losses. If a producer’s local USDA Office is still without power, calling the Farm Service Agency Call Center at 877-508-8364 can help them find available offices and staff. *********************************************************************************** Middle East Conflict Affecting Fertilizer Markets Farmdoc from the University of Illinois says the ag sector is closely watching the fertilizer markets this week because of the ongoing war in the Middle East. Following months of tight supplies, global nitrogen values started rising last week. The story of the week was Iran’s attack on Israel. The Middle East is an important area for fertilizer production in general, but it’s especially important for nitrogen. “When you look at the attack on Israel, Iran didn’t impact any shipping lanes, it didn’t have any impact on fertilizer production, yet prices moved higher,” says Josh Linville of StoneX. He also says the attack on Israel may have forced the market to finally admit that supplies are tight, and it’s manifesting in higher prices. Urea prices are one example of moving higher, up 10 percent as of last week. Linville advises farmers to contact their fertilizer retailers as soon as possible. *********************************************************************************** The National Sorghum Producers Yield Contest is Open The National Sorghum Yield Contest showcases the top yields across the nation. In 1985, there were over 18 million acres of grain sorghum planted in the U.S. The National Sorghum Producers Yield Contest was started to increase membership and educate producers on new management techniques. The Yield Contest provides farmers an opportunity to showcase their crops and compete with farmers from across the Sorghum Belt. The contest allows the industry to recognize some of the best growers in the U.S. and helps farmers learn from one another. The contest performs several functions important to the industry, including recognizing some of the nation’s top growers every year. It also helps improve sorghum yields across the nation and enables a knowledge transfer between growers who support enhanced management. NSP Yield Contest winners are recognized each year at an awards gala in conjunction with Commodity Classic, coming up in Denver in 2025. *********************************************************************************** NACD Launches Grant Application Period The National Association of Conservation District announced the launch of its application period for the 2025 Friends of NACD District Grants Program. This year, NACD and Scotts Miracle-Gro are partnering to award the 2025 Friends of NACD District Grants Program. Now in its sixth round of funding, the Friends of NACD District Grants Program is an initiative of the NACD District and Partner Relations Committee. The 2025 program will award top-ranking applicants up to $2,500 each to conduct new activities or test novel approaches to their operations. Past grant winners have implemented projects that have helped enhance their visibility within communities, reach new clients, and grow their partnerships. Examples include an Arbor Day tree-planting partnership event hosted by the Rio Grande Conservation District. The Friends of NACD Program was established in 2009 to increase support for 3,000 conservation districts nationwide. Learn more about the District Grants Program by applying at nacdnet.org. *********************************************************************************** Sugar Producers Stress Importance of Farm Bill in 2024 “Waiting till next year would be a mistake.” That’s the prognosis from Dr. Rob Johansson of the American Sugar Alliance regarding the next farm bill. “Two years’ worth of hearings have documented a brewing financial crisis caused by falling commodity prices, high input costs, and tightening farm credit,” he said. “It’s time for Congress to act.” Johannson was the USDA Chief Economist when the last farm bill was written and saw firsthand the impacts of a trade war, COVID, and climate on America’s agricultural and food system. “The level of farm assistance has fallen to its lowest level relative to farm income since 1981,” Johansson says. “It’s clear that the current suite of farm programs is fraying at the edges, farms are leaving agriculture, and farmland is being paved over.” The need for improved certainty is vital for securing credit needed for the next planting season and long-term investments in productivity. *********************************************************************************** Lambing School Set for November The American Sheep Industry Association’s Young and Emerging Entrepreneurs are planning an in-person lambing school on November 23 at the Codington County Extension Complex in Watertown, South Dakota. The one-day lambing school will focus on the preparation and basics of lambing. The school will educate and empower beginning sheep producers of any age to be confident and successful in the lambing barn, which will help improve lamb survival. The course will cover topics like nutrition pre- and post-lambing, basic equipment and facility needs, disease problems, and the steps of preparation to take before, during, and after lambing. Participants will get hands-on instruction on how to successfully assist ewes when the need arises and practice their skills on a life-size ewe model designed to demonstrate difficult births. All ages and skill levels are welcome to attend. The cost is only ten dollars, payable on the day of the school.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 8, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on the U.S. trade deficit for August is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by more specific export data from USDA and the Census Bureau later Tuesday morning. Traders continue to keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts. Weather Hurricane Milton continues to be a very strong hurricane, but it is starting to weaken. That trend should continue Tuesday as it makes a turn toward Florida Tuesday. Rain will move through Florida ahead of the hurricane, but it won't make landfall until Wednesday night. The rest of the country will be warm and dry.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 7, 2024 |

Dockworkers Suspend Strike Until January 15 The union representing 45,000 striking U.S. dockworkers at East and Gulf coast ports has reached a deal to suspend a three-day strike until Jan. 15 to provide time to negotiate a new contract. The union, the International Longshoremen’s Association, is to resume working immediately. The union and the U.S. Maritime Alliance, which represents ports and shipping companies, also reached a tentative agreement on wage increases, but no details were given, according to a joint statement from the ports and the union Thursday night. A person briefed on the agreement said the ports raised their wage offer from about 50% over six years to 62%. The person didn’t want to be identified because the agreement is tentative. Any wage increase would have to be approved by union members as part of the ratification of a final contract. ************************************************************************************* ‘New Benchmark for Dry’ in Ohio as Drought Severely Impacts Yields Rapidly growing drought conditions across Ohio have farmers concerned about decreased yields, field fires, and overall mental health and well-being as 2024 harvest begins reports Charmayne Hefley, from Successful Farming. As corn and soybean harvest kicks off across Ohio, farmers say significant drought conditions over the past few weeks have taken a toll on yields. Brice Acton, a fifth-generation farmer in Frankfort, Ohio, said the dry conditions in his area have left him expecting anywhere from one-third to half of his typical yields. The latest drought monitor map shows just 2% of Ohio is free from drought stress compared to 49% last year at this time. Nearly 10% of the state is in exceptional drought, 21% is in extreme drought, 29% is in severe drought, 28% is in moderate drought, and 10% of the state is abnormally dry. Acton said he started harvesting his soybeans on Sept. 19, and the beans were just 8 inches tall and dry, with just 10% to 11% moisture. ************************************************************************************* Lawmakers Questioning Inaction on Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawmakers want to know why the Department of Agriculture and Boar’s Head did not take action to avoid a Listeria outbreak. A group of U.S. legislators are demanding answers from officials regarding egregious food safety violations at a production plant that has led to dozens of hospitalizations and at least 10 deaths. “What is especially troubling is how egregious sanitation problems occurred despite supposed regular oversight, oversight which typically includes at least one inspection per shift,” the legislators wrote to USDA officials. According to records released by USDA, inspectors turned up 69 records of noncompliance at this individual plant. Inspectors found and documented mold and mildew around the hand washing sinks for staff working with meats that are supposed to be ready to eat, mold in holding coolers, blood in puddles on the floor, insects in and around deli meats at the plant, and heavy meat buildup on walls and machinery. The legislators cited a New York Times story that reported that two years prior, U.S. inspectors warned that conditions at the Boar’s Head plant posed an imminent threat to public health. ************************************************************************************* Rapid On-Site Diagnostics for Pathogens NEMIS Technologies is preparing to enter the U.S. food safety industry with its on-site testing technology aimed at reducing contamination risks in food production. They are focused on providing rapid, actionable results to help food manufacturers make immediate decisions and prevent large-scale recalls. NEMIS’s diagnostic technology enables food manufacturers to conduct pathogen tests, including for Salmonella and Listeria, directly on-site instead of waiting for results from a laboratory. Traditional lab-based testing can take several days to return results, but NEMIS’s tools provide rapid data, allowing companies to act quickly to prevent contamination from spreading. The company is initially focusing on high-risk sectors such as ready-to-eat foods and food preparation in supermarkets. The technology will be especially useful in environments like sushi restaurants and fresh produce processing facilities, where raw ingredients are exposed to potential contamination. ************************************************************************************* NPPC Secures 9th Circuit Victory Defending Producers' Freedom to Farm In a victory for the U.S. pork industry, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit based in San Francisco rejected a lawsuit from several activist groups who sought to impose sweeping changes to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) rules. Last month, NPPC participated in oral arguments before the Ninth Circuit, successfully urging the court to reject the lawsuit. At that hearing, the Ninth Circuit expressed frustration and concerns with Food & Water Watch’s approach and candor. In its decision, the court made clear that EPA’s preferred approach to regulating livestock production to study water quality issues is the appropriate path for EPA and does not warrant throwing out decades of established law. NPPC stated that the lawsuit sought to use the court to upend livestock production across the country. By attacking core notions of due process and fundamental civil rights, animals rights activists sought to put pork producers around the country out of business. ************************************************************************************* Lame Duck Session Seen as Last Chance to Save Farm Bill The legislation that would set food and farm policy for the next five years is in limbo, waiting for lawmakers to decide its fate after the election. The latest deadline for the Farm Bill passed unceremoniously at midnight on Sept. 30, without a push from lawmakers to pass a new bill or an extension. Congress will have to scramble in the lame-duck session set to begin Nov. 12 to come up with some agreement before benefits run out at the end of the year — which if allowed to happen eventually would have major consequences. The law began 90 years ago with various payments to support farmers but now has an impact far beyond the farm, with programs to create wildlife habitat, address climate change and provide the nation’s largest federal nutrition program. The delay creates further uncertainty for farmers, who are facing declining prices for many crops and rising costs for fertilizer and other inputs.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 7, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will brush up on the latest weather forecasts and check the news from the Middle East and Ukraine. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Rather dry conditions continue across most of the country Monday. However, showers are spreading through Florida as Hurricane Milton strengthens in the Gulf of Mexico. The storm will be moving toward the Florida Peninsula with landfall expected on Wednesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 4, 2024 |

University of Illinois Studies Farmland Decline The University of Illinois studied the loss of U.S. farmland, dividing the country into nine regions. Farmdoc says land in farms declined in all nine regions and was led by pastureland. The decline in pastureland was likely facilitated by a growth in livestock confinement operations. Planted cropland declined in all regions except the Northern Plains and the Mid-South regions. Because acres differ notably between regions, Farmdoc took a look at percent changes. Between 1997 and 2022, the percent decline was smallest in the Northern Plains (-4 percent) and highest in the Pacific region (-14 percent). Double-digit declines also occurred in the Rocky Mountains, Mid-South, Mid-Atlantic, and the Northeast. Pastureland had the largest declines in all regions except the Southern Plains, where planted cropland had a slightly bigger drop (-7 to -6 percent). The drop in pastureland was especially pronounced at 30 percent or more in states east of the Mississippi River. *********************************************************************************** September Missouri River Runoff Below Average September runoff in the upper Missouri River Basin was well below average, continuing the below-average runoff in 2024. “Although Montana precipitation was much wetter than normal, much of the Basin stayed dry and warm, causing the September runoff in all reaches above Gavins Point to be well below average,” says John Remus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “Runoff in the Basin below Sioux City, Iowa, has also been well-below-average during the late summer and fall, so System releases from Gavins Point Dam have been increased to maintain the flow support to meet downstream navigation targets.” Central Montana saw greater than 150 percent of normal precipitation during a few days in September. The rest of the Upper Basin received less than 25 percent of its normal precipitation. September’s runoff was 0.8 million acre-feet, 66 percent of the average above Sioux City. The total water in the system on October 1 was 53.5-million-acre feet. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Production at Highest Level in Eight Years U.S. wheat production for the 2024-2025 marketing year is estimated at 1.971 billion bushels, up nine percent year-to-year and the highest level since 2016-2017. The USDA says this stands in contrast to a long-term downward trend in U.S. wheat production that resulted in declining acreage as farmers switched to other crops like corn and soybeans. For the last two seasons, wheat acreage, as measured by area harvested, has risen. High wheat prices in Fall 2022 encouraged farmers to plan for substantially more wheat in 2023-2024. Despite the gains, a major drought in regions producing hard red winter wheat had negatively affected the harvestable volume of wheat. In the current marketing year, despite less acreage getting planted into wheat, more favorable weather is expected to boost the area harvested and yield compared to the previous season. Higher production is forecast for hard red winter, hard red spring, white, and durum classes of wheat. *********************************************************************************** Investments Will Lower Energy Costs and Create Jobs USDA’s Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small says the agency is partnering with farmers and small businesses to expand access to clean energy and lower energy bills through the REAP Program, or the Rural Energy for America Program. “Farmers and rural business owners deserve more access to affordable energy,” she says. “That’s why I’m proud to announce an additional $104 million in REAP loans and grants that will lower energy costs for farmers and small businesses and help them expand their operations.” That $104 million in loans and grants will support more than 300 clean energy projects in 34 states. The REAP program helps agricultural producers and rural small business owners expand their use of wind, solar, geothermal, and small hydropower energy and make energy efficiency improvements. “These innovations will help those in rural America increase their income and grow their businesses while lowering energy costs for American families,” she added. *********************************************************************************** Livestock Producers Reminded of Anthrax Danger North Dakota’s state veterinarian says the state’s first reported case of anthrax this year is a reminder to livestock producers to take action to protect their animals from disease. The case included beef cattle from Adams County, North Dakota, and was confirmed by the South Dakota Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory. “Producers in past known affected areas and counties should consult with their veterinarians to review their risk factors and vaccination needs,” says ND State Vet Dr. Ethan Andres. “If producers have unusual losses on pasture, they should reach out to their local vet as they are experienced and trained for this type of response.” Effective vaccines are available, but it takes more than a week to develop immunity. The bacterial spores can lie dormant underground for decades and become active under ideal conditions. Animals are exposed to the disease when they graze in pastures or drink contaminated water.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 4, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department releases employment data for September at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday. Traders continue to keep up with the latest weather forecasts for the U.S., South America and Black Sea region, as well as monitor events in the Middle East and Ukraine. Weather A front in the Midwest is producing a few limited showers in Illinois early Friday morning. Those showers are forecast to die out by midday, leaving behind mostly dry conditions for much of the country. A few may pop up along the Gulf Coast as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 3, 2024 |

Hurricane Helene Hits Southern Agriculture Hard Floodwaters from Hurricane Helene swamped the Southern United States, with virtually every commodity impacted. Farm Policy News says cotton, pecans, poultry, and timber were hit the hardest by the Hurricane. It brought chicken processing plants to a halt, and caused severe damage to some flocks, while also downing pecan trees and flattening crops. A USDA official said hurricane damage to crops could trigger $7 billion in insurance payouts. Moody’s Analytics says it expects $15 billion to $26 billion in property damages. Georgia and North Carolina are among the largest chicken-producing states and suffered severe damage. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp said in a press conference that 107 poultry facilities had been damaged or destroyed by the storm. The Georgia Department of Ag reported that 100 poultry farms in Coffee County were affected by the storm. A table egg producer in Pierce County, Georgia, had 17 poultry houses knocked down by Helene. *********************************************************************************** EPA Finalizes Rule on Pesticide Exclusion Zones The Environmental Protection Agency announced a final rule to restore the pesticide Application Exclusion Zone requirements under the 2015 Agricultural Worker Protection Standard. The AEZ is an area surrounding outdoor pesticide application equipment where people are prohibited while pesticides are applied. This rule finalizes the agency’s 2023 proposed rule without change and advances the agency’s commitment to protecting farmworkers, pesticide handlers, their families, and agricultural communities. It reinstates AEZ protections, extends protection for neighboring communities, makes requirements easier to understand, and provides flexibility for family farms without compromising protections. “Farmworkers help provide the food that feeds our families every day, and it’s our job to keep them safe from pesticides,” says EPA’s Michael Freedhoff. “No one should be at risk from pesticide-related illnesses because of their job or where they live.” The regulation protects over two million agricultural workers, their families, and pesticide handlers who work for over 600,000 agricultural establishments. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Looking for Spring 2025 Interns The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association reminds students that internship opportunities are available for the spring 2025 semester. Those opportunities include a public policy internship, a meetings and events internship, and a producer education and sustainability internship. “Interning at NCBA is a fantastic learning opportunity and a great way to jumpstart your career in the cattle industry,” says NCBA President-Elect Buck Wehrbein (WHERE-bine), a Nebraska cattle producer. “Interns perform critical work that supports our advocacy efforts in Washington, our producer education programs, and our industry-focused meetings and events, including the annual cattle industry convention.” He’s encouraging students to apply for these internships and see how their skills might help the American cattle and beef industry. The public policy internship supports NCBA’s government affairs team in Washington, D.C. The meetings and events internship is in Denver, Colorado, as is the producer education and sustainability internship. For information or to apply, visit ncba.org. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Groups Call for a Quick End to Port Strike The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council called on the administration to immediately intervene in the port labor strike at the East and Gulf Coast ports. The dairy organizations warned that this disruption could have a devastating impact on America’s dairy farmers and exporters, who rely on the smooth functioning of these ports to get their products to international markets. “The administration must act now to bring both sides to the table because the stakes are too high,” says Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF. “This strike puts the livelihoods of American dairy farmers and the strength of our supply chain at risk.” Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC, says global customers depend on the reliability of U.S. dairy products. Delays caused by this strike not only risk damaging those relationships but also severely impact perishable dairy products that require timely delivery,” Harden says. *********************************************************************************** New Land Management Course for Livestock Producers Noble Research Institute and Certified Angus Beef partnered to deliver Land Stewardship, an educational course designed for livestock producers worldwide. Land Stewardship will launch next month and is an extension of Noble’s curriculum. It offers an introduction to the six soil health principles and how they work with the ecosystem processes. Available fully online and free, the program provides participants with the ability to complete it at their own pace. Producers of all sizes and locations will gain insights into improving their land management for healthy soil, better grazing animal performance, and a more resilient and profitable operation. “We are excited to partner with Certified Angus Beef, a company with a long history of commitment to the beef industry and the establishment of a set of uncompromising standards for taste,” says Steve Rhines, president and CEO of Noble Research. Bruce Cobb of CAB says farmers and ranchers are land stewards first. *********************************************************************************** Mercy Chefs Serving Meals After Hurricane Helene Mercy Chefs, a Virginia-based disaster relief and humanitarian aid organization, is serving hot, chef-prepared meals to the victims, volunteers, and first responders of Hurricane Helene. The nonprofit has served more than 27 million meals since it was founded in 2006 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The team is serving lunches and dinners in several locations across Florida. “This devastation caused by Hurricane Helene along Florida’s Big Bend and the Southeast is overwhelming,” says Gary LeBlanc, founder and CEO of Mercy Chefs. “We have the capacity to produce upwards of 20,000 meals a day as we work to feed body and soul wherever we are needed the most.” After Hurricane Katrina, LeBlanc went to New Orleans to volunteer and realized disaster relief could be done better. Nearly 20 years later, the organization has provided restaurant-quality meals across the country and around the globe. For more information, go to mercychefs.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 3, 2024 |

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 and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for August are due at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. The latest weather forecasts and news from the Middle East and Ukraine continue to get trader attention. Weather A front is sagging south into the U.S. on Thursday and while it is bringing some slightly chilly air into the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, it is rather dry. Some spotty showers may form over the Midwest late tonight into Friday, but coverage looks awfully low.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 2, 2024 |

Dockworker Strike Begins at East and Gulf Coast Ports Dockworkers at ports stretching from Maine to Texas are walking picket lines as of Tuesday morning, striking over wages and automation. Farm Policy News says it could reignite inflation and cause shortages of goods if it goes more than a few weeks. There was some progress reported on Monday in the contract talks, but workers went on strike after the current agreement ended at midnight. The strike affects 36 ports and is the first by the union since 1977. Reports say the affected ports handle 68 percent of all containerized exports in the U.S. and approximately 56 percent of containerized imports. The strike is expected to have a limited impact on bulk grain supports, including corn and soybeans. Bulk grain export facilities typically operate with different labor arrangements. However, soybeans, soybean meal, and other agricultural products exported via containers would be affected. A strike will reduce U.S. economic activity by $7.5 billion. *********************************************************************************** Dockworker Strike Highlights Importance of Food Independence American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says America is bracing for the impact of the massive dockworker strike that threatens to paralyze goods in and out of the U.S. He points out that our nation relies on international trade for everything from electronics to machinery. “Families also count on the imports of foods like bananas, coffee, and specialty items,” he says. “While there is a risk of shortages of some items, America is fortunate it can meet its nutritional needs without importing food.” He adds that America’s farmers grow a diverse range of foods that help ensure the nation’s food independence and grocery stores will remain stocked with domestically-raised products. “It’s even tougher because the dockworker strike started at the same time the farm bill extension expired,” Duvall adds. “Farmers meet the needs of America’s families with help from the farm bill, and now are working under a cloud of uncertainty.” *********************************************************************************** Farmer Sentiment Reaches Lowest Point Since 2016 The September Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reached its lowest readings since March 2016. Declining income expectations pushed farmer sentiment down as the barometer fell to 88, and the Index of Future Expectations dropped 14 points to 94. The Index of Current Conditions also fell seven points to 76, nearly matching levels seen in April 2020, during the height of COVID. September’s survey revealed that farmers are increasingly worried about commodity prices, input costs, agricultural trade prospects, and the potential impact of the upcoming election on their farm operations. The top concerns for survey respondents include 34 percent saying high input costs were their chief worry. Also, 33 percent pointed to lower output prices as their number one worry. Only 26 percent of all the survey respondents expect agricultural exports to rise during the next five years, the most pessimistic response to the question since it began in 2019. *********************************************************************************** National Corn Growers Association Elect a New President Kenneth Hartman, Jr., a corn farmer from Waterloo, Illinois, is the new President of the National Corn Growers Association. As his term began this week, he has a number of things to work on, including pushing Congress to pass a robust farm bill, expand markets, and address tariffs that are being placed on ag supplies and passed on to farmers. He also wants to extend consumer access to higher blends of ethanol. The key to accomplishing big goals like this is building relationships. “My theme as president is ‘Building Bridges,’” Hartman says. “We need to build on our ties with existing allies while cultivating new relationships with other organizations inside and outside of agriculture.” He also says corn growers need to continue reaching out to policymakers and other leaders who may not represent rural communities but who benefit indirectly from the work of farmers. “We’re building a coalition,” Hartman adds. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow Calls for Emergency Assistance After Helene Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow called for emergency assistance for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities who suffered devastating losses in the wake of Hurricane Helene. “This is a horrible blow to farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across the Southeast just as the harvest season was getting started for many crops,” Stabenow says. “As Chairwoman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, I’m focused on ensuring that these farmers and ranchers get the emergency assistance they need to get back on their feet as soon as possible.” AccuWeather recently increased its estimate of the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Helene from $145 billion to $160 billion. That number makes Hurricane Helene one of the costliest storms in United States history. Meantime, Stabenow encourages farmers and ranchers to report their losses to crop insurance agents and contact their local USDA offices for information on existing disaster assistance programs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Boosts Farmer Support and Nutrition Assistance The USDA is investing $1.7 billion for purchasing local and regionally produced foods and domestically produced foods for emergency food assistance. These investments, made possible by the Commodity Credit Corporation, will help American producers by ensuring they have the certainty of access to local and regional markets as well as the financial benefits that come with selling directly to institutions. With these purchases, USDA is at the same time ensuring schools, childcare facilities, and emergency food providers have access to healthy foods. “These investments provide immediate and long-term assistance to American farmers, families, and communities,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “By delivering food from domestic producers to schools, child care facilities, and emergency feeding organizations, we’re securing local and regional markets for those farmers and ensuring that students, young children, and neighbors in need are getting nutritious and reliable meals.” For more information on food support, go to usda.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 2, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. Traders remain attentive to events out of the Middle East and the latest weather forecasts. Weather Very quiet conditions are expected across the U.S. today, though a front will dip into the far northern tier. Precipitation will be limited at best.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 1, 2024 |

Grain Stocks Report Shows More Corn, Soybeans, and Wheat The USDA released its September 1 Grain Stocks Report, which showed old crop corn stocks in all positions totaled 1.76 billion bushels, up 29 percent from September 1, 2023. Of the total stocks, 780 million bushels are stored on farms, 29 percent higher than last year. Off-farm stocks, at 980 million bushels, were up 30 percent from a year ago. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions on September 1, 2024, totaled 342 million bushels, up 29 percent from September 1, 2023. Soybean stocks on-farm totaled 111 million bushels, 54 percent higher than in 2023. Off-farm stocks are 20 percent above last year. All wheat stored in all positions on September 1 totaled 1.99 billion bushels, up 12 percent from a year ago. On-farm stocks are 42 percent higher than last year at 664 million bushels. Off-farm stocks, at 1.32 billion bushels, are 13 percent higher than a year earlier. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Push for Post-Election Farm Bill Now that the farm bill extension reached its deadline on Monday, what’s next? Farm Policy News says while the bill expires on Monday, September 30, the funds don’t run out until the end of the year. Some lawmakers, including Senate Ag Committee Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR), have called for another one-year extension. House Republicans said that another extension would fail to stop the bleeding in the farm economy. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries puts the farm bill third on his list of must-pass bills for the lame-duck session of Congress, behind only averting a government shutdown and assuring military preparedness. “Farmers and ranchers do not have the luxury of waiting until the next Congress for an enactment of an effective five-year farm bill,” says House Ag Committee Chair Glen Thompson (R-PA). Earlier this month, over 300 ag groups flew to Washington to lobby for quick farm bill passage. *********************************************************************************** New Website Strengthens Value of Dairy Checkoff Dairy Management Inc. has launched a new website to more effectively communicate the full national and local impact of the dairy checkoff to farmers and importers. The new site, dairycheckoff.com, has content focused on these audiences that was previously found at USDairy.com. The new site is a way to focus on checkoff areas that are important to farmers, including growing dairy demand, sustainability, research and innovation, health and nutrition, and others. “In speaking with farmers, we could see there was some confusion when we had just one website for the entirety of the checkoff, and they didn’t know how to get more information on the programs that are delivering results for them,” says Joanna Hunter, head of farmer relations and outreach for DMI. “We developed dairycheckoff.com with a farmer-first mindset.” Visitors will find information on key checkoff pillars. There are episodes of the Your Dairy Checkoff Podcast and many other features. *********************************************************************************** Paying Livestock Producers to Stop “Factory Farming” Congressional Democrats unveiled a bill that would pay livestock farmers on large industrial operations to transition toward more climate-friendly practices. Agriculture Dive says the bill would use Inflation Reduction Act funding to provide farmers with grants to transition Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations into specialty crop production or pasture-based livestock operations. Farmers participating in this program would need to permanently cease operating their CAFOs within 180 days. The proposal comes as House Republicans look to move IRA funds earmarked for climate-smart agriculture to pay for other priorities in the farm bill. Democrats are fighting against that, although some have criticized the program for funding manure management and other practices shown to have little impact on climate change. “This legislation leverages conservation funding to give farmers a completely voluntary new path forward by providing them with the resources to transition to a more climate-friendly and humane system,” says New York Senator Cory Booker. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Up Slightly The U.S. inventory of hogs and pigs on September 1, 2024, totaled 76.5 million head, up slightly from September 1, 2023, and two percent higher than June 1, 2024. Breeding inventory, at 6.04 million head, was down two percent from last year, but up one percent from the previous quarter. Market hog inventory, at 70.4 million head, was up one percent from last year, and up two percent from last quarter. The June-August 2024 pig crop, at 35 million head, was one percent below 2023. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 2.99 million head, two percent lower than in 2023. The sows farrowed during the quarter represented 50 percent of the overall breeding herd. U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.96 million sows farrow during the September-November 2024 quarter, down slightly from the actual farrowing during the same period last year, and down four percent from the same time in 2022. *********************************************************************************** Using Nuclear Energy to Power Rural Utilities As part of the Investing in America Agenda, the Department of Energy and USDA announced more than $2.8 billion to support reliable, affordable, and clean power in the Midwest. DOE, through its Loan Programs Office, announced the closing of a loan guarantee of up to 1.52 billion dollars under the Inflation Reduction Act’s Energy Infrastructure Reinvestment Program for Holtec Palisades to help finance the restoration and resumption of service of an 800-megawatt nuclear-generating station in Covert Township, Michigan. This represents a first-of-its-kind effort by DOE to restart an American nuclear power plant. It will generate carbon pollution-free energy and save and expand a union workforce in Michigan while helping strengthen America’s nuclear energy sector and advance core climate and domestic energy goals. USDA also announced more than $1 billion in Empowering Rural America program awards for two rural electric cooperatives, including Wolverine Power Cooperative and Hoosier Energy.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 1, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Reports of manufacturing indices from around the world roll in overnight, leading up to the release of the U.S. index at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. NASS's Fats and Oils report is due out at 2 p.m., along with updates of USDA's Commodity Costs and Returns estimates. Weather The upper-level low and remnants of Hurricane Helene are finally getting pushed eastward and out of the country by a cold front cruising through the Midwest on Tuesday. Spotty showers are all that is left from the low and front. Colder temperatures are filling in behind the front but they won't last long as warm and dry conditions look to be the norm for the next couple of weeks.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 30, 2024 |

Veterinarian Shortage Reaching Crisis Level Veterinarian shortages are not new. Anyone who ever needed a vet in the middle of the night will tell you that. And any rural vet called in the middle of the night will agree. What is new is the realization that it is about to get worse. “If our veterinary workforce is not adequately staffed and prepared, in the event of an animal health emergency, there could be catastrophic consequences for the United States and the global food system,” said Dr. Erin Luley, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. According to Jody Kull, professor from Penn State University, about 50% of rural veterinarians currently in practice are within five years of retirement. Only 5% of practicing veterinarians in the United States are food animal veterinarians working on food, fiber or /milk-producing animals. Nationally, only about 3% to 4% of graduating veterinarians enter livestock practice. *********************************************************************************** FDA Set to Launch Human Foods Project on October 1 The Food and Drug Administration reached a significant milestone when it approved its reorganization and created its new unified Human Foods Program (HFP). It is one of the most significant reorganizations in FDA’s history. The new model for field operations and other significant modernization efforts is only days away, with Oct. 1 set as the implementation date. According to FDA, the new Human Foods Program will “notably enhance the agency’s ability to oversee and protect the human food supply and other products the FDA regulates. The FDA says it is focused on transforming the agency to be more efficient, nimble, and ready for the future with the ever-changing and complex industries it regulates. That includes the emergence of new food technologies, the impacts of globalization, climate change, and other factors that require the FDA to adapt to an evolving world quickly. ************************************************************************************* ASA & NOPA Welcome Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Boost Domestic Energy The American Soybean Association and the National Oilseed Processors Association last week hailed the introduction of bipartisan, bicameral legislation to support renewable fuels produced from domestically sourced feedstocks. The Farmer First Fuel Incentives Act, would restrict eligibility for the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit to fuels produced from domestic feedstocks and make 45Z a 10-year credit by extending it to 2034. ASA President Josh Gackle said that biofuel production paves a key path for the country to be a clean energy leader, and U.S. farmers who grow the crops going into those biofuels take pride in helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting the U.S. economy and energy independence. Imported waste feedstocks are assigned lower carbon intensity scores and benefit from minimal oversight and testing. Without this legislation, biofuel producers will have added incentive to buy imported feedstocks over U.S. soybean oil. ************************************************************************************* Codex Proposes Guidelines for Controlling Food Fraud A Codex committee has made progress on guidelines for preventing and controlling food fraud. The draft guidance has been sent to the Codex Alimentarius Commission for adoption, which will meet in Switzerland in November. The United States chaired the electronic working group. Food safety regulators from 60 countries and international organizations met to discuss food standards. Four new work proposals have also been put forward. These include guidance on appeals mechanisms due to the rejection of imported food, harmonizing the use of food establishment listing for market access, guidelines for the presentation of sanitary attestations on export certificates to better enable the transition to paperless trade, and principles to guide the digitalization of national food control systems. These must be approved at Codex’s November meeting. ************************************************************************************* U.S. Pork Producers, Veterinarians Protected from Misguided Antimicrobial Reduction Mandate In a victory for America’s pork producers and swine veterinarians, the National Pork Producers Council celebrated the United Nations’ decision to reject proposed on-farm target reductions of antimicrobials. Instead, the UN declaration on antimicrobial resistance invests in stewardship programs and strengthens veterinarians’ roles on the farm, which NPPC strongly supports. Without NPPC’s leadership and science-based voice in these discussions, by 2030 the UN could have implemented a 30% global on-farm reduction in antimicrobials, as well as limits on the use of certain antibiotics in animal agriculture. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, domestic sales of all medically important antimicrobials intended for use in food-producing animals decreased by 33% between 2016 and 2017. ************************************************************************************* Kraft Heinz Brings Procurement Expertise to Rise Against Hunger Food giant Kraft Heinz is leveraging its logistics partnerships to help the nonprofit bring food to communities in need across Europe. When Kraft Heinz was facing challenges in delivering food for nonprofit Rise Against Hunger, the company set out to leverage its existing procurement network through the Kraft Heinz Rise Together Procurement Program. The program, piloted in 2022, led to the formation of a cross-functional team of supply chain, operations, legal and environmental, social and governance experts, Sara Zeidan, head of agriculture and sustainability in the East at Kraft Heinz. The experts worked with the nonprofit to find ways to deliver food seamlessly, which helped create a blueprint for future logistics challenges. This year, the company has already committed $15 million to Rise Against Hunger and extended its partnership with the nonprofit for the next three years as the two continue to grow their work together.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 30, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by USDA's Quarterly Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary at 11 a.m. The weekly Crop Progress report will be out at 3 p.m. Grain traders are staying close to the latest weather reports and are interested in damage assessments from Hurricane Helene. Weather The remnants of what was Hurricane Helene continue to produce some limited showers in the Mid-Atlantic region Monday, but rainfall amounts will be quite low. A front is sweeping through the Northern Plains Monday morning and will push south and east across the Plains and Upper Midwest throughout the day. The front will be dry but kick up some strong winds in the Northern Plains that could be a risk for spreading wildfires.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 27, 2024 |

Groups Ask Administration to Intervene in East Coast Strike Threat Ag groups are urging the White House to step in and help avert a potential strike that could occur at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports beginning on October 1. Groups like the American Farm Bureau, Renewable Fuels Association, and the American Chemistry Council said, “The time has come for the government to intervene and ensure port operations don’t stop.” They’re asking for help in preventing damage to U.S. agriculture and the overall economy. Country Wide says Republican Senator Ted Cruz cited a JP Morgan analysis that predicted a strike at that large number of ports could cost the economy $5 billion daily. Negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association union and the United States Maritime Alliance employer group appear to be deadlocked on pay as the current contract expires on September 30. The Biden administration says it doesn’t intend to invoke the Taft-Hartley Act to prevent a strike. *********************************************************************************** USDA Farm Loan Changes Now in Effect USDA’s updates to the Farm Service Agency’s Farm Loan Programs are officially in effect. These changes are designed to increase financial flexibility for agricultural producers, allowing them to grow their operations, boost profitability, and build long-term savings. USDA says the new rules will mean a low-interest installment set-aside program. Financially distressed borrowers can defer up to one annual loan payment at a reduced interest rate. There are also flexible repayment terms. New repayment options give borrowers the ability to increase their cash flow and build working capital reserves, allowing for long-term financial planning. The new rules also mean reduced collateral requirements. FSA lowered the amount of additional loan security needed for direct farm loans, making it easier for borrowers to leverage their existing equity without putting their personal residence at risk. USDA says the new rules give farmers and ranchers better tools to manage their operations and get long-term financial stability. *********************************************************************************** USDA Encourages Producers to Prepare for Hurricane Helene The USDA reminds communities, farmers, ranchers, families, and small businesses in the path of Hurricane Helene that the agency has programs to provide help in the wake of natural disasters. Rainfall with the storm could trigger severe flooding in many areas. USDA partnered with FEMA and other disaster-focused organizations and created the Disaster Resource Center. This information source includes a searchable database of disaster-related resources powered by agents with subject matter expertise. USDA also developed a disaster assistance recovery tool specifically targeted to rural and agricultural issues. The tool walks producers through five questions that generate personalized results identifying which USDA disaster assistance programs can help them recover from a natural disaster like Hurricane Helene. USDA also encourages residents and small businesses in impact zones to contact a local USDA office to determine which assistance programs might fit their individual needs. To learn more about getting recovery help, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** CLA Elects New Board President CropLife America, the national association representing the manufacturers, distributors, and formulators of organic and non-organic pesticides, elected Darren Dillenbeck as its new Board Chair. Dillenbeck, president of FMC North America, will hold the title for two years and use his skills to help guide the association. “We’re so pleased to welcome Darren as the new Chair of our Board,” says Alexandra Dunn, CropLife America president and CEO. “His deep commitment to CLA members and the agricultural community will be invaluable as we continue important work on our most pressing issues.” Dillenbeck also says he’s honored to be elected to the new position and notes that their work as an industry has never been more critical. “We will ensure that our collective voice is heard on its own and alongside the voices of American farmers, whose livelihoods depend on having the necessary tools to succeed in an increasingly challenging global economy,” Dillenbeck says. *********************************************************************************** ALB Sponsors Young Leaders at Global Forum Young leaders in the U.S. sheep industry participated in the 2024 Global Sheep Forum’s NexGen Program in Australia in August. The leaders were selected to take part through a competitive application process sponsored by the American Lamb Board. The NexGen Forum was held in conjunction with the annual LambEx educational conference. The program is designed to create a global forum of young producers and leaders to share their ideas and network and to broaden their understanding of new innovations and technology in sheep production practices around the world. ALB Chair Jeff Ebert says participation in the Global Forum was important because the U.S. sheep industry must stay innovative and progressive to increase our production efficiencies and improve American competitiveness. “Educating our producers about the newest technologies and global opportunities is critical,” Ebert says. The program included farm tours focused on genetics, sustainability, traceability, and innovation. For more information on this, go to lambboard.com. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for World Ag Expo Innovation Contest The World Ag Expo offers a look into the latest innovation and education through the return of the Top 10 New Products Contest and Seminar Series. The Top 10 New Products Competition at the World Ag Expo provides a glimpse into cutting-edge technology and innovation. Open to exhibitors, the innovation contest showcases the latest in a competitive field of new products ranging from groundbreaking technology to simple solutions. Previous award winners have pointed to the Top 10 New Products competition as a catalyst for future success. “Winning a Top 10 award at the 2024 World Ag Expo provided a significant opportunity for Farm-ng,” says Nathan Dorn, Director of Agriculture Business Development for Farm-ng. Entrants must be exhibitors at the 2025 World Ag Expo, and products released anywhere between February 8, 2024, and February 13, 2025, are eligible. World Ag Expo is the largest annual outdoor ag tradeshow in the world. For more information, go to WorldAgExpo.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 27, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the U.S. Commerce Department will release August reports of U.S. personal incomes, consumer spending and the PCE inflation index. The University of Michigan's final consumer sentiment index for September is due out at 9 a.m. Hurricane Helene is creating problems in the southeastern U.S. and grain traders are staying close to weather forecasts for several crop areas around the world. Weather Helene has degraded into a tropical storm overnight as it has pushed north through Georgia, but it is still producing strong winds and areas of heavy rain that will intensify across the Mid-South throughout the day Friday. Breezy winds will also develop over the Midwest.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 26, 2024 |

Groups Respond to SAF Tax Credit Guidelines Legislation introduced in the House and Senate would extend a new sustainable aviation fuel tax credit for biofuels for ten years and prevent foreign producers from accessing the credits. Groups like the National Corn Growers Association applauded the legislation that supports domestic producers. “Corn growers are making every effort to help the airline industry lower its greenhouse gas emissions through the use of corn ethanol,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). The 45Z tax credit provides incentives to refineries that produce biofuels that can be used in commercial aircraft. The National Oilseed Processors Association and the American Soybean Association also hailed the legislation. “NOPA commends this bipartisan, bicameral legislative effort that puts U.S. fuel producers, crushers, and farmers first,” says NOPA President Kailee Buller. “While we support free trade and open markets, we don’t believe foreign feedstocks should benefit on the backs of U.S. taxpayers and to the detriment of U.S. farmers.” ************************************************************************************* Coalition Commends Senate SAF Caucus The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition’s Executive Director, Allison Graab, issued a statement applauding the establishment of the bipartisan Senate Sustainable Aviation Fuel Caucus. The Caucus is led by Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Boozman (R-AR), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). “The SAF Coalition is grateful to Senator Jerry Moran and his colleagues, Senators Duckworth, Boozman, and Klobuchar for their leadership in launching the bipartisan Senate Sustainable Aviation Fuel Caucus,” Graab says. “The formation of the SAF Caucus is a positive step towards strengthening national energy security, driving economic growth, and generating quality jobs across the country through the development and deployment of SAF.” Graab also says her group is looking forward to working with the Caucus and other SAF supporters and advocates to enhance incentives to expand SAF production and support the nation’s energy needs. The SAF Coalition represents the entirety of the SAF value chain. ************************************************************************************* Farm Bill, Ag Economy Top Concerns at Tenth Ag Outlook Forum Navigating a softer ag economy and no new farm bill were the chief topics at the Tenth Annual Ag Outlook Forum on September 16 in Kansas City. Hosted by Agri-Pulse and the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City, the Forum is a critical information exchange between national leaders in ag policy, economics, and business during harvest season. In an overview of the economy, USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer said most crop prices will likely continue their downward trend through the end of 2024, but so will total production expenses, alleviating some of the losses. “Crop receipts are expected to lower net farm income for 2024,” he said to those in attendance. He’s hopeful that farmers have several good years of farm income stashed away to help carry them through the leaner time. Jackson Takach of Farmer Mac says the major difference between now and the last down-cycle is the interest rate. ************************************************************************************* Port Strike Could Hinder U.S. Ag Shipments A potential strike at three dozen U.S. ports could upend supply chains and raise prices weeks before election day. Farm Policy News says the International Longshoremen’s Association says it will have 25,000 members walk off the job if the union doesn’t come to a new agreement with the U.S. Maritime Alliance, which represents carriers and marine terminal operators, before their contract ends on September 30. The contract covers all ports between Maine and Texas, including New York, Savannah (Georgia), Houston, Miami, and New Orleans. A coalition of 177 trade groups says those ports handle 41 percent of the country’s containerized port volume, and their closure would have a devastating impact on the U.S. economy. While bulk grain exports would largely be unaffected, the strike would impact containerized agricultural exports like soybeans, soybean meal, and other agricultural products exported via containers would be affected, forcing farmers to move shipments to new ports. ************************************************************************************* Columbia Lifts Ban on U.S. Beef Imports Colombia lifted a ban on American beef imports from the states where bird flu was detected in dairy cows. According to USDA’s export library, beef exporters in 14 states will get restored access to Colombian markets. Colombia was the only country to ban U.S. beef imports over the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle. Agriculture Dive says Colombia’s ban hurt U.S. beef export purchases and reduced Colombia’s spending by as much as 70 percent during the summer. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says the U.S. is Colombia’s largest supplier of imported beef. Before the restrictions went into effect, Colombia averaged about three million dollars per month in U.S. beef purchases. In July, exports fell to less than $850,000. While Colombia is considered an active market for the U.S. beef trade, it still makes up a small percentage of total exports. The U.S. sent over $40 million in beef to Colombia in 2023. ************************************************************************************* Mexico to Import Less U.S. Corn USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service says Mexico will import less corn as its domestic production increases in the 2024-2025 marketing year. A report from the FAS Mexico City Office says corn exports to Mexico will fall two percent to 23 million metric tons. Production is forecast to jump six percent to 25 million metric tons during the 2024-2025 marketing year. “The forecast is based on higher-than-average precipitation and gradual recovery of their reservoirs during the summer of 2024 following severe and exceptional drought conditions in the previous market year,” the department said. Mexico bought $5.39 billion worth of U.S. corn in 2023, making it by far the largest importer. Japan was second at $2.07 billion, and China was third at $1.63 billion. Harvested area in the current marketing year is expected to rise five percent to 15.8 million acres. From January 1 through August 11, precipitation was three percent higher than the 30-year average.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 26, 2024 |

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, U.S. second-quarter GDP, U.S. durable goods orders and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's monthly cold storage report and quarterly hogs and pigs report will be out at 2 p.m. Weather Hurricane Helene has strengthened since Wednesday and should continue to do so throughout the day Thursday as it heads north through the Gulf of Mexico. It may become a Category 3 storm, or major hurricane, before landfall in the Big Bend area of Florida by Thursday evening. Rain bands from Helene have already been moving through Florida and the storm will be interacting with a front and upper-level low in the region to produce heavy rain for the Southeast throughout the day.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 25, 2024 |

Rural Mainstreet Index Stays Below Growth Neutral For the 13th consecutive month, the Rural Mainstreet Index sank below growth neutral. That’s according to a September survey of bank CEO’s in rural areas of a ten-state region dependent on agriculture and-or energy. The region’s reading in September sank from 40.9 in August to 37.5. It was the lowest level since COVID began in spring 2020. The index ranges from 0 to 100, with 50.0 representing growth neutral. “Weak agriculture commodity prices, sinking agriculture equipment sales, and elevated input costs pushed the Index below growth neutral for the 13th straight month,” says Ernie Goss (Gahs) of Creighton University. For the fourth time in five months, farmland prices sank. The region’s farmland index fell to 43.8 from 45.5 in August. “Only 4.2 percent of bank CEOs reported that farmland prices expanded from August levels,” Goss adds. “One-fourth of the bankers anticipate a 10 to 20 percent downturn in prices next year.” ************************************************************************************* USDA Invests $466 Million in Food and Agriculture Projects Worldwide The USDA will provide $466.5 million to strengthen global food security through its two premiere international development programs. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the agency will provide $248 million to the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program, and USDA will provide $218.5 million to help seven countries through the Food for Progress program. Under both programs, USDA purchases U.S.-grown commodities and provides them to implementing organizations, including the United Nations World Food Program. Food for Progress implementing partners sell the commodities locally and use the proceeds to support local development projects. This year, USDA will provide more than 37,000 metric tons of U.S. commodities to support projects in many countries, including El Salvador, Ethiopia, and Guatemala. That will benefit 1.2 million children and their family members in 2,800 pre-primary and primary schools. Food for Progress will utilize 315,000 metric tons of American commodities to benefit almost 200,000 farmers. ************************************************************************************* Mandating Milk for Military Installations Two Navy veterans, Congressmen Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin and Guy Reschenthaler of Pennsylvania introduced the Strengthening Our Servicemembers with Milk Act. The bill directs the U.S. Secretary of Defense to provide fluid or powdered milk to members of the Armed Forces at dining facilities on military installations. “The milk produced by our hardworking dairy farmers is a vital source of nutrients, playing a critical role in supporting the health and strength of our servicemembers,” says Van Orden. “By mandating milk on military installations, we are ensuring our men and women in uniform have access to healthy food options while serving our country.” Reschenthaler also says milk plays an important role in America’s success. “It provides vital nutrients to the American people with the help of our dairy farmers in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and across the nation,” Reschenthaler says. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation with my fellow Navy veteran.” ************************************************************************************* Egg Production Down Three Percent in August U.S. egg production totaled 9.08 billion during August 2024, down three percent from last year. Production included 7.77 billion table eggs and 1.3 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.21 billion were broiler-type and 95.8 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during August totaled 370 million, down three percent from last year. August egg production per 100 layers was 2,451, up slightly from August 2023. Total layers in the U.S. on September 1, 2024, were 372 million, down three percent from last year. The 372 million layers consisted of 307 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 61.6 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.66 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. The rate of laying per day on September 1 averaged 79.3 eggs per 100 layers, up one percent from September 1 of last year. Egg-type chicks hatched during August totaled 57.4 million, up nine percent from August 2023. ************************************************************************************* CFTC Issues First Carbon Credit Market Guidelines The Commodity Futures Trading Commission approved the first guidelines for the trading of voluntary carbon credit derivative contracts in the country. Carbon credit derivative contracts are financial instruments that derive their value from carbon credits, which represent the right to emit one metric ton of carbon dioxide or an equivalent amount of greenhouse gasses. AgriMarketing Dot Com says the contracts allow traders and market participants to hedge against or speculate on the future price of carbon credits, similar to how traditional derivative contracts function in commodities or financial markets. Regulators pushed for heightened scrutiny of voluntary carbon markets, which have developed outside government oversight due to concerns over quality and double counting. “The CFTC’s mission focused on risk mitigation and price discovery puts us on the front lines of the global nexus between financial markets and decarbonization efforts,” says CFTC Chair Rostin Benham. “We’ve outlined guidance to crack down on manipulation.” ************************************************************************************* NASDA Hosts 2024 Next Generation Cohort The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation hosted the 2024 NASDA Next Generation Program at the NASDA Annual Meeting in Indianapolis. The program is designed to engage college students with leaders in agricultural policy and industry, fostering professional connections and promoting exposure to state and federal policy discussions. Launched in 2015, NASDA’s Next Generation Program provides an opportunity for college students to interact directly with leaders who represent state departments of agriculture from around the country. “The unique and innovative perspectives of these students are an essential part of the conversation as we look to support more robust and resilient agricultural food systems,” says NASDA Foundation Senior Director Chris Jones. “With support from our program sponsors, we are proud of the connections and opportunities that this initiative continues to create for the next generation of agricultural leaders.” The students engaged with industry leaders and attended policy meetings.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 25, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales in August is set for 9:00 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 9:30 a.m., a report that includes weekly ethanol production. Weather A front has pushed to the Gulf and East Coasts, where scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue for Wednesday. Eyes remain on the Gulf of Mexico as Tropical Storm Helene becomes a hurricane and quickly strengthens throughout the day as it moves northward toward the Florida Panhandle.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 24, 2024 |

NCGA Applauds House Vote on Tailpipe Emissions The National Corn Growers Association applauded the House of Representatives for passing a bill last week that would overturn tailpipe emissions standards from the Environmental Protection Agency. Those standards focus solely on using electric vehicles to lower greenhouse gas emissions. “The members of Congress who passed this legislation understand there are many different tools that we can use to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). “While it could take years to realize the potential that EVs offer, ethanol is an effective part of a portfolio of options for addressing climate concerns and is fully available for use today.” A decision of this magnitude will have long-lasting negative impacts on the rural economy because it ignores the benefits of ethanol. It’s uncertain whether the Senate will consider the legislation before the end of 2024. The Corn Growers are currently litigating in federal court against the rule. ************************************************************************************* USDA Releases Cattle on Feed and Milk Production Reports Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States in feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more animals totaled 11.2 million head on September 1. That inventory was one percent above September 1, 2023. Placements in feedlots totaled 1.98 million head, one percent below last year. Net placements were 1.92 million head. Fed cattle marketings in August totaled 1.82 million head, four percent below last year. Meantime, milk production in the 24 major dairy states during August reached 18.1 billion pounds, up 0.1 percent from August 2023. Production per cow in the 24 states averaged 2,036 pounds for August, eight pounds higher than August 2023. The number of milk cows on farms totaled 8.8 million head, 28,000 head less than August 2023, but unchanged from July 2024. Overall United States milk production in August reached 18.8 billion pounds, down 0.1 percent from August 2023. ************************************************************************************* Recent Soy Sales Won’t Lift Export Prospects The U.S. is coming off one of its worst soybean export seasons in recent memory. Shipments during the season rivaled those from a few years ago when the U.S. and China were locked in a trade war. Export sales for 2024-2025 began on September 1 and have been stronger than average over the past months as China stepped into the market to make purchases. XM Dot Com says two weeks into the marketing year, overall soy sales were at five-year lows and five percent below this time last year. Brazil, one of the top competitors of the U.S. in the world soy market, doesn’t have as many soybeans to export this year, and America’s soybeans have recently been more price-competitive. However, for the third straight year, logistics are getting disrupted by low water levels on the Mississippi River, restricting the movement of grain to the busiest export hub in the U.S. ************************************************************************************* Partnership on Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture Purdue University and Bayer announced the creation of the Coalition for Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture, a public-private partnership designed to help improve the soil health of farmland while also increasing food production for a growing population. The coalition’s mission is to generate robust, real-world data in support of regenerative agriculture practices to help farmers restore soil health and biomass, increase biodiversity, and improve the resiliency of ecosystems over time. The coalition’s new frameworks will also support education and outreach programs to enhance sustainable and regenerative agriculture. “America’s farmers are already global leaders in providing food worldwide, supplying a substantial amount of grain, meat, and other agricultural products,” says Karen Plaut, executive vice president for research at Purdue. “But with population projections of nine billion people in the years ahead, it’s critical to provide the tools that support those farmers who are called upon to produce even more while stewarding their lands.” ************************************************************************************* USDA Launches Support Network for Financially Stressed Producers The USDA launched the Distressed Borrowers Assistance Network, an initiative designed to provide support to financially distressed farmers and ranchers across the nation. Through a series of Cooperative Agreements, this national network will connect distressed borrowers with individualized assistance to help them stabilize and regain financial footing. Network partners include Farm Aid, the University of Arkansas, the University of Minnesota, and others. “Having someone with experience in ag finance who helps producers work through financial difficulties can be the difference between losing the farm or prospering,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “The Distressed Borrowers Assistance Network underscores our dedication to farmers and ranchers receiving the tailored support they need.” He also says the initiative will address the immediate needs of distressed borrowers and provide comprehensive, wraparound services aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by financially distressed producers. Investments will build a support network for agriculture in the years ahead. ************************************************************************************* Dairy Consumption Good News and Bad News One of the more well-known consumer trends is a decline in per capita milk consumption. Americans drank 250 pounds per person in 1975, but consumption has steadily dropped over the decades, reaching only 130 pounds in 2022. However, Agricultural Economic Insights says the news isn’t all bad for dairy. Per capita consumption of yogurt and cheese has increased over the last few decades. Compared to 2000, per capita yogurt consumption has more than doubled, and cheese has also posted big gains, including American cheese up 28 percent since 2000, and mozzarella is up 40 percent. Yogurt and cheese have been the clear winners, while milk and ice cream have struggled. But AEI economists point out that different activity measures could lead to different conclusions about the magnitude of consumer shifts. While per capita consumption data is important, consumer prices and a larger population could also affect the dairy market.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 24, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. consumer confidence for September is due out at 9 a.m. CDT and is the only significant report on Tuesday's docket. Grain traders are staying attentive to the latest weather forecasts with several active threats to crop areas this week. Weather A small system continues to trek through the Midwest Tuesday, producing areas of showers and thunderstorms and limited areas of heavy rain. An upper-level low is drifting south behind it, getting cut off from the jet stream that will produce showers for the South-Central states the next couple of days and guide a developing tropical system northward through the Gulf of Mexico later this week.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 23, 2024 |

USDA Finds Antibiotics in Sample of Animals Raised Antibiotic Free USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service released new guidelines last week aimed at strengthening documentation in support of environmental or animal-raising labeling claims on meat and poultry products after a recent study found antibiotics in livestock raised for the no-antibiotics market. USDA called for meat and poultry companies to do more to verify claims that the products are raised antibiotic-free. "The action FSIS is taking through the publishing of this guidance today addresses these concerning findings and makes clear that FSIS will take enforcement action against any establishments found to be making false or misleading negative antibiotic claims," the agency said. FSIS said animal-raising claims such as "raised without antibiotics," "grass-fed" and "free-range," and environment-related claims such as "raised using regenerative agriculture practices" and "climate-friendly" are voluntary marketing claims. ************************************************************************************* Threatened Port Strike a Concern for Shippers Shippers have less than two weeks to prepare contingency plans if workers strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports in the U.S. Composed of 85,000 members, the International Longshoremen’s Association is approaching the expiration of its master contract with the United States Maritime Alliance, or USMX, on September 30. The union’s chances of averting an Oct. 1 strike are dwindling as automation concerns and wage disagreements stall negotiations. ILA President Harold Daggett has been clear about the union’s intentions to strike and shared a strike mobilization plan earlier this month. A strike would have a major impact on operations and the flow of goods at several ports. The contract between the ILA and USMX covers ports in states such as Texas, Maine, New York, New Jersey and Florida, but a strike could spur disruptions for other regions and industries. West Coast, Canada and Mexico ports are seen as viable alternatives if a strike becomes reality. ************************************************************************************* General Mills, Grocery Giant Partnering on Regenerative Ag Project The owner of East Coast grocery chains Food Lion, Giant Food and Stop & Shop is investing alongside General Mills to expand regenerative agriculture for key ingredients such as wheat and oats in an effort to reduce emissions across their shared value chain. Agriculture Dive reports Ahold Delhaize USA and the Minneapolis-based maker of Cheerios and Betty Crocker products plan to co-invest in farms adopting regenerative agriculture practices, such as cover cropping and nutrient management techniques. No financial specifics were disclosed. The collaboration is focused on geographic growing regions where key ingredients like wheat and oats are sourced. The partnership is set to advance regenerative practices on more than 70,000 acres of farmland in Kansas and Canada’s Saskatchewan province by the end of 2025. This is Ahold Delhaize USA’s second foray into regenerative agriculture this year, following a pilot with Kellanova over the summer that supported the adoption of sustainable practices on North Carolina farms that grow wheat used to make Cheez-It crackers. ************************************************************************************* Salt Forcing Mid-Atlantic Farmers to Seek Alternative Crops More and more mid-Atlantic farmland is becoming inundated with salt, making crops like corn and soybeans ungrowable. Visible salt patches almost doubled across land along the Delmarva Peninsula, and over 20,000 acres of farmland were converted to marsh. The range of economic losses has been estimated between $39.4 million and $107.5 million annually under circumstances where farmers abandoned corn and soybeans altogether. Salt Meadow Cordgrass could be one answer. It often yields a bumper crop and can stop coastal erosion. According to the Good News Network, this crop from colonial times may be a future harvest in places like Delaware and New Jersey. The native species has been used for building insulation, as packing material, and as an additive to concrete, for paper, textiles, fodder for animals. The cordgrass is naturally free of seeds and weeds because of its strangulating root system, which makes it useful as a premium mulch for flower beds. ************************************************************************************* Society of St. Andrew Gleaning Unused Food for the Hungry The Society of St. Andrew announced last week that it has shared its billionth pound of food with people in need. Gleaners have shared one billion pounds of food that would have otherwise been wasted. Countless families have had food on their tables because of the hard work of gleaners, volunteers, and staff and the unwavering generosity of donors, farmers, and supporters. Each pound of food rescued speaks to the power we can have when we work together. SoSA’s mission is to build caring communities through sharing food, and each pound of produce tells a story of that connection. The Society of St. Andrew is a 45-year-old national nonprofit hunger-relief ministry that improves the environment by keeping good food out of landfills and feeds hungry people by sharing rescued fruits and vegetables with front-line feeding agencies, soup kitchens, shelters, food banks and food pantries. Across the country. More information is available online at EndHunger.org. ************************************************************************************* Drought Threatening Brazilian Coffee Crop As harvest wraps up for this year’s Brazilian coffee crop, drought is already threatening the 2025 harvest. The market is watching how the dry conditions, the worst drought in more than seventy years there, will affect the coffee plants. Prices are already at a 13-year high when adjusted for inflation, according to the International Coffee Organization. In August, the organization’s Composite Indicator Price, which combines the price of several types of green coffee beans, averaged $2.38 per pound, up nearly 55% from the same month a year ago. In part, prices are rising because of higher demand, particularly in Asia. But weather is also driving increases. Drought, frost and fire have damaged as much as one-fifth of arabica coffee producers’ growing areas in Brazil, according to CoBank. AP reports Vietnam, the world’s second largest coffee producer, is also experiencing heat and drought which could impact the crop there.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 23, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A front that draped itself across the Corn Belt over the weekend developed a low-pressure center along it that will move through Missouri on Monday and into Illinois overnight. The front will produce areas of showers and thunderstorms and potentially some severe weather and areas of heavy rain. We will also be watching the northwest Caribbean for tropical storm development.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 20, 2024 |

Fed Cuts Interest Rates, Some Relief for Agriculture Kicking off an expected loosening of U.S. monetary policy, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by half a percentage point on Wednesday. The move brings a larger-than-normal reduction in the cost of borrowing, which followed growing concern about the health of America’s job market. Farm Policy News says higher interest rates have hit the agricultural sector much harder than the rest of the U.S. economy. Interest rates during the last two years have been at a high point not seen in decades, not only increasing farmers operating costs but also helping to fuel fund managers’ record short positions in corn, soybeans, and wheat. Industry experts say the half-percent rate cut is a good start for easing the price pressures on agriculture. Policymakers see the Fed’s benchmark rate falling another half a percentage point at the end of 2024, another full point in 2025, and by a half-percentage point in 2026. *********************************************************************************** EWG Sues Tyson Over “Deceptive” Marketing The Environmental Working Groups filed a lawsuit against Tyson Foods, the second-largest meat company in the world. The suit accuses the company of making “false or misleading” marketing claims targeting D.C. consumers concerned about climate change. It targets Tyson’s claims that its industrial meat production operations will reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and that it produces “climate-smart” beef. The plaintiffs want to stop Tyson from continuing to make what they say is unsubstantiated environmental claims. The groups are calling for Tyson to retract its misleading statements and be held accountable. Despite 2022 annual revenues of over $53 billion, the groups say Tyson spent $50 million on GHG reduction practices, less than 0.1 percent of its revenue. “Consumers are increasingly making purchasing decisions with their climate footprint in mind,” the groups said in a statement. “Tyson is trying to exploit this trend by making unsubstantiated claims about its sustainability practices.” *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Falls to Near Three-Month Low The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output fell to its lowest level in three months while inventories rose slightly during the week that ended on September 13. The agency said production sank to an average of 1.049 million barrels a day, down from 1.09 million barrels a day the previous week. It’s also the lowest output since June 21. The Midwest, which produces the most ethanol of any region in the country, saw production drop to an average of 986,000 barrels a day from 1.019 million the week prior. That’s the lowest point in the region since June 7. That was the entirety of the losses as Gulf Coast production rose to an average of 28,000 barrels a day, East Coast output was unchanged at 12,000 barrels a day, and Rocky Mountain production was steady at 14,000 barrels. West Coast production remained at an average of 9,000 barrels per day. *********************************************************************************** Grants for Climate-Smart Sheep Producers The American Lamb Board is looking for 150 sheep producers to participate in its Climate Smart Sheep Program. Producers enrolled in the program will be paid up to $7,000 to develop and implement Climate Smart Sheep management practices and measure and report emissions and life cycle analysis. Possible practices include prescribed grazing, cover crop planting, range planting, tree or shrub enhancement, cross-fencing, and others. “Adding on-farm research and data collection in the form of Climate Smart grants not only extends the value of this research project, but it also provides sheep producers with resources and information they need to improve their livestock operations,” says ALB Chair Jeff Ebert. “Sustainability is a top priority for the American Lamb Board.” The producer application can be found online at LambBoard.com. The application period ends on December 1, and producers will be notified by December 15. The program will begin on January 1, 2025. *********************************************************************************** BLM Announces Rangeland Stewardship and Innovation Award Winners At the Public Lands Council’s annual meeting, the Bureau of Land Management announced the winners of the 2024 Rangeland Stewardship and Rangeland Innovation awards. The two organizations have partnered for 19 years to honor BLM livestock grazing permittees and lessees who demonstrate exceptional management, collaboration, and communication that restores, conserves, or enhances public lands. The Rangeland Stewardship Award winner is Fitzgerald Ranch, Inc., of Plush, Oregon. The Rangeland Stewardship Award winner in the collaborative team category is the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance of Montana. The Rangeland Innovation Award winner in the Permittee Category is the Hansen family of PH Livestock in Wyoming. “Federal lands ranchers represent the most efficient and cost-effective way to maintain western rangeland, while still producing a wholesome product for consumers,” says PLC President Mark Roeber. “Grazing permittees partner with BLM to protect and build vital wildlife habitat and improve native plant life while reducing invasive grasses and preventing catastrophic wildfires.” *********************************************************************************** Stocks of Hams, Turkeys, and Butter are Higher Than 2023 The Fall and Winter holidays are still a few months out, but USDA says the essentials for holiday cooking have been accumulating in cold storage. Stocks of bone-in and boneless hams at the end of July totaled 139.2 million pounds, 1.2 percent above last year. Whole-hen turkey stocks totaled 109.4 million pounds at the end of July, an increase of 12.5 percent from the same time last year. That’s even though the 2024 turkey production is projected to be lower than last year. Butter in cold storage at the end of July was seven percent above 2023. The 2024 beef production forecast is adjusted slightly higher on reported slaughter data through early September. The third quarter of 2024 lamb and mutton import forecast was raised from 80 to 90 million pounds. The 2024 dairy forecasts for the average number of milk cows, milk per cow, and total milk production were lowered to 9.33 million head, 24,200 pounds, and 225.9 billion pounds, respectively.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 20, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets After a week in which the Federal Reserve lowered interest rates by a half-percent, the only report on Friday's docket is USDA's Cattle on Feed report for September 1, due out at 2 p.m. CDT. Weather A front has moved into the Midwest on Friday with the southern portion of the front still stuck in the Southern Plains. Some areas of isolated showers will form near the front, especially late in the day. Another front will move through the Canadian Prairies and into the Northern Plains today with some showers as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 19, 2024 |

AM Radio Bill Moves to House Floor Efforts to keep AM radio in the dashboards of U.S. vehicles have taken a step forward in the House. The House Energy and Commerce Committee voted 45-2 to send the proposed AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act to the full House for a vote. “It’s been a stalwart of American prosperity and information sharing,” says Representative Jeff Duncan (R-SC). “Having AM radio available is important to my constituents, especially during emergencies.” If passed by the full House, the proposed Act would require the Secretary of Transportation to issue a rule requiring access to AM broadcast stations in motor vehicles. If they don’t, automakers would get fined. The role of AM during natural disasters was cited by several lawmakers as they spoke during the bill’s markup, noting that the Federal Emergency Management Agency spent millions solidifying the Emergency Alert System with AM radio as the backbone of the EAS. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Dairy Calls for Swift Action Against Colombia The U.S. Dairy Export Council and National Milk Producers Federation expressed their strong disappointment with a preliminary ruling by Colombia’s government that unfairly targets U.S. dairy exporters. The move advances baseless claims that U.S. milk powder was unduly subsidized. The groups called on U.S. trade officials to take immediate action to challenge Colombia’s unjust decision and defend American dairy farmers and exporters. Based on the Colombian announcement, the preliminary findings call for an additional 4.86 percent tariff to be implemented on U.S. milk powder imports. That’s despite the fact that the Colombian government admitted that there are “many factors negatively affecting Colombia’s dairy sector.” Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF, says these findings show that Colombia does not respect its trade commitments. “Instead of working with us to resolve this issue in a mutually beneficial way, Colombia chose instead to move forward with a meritless investigation,” Doud says. *********************************************************************************** Public Lands Council Begins 56th Annual Meeting The Public Lands Council opened its 56th annual meeting in Grand Junction, Colorado on Tuesday. Ranchers, policymakers, administration officials, and industry stakeholders from across the country are meeting to discuss the most urgent issues facing the public lands ranching industry. Over the two days, federal grazing permittees will shape PLC policies for the next year and hear from influential decision-makers. This year’s meeting is taking place as grazing permittees are facing deadly wildfires and a host of other extreme weather conditions across the West. They’re also facing several federal rulemakings that seriously threaten ranchers’ abilities to reliably access public lands. “This is our best opportunity to address the issues that affect access and management of federal lands,” says Kaitlynn Glover, PLC Executive Director. “This year is a perfect example: grazing permittees are dealing with wildfires, increased regulatory burdens, and uncertainty from new uses of federal lands that are pressuring permittees.” *********************************************************************************** Potential World Wheat Supply Challenges Ahead Farm Policy News says dried-out soils in Russia and Ukraine are threatening wheat planting for harvest next year. It’s yet another challenge for farmers hit by the ongoing war and weather events. The two nations account for a quarter of the world’s wheat exports, but large chunks of land are too dry to plant crops. There’s still time for conditions to get better, but the challenges bring a risk of shortening the planting window for the winter crops that make up the bulk of their annual production. Industry experts say it’s an early reminder of the possibility of risks to the wheat supply next year. World wheat prices have begun creeping upward in recent weeks, due in part to concerns about the Black Sea supply of wheat. The output in Ukraine is about a third below the pre-war levels, and Russia’s latest crop shrank 10 percent because of unfavorable weather. *********************************************************************************** Judge Dismisses Price-Fixing Suit A judge in Missouri dismissed a lawsuit accusing agricultural giants like Bayer, Corteva, Syngenta, and others of price fixing. The suit accused the companies of conspiring with wholesalers and retail outlets to fix prices for seeds and crop protection chemicals, forcing farmers to pay higher prices. A St. Louis-based judge says that the farmers and other plaintiffs failed to present sufficient allegations that the companies had violated U.S. antitrust laws. The plaintiffs said the companies schemed to collectively boycott electronic “crop inputs” platforms, depriving farmers and other purchasers of the ability to make effective cost comparisons for key agricultural materials. The judge said the plaintiffs’ accusations did not rebut the companies’ claims that their practices served legitimate business purposes. She faulted the plaintiffs for advancing “mere generalizations” in their lawsuit. Bayer, Corteva, Syngenta, and BASF all welcomed the court’s ruling in separate statements. All of the defendants denied any wrongdoing. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Depends on Reliable Rail Service Growth Energy highlighted many issues currently plaguing the nation’s rail service that has resulted in delayed shipments, longer wait times, and higher costs for American ethanol producers. The group’s Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Chris Bliley, testified to the scale of the problem before the Surface Transportation Board. “With drivers facing high fuel prices and ethanol is consistently trading significantly less than unfinished gasoline, at no other time has the need for timely and efficient ethanol rail service been more important,” he said. Data posted by the STB shows that in 2022, the average dwell time for ethanol train units increased, average rail speed decreased, and the average number of ethanol-loaded cars not moved increased, all negative trends that contribute to added costs and other negative consequences through the entire biofuel supply chain. “The ethanol industry ships almost 70 percent of what it produces via rail,” he added.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 19, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Early Thursday, markets are fresh off Wednesday's half-percent rate cut from the Federal Reserve. 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 the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales in August and the U.S. index of leading indicators are both out at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Weather A storm system moving through the Canadian Prairies continues showers there and is pushing a front into Minnesota on Thursday. The northern half of the front will be the most active today, with scattered showers and thunderstorms down through northern Missouri. The southern half of the front will be stuck across the Central and Southern Plains, but it may also produce some showers and storms. Severe weather will be possible in the storms, especially north.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 18, 2024 |

Trade Policy Shifts Impact on U.S. Agriculture Agricultural economists from North Dakota State University have examined the proposed trade policies of the two presidential candidates and one proposal being floated in Congress. The NDSU experts laid out the potential losses to soybean, corn, wheat, and beef exports under different scenarios. Under the three proposed trade policy scenarios, North Dakota State estimates substantial export losses for U.S. soybeans, corn, beef, and wheat. Each scenario assumes the U.S. government imposes tariffs on goods from China and other countries, which would provoke retaliatory measures against American exports. Under a worst-case scenario, projected U.S. ag exports could decrease by $15.8 billion for soybeans, $4.4 billion for corn, $2.5 billion for wheat, and $2.3 billion for beef. These projected trade losses pose significant challenges, especially in the Midwest, which relies heavily on exporting these critical commodities to foreign markets. Beef states like Kansas, Texas, and Nebraska would also be hit hard financially. ********************************************************************************** Fertilizer Institute Wants More from Rail Industry The Fertilizer Institute testified before the Surface Transportation Board and emphasized the ongoing need for the freight rail industry to shift its focus toward customer service and growth. The fertilizer industry has long relied on rail service for the efficient and safe transport of its products but has struggled with declining service quality, increasing rates, and a lack of attention to customer needs. “The fertilizer industry is heavily reliant on rail and cannot afford to see continued stagnation in freight rail service,” says TFI vice president of government affairs Ryan Bowley. He also pointed to data showing that while rail employment has dropped and carloads have declined, rail rates have surged. Between 2005 and 2017, rates for transporting critical farm inputs like anhydrous ammonia increased by more than 200 percent. These price hikes and inconsistent service make it difficult for fertilizer companies to meet the delivery demands of U.S. farmers. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Challenges EPA Emissions Standards Growth Energy filed a brief in the D.C. Court of Appeals in a case challenging the Environmental Protection Agency’s Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later vehicles. It’s also known as the tailpipe emissions rule and applies to Light Duty and Medium Duty vehicles. In the brief, Growth Energy noted that EPA’s rule was a missed opportunity to recognize the positive impact biofuels can have on reducing tailpipe emissions. “As Congress recognized when enacting the Renewable Fuel Standard, biofuels offer numerous climate and other benefits,” Growth Energy said in the brief. “When compared with petroleum, corn ethanol emits only half the greenhouse gasses and cellulosic ethanol emits even less.” The group also says ethanol and other biofuels emit less particulate matter and other pollutants harmful to human health. “All these benefits are available right now, all while enhancing U.S. energy security and supporting U.S. jobs,” the group added. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases September Feed and Wheat Outlooks This month’s 2024-2025 U.S. coarse grains outlook is for marginally higher supplies and slightly tighter stocks. A slight increase in corn yields isn’t enough to offset a reduction in beginning stocks driven by strengthening fourth-quarter demand in 2023-2024. For sorghum, higher yields lift the supply forecast and are expected to spur export volumes. Corn and sorghum prices are at parity, with both reduced a dime to $4.10 a bushel. Barley supplies are slightly lower on smaller imports, and there are no changes to the oats supply. In wheat, the European Union yield is forecast at a six-year low, estimated at 124 million metric tons, down to its lowest level since 2018-2019. U.S. wheat production for 2024-2025 is unchanged this month and remains at 1.982 billion bushels, up nine percent from last year. U.S. wheat exports for the current marketing year are unchanged at 825 million bushels with no adjustments in any classes. *********************************************************************************** As Farm Bill Stays in Limbo, Lawmakers Considering Farm Aid Kansas Senator Jerry Moran, a critic of Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow, told more than 250 people that he had an optimistic moment after speaking with her on the Senate floor. He points out that Stabenow and other Committee leaders are recognizing just how dire the economic situation is for U.S. farmers and that they can’t wait for Congress to reach an agreement on a five-year farm bill. Along with potentially boosting commodity programs, Moran says Stabenow is trying to find ways to accelerate payments. Currently, payments in the ARC and PLC programs are always a year after harvest. Moran said his agricultural staff suggests that there is growing sentiment on the House side to get something done. House Ag Committee Ranking Member David Scott says farmers he met with asked Congress to consider a two-year ad hoc package that would bolster the safety net for the 2024 and 2025 crop years. *********************************************************************************** Certified Angus Beef Awards 26 Scholarships Certified Angus Beef’s Colvin Scholarship Fund achieved a milestone by awarding a record-breaking $100,000 in scholarships to 26 students. With increased scholarships presented, more students than ever are being empowered to pursue careers that advance the beef industry. Scholarship recipients are each actively pursuing a career in production agriculture, industry research, or other agricultural endeavors. Since its inception 25 years ago, the Colvin Scholarship Fund has provided 176 scholarships totaling $633,500 to deserving students. ”It’s inspiring to see students who truly embody what the Colvin Scholarship Fund stands for,” says Danielle Matter, CAB director of brand experience and education. “They’re passionate, articulate, and hardworking, and we’re humbled to support them and can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make.” The top recipients in each category were awarded $7,500 scholarships. CAB also says the future leaders exemplify a strong commitment and passion for the beef industry, making them worthy brand ambassadors.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 18, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, including ethanol production. The Federal Reserve's announcement on interest rates follows at 1 p.m. and USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook is set for 2 p.m. Weather A strong storm system has developed in the Northern Plains, bringing heavy rain and some strong winds to Montana with waves of scattered showers moving north into the Canadian Prairies for Wednesday. The front to the storm may remain active with showers and thunderstorms down the Plains as well while it remains hot east of the front.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 17, 2024 |

Mississippi River Levels Falling Again For the third consecutive year, Mississippi River water levels are falling again, making shipping goods difficult. Farm Policy News says the low levels are forcing barge companies to put limits on how much cargo they can carry and cutting into farm profits. It was only two months ago that much of the river was above flood stage north of St. Louis. As river levels fell steadily since then, barge companies had to limit the soybeans, grains, and other cargo they carry to prevent barges from getting stuck, which means less profits for farmers. Approximately 60 percent of all U.S. grain exports are taken by barge down the Mississippi to New Orleans, where the corn, soybeans, and wheat get stored and then transferred for shipment to other countries. It’s an efficient way to move crops. A group of 15 barges lashed together carries as much cargo as about 1,000 trucks. ********************************************************************************** Cracks Showing in the Farm Bill Logjam While the 2024 Farm Bill has been stalled for multiple months, the legislative logjam is showing a few signs of breaking after key ag groups took to Capitol Hill last week to share the economic reality facing farmers and ranchers. In a letter last week to House Ag Committee Democrats, Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) said, “We all know that Congress needs pressure to act. That’s why Chairman Thompson, Chairwoman Stabenow, Ranking Member Boozman, and I agree that we are better off without another extension at this point.” After he met with farmers, Scott said if it looks like Congress won’t be able to pass a farm bill, they asked him if Congress would consider doing a two-year ad hoc package that would bolster the safety net for the 2024 and 2025 crop years. “Farmers need the certainty and support, and we need to step up to this challenge,” Scott added. *********************************************************************************** Poultry Group Wants More Time on Salmonella Changes After recent unsatisfactory public meetings and a growing series of unanswered questions, the National Chicken Council requested a 90-day extension to the comment period for FSIS’ proposed Salmonella Framework. The Council wants more time to properly analyze the proposal and provide more meaningful comments. “Unfortunately, the two webinars that the Food Safety and Inspection Service provided for constituents to ask questions failed to provide meaningful insights or clarification on most of the questions asked by participants,” says Dr. Ashley Peterson, senior vice president of science and regulatory affairs for the NCC. “Most clarifying and technical questions went unanswered during the presentations.” In sum, Peterson says there are more questions than answers at this point. “The lack of clarity around many aspects of the proposal directly impedes NCC’s and our members’ ability to meaningfully comment on the proposal,” she added. “The webinars showed us FSIS has limited guidance to offer the industry.” *********************************************************************************** Moms Flood Capitol Hill to Oppose EATS Act Moms for America, a Missouri-based national conservative advocacy group that focuses on pro-family issues, went to Capitol Hill last week to discuss their opposition to the EATS Act. They say House Bill 4417 and Senate Bill 209 would “hand American pork and other production over to the Chinese multi-national conglomerates like Smithfield and the global meat cartel.” The Moms pointed out that the Ending Agriculture Trade Suppressions Act is supported by the National Pork Producers Council and their largest member, Smithfield, who owns one of every six sows in America, and whose purchase was financed by the Chinese Communist Party. The group opposes the EATS Act because it would “upend” state’s rights and cede greater control of America’s agriculture over to China. “Smithfield’s EATS Act is the greatest threat to food safety and security that Moms for America has seen in the last half a century,” says Moms’ President Kimberly Fletcher. *********************************************************************************** ALB Accepting Cooperative Funding Program Applications The American Lamb Board allocates funds through the Cooperative Funding Program for local sheep producer groups, lamb suppliers, and direct marketers. The program helps cost-share marketing efforts that align with ALB’s mission to grow awareness and demand for American Lamb. Applications can be submitted now through September 30. “The Cooperative Funding Program is a fantastic opportunity to help producers, suppliers, and direct marketers share information and resources about the advantages of American lamb with consumers, retailers, and the food service industry,” says ALB Chairman Jeff Ebert. “The program was designed to help cost-share marketing and promotion campaigns that reach consumers at the local level.” Producers can apply for funding to reach consumers, chefs, or retailers through marketing and promotional projects designed to build awareness and grow demand for American lamb. Additionally, suppliers like direct marketers can also apply to promote American Lamb products in the retail or food service sector. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Taking Neil Dierks Scholarship Applications The National Pork Industry Foundation is accepting applications for the Neil Dierks Scholarship, which honors Neil Dierks, the former longtime CEO of the National Pork Producers Council, and his contributions to the industry. The $5,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate student enrolled in a land-grant university and pursuing a field of study that directly supports the pork industry. “We are honored to continue this scholarship in recognition of Neil’s exceptional legacy,” says Iowa producer Dwight Mogler, a member of the Foundation’s Board. “Neil’s unwavering commitment to mentoring the next generation of pork industry leaders was truly inspiring.” The Foundation is committed to carrying his vision forward by empowering students who are passionate about the future of the industry. Applications are due by December 31, 2024. The winner will be announced at the National Pork Industry Forum March 12-14, 2025. For more information or the application requirements, go to nppc.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 17, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales for August is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by U.S. industrial production in August at 8:15 a.m. The Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting and, according to CNBC.com, traders are expecting either a quarter-percent or half-percent reduction in the current federal funds rate range of 5.00% to 5.50%. Weather A small tropical low that was never named continues in the Mid-Atlantic with some showers for Tuesday. A bigger storm system is developing in the Northern Plains, and is likely to produce widespread areas of showers and thunderstorms across the Plains and into the Canadian Prairies, some of which may be severe Tuesday afternoon and evening.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 16, 2024 |

Pork Producers Talk Farm Bill, Prop 12 During Fly-In Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and Senator John Boozman (R-AR) met with 120 pork farmers at the National Pork Producers Council’s Fall Legislative Action Conference. They discussed prospects for a 2024 Farm Bill and a federal solution to California’s Prop 12. NPPC said that the Prop 12 initiative imposes serious financial burdens on pork producers, raising food prices for consumers, and sets a dangerous precedent by enabling each state to develop differing regulations on out-of-state producers. Californians are experiencing less pork and higher costs. Vilsack emphasized those higher prices make it harder to include pork products in nutrition programs for the hungry. Boozman, the ranking member of the Senate Ag Committee, said he remains optimistic that a farm bill will get passed this year. To help with the education, NPPC hosted a pop-up food truck on Capitol Hill offering maple bacon donuts and information on the threat of Prop 12 and similar laws. *********************************************************************************** FCA Board Gets Quarterly Update on the Ag Economy The latest consumer price index data indicates a slowdown in inflation, which has dropped below three percent for the first time since 2021. The Federal Reserve is expected to begin cutting interest rates this month, while longer-term interest rates have been falling for weeks. Crop yields are expected to be high this fall, putting downward pressure on prices. Corn and soybean futures have fallen over 30 percent in the past 18 months. While the pressure is on crop producers, livestock producers are benefiting from lower feed prices and higher product prices, improving their 2024 profitability. Strong financial positions from high incomes in 2021 and 2022 have provided a cushion for farmers heading into a more challenging business environment. However, weak crop margins are set to further erode farm sector income this year. Portfolio growth in the System showed solid financial results with modest growth in the first half of 2024. *********************************************************************************** Eastern Ports Face Strike Prospects The bulk exports of soybeans and other agricultural products from the East Coast would not be directly impacted by any potential strike or lockout if an agreement is not achieved between the International Longshoremen’s Association and the U.S. Maritime Alliance. However, containerized exports of soybeans and other agricultural products would be impacted. There are several ports along the East Coast. Norfolk, Virginia, was the busiest in 2023, exporting over 1.6 million metric tons of soybeans. To provide some perspective, the Mississippi Gulf Region near New Orleans is the number one export region for soybeans, exporting 27 million metric tons from the region in 2023. “We are starting to see agricultural exporters explore other routes like the West Coast, which will most likely mean at a higher cost and longer transit times,” says Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook) of the Soy Transportation Council. “This will be one more cost intrusion into the supply chain.” *********************************************************************************** NCC Urges AMS to Withdraw “Fair and Competitive Markets” Proposed Rule The National Chicken Council strongly urged USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service to withdraw its proposed rule, “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets. The group says the rule represents an impermissible attempt to make an end-run around established judicial precedent for requiring a showing of injury to competition to sue and win under Section 202 of the Packers and Stockyards Act. “Worse than a solution in search of a problem, the proposed rule would cause widespread confusion and inflict staggering costs on the meat and poultry industries, ultimately to the detriment of American consumers,” says NCC Interim President Gary Kushner. NCC highlighted the many flaws associated with this rule in detailed comments to the ASF, including the fact that it would try to fundamentally alter the nature of PSA Section 202 violations in a manner that exceeds the authority of AMS. “This proposed rule is ill-advised and unconstitutionally vague,” Kushner added. ********************************************************************************** Leases Expected to Remain Steady or Modestly Decrease As farmers wrap up the current crop year and begin planning for 2025, one of the more crucial first steps in preparing for a successful crop season is securing farm leasing arrangements. In the Midwest, farm lease negotiations typically begin in August and ramp up as fall sets in. Tenants often prefer to finalize lease terms early to facilitate timely purchases of inputs and to start field operations promptly after harvest. While cash rental rates have gradually risen in recent years, Farmers National Company says the current market environment suggests uncertainty is on the horizon. As commodity prices and farm income are expected to al, FNC anticipates that most leases for 2025 will either remain steady or see a modest decrease. That’s assuming they were set at market rates in 2024. When a tenant seeks a rent reduction, FNC says incorporation of flex or bonus provisions can be a strategic compromise. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Sales Climb Higher The USDA says wheat sales through the week ending on September 5 came in at 4745,000 metric tons, up 40 percent from the previous week and 11 percent over the prior four-week average. Taiwan was the top buyer at 105,400 tons. Wheat exports for the week totaled 542,000 tons, up 15 percent week over week. Corn sales to overseas buyers, as the marketing year ended, were reported at 665,000 metric tons. Mexico was the biggest buyer, purchasing 180,300 tons. Accumulated exports for the 2023-2024 marketing year ended at 54.3 million metric tons, up 38 percent year over year. Soybean sales in the new marketing year totaled 1.47 million metric tons. China was the top buyer at 962,6000 tons. Soybean exports ended the marketing year at 44.5 million metric tons, 15 percent below the prior year. The 2024-2025 marketing year for both corn and soybeans started on September 1.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 16, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will monitor the latest weather forecasts from around the world. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather The remnants of Francine in the Delta and a new tropical low off the coast of the Carolinas are producing showers in the Southeast for Monday. A non-tropical low moving through the West is producing additional showers in the Plains early Monday as well. Both areas will see showers continuing throughout the day while temperatures remain well above normal for this time of year.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 13, 2024 |

Corn Production Down, Soybeans and Cotton Higher Corn production is down, while soybean and cotton production will be higher than in 2023. The USDA Crop Production Report says corn production is one percent below last year, forecast at 15.2 billion bushels. The average corn yield is predicted to be 183.6 bushels an acre, up 0.5 percent from last month and 6.3 bushels over last year. Soybean production will be 10 percent above 2023 with a forecast of 4.59 billion bushels. Soybean yields are expected to be 53.2 bushels an acre, unchanged from last month, and 2.6 bushels above 2023. Cotton Production is up 20 percent from 2023 at 14.5 million 480-pound bales. Yield is expected to reach 807 pounds per harvested acre, 33 pounds below last month’s forecast and 92 pounds below 2023. The total planted area for corn is estimated at 90.7 million acres, soybeans are estimated at 87.1 million acres, and cotton is at 11.2 million acres. *********************************************************************************** Banks Urged to Stop Financing Livestock Production Over 100 climate groups are pressuring JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and other private banks to stop financing global meat and dairy companies. Agriculture Dive Dot Com says the institutions’ lending activities undermine their environmental commitments. An open letter from groups led by Friends of the Earth to some of the world’s biggest banks calls for a halt on any new financing that expands industrial livestock production and to add requirements that meat, dairy, and feed clients disclose their climate action plans. The letter calls out the banks by name for supporting the world’s biggest meat, dairy, and animal feed producers like JBS, Tyson Foods, and others. While food companies are a small part of the banks’ overall lending portfolios, the groups say they have a much bigger impact on the institutions’ environmental footprints. The letter says Increased lending has let the world’s biggest emitters grow their operations and emissions. *********************************************************************************** Growers Critical of Tariff Announcements The National Corn Growers Association and the American Soybean Association expressed frustration with a recently released recommendation from the Department of Commerce. The Department is recommending an imposition of preliminary countervailing duty rates on imports of the herbicide 2-4D. The decision comes at the behest of domestic herbicide producer Corteva, who filed a petition earlier this year calling for antidumping and countervailing duties on imports of the herbicide from certain foreign suppliers. Farmers have said that their demand exceeds the domestic supply of the product, and foreign sources help to fill the gap. “Access to this herbicide is critical for corn growers,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). “We would welcome all ideas from Corteva on how to ensure that this herbicide is available and affordable for American growers.” Josh Gackle, president of the ASA, says the decision to raise duties on imports is disappointing to soybean growers nationwide. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Group Want Dairy Industry Protection Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) led a bipartisan group of colleagues in calling on the administration to protect America’s dairy industry. They want to ensure that plant-based imitation products are not equated in upcoming dietary guideline changes. The officials are asking the Department of Health and Human Services and USDA to carefully consider any changes to the upcoming Dietary Guidelines for Americans that could add plant-based imitation products into the dairy category despite their nutritional differences. In a letter, the senators say existing research has shown that plant-based alternatives are indeed not nutritionally equivalent to dairy. Their concerns are that adding imitation products to the dairy category equates the products nutritionally, despite imitations often containing lower protein and added sugars. “As you consider potential DGA updates that may pertain to dairy, please ensure sound scientific evidence to support any statements which nutritionally equate plant-based alternatives with real dairy,” the letter also says. ********************************************************************************** USDA Releases September WASDE Report The USDA released its September World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates Report that says this month’s 2024-2025 corn outlook is for smaller supplies and a modest decline in ending stocks. Projected beginning stocks are 55 million bushels lower based on increases in exports and corn used for ethanol for 2023-2024. The season-average corn price received by producers was lowered ten cents to $4.10 per bushel. U.S. soybean supply and use changes for 2024-2025 include lower beginning stocks, production, and ending stocks. Lower beginning stocks reflect a slight increase in crush during the prior marketing year. Ending stocks are predicted to be at 550 million bushels, down 10 million from last month. The U.S. season-average price for soybeans is unchanged from the previous forecast at $10.80 per bushel. The 2024-2025 U.S. wheat outlook is quiet relative to last month. The projected season-average farm price for wheat remains steady at $5.70 a bushel. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Tax Credit Coming by January Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says he’s confident that a clean fuels tax credit program set to take effect in 2025 will be finalized by the end of the Biden administration in January. Farm Policy News says an April guidance for the SAF tax credit disappointed ethanol producers by requiring corn farmers to bundle a set of climate-friendly farming practices that meant little to no ethanol would qualify. Vilsack says his agency is hoping to make more feedstocks and individual farming practices eligible for the credit and is working with the energy and transportation departments on how to do so. The Treasury Department is coming under pressure from some lawmakers to limit the eligibility for the new clean fuels tax credit to fuels made from feedstocks sourced in the United States. Vilsack says the right answer in writing the regulations was to ensure feedstocks meet expectations through inspections and certifications.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 13, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early September is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Friday. Grain traders will continue to watch the latest forecasts, especially for South America and the Black Sea region. Weather The remnants to what was Hurricane Francine continue to spin up near the Bootheel of Missouri Friday morning, producing scattered showers through the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys. Some heavier rainfall will be possible across the Southeast due to enhanced, slow-moving thunderstorms. A system continues to produce scattered showers in the Canadian Prairies, particularly in Alberta. Its cold front will produce more showers in the Dakotas into Nebraska as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 12, 2024 |

U.S. Tractor Sales Increase Slightly in August Sales of four-wheel-drive tractors increased 4.8 percent in August 2024 compared to the same month last year. New data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says U.S. sales also increased 5.2 percent year-to-date. Total U.S. ag tractor sales decreased 19.4 percent compared to 2023, while combine sales dipped 19.6 percent. “While the increase in four-wheel-drive tractors is modest, it’s indicative of the industry’s resilience and the ongoing need for agricultural equipment,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “The decline in the overall tractor market highlights the urgent need for Congress to pass a robust farm bill to support rural America and our agricultural community.” Canadian sales of four-wheel-drive tractors increased 29.4 percent in August compared to last year and are up 18.1 percent year-to-date. Total Canadian ag tractor sales fell 26 percent compared to last year, while total combine sales dropped 36.5 percent. *********************************************************************************** House Passes Bill to Protect U.S. Farmland The House of Representatives passed the “Protecting U.S. Farmland from Foreign Adversaries Act” on Wednesday. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Mike Braun (R-IN) introduced a companion bill in the Senate. The legislation would increase scrutiny of foreign bids to purchase U.S. farmland, particularly from adversaries like China, North Korea, Russia, and Iran. It would add the Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States and include the secretary on future transactions involving agricultural land, biotech, product transportation, storage, and processing. It would authorize the Secretary to report agricultural land transactions involving foreign persons from China, North Korea, Russia, and Iran. “Chinese ownership of American farmland increased more than 20-fold in the past decade,” Braun says. The amount of American soil in the hands of adversaries will only rise if we don’t implement these restrictions and oversight.” Fourteen other senators also signed on to the legislation. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for 2025 Clean Fuels Conference Registration is now open for the 2025 Clean Fuels Conference, the must-attend event for the biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel industries. Hosted by Clean Fuels Alliance America, it takes place January 20-23, 2025, in San Diego, California. This year’s theme is “Accelerate,” which captures the rapid growth and transformative progress of the clean fuels industry. In addition to exhibitors and multiple networking events, the conference agenda offers educational sessions designed to enhance industry knowledge and equip participants for success in an ever-evolving landscape. “With the clean fuels industry accelerating at an unprecedented pace, this conference is crucial for anyone involved in shaping the future of heavy-duty transportation,” says Donnell Rehagen, CEO of Clean Fuels Alliance America. The conference will feature keynote presentations by Lucas Lentsch, CEO of the United Soybean Board, Beth Whited, president of Union Pacific, and Dr. Steven Cliff of the California Air Resources Board, among others. *********************************************************************************** Groups Support ESA Amendments Act The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council announced strong support for the ESA Amendments Act of 2024. This legislation would reform the Endangered Species Act to provide more timely conservation efforts on America’s rangeland. “For too long, the Endangered Species Act has been weaponized to list species under non-science-based criteria to the detriment of real conservation,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “Farmers and ranchers have witnessed the harm that comes from politically-motivated species listings and the dangers that come from recovered predators that become a direct threat to producers’ personal safety and economic success.” Drovers also says this bill will make the ESA a real tool for conservation, foster transparency and accountability, and ensure that the environmental contributions from farmers and ranchers are properly recognized. As the ESA has had its scope widened over the years, it is now coming in direct conflict with established science on wildlife conservation. ********************************************************************************** Low South American River Levels Hindering Crop Shipments While it’s not catastrophic in terms of South American export levels, rivers have reached low enough levels to hinder shipments of grain and oilseeds. The University of Illinois Farm Policy News says South America is not in its peak trading season. Record drought in the Amazon and lower-than-usual rainfall have sent water levels dropping rapidly and hindered barges carrying grains for export. Even South America’s Paraguay River, a key shipping lane for grains, has hit a record low near Paraguay’s capital. In fact, the Paraguay River has dropped so low it’s broken the previous record low level set in October 2021. The northern section of the Paraguay waterway is so low that navigation has practically come to a standstill. Brazil has also been hit by a drought that’s begun to threaten the country’s coffee and soybean crops. That’s after wildfires in Brazil scarred the sugar cane fields. *********************************************************************************** Amp America’s Dairy Projects Reduce Two Million Tons of CO2 Amp Americas, a leading dairy methane capture and renewable gas company, announced that its projects have reduced more than two million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions since 2012. That’s equal to the emissions of more than five natural gas-fired power plants in one year. Amp Americas partners with dairy farmers throughout the United States on projects that reduce methane emissions from dairy waste. Amp provides an immediate, measurable, and at-scale solution to methane emissions by capturing methane on dairy farms that would otherwise get released into the atmosphere. Dairy Renewable Natural Gas also reduces the cost of managing dairy waste and produces digestate that can be used as a fertilizer. “After 12 years, two million metric tons is a milestone we’re proud of, especially since there are no other near-term solutions that can tackle methane emissions like our RNG projects can,” says Grant Zimmerman, CEO of Amp Americas.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 12, 2024 |

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 and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's WASDE report will be out at 11 a.m. followed by DTN's WASDE webinar at 12:30 p.m. A report on the August federal budget will be out at 1 p.m. Weather As remnants of Hurricane Francine push north, winds will weaken around the center of the storm but scattered, heavy rain showers are still likely for portions of the Southern Delta throughout the day. Farther east, across the Deep South, severe storms capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail, and few brief tornadoes are possible. A low-pressure system in the Northern Plains will also provide a risk for scattered showers and a few severe storms to the western Dakotas and eastern Montana.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 11, 2024 |

Two Parties Present Contrasting Ag Policy Views In a lead-up to Tuesday night’s presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, the agricultural positions of the two leading political parties were displayed in contrast during a forum at the National Press Club. Speaking for the Democrats, former Biden Administration EPA Senior Advisor Tom Snyder says farmers lost $29 billion in exports during the trade war in 2018 and 2019. “The four years of the Trump presidency was defined by chaos and uncertainty for the farm economy, and a second term would be even more severe,” Snyder added. The Trump campaign was represented by Kip Tom, a farmer and U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture under President Trump. Tom said the Biden-Harris administration has imposed $1.6 trillion in new regulations that are costing the American economy and costing farmers. Hosted by the Farm Foundation, the event touched on a wide range of issues, including trade, the farm bill, tax policy, China, climate-smart programs and nutrition. ************************************************************************************************************** USDA Launches Interactive Census of Ag Maps The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) launched a collection of interactive maps to allow data users to access key Census of Agriculture information. The newly redesigned Ag Census Web Maps application offers the public access to maps and accompanying data to help visualize, download and analyze Census of Agriculture data down to the county level. The app parses maps and statistics from the 2022 census across a number of categories including crops, producers and economics. NASS Administrator Joseph Parsons says it allows customizable ways to access the Census of Agriculture data in a way no other product can. He says for example, a user can show average value of agricultural products sold per farm, or view a county’s data for a given category. In preparation for the 2027 Census of Ag, NASS is already asking for content change suggestions and for new producers who did not receive a 2022 Census of Agriculture questionnaire last year to sign up to be counted. Both forms can be found at nass.usda.gov. ************************************************************************************************************** Washington Sees Coordinated Push for Farm Bill Passage In an unusual move, commodity groups are coordinating efforts in bringing producers and other ag stakeholders to Washington, DC in an effort to get a new Farm Bill passed before the end of 2024. Agri-Pulse reports that such a cross-commodity initiative has not been put into practice since farmers pushed for what became the 2002 Farm Bill. Iowa banker Caleb Hopkins, vice chairman of the Ag and Rural Bankers Committee with the American Bankers Association, was reported by Politico as saying, “If the farm bill is not passed this year, agricultural producers will struggle to obtain credit during the 2025 production year. That will come as a blow to farmers who have experienced low commodity prices and high input costs.” Lawmakers, who have just returned from recess, are working on must-pass legislation to keep the government open past September 30. That is also the day the one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill is set to expire. ************************************************************************************************************** Congressional Leaders Working to Pass Farm Bill in this Congress With Congress now back from its August recess, leaders in both parties are saying they will resume talks to get a Farm Bill passed before the end of the year, even if it happens during a lame duck session. Senate Agriculture chairwoman Debbie Stabenow told Successful Farming she would do “everything in my power to pass a farm bill” this year. Farm-state lawmakers have been deadlocked for weeks over SNAP funding, higher crop subsidy spending, and climate mitigation. Stabenow has proposed an increase of at least 5% in reference prices, no cut in SNAP funding, and keeping the guardrails on climate funding, but has yet to release a full bill text. Meanwhile, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota told Brownfield Ag News he is confident a new Farm Bill will get across the finish line after the November election. Emmer said House Ag Committee chair GT Thompson is ready to bring his version to the House floor. ************************************************************************************************************** USDA and National Farmers Union to Collaborate on Strengthening Local FSA Operations The National Farmers Union (NFU) and the USDA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to address staffing levels and improve customer service at USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) county-level offices. NFU and USDA say they will work together to gather feedback on the experiences of family farmers and ranchers when interacting with FSA staff and the programs they deliver. By hosting listening sessions in local communities, NFU says it will provide a platform for farmers to share their concerns and ideas for improvement. “As an agency, our employees are our greatest resource, and the agricultural producers we serve are our top priority,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “I’m extremely pleased to enter into this MOU with NFU. Our hope is that the information gathered through this MOU can be used to guide better investment in the capacity of our local offices.” *************************************************************************************************************** Ag Student Donates Steer Proceeds to Farm Fire Victims The future of farming appears to be in good hands after a recent auction in Wisconsin. During the 2024 Clark County Fair in Neillsville, Anna Kayhart, an agricultural education student at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, exhibited her Grand Champion Dairy Market Steer. On Saturday August 10th, the morning of the animal market sale, a fire destroyed the milking barn of Clark County dairy farmers Jeremy and Bethany Oberholtzer. Later that day at the sale, the auctioneer announced that selfless Anna had decided all proceeds from her Grand Champion Dairy Steer would be donated to the Oberholtzers to help with rebuilding their dairy facility. Anna’s 1408-pound steer was purchased by Lynn Dairy in Granton, Wisconsin for a bid of $15.75 per pound, raising over $22,000.00 for the Oberholtzer’s farm recovery. Kayhart is also the recipient of a Wisconsin Rural Opportunities Foundation Premier Scholarship Award.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 11, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for August is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. and includes ethanol production. Weather Hurricane Francine is expected to make landfall as a Category 2 hurricane in southern Louisiana later today and provide significant, heavy rainfall to southern areas of the Southern Delta. After making landfall, the storm will quickly lose strength but still provide areas of heavy rainfall as it heads north, following the Mississippi River.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 10, 2024 |

Food Price Index Slightly Lower in August The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization says its Food Price Index stood at 120.7 points in August, down marginally from July. Decreases in the price indexes for sugar, meat, and cereals outweighed increases for those in vegetable oils and dairy products. The Food Price Index was 1.1 percent lower than August 2023 and 25 percent below the 160.3 points reached in March 2022. The Cereal Price Index averaged 110.1 points in August, down 0.6 points from July and 15 points below last year. The Sugar Price Index had the biggest drop, down almost six points from July to 113.9 points, 34 points lower than August 2023. The Dairy Price Index had the biggest jump, rising 2.8 points from July to 130.6 points, 16 points above last year. The Vegetable Oil Price Index hit 136 points, one point higher than in July, while the Meat Index was up 0.9 points to 119.5. *********************************************************************************** Over 300 Groups Call on Congress for a Robust Farm Bill Drawing attention to the worsening economic conditions impacting the nation’s food growers, over 300 national and state groups, like the National Corn Growers Association, sent a letter to congressional leaders about the need for a new farm bill. Signatories stressed the significant need for a new bill before the end of 2024. “It’s critical that Congress pass a new farm bill that strengthens the safety net as many producers are facing multiple years of not being profitable, and this is causing their overall financial situation to deteriorate,” the letter says. “Some will have challenges as they seek operating credit for the 2025 crop year.” As the farm bill delays continued, producers across the country have faced headwinds ranging from extreme weather to high input costs and uncertain global demand to supply chain disruptions. Farmers and their allies say these challenges exposed areas of the farm bill that need to be strengthened. ************************************************************************************ Vietnam Trade Mission Underway Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, arrived in Ho Chi Minh City to launch a USDA-sponsored agribusiness trade mission. Taylor’s delegation includes officials from 60 U.S. agribusinesses and farm organizations and nine state departments of agriculture seeking to develop and expand business opportunities with importers in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian Countries. “I’m honored to lead this delegation as we celebrate the first anniversary of the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Taylor says. “Agriculture plays a huge role in our relationship with Vietnam, which is now our tenth-largest export market for agricultural and food products.” In addition to Vietnamese customers, members will meet with businesses from Burma, Cambodia, and Thailand. U.S. agricultural and related product exports to Vietnam totaled almost $3.5 billion in 2023 and are recognized by Vietnamese consumers, importers, and retailers for their reliability, quality, and sustainability. Fresh fruit, beef, and pork are in high demand. *********************************************************************************** 2024 Cash Rents Hit Some Record High Levels Illinois farmers are paying record-high cash rents this year, and they aren’t the only ones. USDA’s annual cash rent survey puts Illinois’ average at $269 per acre for non-irrigated cropland. It’s the third consecutive record-breaking year. A new record high was established in 2022 after a seven-year slump. Last year, the 2022 statewide average cash rent was topped by $16 an acre, and this year, despite some ideas that it might stay steady or decline, the price rose another ten bucks. Illinois does have some of the highest county-wide cash rent averages in the Midwest, but not the highest. On average, the USDA Cash Rent Survey says Iowa farmers pay $276 an acre. However, ten Illinois counties have average cash rents above Iowa’s highest county-wide rate of $323 in Sioux County, located in Northwest Iowa. At least ten Illinois counties spreading eastward from the state capitol in Springfield have higher published rates. ********************************************************************************** Nominations Open for Environmental Stewardship Program Awards Nominations are being accepted for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Environmental Stewardship Award. Established in 1991, the Environmental Stewardship Award (ESAP) annually recognizes outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of cattle producers across the nation. “Every day, cattle producers across the country are implementing stewardship practices that improve wildlife habitat and protect the environment for generations to come,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “This distinguished award is our opportunity to celebrate their hard work and share those efforts with fellow producers.” 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 should be involved in preparing the application. Along with the application, one nomination letter and three recommendation letters are required. Also, note there’s an earlier deadline of February 17, 2025. For more information or to download the nomination packet, visit environmentalstewardship.com. *********************************************************************************** Human Bird Flu Case Not Linked to Animal Exposure Over the weekend, Missouri officials identified a person sick with bird flu despite having no known contact with animals. Farm Policy News from the University of Illinois says this is the first case of the virus this year not linked to farm work. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said last week that the Missouri patient was hospitalized and treated with antiviral medications. The patient has since recovered and has been discharged from the hospital. This is the 14th case of bird flu infection in humans this year. Ten cases were reported in Colorado, two in Michigan, and one in Texas, all amid an outbreak in animals. Before this year, there was only one reported case of bird flu in the U.S. in a poultry worker from Colorado, who was infected in 2022. Possible signs of human infection include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, conjunctivitis or pink eye, and runny nose.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 10, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets DTN Meteorologist John Baranick and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman are giving presentations on what lies ahead for weather and corn and soybean price outlooks at Husker Harvest Days in Grand Island, Nebraska, lot 802 on Tuesday and Wednesday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Come say hi. Weather A few isolated showers are possible across the Western Corn Belt Tuesday while the rest of the Corn Belt remains dry. Outer rain bands from Tropical Storm Francine will move into the Southern Delta throughout the day which could lead to some areas of locally heavy rainfall across so

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 9, 2024 |

Beef Export Momentum Continues in July U.S. beef exports continued building momentum in July. USDA data says July beef exports totaled 110,419 metric tons, up seven percent from a year ago and the second largest of 2024. Export value rose 12 percent to $910.0 million, also the second-highest this year. July growth was fueled by higher demand in Japan, Taiwan, Mexico, and the Middle East and ASEAN regions. From January through July, value increased six percent from last year despite a two percent drop in volume. Pork exports were well above a year-ago levels in July, led by a record value for shipments to Mexico. Pork exports reached 24,210 metric tons in July, ten percent higher than last year. Export value rose 13 percent to $710.5 million, fueled by a record $244.5 million for leading market Mexico. Through the first seven months of 2024, exports were four percent above 2023 and export value rose six percent. *********************************************************************************** Drought Conditions Likely to Persist in Missouri River Basin Abnormally dry or drought conditions are present across 73 percent of the Missouri River Basin, with drought conditions likely to persist or get worse through November. August runoff was 1.2 million acre-feet, 86 percent of the average above Sioux City, Iowa. The updated 2024 calendar year forecast for the upper Basin is 23.8 million acre-feet, 92 percent of the average annual runoff, which is 25.7 MAF. “August rainfall was generally near normal across most of the Missouri River Basin, with isolated areas of above normal precipitation in every state except Nebraska,” says John Remus of the Army Corps of Engineers. Nebraska was generally below average with most of northern Nebraska’s precipitation at 50 percent of normal. As of September 1, the total water volume in the system was 55.1 MAF, one million below the base of the system’s flood control zone. System storage is expected to decrease through the fall. *********************************************************************************** Landmark Export Agreement in Chile The Consortium for Common Food Nems, National Milk Producers Federation, and the U.S. Dairy Export Council hailed the passage into law of commitments by the Chilean Nation today regarding U.S. exports. The commitments safeguard the rights of U.S. cheese and meat exporters to use certain common names like “parmesan” and “prosciutto” to market and sell their products. The agreement first came together in June between U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Chile’s Undersecretary of International Economic Relations and confirmed a mutual understanding and agreement that U.S. exporters will be able to continue marketing their products in Chile using many common meat and cheese terms. Certain provisions under the EU-Chile trade agreement signed in 2023 enabled the unfair treatment of U.S. meat and dairy products by abusing geographic indication protectors. The Consortium applauds the initiative to negotiate the protection of parmesan and a number of other key products,” says Jaime (HY-may) Castaneda. *********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Submits Comments on Energy Credits and Incentives The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition submitted comments responding to request for stakeholder comments on energy credits and incentives from the House Ways and Means Committee. In its comments, the Coalition underscored the economic benefits associated with SAF investment. The Coalition also emphasized the need for robust, long-term SAF incentives, comparable to biofuels, to ensure the SAF industry’s competitive edge. To achieve this, the Coalition urged the House Ways and Means Committee to consider several solutions, including a longer duration for the SAF tax incentives to support the SAF marketplace and agricultural sector. They’d like to see enhanced value for SAF tax incentives to support sustained investment in producing these new fuels and bolster U.S. SAF leadership. They’d like the Committee to ensure tech neutrality of SAF tax incentives to encourage innovation. They’d like complimentary actions at the Environmental Protection Agency to be consistent with the goals of the SAF tax incentive. ********************************************************************************** USDA, USTR Seek New Trade Advisory Committee Members The USDA and Office of the U.S. Trade Representative are accepting applications for new members to serve on the agricultural trade advisory committees. The Agricultural Trade Policy Advisory Committee is comprised of senior representatives from across the U.S> agricultural community who advise USDA and USTR on overall trade policy matters, while members of the six Agricultural Technical Advisory Committees provide technical advice and guidance from the perspective of their specific product sectors: animals and animal products; fruits and vegetables; grains, feed, oilseeds, and planting seeds; processed foods; sweeteners and sweetener products; tobacco, cotton, peanuts, and hemp. Applications must be received by Friday, September 20, 2024. Committee members appointed from this round of nominations will serve four-year terms beginning in January 2025. To be considered for committee membership, applicants must have expertise in U.S. agriculture and experience in international trade. For more information about the committees or application instructions, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Wisconsin Show Exhibitor Gives $22,000 Gift During the 2024 Clark County Fair in Neillsville, Wisconsin, Anna Kayhart exhibited the Grand Champion Dairy Market Steer. The morning of the animal market sale, a member of the Clark County agricultural community, Jeremy and Bethany Oberholtzer experienced the tragedy of a barn fire on the morning of Saturday, August 10. The fire destroyed their milking barn and milkhouse. When it came time to sell her Grand Champion Dairy Steer in the final lot of the auction, the Oberholtzer family was still weighing heavily on her mind. The auctioneer announced that Kayhart decided all proceeds from the sale of her animal would be donated to the Oberholtzer family to help with the expense of cleaning up after the fire and rebuilding their dairy facilities. Anna’s 1,408-pound steer was purchased by Lynn Dairy Inc. in Granton, Wisconsin, and sold for $15.75 per pound, raising more than $22,000 for the Oberholtzer family.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 9, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. As usual, grain traders will keep up on the latest weather forecasts and may be cautious ahead of Thursday's USDA reports. Weather Much of the U.S. is quiet for Monday as temperatures rise in the Plains that will spread eastward over the next couple of days. Eyes are on the Gulf of Mexico as a tropical storm is forecast to develop today, likely labelled Francine. The current track is up through Louisiana and the Lower Mississippi Valley later this week, which could mean flooding damage

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 6, 2024 |

South Dakota Company to Test H5N1 Vaccine South Dakota-based animal health vaccine manufacturer Medgene says it has received approval from the Department of Agriculture to commence testing a vaccine for H5N1 in cattle. "This is great news for us, for the CVB (USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics) and more importantly, the dairy industry,” says Medgene Chief Operating Officer Tom Halbur. “Our technology is founded on being able to respond to disease challenges faster. Our protocol satisfies the states requirements and we're looking forward to doing our part in supporting both the necessary regulatory policies and the needs of the dairy industry." USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced last week that testing for high path avian influenza, or H5N1, in cattle had been approved. Vilsack said field trials would be done in hopes of moving forward for safe and effective use of the vaccine. Progressive Farmer reports the CVB Notice allows for vaccine studies to be conducted outside of containment facilities and has the potential to accelerate agency licensure of H5N1 vaccines in dairy cows. ************************************************************************************* New Organic Tomato Shows Promise Vitaetom, a Belgium company specializing in organic greenhouse-grown vegetables, recently introduced a new organic variety of tomatoes called Ruby Red. This deep red plum tomato is a first in the organic market, and its cultivation earned Koen Van Hauteghem, the third-generation owner of Vitaetom, a nomination for the BioVLAM 2024 award. HortiDaily reports adapting the Ruby Red to organic farming was challenging due to differences in planting methods and soil requirements compared to conventional practices. The Ruby Reds are grown directly in the soil within heated greenhouses, which required adjustments in planting density and fertilization methods to ensure the best growth. Despite the challenges, Van Hauteghem is optimistic about the tomato's potential, noting its excellent flavor and shelf life, which helps reduce food waste. The first harvest has been well-received, leading to plans for expanding the cultivation area significantly next year. ****************************************************************************** USDA Announces $7 Billion in Rural Clean Energy Initiatives Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced more than $7.3 billion in financing for rural electric cooperatives to build clean energy for rural communities through the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program. Speaking in Wisconsin, Vilsack said the 16 initiatives announced Thursday will leverage private investments of more than $29 billion to build more than 10 gigawatts of clean energy for rural communities across the country. He added the programs will collectively reduce and avoid at least 43.7 million tons of greenhouse gases annually. “Under the Biden-Harris Administration, we are supporting a more prosperous future for rural communities by speeding up the transition to clean energy while at the same time keeping monthly bills low and investing in the American workforce with new jobs and apprenticeships,” said Secretary Vilsack. “One in five rural Americans will benefit from these clean energy investments, thanks to partnerships with rural electric cooperatives like Dairyland. Put simply, this is rural power, for rural America.” ****************************************************************************** Farm Leaders Growing Impatient on New Farm Bill Some ag leaders are expressing dismay over the delays in getting a new federal Farm Bill passed. “We need a proper Farm Bill,” says Kurt Coffey, the Case IH, vice president for North America. “We need to work beyond an extension and get a farm bill.” But that is beginning to seem unlikely as there are only about 60 days before the national election, and the current one-year Farm Bill Extension expires at the end of this month. Paul Neiffer, known as The Farm CPA, tells AgWeb he also strongly supports American agriculture getting the certainty that a new Farm Bill would provide. Neiffer says the agricultural economy is seemingly in a recession and without an updated Farm Bill, farmers may struggle even more with net farm income expected to be substantially lower in 2025. A recent Farm Journal poll of ag economists revealed only 19 percent expect a new farm bill to get across the finish line in 2024. ****************************************************************************** More than Three-quarters of Missouri River Basin Abnormally Dry Abnormally dry or drought conditions are present across 73% of the Basin, with drought conditions likely to persist or worsen through November. “August rainfall was generally near normal across most of the Missouri River Basin, with isolated areas of above normal precipitation in every state except Nebraska,” says said John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. “Nebraska was generally below average with most of northern Nebraska measuring 50% of normal precipitation.” Runoff in the Fort Peck and Fort Peck to Garrison reaches were well-below average while runoff in the reaches between Garrison Dam and Sioux City were all above average. As of Sept. 1, the total volume of water stored in the System was 55.1 MAF, which is 1.0 MAF below the base of the System’s flood control zone. System storage is expected to continue to decline through the fall. ****************************************************************************** EU Reflection Group Urges Overhaul of Ag Sector A report released this week by the president of the European Union suggests that “the EU should undertake a major overhaul of its Common Agricultural Policy to subsidise farmers based on their income rather than the size of their farms.” The report also urged consumers to eat less meat. The report states that Europeans eat more animal protein than scientists recommend and says support is needed for consumers to “rebalance” diets toward plant-based proteins. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen commissioned the report and said the results would feed into a planned vision for agriculture that she will present in the first 100 days of her new mandate. “We share the same goal,” said Von der Leyen. “Only if farmers can live off their land will they invest in more sustainable practices. And only if we achieve our climate and environmental goals together will farmers be able to continue making a living.”

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 6, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as August employment data from the Labor Department. As usual, grain traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front continues to press south and east through the Corn Belt on Friday, getting down into the Gulf and East Coasts for the weekend. Some isolated showers are possible across the Corn Belt but will be more frequent near the Gulf Coast. A burst of cooler air is filling in behind the front.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 5, 2024 |

Over 400 Cases of Salmonella Linked to Backyard Poultry More than 400 cases of salmonella across the country have been linked to backyard poultry. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported over 100 people have been hospitalized. Texas and Missouri have the most cases, followed by Minnesota, Washington, Michigan, and Oklahoma. Almost 70 percent of those who’ve gotten sick say they had contact with backyard poultry. Backyard poultry like chickens and ducks can carry Salmonella germs even if they look healthy and clean. You can get sick from touching your backyard poultry or anything in their environment and then touching your mouth or food, thereby swallowing Salmonella germs. Always wash your hands with soap and water immediately after touching backyard poultry, their eggs, or anything in the area. Keep your backyard poultry and the supplies you use to care for them outside of the house. Always supervise children around poultry and make sure they wash their hands afterward. *********************************************************************************** China and Canada Involved in a Trade Dispute China’s Ministry of Commerce will initiate an anti-dumping investigation into canola seed imports from Canada. This investigation is part of China’s response to Canada’s decision to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum. “China is a valued market for Canadian canola,” says Chris Davison, Canola Council of Canada’s president and CEO. “We are confident that an investigation into Canada’s canola trade with China will demonstrate alignment with and reinforce our support for rules-based trade.” The Canola Council is waiting for further details on the investigation and will work closely with the federal government on this situation. “Working to maintain open and predictable trade for canola is a top priority for the CCC,” Davis adds. “We will continue to engage on this issue to support market access and competitiveness for Canadian canola in this key market.” The Canola Council of Canada represents the entire value chain in the canola-growing process. *********************************************************************************** Wyoming Wildfires Trigger Ag Emergency Order An emergency order is in effect through September 13 due to wildfires in Wyoming. Under this order, certain requirements are waived pertaining to operating time as well as the transportation of oversized or overweight loads of livestock and livestock feed. Wildfires have burned over 100,000 acres in Wyoming, while low humidity and high temperatures make it worse. “Hazardous conditions created a shortage of livestock feed in Wyoming, including depleted pasture grass and natural feed supplies in many parts of the state resulting in inadequate livestock forage,” the order says. “Easing restrictions to transport loads of livestock and livestock feed is necessary to provide assistance to the fire-stricken areas.” However, livestock feed and livestock transportation companies operating under Wyoming’s wildfire emergency order shall not require or allow any fatigued driver to operate a vehicle. A driver who informs their carrier they need rest should be given adequate rest before returning to work. *********************************************************************************** Farmland Values Remain Strong Farmland values in states like Illinois remain sold. Central and Southern Illinois land values increased 7.49 percent on average from last year. That’s according to a 2024 study of 22 benchmark farms by the Farm Credit Illinois appraisal team. Eighteen of the 22 benchmark farms increased in value, and four remained unchanged. Results across all land classes showed considerable variation, reinforcing that agricultural real estate is a location-specific asset. When considering the individual benchmark values, the average year-over-year percentage changes across the four land classes ranged from 3.6 to 14.05 percent. “Farmland values remain strong despite higher interest rates and lower commodity prices,” says Kent Reid, Farm Credit Illinois Chief Appraiser. “Values remain consistent with the peaks set in 2023 due to constant demand for Illinois farmland coupled with limited supply of farms.” Interest rates, higher cash rents, and lower commodity prices could affect land values in the coming year. ********************************************************************************** Entries Open for Dairy Checkoff Competition The Dairy Management Inc. New Product Competition for college students is accepting entries for 2025. The competition seeks innovative dairy product concepts and is open to undergraduate and graduate students in the U.S. This year’s contest theme algins with checkoff-led insights that show consumers are seeking dairy products that deliver health-related benefits. Successful entries will meet competition criteria, demonstrate innovation, and provide consumer value in one or more areas, including heart health, metabolic health, and weight management. A combined $27,000 in cash prizes will be awarded. DMI says that spells an opportunity for U.S. dairy. The judging panel includes experts from across the dairy industry. Winning teams will be recognized at the American Dairy Science Association’s Annual Meeting in Louisville, Kentucky, June 22-25, 2025. The top prize of $10,000 goes to the Platinum Dairy Innovator Award winner. The deadline for submissions is January 13, 2025. For more information, go to usdairy.com. *********************************************************************************** NASDA Foundation Receives $3 Million Grant The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation was awarded a $3 million cooperative agreement from the Environmental Protection Agency to implement the Pesticide Inspector Residential Training Program. The funding will significantly expand the nationwide educational training provided to pesticide inspectors and enforcement staff over the next five years. The training program is designed to provide comprehensive educational training to pesticide inspectors and enforcement staff from state-led agencies, territories, and tribes that operate under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act cooperative agreements. With this cooperative agreement, the NASDA Foundation will double the number of training courses offered annually, including new bi-annual PIRT training. “The expansion of PIRT reflects the NASDA Foundation’s long-standing commitment to promoting sensible environmental management practices,” says NASDA Foundation Senior Director Chris Jones. “The PIRT Program plays a crucial role in ensuring that our state inspectors are well prepared to meet regulatory standards.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 5, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. weekly jobless claims will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, along with a revision of second-quarter U.S. productivity. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 10:00 a.m. CDT. Due to this week's holiday schedule, USDA's weekly export sales report will be out Friday morning. Weather Showers continue near the Gulf Coast on Thursday with a stalled front down there. Another front is moving through the Corn Belt Thursday. Some showers and thunderstorms are forming along the front, but coverage will be spotty and amounts will generally be light as it moves through. Temperatures are dropping behind the front, but the really cool air doesn't start filtering in until Friday.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 4, 2024 |

HPAI Spreads to Three California Dairy Herds Three of California’s dairy farms report cattle infected with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Wisconsin State Farmer Dot Com says that makes the nation’s top milk-producing state the 14th in the nation to report bird flu in cattle. More than 190 herds have been infected across the nation since March. Federal data says the infections also include 13 dairy and poultry farm workers. The California Department of Food and Agriculture issued a statement saying that no human cases have been confirmed in the state. The infected herds are in California’s Central Valley Region and began showing symptoms on August 25. “It’s a tough time for those dairy farmers given the economic challenges they face,” says Karen Ross, California’s Secretary of Agriculture. “We’re approaching this with the utmost urgency and the infected cattle have been quarantined.” Sick cattle are isolated and treated at their farms, while healthy cows are cleared to continue milking. *********************************************************************************** Weaking Farm Income Slowing Farmer Optimism The August Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dipped 13 points from July to a reading of 100. That drop echoes levels seen from fall 2015 through winter 2016 during the early stages of a significant downturn in the U.S. farm economy. The Index of Current Conditions also dropped 17 points to 83, while the Index of Future Expectations decreased by 11 points to 108. Weakening farm income weighed heavily on farmers’ sentiment as the outlook for a bountiful fall harvest was more than offset by dropping crop prices. This month’s decline provides a signal that farmers are concerned about the possibility of extended weakness in farm incomes, similar to what took place from 2015 to 2019. The August survey results indicate a shift among farmers’ primary concerns, with 30 percent of respondents identifying lower commodity prices as their primary concern, compared to 33 percent who cited high input costs. *********************************************************************************** Koch Completes $3.6 Billion Purchase of Iowa Fertilizer Co. Koch (Coke) Ag & Energy Solutions successfully purchased OCI Global’s fertilizer plant in Weaver, Iowa, for $3.6 billion. After announcing the pending sale last year, the finished transaction gives Koch access to a state-of-the-art facility and its related businesses. The facility opened in 2017 and can produce up to 3.5 million metric tons of nitrogen fertilizers and diesel exhaust fluid annually. “This is a huge blow to retailers and farmers who had hoped more competition in the space would help to keep values more in check,” says Josh Linville of StoneX. However, Mark Luetters, president of Koch, says this is a significant investment in domestic fertilizer production. “In the past 15 years, we have invested $2 billion in our North American production facilities to enhance reliability, expand production, and improve logistics for our consumers,” he says. “This investment enhances our ability to serve customers by providing flexibility to adapt to their nitrogen preferences.” *********************************************************************************** What’s Keeping Farmland Prices High? The farmland market across the Midwest is resilient. While the markets have been pushing lower for almost a year and reaching below breakeven levels, Doug Hensley, President of Hertz Farm Management, says we’ve not seen land prices retreat in a similar fashion. While land sales aren’t making new highs, sale after sale in the early summer months is a reminder of how valuable the opportunity is to own the farm next door. Farmland is highly sought after. “I know landowners who’ve waited decades to position themselves to make a move when a specific farm comes available,” he says. “For some, the timing doesn’t matter.” He also says it does somewhat mute the effect of grain market volatility as not all of last year’s production is getting sold at current price levels. Plus, if the opportunity to buy the right farm surfaces, he says many land buyers can easily sacrifice other capital expenditures. ********************************************************************************** Ten Teams Vie for 100 Grand Ten start-up companies offering agricultural innovations are now vying for the top prize of $100,000 in the 2025 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. The Farm Bureau, in partnership with Farm Credit, continues to elevate the importance of entrepreneurship in agriculture through the contest. “New ideas and innovative businesses have continually pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in farming,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We doubled the prize and the impact for this competition, which helps entrepreneurs grow their ideas into products that support farmers and ranchers in their mission to provide the food, fuel, and fiber we all rely on.” The competition provides an opportunity for individuals to showcase ideas and business innovations in agriculture. It’s the 11th year of the Challenge, which was the first national business competition focused exclusively on rural entrepreneurs launching agriculture- and food-related businesses. Farm Bureau is offering $145,000 in start-up funds throughout the competition. *********************************************************************************** Argentina’s Soybean Planting Growth Accelerating Argentina could see the largest expansion of soybean planting in more than a decade during the 2024-2025 planting season. Farm Policy News says Brazil’s soybean plantings may be heading in the other direction thanks to the slowest growth pace in a decade during the same timeframe. Argentina’s farmers are likely to plant more soybeans in the current 2024-2025 season after last year’s corn was hurt by a devastating insect plague and future rain forecasts look more promising for soybeans. Fears of another leafhopper plague like the one last year that could hit fields again are likely to knock an estimated 4.9 million acres off corn planting and into soybeans. This could potentially boost the world’s soybean supply even as prices are already subdued. Simultaneously, the price drop in soybeans looks less attractive to Brazilian producers than in previous seasons. Slower Brazilian soybean planting growth is unlikely to stop global stocks from swelling.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 4, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. trade deficit for July will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT with additional export data to be released by USDA later Wednesday morning. U.S. factory orders for July will be out at 9 a.m. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book is set for release at 1 p.m. Weather Showers continue in Texas and along the Gulf Coast for Wednesday and could be heavy near the coast. A front is moving through the Northern Plains and will produce some scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout the day. There is a small chance for severe weather in the storms.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 3, 2024 |

Soybean Export Sales Drop Sharply, but Rebound Coming Global demand for U.S. soybeans has fallen sharply as international buyers remain discouraged by the strong dollar, slowing economic growth, and uncertainty over the direction of U.S. trade policy in an election year. Export sales of new-crop soybeans are historically low as the 2024-2025 marketing year begins on September 1. A new report says tailwinds could emerge to rejuvenate demand for U.S. soybeans in the upcoming marketing year. CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange issued a brief saying the pace of early season soybean export sales historically has a low correlation with the final marketing year export numbers. With a record U.S. soybean harvest expected this fall, continued weakness in prices will likely attract new export demand. Factors that could increase soybean exports could include a smaller-than-expected South American soybean harvest, a bump in EU demand for soybeans from non-forested acreage, falling U.S. interest rates, and a Chinese economic recovery that could fuel higher demand. *********************************************************************************** USDA Celebrates New School Meal Options as Year Begins The USDA joined the Education Department and other education, parent, and school meal partner groups to celebrate new school meal options as the educational year begins in the U.S. The organizations held a virtual pep rally to celebrate the back-to-school season and thank the champions that educate and nourish our nation’s school children. “Healthy school meals are an essential part of the educational environment and fuel children to learn, grow, and thrive,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “USDA is fully committed to setting kids up for success, and this rally gives us the opportunity to come together and encourage one another to raise the bar for school meals as the new school year gets going.” Beginning this year, schools have more options to serve protein-rich breakfast foods such as yogurt, tofu, eggs, nuts, and seeds, which can help them offer less sugary foods while also supporting vegetarian diets and other food preferences. *********************************************************************************** Panama Canal Increasing Ship Traffic The Panama Canal is lifting restrictions that caused a global shipping bottleneck as water levels get back to near normal after a severe drought. Farm Policy News says the Panama Canal Authority increased the draft in the waterway to a maximum of 50 feet and will allow 36 vessels a day to cross after recent rains lifted water levels at an artificial lake that forms part of the canal system. The Authority is also expecting rains to continue through November, further lifting water levels. About 30 to 32 vessels are currently traveling through the waterway, and that’s still below pre-drought capacity. The canal had restricted daily transits to as few as 24 while the drought was ongoing, and it will likely take five to six months for shippers to return in full. Rainfall is expected to lift water levels to 88 feet by November from current levels of around 85.8 feet of water. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Utilities Issues Pipeline Permit The Iowa Utilities Commission has found that Summit Carbon Solutions has substantially complied with the requirements of a June 25 order regarding the company’s application for a hazardous liquid pipeline permit. Last week, the IUC issued the permit. The order doesn’t modify the conditions Summit Carbon must establish in order to start construction. On June 25, the IUC issued its final decision and order regarding Summit Carbon’s petition for a hazardous liquid pipeline permit. As a part of its decision, the Commission required Summit Carbon to make several compliance filings with the IUC. Summit Carbon filed the compliance filings required by the IUC on August 5. The filings included revised petition exhibits. The pipeline will cross over 2,000 miles in five states, including 70 miles in Iowa. In planning the pipeline, Summit partnered with 57 ethanol plants and signed voluntary easement agreements with 75 percent of Iowa’s landowners along the route. *********************************************************************************** Cost Report for Milk Production by Herd Size U.S. dairy farms vary widely in size, from fewer than 50 dairy cows to having 2,000 or more. While many factors can influence a dairy farm’s production cost per unit of milk, such as technology use, management, and input prices paid, farm size can also affect costs. The Economic Research Service estimates the cost of milk production by dairy herd size based on the Agricultural Resource Management Surveys conducted every five to six years. Based on the past five surveys, the average total production cost per 100 pounds of milk sold has been consistently lower for dairy farms with larger herd sizes. In 2021, the average total cost per 100 pounds of milk sold was $42.70 for herds with fewer than 50 cows. Farms with 2,000 or more had a cost of $19.14. Lower per-unit production costs are attributable to spreading at least some expenses over a greater output. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn, Soybean Export Sales Surge Sales of corn and beans for delivery in the 2024-2025 marketing year, which starts on September 1, jumped during the week ending on August 22. The Ag Department says corn sales in those seven days were reported at 1.49 million metric tons, up from 1.29 million a week earlier. Mexico was the big buyer at 420,000 tons, followed by Japan and Colombia. Exports for the week reached 1.05 million tons, nine percent below the previous week. Soybean sales for the next marketing year jumped to 2.62 million metric tons, up from 1.68 million during the prior week. China bought 870,000 tons, followed by Mexico and Egypt. Weekly exports rose 29 percent to 542,000 tons. Wheat sales in the current marketing year totaled 532,000 metric tons, eight percent higher than the prior week and 53 percent above the previous four-week average.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 3, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. futures markets are closed Monday for Labor Day. Trading in grains will resume later Monday at 7 p.m. CDT. Reports of manufacturing indices from around the world will start rolling in late Monday and early Tuesday. The Institute of Supply Management's index of U.S. manufacturing is due out at 9 a.m. Tuesday. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m., followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather It is relatively quiet across the country coming off the Labor Day Holiday in which a lot of areas saw rain. Showers will be concentrated across Texas and the Gulf Coast. A new storm system is brewing in the Pacific Northwest, set to move through the Northern Plains for Wednesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 30, 2024 |

FAPRI Updates Baseline for U.S. Ag Markets The University of Missouri’s Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute released its 2024 Baseline Update for U.S. agricultural markets. Increased supplies, a strong dollar, and several other factors have caused prices for multiple agricultural commodities to fall sharply from their 2022 peak levels. In the absence of new shocks to the weather, the macro-economy, or policy, projected prices will generally remain near current levels for the next five years. Some of the key results in the update include increased acreage and large yields that will mean a record 2024 U.S. soybean crop. Despite a significant jump in crush and a rebound in exports, end-of-year stocks will increase sharply. Record yield will result in the second consecutive 15 billion bushel corn crop this year. Given the projected reduction in prices for a broad range of crops and moderating production costs, there’s little incentive to sharply change crop acreage allocation in 2025. *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches Online Debt Consolidation Tool The USDA launched a new Debt Consolidation Tool that allows U.S. agricultural producers to enter their farm operating debt and evaluate the potential savings that might come from debt consolidation. That consolidation could come from either a local lender or the Farm Service Agency. “Providing producers with options to structure their debt in a manner that affords them every opportunity to meet the goals of their agricultural operations is the best way to ensure the nation’s farmers and ranchers build financial equity and resilience,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. By combining multiple eligible debts into a single, larger loan, farmers may get more favorable payment terms like lower interest rates or lower payments. The tool can help farmers achieve financial viability by helping them identify potential savings that could be reinvested in their operations, retirement accounts, or college savings accounts. Producers can access the tool at farmers.gov. *********************************************************************************** NIAA Welcomes New Antibiotic Co-Chairs The National Institute for Animal Agriculture welcomed two new co-chairs to its Antibiotics Council: Dr. Heather Fowler from the National Pork Board and Dr. Alexandra Medley from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The purpose of the Antibiotics Council is to seek to enhance an animal agriculture industry that’s aligned with judicious antibiotic use policies and practices. Dr. Fowler is the director of producer and public health at NPB, where she oversees public health as well as occupational safety and health issues as they relate to swine production in the United States. Dr. Medley is a veterinary epidemiologist currently serving as the Associate Director for Antimicrobial Resistance within the Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases at the CDC. The Antibiotics Council is also hosting its annual Antibiotics Symposium. Co-Chairs have assembled a planning committee for the 14th Annual Antibiotics Symposium in Denver, Colorado, from November 19-21, 2024. ********************************************************************************** USDA Trade Mission to Vietnam, Southeast Asia Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, will lead a USDA trade mission to Vietnam from September 9-13. She’ll be joined at stops in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi by representatives from 58 agribusinesses and organizations and nine state governments that represent the diversity of U.S. agriculture. “Vietnam’s continued economic growth, ongoing reform, and young population have combined to create a dynamic and quickly evolving environment for high-quality and diverse American agricultural products,” says Taylor. “Our collaboration has secured market access for a variety of American products, including most recently stone fruit and grapefruit.” In 2023, the U.S. exported $3.1 billion worth of agricultural products to Vietnam. The U.S. holds a sizable market share in Vietnam across several commodities like cotton, soybeans, and distillers’ grains, along with consumer products like tree nuts, dairy, and fresh fruit. Participants will connect with several key importers in business-to-business meetings during the visit. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Reacts to CARB Proposal A proposed cap on soy- and canola-based biodiesel and renewable diesel could raise prices of fuel and goods for California consumers and set back decarbonization efforts by years. Those comments were submitted to the California Air Resources Board by Clean Fuels Alliance America. The recently proposed amendments to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard would put a 20 percent cap on credits for vegetable-oil-based fuel without sufficient scientific evidence to support such limitations. Clean Fuels and other industry stakeholders are urging the board to reconsider the proposed caps on vegetable oils in the LCFS in part because it will delay decarbonization and increase the cost to comply with California’s lofty greenhouse gas reduction goals. For every five years of delay, 13 times more emissions reductions will be required to have the same climate impact. Biodiesel and renewable diesel are responsible for 45 percent of the state’s progress to date under the LCFS. *********************************************************************************** Missouri Researchers Working on Protecting Cattle from Tick Diseases University of Missouri researchers are working to develop the first-ever vaccine proven to protect cattle from a devastating tick-borne disease called bovine anaplasmosis. The research is vital to a state like Missouri, which has a $1.6 billion cattle industry. Bovine anaplasmosis infects the red blood cells of cattle and causes hundreds of millions in economic losses nationwide every year and almost $1 billion in worldwide losses. Roman Ganta, a University of Missouri researcher, led the study that created the new vaccine. The work involves modifying the pathogen that causes anaplasmosis in a lab. By deleting a specific gene and injecting the modified pathogen into cattle, the vaccinated cattle were successfully immunized against the disease. “I often receive calls from cattle producers who are excited about our research and want to know how soon they can get the vaccine,” Ganta says. “There is currently no widely available effective vaccine against the disease.”

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 30, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets Friday is first notice day for September grain contracts. The U.S. Commerce Department will release its PCE inflation index for July at 7:30 a.m. CDT and also July reports of U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index is due out at 9 a.m. Weather A strong cold front that brought areas of heavy rain to the central Corn Belt Thursday continues to press eastward for Friday. Showers may be more scattered and overall lighter than Thursday, but will favorably hit some areas with needed rain from Texas to Michigan. Isolated showers may also fill in across the South and Southeast, where drought has been growing lately.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 29, 2024 |

USDA Forecasts an Increasing Trade Deficit in 2025 The USDA forecasted the agricultural trade deficit to increase sharply to a record $42.5 billion in the coming fiscal year. That compares to $30.5 billion this fiscal year, which ends September 30. The widening trade gap, a source of frustration for many farmers and ag-state lawmakers, reflects an expected $8 billion increase in agricultural imports in fiscal year 2025 to $212 billion and a $4 billion drop in exports to $169.5 billion. The decline is primarily driven by lower corn, soybean, and cotton prices, as well as lower volumes of beef. Horticultural exports are projected to rise by $1.2 billion to a record $41.5 billion due to higher exports across all categories. Ethanol exports are forecast at $4.3 billion, unchanged from the revised FY 2024 projection. Agricultural exports to Mexico are forecast at $29.2 billion, $100 million below the prior fiscal year. Exports to Canada are unchanged at $28.9 billion. *********************************************************************************** Deck Stacked Against American Biofuels Growth Energy submitted comments to the California Air Resources Board criticizing the latest updates to California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard. Growth Energy says the changes unfairly single out American biofuels and make it hard for them to generate credits under the program. Specifically, Growth Energy objected to a proposed “sustainability certification” requirement, calling it “a double penalty for corn starch bioethanol.” Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Chris Bliley says the economic impact analysis acknowledges potential direct and indirect land use change is at least partially and potentially fully accounted for by the LUC scores added to crop-derived pathways. “This acknowledgment renders the need for a sustainability certification moot as potential LUC concerns for crop-based feedstocks are addressed,” he said. Farmers that produce feedstocks for biofuel production are required to use climate-smart practices to qualify for certification but still wouldn’t get any credit for the emissions reductions under the LCFS. *********************************************************************************** DEKALB Partners with the Field of Dreams Movie Site DEKALB is proud to announce its new partnership as the official corn seed for the Field of Dreams movie site in Iowa. DEKALB corn surrounds the filming site of the iconic 1989 Field of Dreams baseball movie while it continues to make dreams come true for countless baseball fans around the world. Rahe (Ray) Farms of Dyersville has farmed the Field of Dreams movie site for 20 years and takes great pride in growing the corn surrounding one of the world’s most famous baseball fields. “It’s been an honor for our family to be able to farm the Field of Dreams Movie Site and grow DEKALB corn there,” says Andy Rahe. “It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience, and it only makes sense to have the best corn brand in the world represented at the site.” A pathway took fans through the cornfield to the ballpark during MLB games in 2021 and 2022. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Beef Exports to Hit Records in 2024, 2025 Beef exports from Brazil are expected to reach record highs in both 2024 and 2025 amid strong demand from overseas buyers, a weakened local currency, and “challenges” expected from rival exporting countries. That’s according to an attaché report from the USDA office in Brazil. Brazil, the world’s largest beef exporter, will ship a carcass weight equivalent of 3.575 million metric tons of meat this year. The agency says that will rise to 3.6 million tons in 2025. Exports account for 30 percent of all beef production in the South American country. “A relevant element that’s working in favor of the increased Brazilian beef production is that its main competitors, including the U.S., EU, and Argentina, are forecast to scale back beef production in 2024, opening up opportunities for Brazil,” USDA says. Slaughter is forecast to reach 48 million head in 2024 before dropping to 47.5 million head the following year. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Wants Immediate 45Z Guidance Clean Fuels Alliance America sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen urging the agency to issue guidance, including safe harbors, to the 45Z Clean Fuels Production Credit by September 1. The new producer credit becomes available on January 1, 2025, as the existing blender credit expires. Clean Fuels’ letter emphasizes the difficulties that farmers, producers, and fuel marketers are facing in making the transition without guidance on the rules. “U.S. biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel producers are having difficulties finalizing feedstock contracts, securing capital flows, and meeting project deadlines without knowing the value of the credit,” says Clean Fuels in the letter. “The need for policy certainty is urgent.” Clean Fuels is requesting the Treasury to issue safe harbor provisions allowing taxpayers to rely on existing carbon lifecycle assessments, such as the GREET model, to calculate the 45Z credit until a final rule is in effect. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Updated Guidance on Labeling The USDA announced the availability of updated guidelines that make recommendations to strengthen the documentation that supports animal-raising or environment-related claims on meat or poultry product labels. The action builds on the work USDA has already undertaken to protect consumers from false and misleading labels. “These updates will help level the playing field for businesses who are truthfully using these claims and ensure that people can trust the labels when they buy meat and poultry products,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. Animal-raising claims like “Raised Without Antibiotics” or “Grass-Fed” and environmental claims like “Raised Using Regenerative Agriculture Practices” are voluntary marketing claims detailing certain aspects of how the animals are raised or how the producers maintain and improve the environment. The Food Safety and Inspection Service reviews the evidence to support these claims that can only be included on meat and poultry labels once they’ve been approved by the agency.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 29, 2024 |

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 and updates of second-quarter GDP and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Weather A strong cold front will continue to work through the Plains Thursday while also providing a few marginally severe storms across the western Midwest Thursday afternoon into the evening. Some of the strongest storms may favor Minnesota, Iowa, and western Wisconsin.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 28, 2024 |

Judge Blocks Rule Allowing Farmworkers to Join Unions A federal judge blocked the U.S. Labor Department from enforcing a rule in 17 states that would prevent agricultural employers from retaliating against migrant workers with H-2A visas for joining labor unions. Employers also couldn’t retaliate for workers organizing against wage theft, trafficking, and other abuses. Courthouse News says the judge sided with states in a lawsuit against the Labor Department and granted a preliminary injunction. He ruled the regulation would unconstitutionally give foreign agricultural workers rights that Congress never wanted to provide. Judge Lisa Wood found the rule violates the National Labor Relations Act, a federal law that allows certain employees to unionize. Ag laborers are explicitly excluded from the law’s definition of “employee” and aren’t entitled to collective bargaining rights. Judge Wood wrote that by implementing the final rule, the DOL exceeded its general authority constitutionally afforded to agencies. The rule was supposed to combat abusive working conditions for employees. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Wheat Associates Applauds Drought-Tolerant Wheat Approval U.S. Wheat Association commended the USDA for its thorough, science-based process resulting in the deregulation of the HB4 drought-tolerant trait from Bioceres Crop Solutions. The farmer leaders of USW are confident that the trait has the potential to deliver significant producer and consumer benefits. Although USDA’s ruling clears the regulatory pathway for the cultivation of HB4 wheat in the U.S., there are several additional steps needed before those benefits are realized and HB4 is grown commercially. “Wherever wheat is grown in the world, drought takes its toll on yields and quality, so an innovation like HB4 holds a lot of interest for growers like me,” says USW Past Chair Michael Peters. “With global wheat demand hitting new records almost every year, there is concern about variable production.” In addition to FDA approval in 2022, the company received regulatory approval for food and feed use in Nigeria, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, and South Africa. *********************************************************************************** Political Promises to Lower the Price of Food The latest results were released from the Gardner Food and Agricultural Policy survey on the question of whether consumers and voters believe those in political power can address high food prices. Farm Doc Daily from the University of Illinois says concerns about the cost of food remain a priority for consumers and voters, and the recent emphasis on food prices by both presidential candidates demonstrates the issue’s continued relevance. Farmdoc found most respondents thought that political parties could help lower food prices and grocery bills. Not surprisingly, most respondents who identified with one of the major parties thought that only their party would be successful in lowering prices. Those who identified as independent or aligned with a third party were less confident politicians could help lower food prices. The results of the survey underscore that consumers do believe politicians can help lower the cost of food, but the “who” can is highly partisan. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grants to Strengthen the Specialty Crop Industry The USDA is awarding $82.3 million to 65 recipients to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and nursery crops, and help support the industry’s producers. From market development to consumer education to research, these programs expand markets, increase the competitiveness of the specialty crop industry, and increase access to specialty crops for consumers. “This funding will strengthen specialty crop production and markets and ensure Americans have access to fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and more,” says USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Moffitt. “These programs are furthering our efforts to build a more resilient food system, one where consumers and producers have more, new, and better market opportunities, which helps farmers and their communities prosper.” Through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, USDA is awarding $72.9 million to 54 states and territories, as well as $9.4 million to 11 projects in multiple states. *********************************************************************************** Summer Heat Building Ahead of Labor Day Weekend Temperatures are soaring across much of the country during the final week of August before the Labor Day holiday weekend arrives, with a threat of downpours and severe weather from Texas to the Carolinas. AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Forecaster Paul Pastelok says the large heat dome of high pressure that’s building from the Midwest to parts of the East will break down this week and over the weekend as a strong cold front slides to the southeast. “A strong cold front will move through the eastern third of the nation over the holiday weekend,” he says. “Showers and a few strong, gusty thunderstorms are likely,” he says. “The big travel day on Friday will feature heavy showers and gusty thunderstorms from the Midwest to the South-Central Plains along the front.” Meantime, a heat wave will continue baking the Midwest, with temperatures 8-14 degrees above historical averages, and will combine with high humidity. *********************************************************************************** Global Diary Top 20 Report RaboResearch’s annual Global Dairy Top 20 report reveals a year of modest gains and strategic shifts within the dairy sector. The report, which analyzes the financial performance of the world’s leading dairy companies, indicates a slight 0.3 percent increase in combined turnover in U.S. dollar terms, a stark contrast to the previous year’s 8.1 percent growth. The report attributes the deceleration in revenue growth to lower milk prices in 2023 compared to 2022. This trend particularly affected European cooperatives, and seven companies worldwide reported lower revenues in their local currencies. In the U.S., dairy companies are focusing on internal growth rather than acquisitions, with over $7 billion planned for new plant construction and expansions from 2023 through 2026, mainly in cheese production. Milk production is expected to grow again in 2025 after three straight years of stagnation. This trend contrasts with other regions where plant closures are more likely.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 28, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Grain traders continue to monitor weather in the U.S. and South America and financial traders will watch for the PCE inflation index, due out Friday morning. Weather A weak front and disturbance moving through the Midwest will bring scattered showers and thunderstorms for Wednesday. Some of those could be severe, tapping into the expansive heat and humidity in the region. A new front is moving into the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains, which should produce scattered showers of its own, and is bringing in a burst of much cooler air.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 27, 2024 |

Canadian Rail Employees Go Back to Work The Canada International Relations Board (CIRB) issued an order imposing binding arbitration between the two sides. The CIRB also ordered that no rail work stoppage, whether a lockout or strike, can occur during the arbitration process. As a result, work has resumed on both the Canadian National (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) networks as of Monday morning, August 26. While railroad workers have returned to the job, the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference has vowed to challenge the ruling in court. “Of course, it’s preferable for the two parties to have the latitude to arrive at an agreement themselves,” says Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook), executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition. It's appropriate that the federal government intervened on behalf of the country and all those, like U.S. agriculture, that depend on a predictable, reliable cross-border supply chain. “We look forward to a return to normalcy very soon,” says Steenhoek. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Announced New Investment in Young Advocates The National Pork Producers Council unveiled a new Strategic Investment Program called “Young Pork Advocates” for young people ages 18-22. The initiative aims to empower young advocates within the pork industry. At the 2024 World Pork Expo, NPPC hosted the inaugural Young Pork Advocates Issues Meet contest, which fostered lively discussions on key industry topics. Emma Kuhns of Illinois won the meet. “The top reason students should get involved is because of the invaluable network connections being made that are a laugh pad for a successful career,” Kuhns says. For an annual investment of $50, young people get regular communications on pork industry issues, opportunities to apply for scholarships, communications and advocacy training, and more. “Leveraging the potential and passion of your youth is critical for the future of the pork industry,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. Young people interested in the program can go to nppc.org for more information. *********************************************************************************** NIAA Accepting Applications for Leadership Training The National Institute for Animal Agriculture is accepting nominations for the fourth Cohort of the Advanced Training for Animal Agriculture Leaders. Nominations are due November 17. The 16-month leadership program blends in-person and virtual working sessions to focus on four areas of development: critical thinking, leadership development, connecting and relating skills, and operational excellence. Members of the program work together on applied-learning projects that will incorporate interest in animal agriculture. “It’s been a true gift to learn from and collaborate with the other community groups, organizations, and associations represented within this leadership cohort,” says Sarah Coleman, Kentucky Horse Council and member of Cohort 3. “To learn about so many things in the agriculture space is incredible and it’s reassuring that so many of us are working to ensure that agriculture is sustainable in every facet of the word.” More information about how to nominate someone or apply is available at animalagriculture.org *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Cattle on Feed and Egg Production Reports Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 head or more totaled 11.1 million head on August 1, 2024. The inventory level was slightly above August 1, 2023. Placements in feedlots totaled 1.70 million head, six percent higher than in 2023. Net placements for the month were 1.65 million head. Marketings of fed cattle in July totaled 1.86 million head, eight percent above the same time in 2023. Other disappearances during July totaled 1.86 million head, 14 percent below last year. United States egg production totaled 9.06 billion during July 2024, two percent below last year. Production included 7.76 billion table eggs and 1.30 billion hatching eggs. The average number of layers during July totaled 370 million, down three percent from last year. July egg production per 100 layers was 2,451 eggs, slightly higher than July of last year. *********************************************************************************** Building Ethanol Markets in Africa, Middle East The U.S. Grains Council escorted a group of key ethanol industry stakeholders from Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, and the United Arab Emirates on a tour of U.S. ethanol facilities. The goal of the tour is to help advance biofuel exports to Africa and the Middle East. USGC’s regional director for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa says providing market intelligence and a consistent information flow about the U.S. biofuels industry, supply and demand, transportation, blending and quality issues, and exposing Middle East and African players to the U.S. ethanol industry will hopefully catalyze future demand of sustainable aviation fuel and U.S. bioethanol in the region. The countries represented examples of different stages of ethanol adoption in the region. For example, Nigeria has consistently been the largest market for U.S. ethanol, mainly for industrial use. The Council’s efforts there and in Ghana include fuel policy authorities and possibly developing E10 blending mandates. *********************************************************************************** Colorado Officials Releasing Even More Wolves Colorado Parks and Wildlife intends to release more gray wolves into the exact zone where they’ve already killed dozens of sheep and cattle in Grand and Summit counties. Colorado Politics Dot Com says in just over four months, the death toll for livestock killed by wolves in the area is now dozens. Officials estimate that number comes from nine out of the ten wolves released last December. Most of the livestock were likely killed by just two wolves, a mating pair that produced three pups. Reid DeWalt of Colorado Parks and Wildlife said last Friday that they’re considering the same zone for their next release of wolves. “CPW’s wolf restoration plan says the wolves would be released in two zones: a northern zone where the first group was released, and a southern zone.,” says DeWalt. DeWalt told the commission that the next release next release would again be in the northern zone.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 27, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. consumer confidence in August is scheduled at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. DTN Meteorologist John Baranick and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman are speaking at the Farm Progress show in Boone, Iowa, on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning in building 1118. Come say hi. Weather A cold front will provide scattered showers and storms across the Midwest on Tuesday with some storms severe. Some of the strongest storms may target Wisconsin, northern Illinois, Michigan, northern Indiana, and northern Ohio. Hot temperatures are expected out ahead of the cold front from the eastern Midwest into the Southern Mississippi Valley.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 26, 2024 |

Canadian Government Steps Into the Rail Strike Canadian freight trains could be running again within days. Farm Policy News says the government forced the two major railroads into binding arbitration with their labor union. The move should turn aside what would potentially trigger serious economic consequences in Canada and the U.S. if trains don’t run for a long time. Labor Minister Steve MacKinnon took action only 16 hours after Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Kansas City locked out their employees over an impasse in labor negotiations. Both railroads say they’ll get trains moving as quickly as possible. “The government wanted to give negotiation every chance to succeed on its own, but the economic risk was ultimately too great to allow the lock-outs to continue,” MacKinnon says. Canadian National says it lifted the lockout on Thursday to expedite the economic recovery. CPKC says it’s prepared to resume operations but claims the Teamsters didn’t want to discuss the matter. *********************************************************************************** South Dakota State Supreme Court Sides with Landowners The South Dakota Supreme Court ruled that Summit Carbons Solutions can’t build a carbon-capture pipeline through the state as the situation stands right now. The court ruled that Summit hasn’t proven it’s a “common carrier.” A common carrier transports goods and services for the public in exchange for a fee, such as electricity in a transmission line. Common carriers are allowed to use eminent domain to gain land access from unwilling landowners. The State Supreme Court ruled Summit hasn’t proven to lower courts that it’s holding itself out to the general public as transporting a commodity for hire. Landowners who oppose the project applauded the decision as a victory. However, South Dakota Searchlight says the company remains confident it can go back to the lower courts and prove its case. Summit Carbon Solutions is developing an $8 billion pipeline project to transport CO2 to underground storage in North Dakota. *********************************************************************************** Company Brings Virtual Fencing for Livestock Halter, a New Zealand company, has brought its virtual fencing technology for livestock to the U.S. “Halter technology is a powerful system that helps users precisely manage pasture to lift the performance of your grazing animals,” says Craig Piggot (PIG-uht), founder and CEO of Halter. The Halter app allows users to establish virtual fences anywhere on their land. Ranchers can see a heatmap of grazing activity through the app and take advantage of grass growth by moving cattle to optimize the best grazing opportunities for the animals. Cows are trained to respond to the collar’s guidance cues as they approach the virtual fence. Users can create new fences from the app on their mobile phones and herd animals into new pasture areas by using sound and vibration cues generated through the app. “Ranchers can quickly put cattle where the grass is without moving fences or physically herding their cattle,” Piggot adds. ********************************************************************************** Sorghum Interest is Growing Sorghum is an ancient cereal grain that holds a lot of potential. “We see sorghum as so much more than just another crop,” says Nate Blum, CEO of Sorghum United, dedicated to advancing sorghum cultivation globally. The rising interest in sorghum is being driven largely by its suitability to hotter, drier growing conditions, which makes it a climate-smart crop. As weather patterns continue to grow more unpredictable, many farmers appear to be turning to sturdy, drought-resistant sorghum to stabilize and boost yields. “Sorghum actively replenishes the soil and environmental capital,” Blum adds. “It requires few external inputs, fixes soil nitrogen, and helps prevent erosion.” Beyond that, sorghum also holds emerging market opportunities. As the gluten-free trend continues growing, demand for specialty products is rising. The grain can be milled into gluten-free flour, popped like corn, turned into syrups and edible oils, brewed for beer, and used as cattle feed. *********************************************************************************** USDA Makes Payments to Producers Impacted by Hurricane Debby The USDA announced the counties that have triggered for payment under the Hurricane Insurance Protection-Wind Index endorsement for Hurricane Debby. Approved insurance providers have 30 days to issue producer payments. Under HIP-WI, producers will receive over $200 million in indemnities for hurricane-related losses from Hurricane Debby. “The hurricane caused devastating damage across the southeast and impacted many agricultural operations,” says Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger. “The RMA’s hurricane and tropical storm endorsement provides added protection for producers who want more coverage options. We understand the importance of timely payments that help producers overcome natural disasters and assist with recovery efforts.” Estimated indemnities include over $12 million for Florida, $45.6 million in Georgia, $97.8 million in North Carolina, and $54.3 million for South Carolina. Producers do not need to file a claim to receive an indemnity payment under the HIP-WI program. If a county is triggered, indemnity payments are automatically issued. *********************************************************************************** Farm Credit Delivers Support to Young, Beginning, and Small Farmers Farm Credit System institutions made almost 133,000 loans to young, beginning, or small U.S. producers in 2023, delivering on their critical mission to support rural communities and agriculture. A new Farm Credit Administration Report underscores Farm Credit’s commitment to the next generation of agricultural producers through strategic lending and support initiatives. “Supporting young, beginning, and small farmers is central to Farm Credit’s mission and vital for the future of American agriculture,” says Todd Van Hoose, President and CEO of the Farm Credit Council. “As the farm economy became even more difficult in 2023, Farm Credit had nearly $113 billion in new loans to young, beginning, or small U.S. producers.” For example, in 2023, the Farm Credit institutions made over 47,000 loans totaling $11.7 billion to young producers who are 35 or younger. Almost 66,000 loans were made to producers with ten years or less of experience, totaling nearly $18.1 billion.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 26, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be digesting Friday's news that rail service was restored in Canada and the latest comments from Fed Reserve Chairman Powell. The chairman said, "The time has come for policy to adjust," meaning a cut in interest rates is likely at the September Fed meeting. A report on U.S. durable goods orders for July will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Monday. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m., followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Heat has filled in to most of the country east of the Rockies and will be sweltering for some areas. It will also fuel potential for severe storms across the northern Corn Belt, particularly in eastern South Dakota into Wisconsin. All hazards are possible with the storms, but wind and hail will be most likely.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 23, 2024 |

Canadian Rail Strike Begins A disruption in rail service is in effect between Canada’s Class One railways and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference Union. As a result, the Canola Council of Canada says service has ground to a halt, impacting all segments in the value chain. With farmers already harvesting some grains in parts of Canada and the U.S., the work stoppage couldn’t have come at a worse time for the grains sector. Grain elevators and oilseed processors are reducing capacity and curbing production, resulting in delays in executing customer contracts and farmers are losing their ability to sell their commodities. In turn, that affects their ability to cash flow their operations. This will further damage the reputations of farmers in both countries as reliable suppliers and risks future exports and loss of market share to competitors. Given the lack of progress, ag groups want Canada’s government to send both groups to binding arbitration. *********************************************************************************** North American Cattle Leaders Hold Joint Meeting The Canadian Cattle Association hosted the third 2024 meeting with its North American counterparts, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and CNOG, their Mexican counterparts. The groups met on the sideline of the Canadian Beef Industry Conference and discussed the challenges and opportunities facing beef producers across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. Topics this year included trade policy, the upcoming U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement review in 2026, and international engagement on microbial resistance. “NCBA values our relationships with our Canadian and Mexican counterparts and our ability to come together as allies to tackle issues facing North American producers,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “In addition to discussing international trade and animal health concerns, we’re also standing together to push back against lab-grown proteins.” He also says the lab-grown protein companies are trying to capitalize on the incredible reputation of real beef. The next meeting will be in San Antonio, Texas, in 2025. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Producers Elect New Chair The National Sorghum Producers Board of Directors elected Amy France of Scott City, Kansas, as chairwoman at the board’s annual August budget and board meeting. France says it’s a true honor to serve as chairwoman of the NSP. “Just as in farming, many fine people have blazed a trail before me so that we can achieve the things we do today,” France says. “I’m grateful for past leadership and their examples and look forward to continuing to carry the torch for sorghum and agriculture in this most important time.” She operates a family farm in the semi-arid western Kansas region and produces grain sorghum, corn, wheat, and black Angus cattle. She and her husband, Clint, are third-generation farmers who work along with their oldest son. France has served on the NSP board of directors since 2018. The 2024-2025 term begins on October 1. View the entire leadership team at SorghumGrowers.com. ********************************************************************************** New Video on Public Lands Movement During FMD Outbreak The American Sheep Industry Association worked with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and other stakeholders to develop movement decision criteria guidance during a potential FMD outbreak. The video is for federal land grazers and the unique challenges they would face in a food-and-mouth outbreak. “For years, the resources prepared have focused on mitigating losses on private land,” says NCBA’s Kaitlynn Glover. “Now, with help from a number of organizations, we have comprehensive resources to help public lands ranchers whose livestock may be far from any infected herd have predictability for their operations in the event of an FMD outbreak.” Livestock producers are now more prepared than ever to work with federal agencies and health officials to make movement decisions. A five-minute video describes the project and resources and can be viewed on the Secure Sheep and Wool Supply and Secure Beef Supply websites under the Public Land Grazing pages. *********************************************************************************** Imports of Animal Fats and Processed Oils Have Skyrocketed U.S. imports of animal fats, greases, and processed oils, including used cooking oil, skyrocketed to almost five billion in 2023 from 2.2 billion pounds in 2022. The surge in imports has been driven by rising domestic production of biomass-based diesel – fuels derived from animal fats and vegetable oils – to meet U.S federal and state policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These policies sparked new demand for animal fats, processed oils, and grease and have boosted imports, especially processed oil imports commonly known as used cooking oil. Process imports have doubled to three billion pounds from 2022 to 2023 as China emerged as the top supplier. U.S. tallow imports also have increased largely on expanded sourcing from Australia, Canada, Brazil, and Argentina. As biofuel use grows, the structural shift in biomass-based diesel production and import markets is expected to affect domestic use and trade flows of animal fats and vegetable oils. *********************************************************************************** July Milk Output Declines Modestly USDA says milk production in the 24 largest producing states fell slightly year-over-year in July. Output was down 0.2 percent from the same month a year earlier to 18.2 billion pounds. USDA says per-cow production rose two pounds to 2,047 pounds, and the number of milk cows on dairy farms was reported at 8.88 million, down 31,000 head from July 2023. The agency revised its June milk output levels to 17.9 billion pounds, down 1.5 percent year-over-year. In the three months ending on June 30, the total milk herd totaled 9.33 million head, down from 9.41 million a year earlier. Production per cow fell to 6,151 pounds from 6,164 pounds in the same timeframe last year. The government report also says milk output in the quarter through June fell 1.1 percent to 57.4 billion pounds. Total milk production in the U.S. reached 18.9 billion pounds during July, down 0.4 percent from July 2023.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 23, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. new home sales for July will be released at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's monthly cattle on-feed and cold storage reports are due out at 2 p.m. Grain traders will be closely watching developments surrounding the halt to rail service in Canada that is also affecting U.S. rail service and making grain elevators reluctant to take in grain until they can be confident about making shipments. Fed-watchers will be following Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's speech in Jackson Hole, Wyoming on Friday, looking for any clues on what the Fed will decide in September. Weather A weak front may produce some showers from Colorado to Wisconsin on Friday but will be only spotty where it occurs. A system moving into the Pacific Northwest will spread more showers through the Northern Plains and eventually the Canadian Prairies later Friday afternoon and evening. Heat that has been stuck in Texas all week, is starting to spread north.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 22, 2024 |

Shippers Lose STB Rate Review Option Grain elevators and others who move smaller shipping volumes likely won’t get a quicker process to settle rate differences with railroads after a federal appeals court ruling. The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals says the Surface Transportation Board exceeded its authority by trying to streamline rate dispute settlements between railroads and shippers. The nation’s largest railroads sued over the new rate rules, and the appeals court found in their favor. Great American Crop Dot Com says the ruling will limit the ability of shippers to challenge railroad freight rates in situations involving smaller shipping volumes. Major ag groups and other industries that rely on railroads to remove commodities lost their arguments defending the STB Rule. Union Pacific Railroad filed the lawsuit, along with the American Association of Railroads, which lobbies for major railroad companies. Federal statutes require railroads to establish reasonable rates when they do not have effective competition. *********************************************************************************** EPA Releases New Herbicide Strategy The Environmental Protection Agency released its final Herbicide Strategy, calling it an “unprecedented step” in protecting over 900 federally endangered and threatened species from the potential impacts of herbicides. EPA will use the strategy to identify measures to reduce the amount of herbicide exposure to these species when it registers new herbicides and when it reevaluates registered herbicides under a process called registration review. The final strategy incorporates a wide range of stakeholder input, ensuring EPA not only protects species but also preserves a wide range of pesticides for farmers and growers. “Finalizing our first major strategy for endangered species is a historic step in EPA meeting its Endangered Species Act obligations,” says Jake Li, EPA’s Deputy Assistant Administrator for Pesticide Programs. “By identifying protections earlier in the pesticide review process, we are far more efficiently protecting listed species from herbicides and reducing the burdensome uncertainty for the farmers who use them.” *********************************************************************************** Soy Growers Wary of EPA Herbicide Strategy American soybean growers are worried about the feasibility of implementation and the impacts of the Environmental Protection Agency’s final Endangered Species Act Herbicide Strategy. Josh Gackle, president of the American Soybean Association, says while there are improvements to the final Herbicide Strategy over what was first proposed, they’re disappointed that EPA chose to leave so many opportunities on the table to make this strategy workable for farmers. “We remain concerned with the complexity of this framework and whether growers and applicators will be able to clearly understand how to implement it,” Gackle says. ”We also have concerns as to the type and affordability of runoff mitigations EPA has provided, the potential distance of spray drift buffers, and concerns with several other requirements.” The Herbicide Strategy will cost U.S. farmers billions of dollars to implement and could result in significant new hurdles to farmers accessing and using herbicides in the future. ********************************************************************************** World Dairy Expo Taking Extra Steps to Protect Cattle Valuable purebred cattle are heading to Madison, Wisconsin, in October to take part in the 57th Annual World Dairy Expo. As one of the premier dairy shows in the U.S., the Expo will take extra precautions to ensure H5N1 doesn’t infect the animals. The Wisconsin State Farmer says the Expo staff are in contact with USDA and the state Department of Agriculture so that everyone understands what the requirements are to take cattle onto the Alliant Energy Center show grounds in Madison. “There will be a World Dairy Expo, and we will have cow classes,” says Expo Manager Laura Herschleb, now in her third year of managing the event. The show runs October 1-4 this year and typically features around 2,500 head of dairy cattle. Herschleb says biosecurity is always important, and they’re placing greater emphasis on it this year. Veterinarians will be on the Expo Showgrounds during the entire event. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows the Value of Livestock Grazing A study from the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service confirmed the value of livestock grazing as a tool to protect western rangelands from wildfires. The Public Lands Council, which represents ranchers who hold federal grazing permits, hailed the research as more proof of the important role livestock grazing plays in protecting our natural resources. “In a year where wildfire has run rampant across the West, this study is a great reminder that livestock grazing must be an integral part of land management and wildfire mitigation,” says PLC President Mark Roeber. The study demonstrated that grazing supports the reduction of fire fuels that pose huge risks in sagebrush ecosystems that are prone to fire. By applying targeted grazing in these landscapes, managers can create effective fuel breaks to slow fire activity and improve suppression efforts. Kaitlynn Glover, PLC Executive Director, says officials should remain confident in their partnership with public lands ranchers. *********************************************************************************** Farm Rescue Gets Own Farm Progress Show Booth for First Time Farm Rescue is a nonprofit organization that provides free planting, haying, harvesting, and other types of assistance to farmers who’ve experienced a major illness, injury, or natural disaster. For the first time, Farm Rescue will have its own exhibit space at the Farm Progress Show on August 27-29 in Boone, Iowa. Generous support has made it possible to achieve greater visibility. “Our biggest challenge is awareness,” says Farm Rescue Marketing Program Manager Dan Erdmann. “This is a great opportunity for Farm Rescue to share our story and message of support to the broader farm community.” He says this is an opportunity for Farm Rescue that they’ve never had before. Farm Rescue’s display will include farm equipment from the nonprofit’s fleet that readily serves the fieldwork needs of farmers and their families in times of crisis. Equipment on display will include planting and harvesting implements and a semi-truck. For more information, go to farmrescue.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 22, 2024 |

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 and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales for July will be out at 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Weather A small system is pushing a cold front through the eastern Dakotas down to western Nebraska early Thursday morning. Clusters of showers and thunderstorms are found in the Red River Valley as well as the Nebraska-Kansas border area. While storms are forecast to diminish in the south Thursday morning, they may refire as the front stalls out with the northern cluster expanding into the Upper Midwest by the evening. Some of these storms could be stronger and bring locally heavy downpours.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 21, 2024 |

American Ag Groups Call on Canadian Officials to Head of Strike Groups like the National Corn Growers Association urged Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to resolve a dispute between Canada’s railway executives and union leaders that could lead to a strike. A work stoppage there could interrupt rail service into the U.S. “If a strike shuts down rail service from Canada into the U.S., it will adversely impact America’s farmers who rely on rail to ship goods between the two countries,” says Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee), NCGA President. “We strongly encourage Prime Minister Trudeau, the Teamsters, and Canadian rail workers to do everything possible to avoid such a strike.” Canada is the third-largest destination for U.S. ag exports and the second-largest source of agricultural imports. The biggest concern for corn growers is a strike that could interrupt shipments of fertilizer imports and exports of ethanol, corn, and byproducts used as animal feed. Canadian law says officials can order all parties into binding arbitration. *********************************************************************************** Farmers, Ranchers Required to File Ownership Information In 2021, Congress passed the Corporate Transparency Act, requiring businesses to report the identity of their owners. The goal is a simple one: to prevent crimes by knowing the identity of corporation owners. That means many small businesses like farms and ranches are required to comply with this. Under the Act, companies with 20 or fewer employees are required to report information about their beneficial owners, or the individuals who own at least 25 percent of the entity’s ownership interest, exercise substantial control over the entity, or receive a substantial economic benefit from the assets of the reporting entity. In more basic terms, you are a beneficial owner if you own at least 25 percent of a company, control or make major decisions for the company, or receive substantial earnings for the company. Many cattle raisers may be impacted by this law. For more information about the requirement, go to fincen.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepts Over 2.2 Million Acres of Land in Conservation Programs The USDA is accepting offers for more than 2.2 million acres from agricultural producers and private landowners through this year’s Grassland, General, and Continuous Conservation Reserve Program sign-ups administered by the Farm Service Agency. With the accepted acres, enrollment is very near the 27 million CRP acreage cap. “The popularity of our Conservation Reserve Programs, including the significant success of the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program and nearing the overall CRP acreage cap is a testament to the commitments made by the farmers, ranchers, and landowners we serve to mitigate the impacts of climate change by conserving, protecting, and enhancing our natural resources,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “It’s through all of FSA’s conservation programs that we are able to work directly with agricultural producers to implement climate-smart conservation practices that ultimately benefit everyone.” Producers can still participate in CRP through the Continuous CRP signup at their local USDA service center. ********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels is Disappointed in the CARB Proposal Clean Fuels Alliance America expressed disappointment in the California Air Resource Board’s proposed amendments to its Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS). If adopted, these changes would impose caps on credits for soy- and canola-based biodiesel without sufficient scientific evidence to support such limitations. By restricting credit generation for these low-carbon alternatives, CARB risks unfairly disadvantaging biodiesel and renewable diesel, which are proven solutions that reduce emissions today while supporting sustainable farming and rural economies. Limiting biodiesel and renewable diesel in favor of technologies that will not be fully scalable for many years, even by CARB’s own projections, threatens both environmental progress and innovation. “These proposed amendments impose significant restrictions on vegetable oil feedstocks, hindering the ability of clean fuels to effectively decarbonize the heavy-duty transportation sector,” says Jeff Earl, director of government affairs at Clean Fuels. “They induce stricter standards for these fuels than those applied to others, even petroleum.” *********************************************************************************** TFI Announced 2024 4R Sinners The Fertilizer Institute has announced the selection of two agricultural retailers and their partnering farmers as the 2024 4R Advocates. These four individuals are being recognized for their exceptional commitment to implementing fertilizer management practices based on the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship, which have demonstrated significant economic and environmental benefits. “Our 2024 4R Advocates are at the forefront of environmental stewardship,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “Their commitment to the 4Rs – right source, rate, time, and place – is crucial for optimizing crop yield and sustainability, ensuring our ability to continue feeding the crops that feed the world.” Now in its 13th year, the 4R Advocate program highlights the in-field successes of these best management practices. The advocates collectively manage diverse cropping systems across multiple states and will participate in various TFI outreach efforts. For information on the 4R advocates and 4R Nutrient Stewardship, go to tfi.org. *********************************************************************************** CattleCon 2025 Registration is Now Open Registration is now open for CattleCon 2025, which is in San Antonio, Texas, February 4-6. This annual event is where the beef industry meets to conduct business, attend educational sessions, experience engaging speakers, and enjoy family fun. “CattleCon is the biggest industry event of the year,” says Mark Eisele (EYES-lee), president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “Cattle producers from across the country will gather to make decisions, network, learn, and have some fun.” For those arriving early, there will be an immersive grazing management workshop and tour on Monday, February 3. The pre-convention tour is tailored for cattle producers aiming to deepen their expertise in effective grazing strategies. CattleCon officially kicks off on Tuesday, February 4, and the cattle industry will be hard at work guiding both Beef Checkoff and NCBA policy programs. Several registration options are available. For more information or to register and reserve housing, go to convention.ncba.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 21, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. At 1 p.m., the Federal Reserve will release minutes from the latest FOMC meeting, seen as a possible source of clues about what the Fed will decide in September. Weather A trough in the Northwest continues to send energy into the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies, producing scattered showers and thunderstorms. Mild temperatures continue across the Corn Belt with sweltering heat still around Texas.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 20, 2024 |

U.S. Beef Herd Rebuild Could Take Years The U.S. beef cow inventory has fallen to its lowest level in more than 60 years. With no significant changes on the horizon that would quickly reverse the trend, rebuilding the U.S. beef cow herd to historical norms is shaping up to be a years-long undertaking. According to a new research brief from CoBank's Knowledge Exchange, current market conditions are incentivizing cow-calf producers to sell heifer calves rather than retain them for future breeding purposes. From a financial standpoint, the benefit of selling calves for immediate gain far outweighs the risks of investing in those calves to become part of their reproductive cow herd. CoBank researcher Abbi Prins says, “Given the route calf prices have gone, it's a become a no-brainer decision for some cow-calf operators to sell new crop calves for immediate cash flow,” Ultimately, calf prices will be the determining factor when it comes to whether the U.S. beef cow herd retracts further or begins to grow. *********************************************************************************** FSIS to Start H5N1 Beef Monitoring Sampling USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service plans to monitor H5N1 influenza A in dairy cows at slaughter starting next month. FSIS will leverage its existing National Residue Program and conduct H5N1 sampling in the muscle samples of dairy cow carcasses already collected for the program. Samples will be tested by FSIS laboratory personnel using polymerase chain reaction testing. Carcasses sampled under the program are held by establishments pending residue testing results. This process will not require additional holding time for carcasses beyond current residue testing protocols. In the event of a positive H5N1 finding, USDA will work with industry to ensure the carcass does not enter the food supply. HPAI is a threat to the poultry industry, animal health, human health, trade, and the economy worldwide. Since the first detection of HPAI in dairy cattle in March 2024, USDA has worked to assess the prevalence of the virus in U.S. dairy herds. *********************************************************************************** USDA Addressing Wildlife Rabies Outbreak The Department of Agriculture recently approved nearly $19 million in emergency funding to address current wildlife rabies outbreaks in multiple states. The funding allows USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to establish a sufficient stockpile of oral rabies vaccination baits and address emerging rabies cases in high-risk areas. APHIS Administrator Michael Watson says, “By reducing rabies in wildlife populations, we are safeguarding both human and animal health and decreasing the risk of disease spread.” The APHIS National Rabies Management Program controls and eliminates rabies virus in terrestrial carnivores such as raccoons, coyotes and foxes. APHIS has been able to support emergency responses in recent years using appropriated funding, but growing costs and the need to provide an increasing number of rabies responses has depleted available resources. This emergency funding is being redirected from unspent balances from previous animal and plant health emergencies. The funding will address rabies outbreaks in Alabama, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Vermont. *********************************************************************************** Cover Crop Adoption Rates Vary Across Regions The adoption rates for cover crops vary across regions and how land is managed, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Land in the Heartland region had adoption rates of around ten percent for all owner-operated, cash-rented, and share-rented fields. Land in the Northern Great Plains and Prairie Gateway regions had adoption rates of around four percent for owner-operated fields and 11 percent for cash-rented fields. The rest of the country - any land outside of the Heartland, Great Plains, and Prairie Gateway Resource regions - had 30 percent cover crop adoption for fields operated by owner-operators and 16 percent of fields operated by cash renters, respectively. No surveyed share-rented fields in the “rest of the country” region adopted cover crops. According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, 18.0 million acres of cover crops were planted in 2022, which has grown over the last decade. *********************************************************************************** Danford Plant Science Center CEO to Retire Donald Danforth Plant Science Center President and CEO Jim Carrington recently announced he will step down on July 1, 2025. The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center is a not-for-profit research institute with a mission to improve the human condition through plant science, located in St Louis, Missouri. Carrington says, “We've been able to do so much because of our exceptional people, our partners and our supporters. But it's time to plan for a transition.” Penny Pennington, managing partner at Edward Jones and chair of the Danforth Center Board of Directors, will lead the search for a new President. Carrington has led the Danforth Center in delivering its mission since 2011. Under his leadership, the Danforth Center has grown significantly through doubling its staff, expanding the scope of scientific research, and developing new facilities like the William H. Danforth building on the main campus and the 140-acre Field Research Site. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Decline Again The nation’s average price of gasoline declined for the third straight week, falling 4.2 cents compared to a week ago to $3.37 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is down 11.4 cents from a month ago and is 47.8 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 2.6 cents last week and is $3.69 per gallon—the lowest level in 940 days. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Gasoline and diesel prices continue to trail off across much of the country as summer demand fades away.” With economic concerns persisting on one of the balance of markets and with the potential of further attacks in the Middle East, oil prices have been somewhat in limbo over the last week. Meanwhile, U.S. retail gasoline demand rose 0.1 percent for the week ending August 17.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 20, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports on Tuesday's docket, but grain traders will keep track of the latest weather forecasts and are probably scouring X for reports from a Midwestern crop tour. Weather A small disturbance will bring showers into the northwestern Corn Belt Tuesday, especially in eastern South Dakota. Drier conditions are expected elsewhere, but showers could pop back up again in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 19, 2024 |

Almost One-Quarter of Farmers Don’t Have Internet Access U.S. Census data says American producers saw moderate improvement in internet access from 2017 to 2022. Across rural America, the percentage of farm operations or operator residences with internet access increased from 75.4 percent in 2017 to 78.7 percent in 2022. While many of the southeastern states still lag behind the U.S. average, most of them had significant increases in producers’ internet access over that period. There are still a surprising number of producers, at 21.3 percent, who don’t have access to the internet. This is important for government agencies and universities to understand and make sure that the information they provide is available to all producers. Many of the available options for internet access aren’t adequate for accessing precision agriculture in rural America. An FCC task force recommends a minimum performance of 100 megabits per second for downloading and 20 megabits per second for uploading to support precision agriculture. *********************************************************************************** California Proposes Credit Cap on Renewable Diesel Farm Policy News says the California Air Resources Board is proposing to cap the amount of renewable diesel made from soybean or canola oil that would qualify for the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard. Some of the proposed changes for California’s LCFS would also require feedstocks like soybeans to be certified as meeting sustainability criteria. The California board also wants to continue an exemption from LCFS requirements for jet fuel. That may promote the increasing use of sustainable aviation fuel. Under the proposals, companies would be eligible for LCFS credits for no more than 20 percent of their biomass-based diesel made from soybean or canola oil. In the first quarter of 2024, biofuel from soybean and canola oil accounted for about 30 percent of the renewable diesel that qualified for the credits. The American Soybean Association says the proposal would likely increase credit prices and boost fuel costs throughout California. *********************************************************************************** Court Rules Against EPA in RFS Exemption Case A Washington, D.C., Circuit Court panel vacated a swath of government decisions denying requests from small fossil fuel refineries to be temporarily exempt from the Renewable Fuel Standard. In 2022, the Environmental Protection Agency denied all pending exemption requests from small refineries, finding the only costs that could cause such economic hardship were those tied to compliance with the program, and those costs could be fully passed on to consumers. The Court wrote, “We conclude that the EPA’s rationale for denying all pending exemption requests was contrary to law and arbitrary and capricious. We therefore vacate the denial actions.” The panel’s decision comes in the wake of a Supreme Court decision overturning the long-standing Chevron deference that required courts to defer to an agency’s interpretation of a vague federal regulation. In an emailed statement, Growth Energy decried the panel’s decision and urged the EPA to meet its obligations under the RFS. ********************************************************************************** Certified Hereford Beef Names a New CEO Ernie Davis, Jr. is the new president and CEO of Certified Hereford Beef. He brings three decades of merchandising experience to his new role from across all animal proteins. Much of his experience revolves around developing premium branded opportunities to help producers add value to production and retrieve added value for their efforts. “I view Certified Hereford Beef as the best-kept secret in the marketplace,” says Davis. “It is a great eating experience with great marbling and a great story behind it.” Davis also says he’s happy to sell a premium product with a producer-based story that resonates with consumers.” Certified Hereford Beef was established in 1995 and is owned by the U.S. farmers and ranchers who make up the AHA member list. Cattle qualifying for CHB must grade USDA Choice and higher. Cattle qualifying for Premium CHB must grade in the upper two-thirds of Choice and Prime. *********************************************************************************** NCC Responds to Campaign Rhetoric on Price Gouging Recent political rhetoric in the presidential race came from the Democratic ticket and blamed the meat and poultry industry for rising meat prices. Vice President and presidential candidate Kamala Harris says the food industry’s “corporate price gouging” would be the focus of an upcoming speech. National Chicken Council Interim President Gary Kushner says he doesn’t agree with the idea of price gouging. “Americans are seeing inflation in nearly every part of their livelihoods, including rent, gas, automobiles, furniture, and not just in the meat case,” Kushner says. “Chicken prices are largely affected by supply and demand, by major input costs like corn, soybeans, energy, packaging, transportation, and by fiscal policy and burdensome government regulations and not by price gouging.” He adds that it’s time for the administration to stop using the meat and poultry industry as a scapegoat and a distraction for the root causes of inflation and significant economic challenges. *********************************************************************************** New Soybean Yield Record Set Southwest Georgia farmer Alex Harrell surpassed his own world record soybean harvest of 206.79 bushels an acre set in 2023. Now, he’s a back-to-back yield champ, growing the highest-yielding soybeans in agriculture history. He cut a bin-busting 218 bushels per acre in the Georgia Soybean Production Contest. He told Farm Journal that he never thought this year’s harvest would surpass last year’s by such a wide margin. After setting the record last year, he wanted to try again but decided to change things up. Harrell planted seeds into red clay watered by center pivot irrigation on the opposite end of the county from his previous year’s success. During the August harvest, Harrell hit 218.2856 bushels an acre on 2.58 acres, with the remainder of the field still well above 100 bushels per acre. The record soybeans averaged almost 3.1 beans per pod. His 2023 average was 2.8 beans per pod.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 19, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest weather forecasts. A report on U.S. leading economic indicators in July is due out at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A system moving off the East Coast Monday is dragging some mild and dry conditions through the Corn Belt. The front to the system will bring some showers to the southern Delta back into the Central Plains, but the main action will be in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 16, 2024 |

July Four-Wheel Drive Tractor Sales Increase U.S. sales of four-wheel-drive tractors increased 18.6 percent in July compared to the year before and are up 5.2 percent year to date. That’s according to new data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Total sales of ag tractors dropped 14 percent in July compared to 2023 and are down 12 percent year-to-date. Combine sales dipped 19 percent in July compared to 2023 and are 17.6 percent lower so far this year. “July’s uptick in four-wheel-drive tractors is a bright spot after slow sales in June and May,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “We’re still seeing softness across the subcompact tractor market after years of strong sales.” In Canada, July sales of four-wheel-drive tractors increased 88 percent compared to last year and are up 17 percent in 2024. Overall, Canadian ag tractor sales dropped 13 percent in July compared to last year and are 15 percent lower year-to-date. *********************************************************************************** Illinois Farmland Prices Up Three Percent in 2024 The average farm real estate value for Illinois in 2024 is $8,700 per acre, including the value of the land and buildings. That is 3.3 percent higher than the adjusted 2023 average of $8,420 per acre. It’s the third-highest increase since 2015. With that 3.3 percent increase in the average farm real estate value from 2023 to this year, the average Illinois farm real estate value for 2024 was 17 percent higher than the 2015 value of $7,430 ten years ago. Since 1970, the average farm real estate values have declined only eight times as compared to the previous year. There were four years when the value increased over 20 percent, the last coming in 2005. From 2015-2020, the change in values hasn’t varied as much, ranging between -1.9 percent to 1.7 percent during that period. Since 2020, the value increase averaged 5.2 percent, with 2022 the biggest increase at 10.5 percent. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announced December Trade Mission to Morocco Alexis Taylor, USDA’s Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Casablanca, Morocco, December 2-5. Current and potential exporters interested in participating should apply for consideration by August 28. “This mission presents a pivotal opportunity for U.S. agribusinesses to tap into Morocco’s dynamic market and leverage its strategic position for wider African success,” Taylor says. Morocco is the second-largest export market for U.S. agriculture in Africa. Sales of American farm and food products in the country topped $619 million last year, representing 16 percent of the continent’s market share. American agricultural exports have doubled since the U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement entered into force in 2006. “Morocco offers a stable market and growing economy and serves as a key distribution hub for the African continent,” she adds. Exporters have numerous opportunities, including in beef, dairy, feed grains, live animals, genetics, rice, seafood, soybeans, and tree fruits. ********************************************************************************** Don’t Learn Safety by Accident For the 80th time, the U.S. is holding National Farm Safety and Health Week during the third week of September, with this year’s schedule of September 15-21. Farm Safety and Health Week is a time to increase awareness of the high injury and fatality risk in agriculture and to improve agricultural health outcomes through outreach and education. Data from 2022 shows that the agriculture, forestry, and fishing industries had the highest rate of fatal work injuries compared to other occupations, at 23.5 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says the majority of those are due to incidents with transportation or equipment. Agri-Safe is supporting the cause with 11 free educational webinars during the week. Each one has a specific topic, including equipment and roadway safety, health and wellness, confined spaces, and others. For more information, go to the Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center’s website. *********************************************************************************** Graduate Students Advancing Beef Industry Eligible for Scholarship Applications are being accepted for the annual W.D. Farr Scholarship Program. The scholarship was established in 2007 by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and recognizes outstanding graduate students pursuing careers in meat science and animal agriculture. 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. Previous 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, curriculum vitae, a description of their goals and experience, a short essay, a statement of belief in the industry, as well as a review of the applicant’s graduate research, and three letters of recommendation by September 20. The scholarship honors the late W.D. Farr, a third-generation pioneer, rancher, and statesman. For more information or to apply for the scholarship, visit nationalcattlemensfoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Food Price Index Up Fractionally in July The Food Price Index increased 0.2 percent in July, as it did in June. The index for food at home rose 0.1 percent in July. Three of the six major grocery store food group indexes rose over the month, while the other three dropped during July. The meat, poultry, fish, and eggs index rose 0.7 percent, with eggs seeing the largest increase. The cereals and bakery products index dropped by 0.5 percent, and so did the dairy and related products index. The food away from home index rose 0.2 percent in July after rising 0.4 percent in the prior two months. The index for food at home rose 1.1 percent during the last 12 months, while the index for food away from home rose 4.1 percent over the last year. The meat, poultry, fish, and eggs index had the biggest jump in the last year at three percent.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 16, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. new housing starts will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index at 9 a.m. USDA's monthly Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlooks is set for 2 p.m. Financial traders will continue to discuss the possibility of a rate cut in September, currently expected to be for a quarter-percent, but not set in stone. Weather A slow-moving storm system continues to move through the Midwest on Friday, producing areas of showers and thunderstorms that have resulted in some areas of heavy rain. The tail end of the front may also be active across Kansas and northern Oklahoma as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 15, 2024 |

U.S. Renewable Diesel Imports up 29 Percent in 2024 The Energy Information Administration says the U.S. imported near-record volumes of renewable diesel fuel in each of the first five months of this year, averaging about 30,000 barrels a day. The imports were 29 percent higher than the same period last year, came from one producer, Neste (NEHS-tay), and almost all shipped to the West Coast. The EIA says it’s because California, Oregon, and Washington are the only states with active clean fuel programs that incentivize consuming renewable fuel beyond the incentives of federal policies. Scott Irwin of the University of Illinois says there’s an even more important contributor to the increase in imports, calling it a race by Neste, a Finnish oil company, to take advantage of the $1 per gallon blenders tax credit (BTC) before it expires at the end of this year. Renewable diesel imports aren’t eligible when the new Clean Fuel Tax Credit replaces the BTC next year. *********************************************************************************** Limited Ag Credit Stress, but Signs of Pressure Ag credit stress was limited in the second quarter of 2024 but showed signs of tightening amid lower crop prices and rising input costs. Those are the findings from a survey by the Federal Reserve Bank in Kansas City. Farm income in the Tenth Federal Reserve District dropped faster than in recent quarters amid lower crop prices and increased expenses. “Despite sharp declines in farm income and capital spending, agricultural credit stress remained limited, but signs of financial pressure have appeared,” the survey said. “Lenders reported modest deterioration in farm finances, farm loan repayment rates declined at a gradual pace, and repayment problems on farms rose slightly.” The Fed says about 60 percent of farm lenders reported income was lower than last year. Stronger cattle prices weren’t enough to offset low crop prices. Income was down across the country but states that rely on crop production saw the steepest income declines. *********************************************************************************** Farmers to Help Address Land Use Changes A new Land Use Change Initiative is leading efforts to resolve the inconsistencies in definitions, metrics, and methodologies for quantifying land use change. This multi-stakeholder initiative is funded by the United Soybean Board in partnership with Carbon A List. The effort seeks to unite every step in the value chain solution to these challenges. Farmers play an essential role in protecting our land’s natural resources through sustainable farming and conservation planning. “Our farmers have often been left out of conversations regarding land use change and its collective impact on agriculture,” says USB Chair Steve Reinhard. “We weren’t at the table, so we had to build our own table through this land use change initiative.” The Initiative started two years ago to drive collaboration. “It’s difficult to compete in the world on production alone,” says Dave Wessel, a USB Director. “A consistent land use change model would help level the playing field.” ********************************************************************************** USDA to Expand Slaughterhouse Beef Testing for Bird Flu The USDA will expand slaughterhouse testing for H5N1 in beef entering the food supply as a part of its response plan to combat the ongoing outbreak in dairy cattle. Officials say the tests will begin mid-September and urged livestock workers to remain vigilant. The Print says almost 200 herds in 13 states have contracted the virus since March after it jumped from wild birds to cows. In May, the USDA tested 109 beef samples from dairy cows sent to slaughter and found bird flu virus particles in one sample. USDA Undersecretary for Food Safety Emilio Esteban says the expanded testing will continue for the rest of this year and focus on dairy cows. Eric Deeble, deputy undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs, says USDA is confident in the existing level of bird flu testing. The USDA continues to report that meat and milk are safe for public consumption. *********************************************************************************** FBI Holds Symposium on Threats to Agriculture Farmers and ranchers from more than 30 states attended the 2024 Agriculture Threats Symposium hosted by the Omaha, Nebraska, field office. Technology continues advancing to make farming and agriculture more efficient across rural America. With more technology, there’s a potential for cyber-attacks that could affect the entire agriculture industry. FBI Agent Gene Kowel says there are four major threats to watch for. Those include criminal ransomware attacks, foreign adversaries stealing data, the potential for them to implant malware on industrial control systems and farming machinery, and lastly, the threat of bioterrorism. “People can take steps at ground level,” he says. “One is basic cyber hygiene like having multi-factor authentication for any kind of system.” Another is being willing to report any kind of attack to law enforcement. The more farmers and ranchers do that, Kowel says law enforcement has a better chance of being able to protect the entire industry. *********************************************************************************** Farmland Prices Increase Despite Downward Pressure The Purdue University Farmland Value and Cash Rent Survey showed that Indiana farmland prices once again hit a new record in 2024. The average price of top-quality farmland is $14,392, up 4.8 percent from June 2023. Average and poor-quality farmland also hit new high prices at $11,630 and $9,071 per acre, an annual increase of 3.7 and 4.4 percent, respectively. Survey respondents suggest that the price growth mostly occurred late in 2023 and began to retreat in the first half of this year. Respondents generally expect farmland prices to decline modestly through the remainder of this year. At the state level, prices in December 2024 are expected to remain just above those observed in June 2023. The survey finds a number of forces putting downward pressure on farmland prices, including interest rates and crop prices. While there is general pessimism about the rest of 2024, longer-term economic expectations aren’t as gloomy.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 15, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. A report on U.S. industrial production will be out at 8:15 a.m. CDT, followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will release members' soybean crush data later Thursday morning, typically a lower figure at this time of year. Weather A storm system is moving from the Dakotas into the Upper Midwest on Thursday. The system is already producing widespread rain and thunderstorms Thursday morning in the middle of the Corn Belt that will move eastward. Additional rain and thunderstorms will develop behind these early clusters, with risks of hail and damaging winds across Illinois and Missouri later in the day and Thursday night.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 14, 2024 |

Officials Want Fix for Foreign-Owned Farmland Disclosure Process Senate Ag Committee members Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Fetterman (D-PA), and Joni Ernst (R-IA) are asking the USDA to improve its process for foreign-owned farmland disclosures. The letter follows alleged inaccuracies posted online by the Farm Service Agency under the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act. “It’s essential for the USDA to ensure that the information published on its website is accurate and reliable,” the senators say. “Inaccurate information can have significant implications for various stakeholders and erodes public trust in the integrity of the reporting process.” Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the current practice of manual entry, including the re-typing of paper-filed reports into FSA systems, can lead to the publication of problematic and inaccurate information. “We’re told there have been instances where energy developers have been incorrectly identified as having ownership interest from sanctioned nations when, in reality, the investment behind the company originates from U.S. allies,” says Vilsack. *********************************************************************************** USDA Trade Mission to Colombia Underway Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, arrived in Bogota, Colombia, this week. She’s leading a trade mission with representatives from 36 agribusinesses and organizations to enhance American agricultural exports and continue building on trade gains made since the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement was implemented in 2012. “Colombia stands out as a key growth market for U.S. agricultural exports,” Taylor says. “As South America’s second-most-populous country, Columbia is experiencing rapid growth in its middle class and consumer purchasing power.” Also, Colombian consumers are eager for the high-quality food and agricultural products that the U.S. delivers. Changes in Colombian lifestyles, including more dual-income households, interest in healthier foods, and a demand for packaged and prepared food products, all bode well for American exports. While in Colombia, U.S. agribusiness representatives will meet with potential importers from across the country. FAS staff and industry experts will provide detailed market briefings. *********************************************************************************** NACD and Trust In Food™ Affirm Partnership The National Association of Conservation Districts and Trust In Food™, a sustainability initiative, signed a letter of agreement during the NACD Summer Meeting in Boston, Massachusetts. The letter builds on recent collaborations. Both share a common ground in championing a locally-led approach to natural resource conservation and the importance of partnerships and continuous improvement. “We look forward to growing our partnership with Trust In Food™ and encourage conservation districts to participate in activities like field days and peer networking with TIF’s America’s Conservation Agriculture Movement,” says NACD President Kim LaFleur. “It’s great to have TIF with their research-backed insights into what makes producers adopt regenerative and climate-smart agricultural practices as a partner to help producers get more conservation installed through voluntary programs.” The organizations will continue working together and participating in collaborative activities, sharing what they learned and promoting events and resources to empower producers and land stewards to conserve natural resources. ********************************************************************************** Baldwin Wants STB to Review High Transportation Costs Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin called on the Surface Transportation Board to review existing exemptions for certain commodities like paper, forest products, manufactured goods, and food products. She wants the Board to take action to ensure companies that ship these goods can address harmful service and pricing issues. These outdated exemptions prohibit rail shippers from seeking recourse at the STB. Revoking the exemptions would also provide greater access to a newly finalized rule that will begin to address unreliable rail service and the high costs of rail shipping for businesses by increasing competition in the freight rail industry. Baldwin asked the Board to revisit their decades-old exemptions on the critical commodities that were put in place before the rail industry consolidated, reducing competition, raising costs, and hurting businesses in rural America. “For too long, businesses and growers had to rely on fewer and fewer rail carriers,” she says. *********************************************************************************** Impossible Foods Opens a Brick and Mortar Store Impossible Foods opened a brick and mortar foodservice concept called Impossible Quality Meats at XMarket Food Hall near uptown Chicago. CEO Peter McGinnis told Food Dive that it’s all about availability and accessibility. A lot of people think plant-based is like a warm beer or cold shower, and it’s simply not,” he says. “The opening is a physical manifestation of the brand and a creative way to bring the company’s portfolio together.” The company’s beef, chicken, and pork products will be joined with other breakfast, lunch, and dinner items. Menu items will include a plant-based breakfast sausage sandwich, a Chicago-style hot dog, a grilled chicken Caesar salad or wrap, and a dessert item in collaboration with Oatly. “At the end of the day, this is all about burgers and hot dogs,” McGuiness adds. “I think this whole category has been over-intellectualized and in some cases politicized, and it’s been very partisan too.” *********************************************************************************** Oklahoma State Plans for an Agronomy Discovery Center Six million dollars in donations will help jump-start a new Agronomy Discovery Center at Oklahoma State University. As a multi-phase process, the Agronomy Discovery Center will be created through upgrades to the existing Agronomy Research Station, home to one of the world’s top wheat breeding programs. “The work conducted at the Agronomy Research Station matters, greatly affecting both producers and consumers throughout Oklahoma and beyond,” says Dr. Jayson Lusk, dean of OSU agriculture. “We’re doing state-of-the-art research, but we’re doing it in antiquated facilities.” Plans include the construction of a new headhouse and 12 research greenhouses that will become the birthplace of OSU’s new wheat breeds. Plans also include a dynamic and multipurpose Research and Education Center featuring classrooms and laboratory spaces that can accommodate industry audiences. The building will house lab spaces for the Wheat Quality Laboratory; the Soil, Water, and Forage Analytical Laboratory; and the Plant Disease and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 14, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. consumer price index for July is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, a report will likely factor into the Federal Reserve's next interest rate decision in September. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will follow at 9:30 a.m. Weather A system is slowly moving into the Northern Plains on Wednesday. There are already areas of showers and thunderstorms out there southeast into Missouri Wednesday morning. The system slowly shifts eastward through the Western Corn Belt throughout the day with showers and thunderstorms continuing. Severe storms will be most likely in the Mid-Missouri Valley this afternoon and evening.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 13, 2024 |

USDA Forecasts Lower Corn and Higher Soybean Production The USDA’s Crop Production Report forecasted corn production to be down from 2023 and soybean production up from last year. The corn production forecast is for 15.1 billion bushels, down one percent from last year. The average corn yield forecast is a record high of 183.1 billion bushels an acre, up 5.8 bushels from 2023. Soybean growers are expected to increase their production by ten percent compared to 2023, with a record-high forecast of 4.59 billion bushels. Soybean yields are expected to average a record high of 53.2 bushels per acre, up 2.6 bushels from 2023. The all wheat production is forecast to be 1.98 billion bushels, nine percent higher than last year. Monday’s report also included the first cotton forecast of the season. The all-cotton forecast is for 15.1 million 480-pound bales, up 25 percent from last year. Yield is expected to average 840 pounds per acre, 59 pounds under 2023. *********************************************************************************** Hurricane Debby Damage Impact at $28 Billion A preliminary estimate of the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Debby is $28 billion. AccuWeather says Debby’s first landfall as a hurricane in Florida and second as a tropical storm in South Carolina and its impacts on the eastern U.S. will be widespread and long-lasting. Flooding hit both the coastal areas and extended inland. The hardest-hit locations experienced a foot or more of rain in only one or two days, leading to devastating flooding that damaged homes and businesses, even taking lives in the process. Some of the highest rain amounts reported included 21.06 inches in Tatem Ridge, Florida, 18.25 inches in Summerville, South Carolina, 15.25 inches in Kings Grant, North Carolina, and 13.87 inches in Rincon, Georgia. The highest wind gust reported in the storm was 99 miles per hour in Horseshoe Beach, Florida, and the highest storm surge was 6.11 feet in Cedar Key, Florida. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Dairy Asks Government to Preempt Colombian Trade Barriers The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council are asking the U.S. government to leverage all available tools if Colombia implements countervailing tariffs on U.S. milk powder exports. They made the request in a letter sent Friday to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. Colombia’s recent decision to initiate an unwarranted Subsidies and Countervailing Measures investigation into U.S. milk powder exports is a tariff threat without merit. The dairy groups note that no causal link exists between U.S. milk powder exports and the injury alleged by Colombian officials. The letter also explains that imported milk powder products and domestically produced fluid milk are not interchangeable ingredients in a food manufacturing facility. “Initiating unfounded investigations undermines any progress and is a step backward in our trade relationship,” says Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. “We appreciate U.S. officials for recognizing this is baseless.” ********************************************************************************** August WASDE Calls for Lower Corn, Higher Soybean Ending Stocks The 2024-2025 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report is calling for larger corn supplies, lower domestic use, greater exports, and smaller ending stocks. Corn production is forecast at 15.1 billion bushels, 47 million higher than last month. Ending stocks are forecast down 24 million bushels to 2.1 billion. The season-average corn price dropped a dime to $4.20 a bushel. The outlook for soybeans includes higher production, exports, and ending stocks. Production is forecast at 4.6 billion bushels, 154 million higher than in July. Ending stocks are forecast at 560 million bushels, 125 million more than last month. The season-average soybean price dropped 30 cents to $10.80 per bushel. The wheat outlook is for lower supplies, slightly higher domestic use, unchanged exports, and smaller ending stocks. Projected ending stocks are down 28 million bushels to 828 million. The season-average farm price is unchanged from last month at $5.70 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** Junior Hereford Association Holds Faces of Leadership Conference Members of the National Junior Hereford Association attended the 2024 Faces of Leadership Conference in Fort Worth, Texas, in late July. The Faces of Leadership conference is designed to help NJHA members hone communications, team-building, and other skills essential to becoming effective leaders. This year, 115 members from 25 states attended the event. “Good leaders know how to lead themselves first,” says NJHA vice chairman Haley Mouser. “The hat you should never take off in your life is living every day with a purpose.” Participants had several learning opportunities, including livestock handling and processing, presented by the Texas Christian University Ranch Management Program. “Faces of Leadership is a tool to not only build leaders but to get these young people started on a successful career path,” says Amy Cowan, director of youth activities for the American Hereford Association. “We hope they stay in agriculture but want to help them be successful.” *********************************************************************************** Cattle Feedlots Have Challenges Ahead Dr. Glynn Tonsor, a livestock market economist at Kansas State University Extension, says cattle feedlots may have tough times ahead. He told the Radio Oklahoma Network that his most recent feedlot study doesn’t look healthy for the beef cattle industry from this fall into early next year. He warned of red ink for the feedlot business beginning in September and continuing through next spring. “The returns are projected to be negative,” he says. “The main reason is, yes, fed cattle prices are expected to go up, but nowhere near the rate that the incoming feeder cattle prices have gone up.” He says the main profit drivers for feedlots are what they pay for cattle coming in, how much it costs to feed them, and what they bring at sale time. If they pay more on incoming cattle than they make on sale day, margins get squeezed, which he predicts from September-March.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 13, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Grain traders will continue to digest USDA's new WASDE and Crop Progress estimates from Monday. The U.S. producer price index for July is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, offering an early peek at Wednesday's report on consumer prices. Weather A disturbance moving through Kansas is producing a cluster of thunderstorms early Tuesday morning. The cluster is forecast to die out Tuesday afternoon as it moves into Missouri, but leaves behind a zone for more showers and thunderstorms to develop Tuesday evening. Another disturbance moving into the Plains will aid that and other thunderstorms farther north and west, some of which could be severe.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 12, 2024 |

Confusion Possible About Monday Acreage Updates Lance Honig, Chair of the USDA Agricultural Statistics Board, says there seems to be some confusion about a heads-up that USDA gave to commodities traders. The agency issued a notice reminding them acreage updates for corn and soybeans could come in the August reports that are due on Monday, August 12. Some traders took this to mean changes are coming, but Honig says that’s not necessarily the case. He said the heads-up was intended to be a process reminder. “It’s the same process we’ve been using for years,” he notes. “It’s just coming earlier as the processing improvements in the Farm Service Agency’s reporting have made the planting data more complete quicker than in the past.” The Chair of the USDA Agricultural Statistics Board says while the FSA data is highly valuable for planted acreage numbers, it is of very limited value for harvested acreage at this point in the season. *********************************************************************************** BLM Announces Next Steps in Public Lands Rule Implementation The Bureau of Land Management announced its intent to develop a Federal Advisory Committee to engage the public and help inform the BLM’s implementation of the Public Lands Rule. The committee will allow the agency to continue working with and hearing from a range of experts and the public to support successful rule implementation. “The Public Lands Rule provides essential tools to help the Bureau improve and conserve the health of the lands we’ve been entrusted with for present and future generations,” says BLM Director Tracy Manning-Stone. In the weeks ahead, BLM will publish a call for nominations and a charter for the committee to the Federal Register. The BLM also released a set of initial guidance documents to support clear and consistent implementation of the rule across the Bureau’s 12 state and 175 field offices. The guidance documents will give direction to field personnel on how the rule will work. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Industry Leaders React to Rancher Persecution Leaders of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council were not happy about the indictment of Charles and Heather Maude, family ranchers in western South Dakota. “I’m deeply disgusted by the Forest Service’s persecution of Charles and Heather,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). On June 20, 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in South Dakota indicted them on charges of theft of government property related to a small piece of Forest Service land surrounded by the Maude’s private land. The family has stewarded that government land for generations. “The Forest Service’s deference to the heavy-handed special agent with a long history of abusing permittees is unconscionable,” says NCBA V.P. of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. The groups say the Forest Service has a long and shameful history of confronting ranchers in South Dakota, and their escalation to imprisonment over a century-old fence line has shaken the confidence of every permittee. ********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Show Bipartisan Support for Sugar Policy In a bipartisan show of support for U.S. sugar policy, Representatives Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR), Rick Larsen (D-WA), and Dan Newhouse (R-WA) all spoke at the International Sweetener Symposium in Washington. Each of the members noted the importance of agriculture, particularly sugarbeets, to their region of the country. Sugar production has a significant impact on the Pacific Northwest’s economy. In Washington state, sugarbeets drive $28 million in yearly economic impact, and in Oregon, sugarbeets have $128 million worth of economic impact. Farmers across all commodities are facing rising production costs and greater weather challenges that have made it harder for family farms to survive. “As one of the few farmers in Congress, I understand those unique challenges our producers face,” Newhouse said. “I know that passing a farm bill is of utmost importance to our farm economy.” Newhouse expressed support for the strengthened provisions in the House Agriculture Committee’s farm bill. *********************************************************************************** Health Insurance Webinar for Farmers and Small Businesses Healthcare costs are a significant burden for farmers and small businesses. A Penn State University Extension webinar is aimed at helping participants better understand the available options. The webinar titled “Smart Choice, Smart Use Health Insurance: Options for Farmers and Small Businesses” takes place from noon to 1:30 pm Eastern Time on September 5. The session is designed for farmers and small business owners, those with fewer than 50 employees, who are interested in learning about available insurance options. The webinar will cover health insurance options as they relate to farmers and small businesses, items to consider when selecting health insurance, and sources for more information on health insurance options. By making smart choices, farmers and small business owners can ensure that their health and the well-being of their businesses are protected. The webinar is free but registration by noon ET on September 5 is required. More information is at extension.psu.edu. *********************************************************************************** Corn Sales for Export Rise USDA data shows corn sales jumped week-to-week, while wheat sales were narrowly lower. Corn sales in the seven days ending on August 1 were reported at 485,000 metric tons. USDA says that’s up from 168,000 metric tons the week before and is a 32 percent increase from the prior four-week average. Mexico was the big buyer at 309,400 metric tons. Sales for the upcoming marketing year that starts September 1 totaled 249,000 metric tons. Soybean sales hit 325,400 metric tons, two percent higher than the previous week and 66 percent from the average. China was the top buyer at 134,500 metric tons. Sales for the next marketing year totaled 985,200 tons. Wheat sales fell four percent weekly to 274,000 metric tons. That’s down 23 percent from the average total for this time of year. Taiwan was the top wheat buyer at 105,700 metric tons, while Japan bought just over 63,000 tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 12, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - WASDE, DTN Digital Yield Tour Kick Off the Week 1. DTN Digital Yield Tour: The seventh annual DTN Digital Yield Tour will run August 13-16. This year's tour will have a slight change, featuring corn and soybean predictions from new DTN-developed yield models, including our proprietary historical weather data, plus insights from farmers, agronomists and others from around the Corn Belt. Watch for continued coverage throughout the week, including a full take on changes for the 2024 Tour. 2. WASDE Monday: The latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report is revealed at 11:00 a.m. Monday. We will have our flash report immediately after the numbers are made public, with continuing updates and analysis through the morning. 3. FSA Acreage Report. Monday we'll also see the first actual acreage report for the 2024 crop season from Farm Service Agency. The acreage data will be released at 12:00 p.m. and is based on farmer-reported categorization of acres as planted, prevented planted or failed. It's the first look of the season on what flooding and wet conditions had on farmers' ability to plant the land they intended to plant in 2024. 4. Weather For the Week: We'll be watching the continued chance of early frosts in northern Canada prairies, and how the cold front creating those conditions plays out throughout the upper US plains. Cooler temperatures in the Midwest and central and southern Plains states early in the week lessen the chance for rain; we'll see temps climb again later in the week. Conditions are hot and dry in the Delta, a drain on soil moisture there. A front moving into the region will stall out going into next week, but models disagree whether that will produce any rain. 5. Economic Reports This Week: Monday, Grain Inspections reports are out at 10 a.m., followed by the 11 a.m. WASDE and Crop Production reports. At 11:15 a.m. we'll see the latest Grains and World Grain, Cotton and Oilseed stocks and trade report. At 12:00 p.m. FSA releases the acreage report, then at 1 p.m. we'll see the Monthly Federal Budget report, then the weekly Crop Progress report hits at 3 p.m., followed by our analysis of the report. Tuesday at 7:30 a.m. the Producer Price Index and Core PPI are released. At 11 a.m. we'll see the Feedgrain Database updates, then at 2 p.m. we'll see Wheat Data and latest County Estimates for Hogs, as well as the Season Average Price forecasts from the Economic Research Service. Wednesday reports start at 7:30 a.m. with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Core CPI. At 8:15 a.m. the Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization reports are out. At 9:30 a.m. we'll see EIA's Weekly Petroleum including ethanol statistics, then Broiler and Turkey hatchery numbers are at 2 p.m. Thursday starts at 7:30 a.m. with Grain Export Sales, Housing Starts and Building Permits, Initial Jobless Claims Retail Sales and the latest Import Price Index. At 8:15 a.m. we'll see Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization, followed by Business Inventories data at 9 a.m. Friday reports begin at 7:30 a.m. with Housing Starts and Building Permits. At 9 a.m. we'll have Consumer Sentiment indexes and the Home Builder Confidence Index. At 2:30 p.m. the CFTC Commitment of Traders report is out.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 9, 2024 |

Petition to Clarify Labels on Farm Products A coalition of attorneys general is urging the Environmental Protection Agency to implement a new rule that would create uniform labeling requirements on pesticide products across the country. By streamlining the process and preempting misbranding in states like California, the rule would lift the burdens currently placed on farmers across the country. The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act allows each state to create separate requirements that manufacturers must include when labeling their products. In some instances, manufacturers are forced to label products with health information that’s inconsistent with EPA’s findings about the product’s health effects. California’s Prop 65 forces manufacturers to label products containing glyphosate as likely carcinogenic, even though the EPA findings disagree. The proposed rule would preempt Prop 65 and declare that any state labeling requirements inconsistent with the EPA’s findings would constitute misbranding under FIFRA. The current patchwork labeling requirements have led to needless, years-long litigation. *********************************************************************************** EPA Investigating Used Cooking Oil Imports The Environmental Protection Agency is investigating the supply chain of at least two renewable fuel producers amid industry concerns that some may be using fraudulent feedstocks for biodiesel to secure government subsidies. Farm Policy News says the EPA declined to elaborate further or identify the companies being targeted because the investigations are ongoing. A flood of used cooking oil from China and elsewhere is causing several senators to question whether some of the shipments meant to supply the biofuel market may be fraudulent. Producing biodiesel from sustainable ingredients like cooking oil can earn refiners a number of state, federal, and environmental climate subsidies, including tradeable credits under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Investigators are trying to determine whether some supplies labeled as used cooking oil are cheaper and less sustainable virgin palm oil that’s been associated with deforestation and other environmental damage. Cooking oil imports reached three billion pounds in 2023. *********************************************************************************** New Plant to Turn Milk into Ethanol A Canadian company that got its start distilling a milk byproduct into spirits and a large cooperative owned by Great Lakes dairy farmers broke ground on a new Michigan plant that will unite their businesses to make ethanol. While most U.S. ethanol is corn-based, Ontario-based Dairy Distillery and the Michigan Milk Producers Association have a different idea. They’re building a new facility near Constantine, Michigan, which will repurpose milk permeate, a byproduct of dairy goods production. “Utilizing milk permeate to produce low-carbon ethanol is an innovative solution to reduce our carbon footprint and provide dairy farmers with more value for their milk,” says Omid McDonald, Dairy Distillery CEO. The $41 million plant will go online in 2025 and take 14,000 tons of the dairy byproduct, using it to produce 2.2 million gallons of ethanol. “This marks a significant step forward in sustainability,” says MMPA President and CEO Joe Diglio. ********************************************************************************** Beef Export Value Climbs in June June exports of U.S. beef reached the highest value in nearly two years. Data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows beef exports totaling 110,155 metric tons, down four percent from 2023 but the second-largest total in 2024. Export value reached $938.3 million, up three percent year-over-year and the highest level since August 2022. Despite a four percent volume decline through the first half of 2024, the export value climbed five percent to $5.22 billion. “June beef exports performed well in Japan despite the headwinds beef faced there,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. June pork exports totaled 224,392 metric tons, down nine percent from 2023 and the lowest level since September. Pork export value fell five percent to $659.7 million. However, the January-June volume still reached 1.52 million metric tons, three percent above the first half of 2023, while the export value increased five percent to $4.26 billion. *********************************************************************************** Drought Conditions Persist in the Missouri River Basin July runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 2.8 million acre-feet, 85 percent of the average, with below-average runoff in the upper three reaches and below-average in the lower three reaches. The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa, is 23.9 million acre-feet, 93 percent of average. “July brought warmer and drier weather to the Missouri River Basin,” says John Remus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “While every state experienced storms that produced small pockets of above average rainfall, overall precipitation was below normal for the basin.” The July 30 drought monitor shows that 59 percent of the Basin is in abnormally dry or worse category. Soils are drier than normal in the western portion of the basin and wetter than normal in the eastern parts of the basin. System storage peaked on July 11 at 57 million acre-feet. August 1 storage was 56.5 MAF. *********************************************************************************** Food Safety Guidelines After Hurricane Debby Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack directed the USDA to aid recovery efforts for farmers, ranchers, and residents affected by Hurricane Debby, which continues tracking up the East Coast. The Food Safety and Inspection Service says during a power outage, a refrigerator will keep food at a safe temperature for up to four hours. A full freezer will hold a safe temperature for about 48 hours or 24 hours if it’s half full. Drink only bottled water that hasn’t been in contact with flood water. Screw caps aren’t waterproof, so discard any bottled water that may have contacted flood water. Discard any food and beverages that aren’t in a waterproof container if there’s any chance it’s contacted flood water. Undamaged, commercially prepared foods in all-metal cans and retort pouches such as flexible, shelf-stable juice or seafood pouches can be saved by following FSIS website instructions. For more information, go to fsis.usda.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 9, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT, Stats Canada will release monthly employment data, an important factor for the Bank of Canada's interest rate decisions. There are no other significant reports Friday, but traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts, global stock markets and the situation between Iran and Israel. Weather The remnants of Tropical Storm Debby are moving into the Northeast for Friday where it will produce some heavy rain. A front stalled across the Southern Plains will produce scattered showers there as well. But much of the country will be cooler and quieter.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 8, 2024 |

USDA Updates Farm Loan Programs The USDA announced changes to the Farm Service Agency’s Farm Loan Programs that take effect on September 25, 2024. The changes are intended to increase opportunities for farmers and ranchers to be financially viable. These improvements are part of the Enhancing Program Access and Delivery for Farm Loans rule. “USDA recognizes that Farm Service Agency’s loan making and servicing activities are critical for producers, especially in tough times,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Providing borrowers the financial freedom to increase profits, save for long-term needs, and make strategic investments is the best way the nation’s farmers and ranchers can build financial equity and resilience.” Notable policy changes include providing all eligible loan applicants access to flexible repayment terms that can increase profitability and help build working capital reserves and savings. The change also establishes a new low-interest installment set-aside program for financially distressed borrowers. For more information, go to fsa.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** The SAF Coalition Welcomes Amazon as a New Member The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition announced that Amazon has joined its expanding membership. The tech leader’s inclusion underscores the commitment to advancing SAF as a key element to improve the efficiency and environmental impact of jet fuel, create domestic jobs, and enhance American energy independence. “We are thrilled that Amazon has joined the SAF Coalition,” says Coalition Executive Director Alison Graab. “Their addition marks a pivotal moment for our collective efforts to scale up SAF production and create a more sustainable future.” Amazon has a significant presence in the logistics and transportation sectors, so the SAF Coalition is looking forward to the insights the company will bring. The SAF Coalition has grown to more than 50 organizations across the SAF value chain since its launch earlier this year. The Coalition encompasses airports, airlines, and many other economic segments and advocates for policies and incentives to rapidly increase the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels. *********************************************************************************** Senators Urge Ag Secretary to Improve Drought Response Colorado Senator Michael Bennet and Kansas Senator Roger Marshall sent a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack asking him to adapt USDA’s drought mitigation programs to provide sufficient resources to western farmers and ranchers. The letter details testimony and recommendations given by Colorado and Kansas producers, water experts, and state health officials from a field hearing in Colorado. “Producers told us they can’t survive the current drought levels unless we make serious changes in how we address it,” says Bennet. “Their testimonies were invaluable, and now we need assistance from our USDA programs and upcoming farm bill to reflect those challenges.” The letter specifically addresses multiple USDA programs that could be improved, including the Conservation Reserve Program and several others. The letter also recommends increased investment in water conservation research and the scaling of innovative and voluntary water conservation approaches, like the pilot program in Bennet’s Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act. ********************************************************************************** Stakeholders Support Stronger Sugar Policy Sugar is a vital ingredient in our national food supply, and U.S. farmers, workers, and food manufacturers support the sugar policy provisions in the “Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024.” Randy Green, speaking on behalf of the Sweetener Users Association at the 39th annual International Sweetener Symposium, called the bill “responsive and positive” and would result in more American-made sugar. “We view the bill as a balanced package,” Green said. “It seems to us that the Ag Committees have been responsive to the needs of both growers and users.” The American Sugar Alliance continues to assert that a stronger sugar policy would better reflect the current economic realities affecting sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers and workers. That’s vital to ensuring that American farmers and workers can continue to grow and refine the sugar crops that supply American food manufacturers. Domestic sugar production fills about 75 percent of America’s sugar needs. *********************************************************************************** Public Health and Animal Agriculture Leaders Come Together The National Pork Board partnered with the National Institute for Animal Agriculture to convene a group of public health, animal health, and swine professionals in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The goal was to build relationships and explore opportunities for One Health collaborations. The event was sponsored by the Pork Checkoff, with the support of several state pork associations and producers from Minnesota and South Dakota. The One Health farm-to-fork experience spanned all phases of swine production, including a feed mill, truck wash, and processing plants in Minnesota, South Dakota, and Iowa. The educational tour focused on biosecurity, animal well-being, and sustainability to help create a necessary dialogue between human health, animal health, and food safety professionals. “This Checkoff investment is evidence of our holistic approach to connecting directly with our colleagues in the public health sector,” says Heather Fowler, director of producer and public health at NPB. *********************************************************************************** Tyson Foods Third-Quarter Sales Improve Tyson Foods, the maker of Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farms, and Ball Park products, says its fiscal third-quarter sales rose year-over-year, and per-share earnings surged. Sales in the three months ending on June 29 totaled $13.4 billion, up 1.6 percent from the same quarter in 2023. The company says revenue was up 0.5 percent to $39.7 billion in the first nine months of Tyson’s fiscal year. Third-quarter sales in the company’s beef segment rose to $5.24 billion from $4.96 billion, and pork sales increased by 10 percent to $1.46 billion. Meanwhile, chicken segment sales were down to $4.08 billion from $4.21 billion in the same quarter during the previous year. Adjusted earnings jumped to $0.87 a share in the quarter, up from $0.15 a year earlier. For the nine months of the fiscal year ending June 29, earnings were $2.18 a share versus 97 cents the previous year.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 8, 2024 |

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 and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and concerns about Iran possibly preparing an attack on Israel. Weather Tropical Storm Debby moved back onshore in South Carolina early Thursday morning and will bring heavy rain there northward into Virginia for the rest of the day. A cold front is bringing a reinforcing shot of cooler air to the Corn Belt and areas northwest as well. The front is mysteriously dry across the Eastern Belt but is producing heavier rainfall in Kansas Thursday morning. Showers may continue in the Central Plains through Thursday evening, getting farther south later in the day and overnight.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 7, 2024 |

Farmer Sentiment Improves Despite Financial Concerns All three broad-based measures of farmer sentiment improved in the July Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. The index rose eight points from June to 113. The Index of Current Conditions increased 10 points to 100. The Index of Future Expectations rose seven points from June to 119. Farmer sentiment improved in July despite declines in corn and soybean prices from mid-June to mid-July. The July survey showed that higher input costs remain the biggest concern to 34 percent of the respondents. Also, 29 percent of the respondents cited lower crop and livestock prices as their number one concern. The Farm Financial Performance Index dropped four points in July to 81, six points lower than July 2023. Despite concerns about farms’ financial performance, the Farm Capital Investment Index rose six points in July to 38. However, at seven points lower than July 2023, it does remain at a weak level. *********************************************************************************** Large Loss of Midwest Farmland The loss of agricultural land to different types of development is a long-standing topic at the national and state level. The University of Illinois’ Farmdoc Daily says development accounted for 55 percent of the 1.6 million acres lost in eight Midwestern states during the 21st Century. The states include Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The National Land Cover Database says agricultural land in the eight Midwest states dropped from 150,312,467 acres in 2001 to 148,716,812 acres in 2021. That’s a total drop of almost 1.6 million acres. Of that number, 877,386 acres were converted to developed land, likely due to urbanization, infrastructure expansion, or other development activities. Development accounted for the biggest loss in Iowa, totaling 90 percent of the lost farmland between 2001 and 2021. Illinois lost the largest number of acres at 155,653. Almost 81 percent of lost land occurred because of urban area expansion. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Coalition Sends Letter on 2,4-D Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE) and 20 of their bipartisan colleagues wrote a letter to Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo regarding 2,4-D imports from China and India. The officials cite the International Trade Commission’s antidumping and countervailing investigations. Senator Grassley, a self-proclaimed free trader who’s long worked to combat Chinese dumping, welcomed the news. The lawmakers noted the importance of maintaining producers’ access to adequate 2,4-D supplies amid higher costs for inputs like fertilizers and declining farm income projections. “We’re asking the Department of Commerce to carefully review the facts as it calculates any preliminary duties during this investigation,” the letter says. “Given that there is only one domestic source of 2,4-D with a limited capacity to meet domestic demand, American agricultural producers have to rely on imports to supplement their management plans.” Any changes to the duties on the products may have significant impacts on farmers. ********************************************************************************** House, Senate Ag Leaders Show Support for U.S. Sugar Policy The bipartisan, bicameral leaders of the congressional Agriculture Committees reiterated their support for U.S. sugar policy during the International Sweetener Symposium. “Sugar is so important,” says House Ag Committee Ranking Member David Scott. “We can do without a lot of things, but the one thing we cannot do without is sugar.” The American Sugar Alliance, which sponsors the symposium, says these folks are the primary architects of the next farm bill. “The message I heard loud and clear is that our farmers are struggling, and the safety net is inadequate,” says House Ag Chair GT Thompson. “Between low commodity prices and high input costs, the margin squeeze is getting more serious as the days go by.” Thompson also says his farm bill proposal delivers critical policy improvements for domestic growers and processors. “Sugar is sweet, but your role in the American economy is sweeter,” said Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow. *********************************************************************************** Soy-Based Asphalt at the Farm Progress Show The Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa, will unveil new advances in soy-based technologies. The Iowa Soybean Association, in partnership with Iowa State University and the Farm Progress Show, announced the completion of an enhanced soy-based asphalt project at the heart of the Central Iowa Fairgrounds near Boone. The 42,560 square foot asphalt base is a continuation of an initial project unveiled at the 2022 Farm Progress Show. “Infrastructure and demand are two priorities for our soybean farmers,” says Suzanne Shirbroun, ISA President. “Soy’s incorporation in asphalt enhances the product’s durability and longevity and reduces maintenance costs.” At the same time, she said it also increases demand for soybean oil, improves the product’s environmental footprint, and benefits the fairgrounds as well. “We’re creating an enhanced experience for visitors by upgrading the Varied Industries Tent area with this asphalt,” says Matt Jungmann, Farm Progress Show Manager. The Show runs August 27-29. *********************************************************************************** AFT Releases Bilingual Transfer Curriculum American Farmland Trust released a new resource that’s available in English and Spanish to build the skills and knowledge of beginning farmers and ranchers participating in a transfer. The “Transitioning Land to a New Generation: Land Transfer Training” curriculum helps to face a pressing need as almost 300 million acres of American agricultural lands are expected to change hands in the coming decades. As aging farmers and ranchers retire, the incoming generation is struggling to afford to enter it, putting land at risk of changing to non-farm uses. Few tools exist to help cultivate relationships and plan for conversations involved in a farm or ranch transfer. “The Land Transfer Training is designed to meet people where they are and to be adaptable while still building off of steps that are universal,” says Erica Goodman, AFT Farms for a New Generation Director. Both the Spanish and English versions are at farmland.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 7, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday with interest in ethanol production after hitting a record high last week. At 11 a.m., USDA will release its monthly report of Livestock and Meat International Trade data. Outside markets were calmer Tuesday, but traders may remain leery after Monday's global sell-off. Weather Tropical Storm Debby may be offshore, but it continues to send rainbands into the Carolinas for Wednesday, adding to the flooding dangers there while it likely gathers strength before coming back ashore in South Carolina on Thursday. A system in Manitoba is pushing a cold front through the Northern Plains and is producing scattered showers and thunderstorms and another burst of cooler air.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 6, 2024 |

National FFA Reaches a Significant Membership Milestone The National FFA Organization has reached a record-breaking milestone of more than one million members. The current membership number is 1,027,273, up 8.6 percent from last year. National FFA, a nationally recognized school-based student leadership development organization, says states that have shown the largest membership percentage growth this past year are Utah, Florida, and Alaska. “It’s so exciting to watch this generation continue to find their place in agricultural education and FFA,” says National FFA CEO Scott Stump. “We know there are many opportunities in the field of agriculture – from being a leader in your community to filling the need in the talent pipeline in one of more than 350 careers in agriculture.” The organization believes in the future of its members and is also seeing a lot of opportunities in the years ahead. Utah saw a 172 percent growth in membership, Florida jumped 116 percent, and Alaska’s membership grew by 74 percent. *********************************************************************************** CBO Says House Farm Bill Cost Will Raise Deficit The Congressional Budget Office released an official cost estimate of the House Ag Committee’s farm bill and said it’s $33 billion over budget and fails to pay for a large increase in crop subsidies. House Ag Chair GT Thompson says if the CBO doesn’t change its mind, he’ll rely instead on the House Budget Committee to overrule the CBO. The CBO cost estimate, released last Friday, creates a large obstacle to passing a farm bill that Congress is already 10 months late in passing. The House bill will increase commodity supports by $45 billion over ten years, cut SNAP funding by $29 billion, and greatly restrict USDA’s use of Commodity Credit Corporation funds for discretionary spending. Thompson says the proposed limitations on the $30 billion USDA reserve would save more than enough money to offset the expense of increasing the reference prices that trigger crop subsidy payments by 15 percent. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Has an Important Reminder for Producers The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association reminds cattle producers to consult their tax attorneys regarding the Corporate Transparency Act as key deadlines approach at the end of this year. The Act was passed by Congress in 2021 and requires companies to report beneficial ownership information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, a division of the U.S. Treasury. The legislation’s goal is to reduce financial crimes, but the new mandate will impact farmers and ranchers whose operations have fewer than 20 employees and are structured as corporations like Limited Liability Companies. “Farmers and ranchers need to speak with their tax attorneys to make sure they aren’t in violation of this new law and to submit the necessary information to the Network before the December 31 deadline,” says NCBA Tax and Credit Committee Vice Chair Jeff Magee. “Failure to meet the deadlines carries a fine of $500 per day and possible jail time.” ********************************************************************************** Farm Land Values Up Five Percent USDA says the value of all farm real estate increased five percent compared to last year. The average price is $4,170 per acre, and that includes buildings and other facilities. Cropland values increased to $5,570 per acre from last year. That’s a jump of $350 per acre, more than 4.7 percent higher. The average pasture value was $1,830 an acre, up 5.2 percent, or $90 per acre, compared to 2023. Farmers paid an average price of $160 per acre to rent cropland. Renting irrigated ground averaged $245 an acre. Dryland rents were about $146 per acre on average. Most states saw higher cropland values. The Corn Belt saw cropland values climb by an average of 4.5 percent, reaching $8,560 an acre. In the Northern Plains, average cropland value rose 6.6 percent to $4,040 per acre. Colorado, Montana, and New Jersey were the only states to see a decrease. *********************************************************************************** Soybean Seeding Rates are Declining in Farm Country Changes in technology and higher seed costs have shifted the way farmers plant soybeans in the United States. Between 1997 and 2018, soybean seeding rates – the number of seeds planted per acre – declined by 22 percent on America’s farms. In 1997, farmers planted an average of more than 200,000 soybean seeds per acre. The seeding rates fell to 192,000 in 2002 and eventually to 157,000 in 2018. The decline in seeding rates was accompanied by an increase in row widths or the distance between planting rows. From 1997 to 2002, the average U.S. soybean row width dropped from 17 to 16 inches. Widths suddenly increased to 18 inches in 2006 and then to 20 inches in 2012. They’re currently estimated at 20 inches as of 2018. Costs of seed on a per-acre basis increased, creating incentives for farmers to plant fewer seeds. Soybean yields increased by 20 percent from 2002-2018. *********************************************************************************** Turning the Tables on H5N1 in Cattle USDA scientists have completed animal challenge studies showing that infecting dairy cows with H5N1 in a laboratory setting can trigger clinical signs of disease similar to those of naturally infected animals on farms. Understanding more about how this virus infects cows and how the disease progresses in the animals is essential to developing vaccines. While the study size was limited, the scientists’ validation of a reliable challenge model offers an important step towards filling crucial knowledge gaps that remain, including how to prevent the spread of H5N1. USDA continues to set up additional studies with more animals and additional endpoints. The virus associated with the dairy cattle outbreak was first detected in a Texas dairy cow on March 25, 2024. Since then, 172 confirmed cases of infected dairy cows have taken place in 13 states. The Centers for Disease Control continues to emphasize the human health risk is low.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 6, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Grain traders will keep their eyes on the financial markets, watching to see how far the current selling spree will go. The U.S. trade deficit for June will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday and USDA will use the same source to publish more specific export data for ag commodities later Tuesday morning. Weather Tropical Storm Debby is slowly moving through the Southeast, bringing heavy rain. The storm center may move offshore today and keep its strength. Farther north, there is one system moving through the Eastern Corn Belt with scattered showers for Michigan into Ohio and Pennsylvania while another system in the Canadian Prairies pushes a front into the Northern Plains. All three areas will be watched for potential severe weather.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 5, 2024 |

FTC to Study High Food Prices The U.S. Federal Trade Commission will look into why grocery prices are still high despite falling costs for retailers. FTC Chair Lina Khan made the announcement during a public meeting with officials from the Justice Department on pricing practices. When the FTC votes to authorize the study, major U.S. grocery chains would be required to provide information on their costs and their prices of common products. Food prices have risen by 25 percent between 2019 and 2023. U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics say that’s a faster rate of increase than in other consumer goods and services. Reuters says an FTC study showed food prices for U.S. consumers rose 11 percent between 2021 and 2022, while profits for food retailers went up more than six percent. “We want to make sure that major businesses aren’t exploiting their power to inflate prices for American families at the grocery store,” Kahn says. *********************************************************************************** USTR Sets Timing for Tariff Hikes The Biden administration recently proposed tariff increases on goods entering the country from China. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative will make its final determination later this month. In May, the administration announced plans to raise Section 301 tariff rates on select goods from China, including electric vehicles, solar cells, and semiconductors. Supply Chain Dive reports that the White House’s reasoning for increasing the duties was to improve America’s competitive standing in the clean energy and technology sector, a major Biden administration focus. During the recent comment period, the National Retail Federation said the tariff increases would lead to further price increases for U.S. companies and potential retaliation by China against U.S. exports. The National Association of Manufacturers said the tariff increases were “not sufficient” to offset unfair trade practices outside the U.S. Several legislators said beyond the domestic impact, the increases could also negatively affect operations at U.S. ports. *********************************************************************************** USGC Elects New Chair The U.S. Grains Council elected Verity Ulibarri (VER-ih-tee you-lih-BAR-ee) as its new Chairwoman during the USGC’s 64th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah. “We are thrilled to see Verity elected as chairwoman of the U.S. Grains Council,” says Sorghum Checkoff CEO Tim Lust. “She’s a former Sorghum Checkoff Chairwoman, and her leadership is exceptional.” Ulibarri operates a family farm in New Mexico, producing sorghum, wheat, forage crops, and cattle while also working as the agribusiness relationship manager at American AgCredit. “This industry is a higher calling,” she said. “Farming is getting your hands dirty, praying for favorable weather, and managing and mitigating hazards while having extreme amounts of capital at risk and hoping for the best to build a brighter future.” The delegates also elected Mark Wilson of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board as vice chairman and Jay Reiners of the Nebraska Corn Board as secretary-treasurer. ********************************************************************************** Summer Heat to Last Well Into Fall AccuWeather long-range forecasters say intense summer heat is expected to last well into Autumn across much of America. That means an increased risk of wildfires and severe weather. “Fall is going to feel more like an extended summer for millions of Americans this year,” says long-range forecaster Paul Pastelok. “Much of the country will experience a delayed transition to cooler temperatures this year following a summer with some intense heat.” He also says record-high temperatures were shattered in several cities this year across California, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and North Carolina this summer, with the possibility of more record temperatures in the fall. Long-range forecasters say the highest temperature departures are expected across parts of the Great Lakes region, the Midwest, and the Rockies. The only areas that won’t see those high temperatures include Florida, parts of coastal Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, South Carolina, and the coastal areas of the Pacific Northwest. *********************************************************************************** Raised with Respect Cattle Campaign Now in Year Two Increasing consumer confidence in how beef is raised in the U.S. can be a tall task. However, due to ranchers investing time in Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training, progress is being made one certification at a time. Raised with Respect™ is a campaign first launched in 2023 by Sysco and Certified Angus Beef. The campaign used BQA as the conduit to talk about cattle care efforts with chefs and consumers purchasing beef. “We set out to support the work being done by farmers and ranchers to care for their cattle and raise high-quality beef,” says Joe Don Ellers, vice president of merchandising at Sysco. Building on the first successful year, another year of BQA promotions and training aims to reach new audiences and encourage live or online certification. Recognizing the importance of the next generation, Raised with Respect™ plans include an increased focus on providing education for young farmers and ranchers. *********************************************************************************** NMPF, USDEC Expand South American Partnerships The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council advanced a pair of partnerships in South America last week. The organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a prominent Brazilian milk producers association and renewed an existing MOU with an Argentine farmer organization. The agreements enhance cooperation between the United States and South American dairy industries, focusing on critical areas like the economic and social significance of the dairy sector and removing trade barriers affecting both producers and consumers. “Partnerships with like-minded organizations are crucial as we strive to promote the benefits of dairy on the international stage and tackle attempts to erect trade barriers throughout the Americas,” says Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. “Our engagements underscored the shared challenges and opportunities facing dairy producers and processors in the U.S., Brazil, and Argentina.” Gregg Doud of the NMPF says dairy producers in each country confront similar challenges.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 5, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Uncertain Weather, Market Response to Fed Interest Rate Decision 1. Weather Models Shrug: Things look a bit uncertain for much of farm country next week. A front could bring scattered showers and a brief cool down to many areas, but where it stalls and for how long leads to an uncertain temperature forecast. Northern Plains should be warm to hotter than normal, the Delta region appears hot and drier. There's a chance of cooler, wet weather in the Canadian Prairies, which would benefit drought-stressed crops. 2. Stock Market Responses: We'll watch through the week on how markets respond to the Fed's decision to hold the ground, for the moment, on interest rates. As more indicators show improvement in inflation and some stability in the economy, as DTN Editor Emeritus Urban Lehner notes in his current An Urban's Rural View, it's getting tougher not to lower rates. Will the market begin to bake in a rate drop over the next few weeks? We'll be watching. . 3. Land Rate Numbers: It's time for USDA to update land and rental rate numbers, and we'll be digging into the trends. 4. Veepstakes and Ag: Like most of the nation we'll be watching for the reveal of choice for the Democratic Vice President candidate, to see how that lineup squares off against the GOP ticket and explore any signs of what that means for farming, trade and agriculture in general. 5. Economic Reports This Week: A lighter week for economic, trade and other reports. Monday, we start at 8:45 a.m. with S&P Final Services PMI, at 10 a.m. is the Grain Inspections numbers and at 2 p.m. the latest Dairy Products report is released, followed by the 3 p.m. release of the latest Crop Progress report. Tuesday, we'll only have the U.S. Trade Balance report at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday starts with the 9:30 a.m. release of EIA Weekly Petroleum Status, including ethanol production and stocks. At 11 a.m. are the Livestock and Meat International Data, and Consumer Credit and Broiler Hatchery reports at 2 p.m. Thursday numbers include the 7:30 a.m. Grain Export Sales and Initial Jobless Claims, the 9 a.m. release of Wholesale Inventories and the 9:30 a.m. Weekly Economic Index announcement. Friday we'll have the 2:30 p.m. CFTC Commitment of Traders report.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 5, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be keeping track of the latest weather forecasts and watching the stock market for signs of further anxiety after last week's sell-off. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Hurricane Debby came ashore in the Big Bend area of Florida early Monday morning. The storm will be a slow mover all week long, getting into southeastern Georgia Monday night. Heavy rain and wind damage are likely. A front will slowly sag south across the northern tier of the country as well, producing scattered showers and thunderstorms and some severe weather. Much milder temperatures will follow behind that front and another that is forming in the Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 2, 2024 |

Marshall Leads Letter Fighting for Farmers with Biofuel Tax Credit Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) led a bipartisan letter calling for the Treasury Department to restrict the eligibility of the 45Z tax credit to renewable fuels made only from domestically sourced feedstocks, like Kansas corn and soybean oil. The tax credit goes into effect on January 1, 2025, and it has the unintended consequence of incentivizing foreign used cooking oil over homegrown soybean and corn oil. The letter says what makes it worse is the government doesn’t verify the legitimacy of used cooking oil imports, and much of it is believed fraudulent. Since 2023, used cooking oil imports from China and other countries have averaged over half a billion pounds a month, resulting in downward pressure on American corn, soybeans, and their derivative products. “This drop in soybean prices corresponds to a loss in production value to American farmers of at least $5.4 billion, and even more when they calculate corn losses,” the letter says. *********************************************************************************** Food Export’s 2025 Year Opens on August 1 Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast announced the 2025 Program Year opens August 1, 2024, to suppliers in Food Export’s 23 member states. The announcement includes the release of 2025 activities, registration for events, and the opening of the application portal for the 2025 Branded Program year. “We are thrilled for the 2025 Program year,” says Teresa Miller, Food Export Chief Program and Partnership Officer. “We anticipated strong funding for the program, which Food Export will share with the small and medium-sized food and agricultural companies we represent.” She also says Food Export worked hard in recent years to create new events in emerging markets in areas like Southeast Asia, South America, and Africa. “We have a robust educational calendar planned, as well,” Miller adds. “Access to support for trade shows and other funding opportunities is part of what we offer to small and medium-sized businesses looking to export their products.” *********************************************************************************** Officials Welcome $400 Million to Combat Western Drought Elected officials from New Mexico, Oregon, and Colorado welcomed USDA’s announcement of $400 million to address drought through investments at the irrigation district scale in 12 states across the American West. “Family farmers, water users, and communities across the American West are facing the effects of a historic 1,200-year drought and a changing climate,” says Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO).”With the investment, they answered our call to bring resources to bear that will help producers innovate and become more resilient to drought.” Producers who participate in USDA’s Water Saving Commodity Program will receive payments for voluntarily reducing water consumption while maintaining commodity production. The funding will help conserve up to 50,000 acre-feet in water use across 250,000 acres of irrigated land in production while expanding and creating new sustainable market opportunities. The new program will support innovative measures for water conservation while building resilience for long-term production in the Western U.S. ********************************************************************************** Profit Downturn for Global Ag Traders Global bumper harvests, a downturn in crop markets, and slowing demand for farm equipment are shrinking profits and lowering the future outlooks for some of the world’s biggest companies. Farm Policy News says St. Louis-based Bunge posted earnings of $1.73 a share in the second quarter, the lowest since the start of COVID-19 in 2020. The results also missed analyst expectations by as much as ten percent. Also, global grain merchants ADM Company shares dropped two percent after the company missed Wall Street expectations for second-quarter profits, which were hit by lower soy crush margins and fading demand for U.S. crops. The company’s Ag Services and Oilseeds branch suffered a 56 percent year-on-year plunge in quarterly operating profits due to multiple challenges. On the equipment side, farm and construction maker CNH Industrial lowered its full-year profit forecast for the second time as slowing tractor and combine demand mutes recovery hopes. *********************************************************************************** China’s Food Self-Sufficiency Plans Hit Weather Snag China’s quest for becoming more food-secure is getting interrupted by extreme weather challenges. Torrential rains and floods have battered most of the nation in recent days and weeks. The South China Morning Post says that’s threatening the productivity of a farming industry that’s already lacking in efficiency. The Chinese government issued 238 million yuan, equivalent to 32.8 million dollars, in emergency funding for recovering agricultural production in five provinces. The funds will be used to help curb agricultural losses and to lay the foundation for a solid autumn grain harvest, which would likely make up most of the year’s food output in the country. China’s been pushing for increasing food self-sufficiency but increasing occurrences of extreme weather events in recent years have made it difficult. Beijing began the push for self-sufficiency to help feed its extensive population of 1.4 billion people amid the increasingly uncertain global food market. *********************************************************************************** FFA Student Leaders Convene in Washington, D.C. FFA State Officer leaders from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands converged on Washington D.C. in July to advocate for agriculture at the federal level. The activity was part of the National FFA State Officer Summit. State Officer Teams met virtually with their representatives to share the importance of agriculture and agricultural education while advocating for the extension of FFA funding through the farm bill. They also invited legislators to join the Congressional FFA Caucus. FFA members asked for the reauthorization of a grant that supports youth organizations including National FFA, the National 4-H Council, Boy Scouts of America, and Girls Scouts of America as part of the U.S. Farm Bill. National FFA also asked for support in extending the sunshine date of this grant to coincide with the next reauthorization of the U.S. farm bill. More information on the event is available at ffa.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 2, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release employment data at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by a report on June U.S. factory orders at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to watch the latest weather forecasts, but funds remain comfortable with their short positions in grains, so far. Weather A slow-moving system is working through the Eastern Corn Belt, bringing scattered showers Friday but with less of a threat of severe weather. Additional thunderstorms may develop along its front against the Rockies, especially the central High Plains. Showers may keep temperatures down a bit in those areas, otherwise heat continues across most of the country, breaking some records in the Pacific Northwest.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 1, 2024 |

U.S. Pork Supplies Proven Safe At the urging of the National Pork Producers Council, a newly published USDA study found zero Trichinella (Trick-ih-NELL-ah) positives in more than 3.2 million U.S. pork samples. NPPC says that demonstrates to domestic and global consumers how safe the U.S. pork supply is for consumption. “USDA scientists have confirmed that U.S. pork producers’ rigorous biosecurity efforts to keep pigs healthy and working,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. “Because of decades of pork industry research and hard work on the farm, consumers can continue to be confident that the pork on their dinner is safe to eat.” Trading partners have long restricted access for U.S. pork because of Trichinella concerns, as the U.S. didn’t have surveillance data to prove there was a negligible risk for it in the domestic swine herd. As a result of NPPC’s persistence over the past ten years, this USDA study validates the safety of U.S. pork. *********************************************************************************** Chicken Will Continue Meeting the Needs of Consumers Into 2035 In the upcoming decade, fast prep time, easy-to-prepare, single-serving packaging, and other time savers will be priorities for Gen Z and younger Millennials who buy fresh chicken. That’s according to research presented at the 2024 Chicken Marketing Summit. More than two-thirds, or 71 percent, of consumers surveyed said they now spend more than 30 minutes preparing a typical evening meal. Gen Z spends the most time preparing dinner, with almost a third spending an hour or more on a typical evening meal. Sixty-seven percent of Gen Z says that fast prep will be a priority in five years. “Beyond speed, Gen Z indicates a future need for advance meal prep, global flavors, and minimal clean up,” says Joyce Neth of WATT Global Media. Among the report’s recommendations was to make it easy for consumers to choose, buy, and prepare chicken meals fast and to reinforce the established benefits of chicken. *********************************************************************************** CDC to Spend $10 Million to Curb Human Bird Flu Infections The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention plans to spend up to $10 million to curb farmworker bird flu infections, including $5 million on seasonal flu vaccines. It’s part of the agency’s overall efforts to avoid further spread and mutation of the virus. The CDC will allocate $5 million for organizations like the National Center for Farmworker Health to educate and train workers on protecting themselves from bird flu and another $5 million to providing seasonal flu shots to farm workers. Though the seasonal flu vaccine doesn’t protect workers from bird flu, the vaccine could reduce the risk that workers become infected with the seasonal flu and bird flu at the same time, which could lead to virus mutations. Farm Policy News says the ongoing outbreak of bird flu has infected poultry flocks in almost every state in the union since 2022 and over 170 dairy herds since March. ********************************************************************************** Majority of Beef Cattle Farms Have Small Herds The United States has numerous beef cow-calf farms that raise beef calves at least through weaning. However, USDA data says while there are a large number of farms, most are relatively small. Data from the 2022 Census of Agriculture indicated that 55 percent of America’s farms with beef cattle had fewer than 20 beef cows on December 31, 200, while less than one percent had 1,000 or more beef cows. Farms with fewer than 20 beef cows held nine percent of the national inventory of cows, and those with 1,000 cows or more held 10 percent of the inventory. Farms with 290 to 999 beef cows held 35 percent of the inventory. With 29.2 million beef cows on 622,000 farms on December 31, 2022, the average beef farm had 47 cows. USDA says the cow-calf segment of the U.S. beef industry is diverse and farms are located in every state. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Latest Food Price Outlook The USDA’s latest Food Price Outlook says food price inflation for 2024 will be less than half of the pace set in 2023. This year, the USDA says prices for all food are predicted to increase by 2.2 percent, down from 5.8 percent in 2023. Food-at-home prices are predicted to increase by one percent, and food-away-from-home prices are expected to increase by 4.3 percent. The USDA says 2025 food prices are expected to increase slower than the historical average rate of growth. Prices for all food in 2025 are predicted to increase by two percent. This year, USDA said prices were lower in June 2024 compared to June 2023 for four food-at-home categories, including fish and seafood, dairy products, fresh fruits, and fresh vegetables. Apple prices, in particular, were 12 percent lower than in June 2023 because of higher supplies. Fresh fruit prices are predicted to drop 0.8 percent in 2024. *********************************************************************************** FFA Gets Grant to Expand Precision Ag Education Dozens of FFA chapters in the U.S. are getting a new classroom resource for the 2024-2025 school year. A Microsoft grant will help FFA members and advisors launch a new version of FarmBeats for Students, a hands-on education program built around precision agriculture that Microsoft developed in collaboration with National FFA. This summer, FFA advisors are attending a training session hosted by Microsoft in select states where digital agriculture is ripe for growth. The technology allows students to experience cutting-edge technology and participate in hands-on lessons, fostering a new generation of tech-savvy agricultural leaders. FarmBeats for Students gives direct experience with topics like digital sensors, data analysis, and artificial intelligence, all through the lens of agriculture. “Microsoft’s investment in our advisors and students is an investment in the future agricultural leaders, and eventually will help fill the void in the talent pipeline,” says National FFA Chief Program Officer Christine White.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 1, 2024 |

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, second-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. A U.S. manufacturing index will be out at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. USDA's monthly Fats and Oils report will be out at 2 p.m. Weather A small system is moving through the Midwest on Thursday. It produced severe thunderstorms in the Western Corn Belt Wednesday and is likely to produce some additional severe weather Thursday as well. Heat continues to be a big issue across the South and is building back up in the West.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 31, 2024 |

Changes to the Enhanced Coverage Option Insurance Program The USDA announced changes to the Enhanced Coverage Option Policy Program beginning with the 2025 crop year. The Risk Management Agency is expanding coverage options to additional crops and increasing premium support to make the policy more affordable for U.S. producers. “RMA is continually responding to needs and adapting our insurance coverage options to give producers more choices for managing their risks,” says administrator Marcia Bunger. ECO is currently approved for 36 crops, and the RMA is expanding coverage options to almonds, apples, blueberries, grapes, and walnuts for the 2025 crop year and to citrus crops where the Supplemental Coverage Option is currently available in California and Arizona for the 2026 crop year. Additionally, the RMA is increasing premium support for all crops covered by ECO to 65 percent to make the policy more affordable. ECO provides additional area-based coverage for a portion of a producer’s underlying crop insurance policy deductible. *********************************************************************************** USDA Extends Comment Period on Packers and Stockyards Rule The USDA recently extended the 60-day comment period for the latest Packers and Stockyards Act proposal by 15 days. Tanner Beymer, senior director of government affairs for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, says that’s not enough time for USDA to properly evaluate the rule. “Cattle markets are immensely complicated, and USDA is planning to make sweeping changes to those markets with only 75 days of public input,” Beymer says. “While this extension is welcome news, it’s not enough time to properly solicit public comments and review a rule that will have such an overarching impact on the cattle industry.” The proposed rule, “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets,” is already a direct attack on producer profitability, and now USDA is running down the clock to provide meaningful input from cattle producers. The rule aims to ensure fairer competition and transparency, requiring poultry companies to document fair comparisons between growers. *********************************************************************************** New USDA Policy to Reduce Salmonella in Eggs The Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a comprehensive proposed rule and determination to more effectively reduce Salmonella contamination and illnesses associated with raw poultry products. It’s the culmination of a three-year effort to reevaluate the FSIS strategy for controlling Salmonella rates in poultry and protect American consumers from illnesses linked to eating poultry products. Salmonella bacteria cause over one million human infections in the U.S. each year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says food is the leading source of Salmonella infections and poultry is among the leading sources of foodborne illnesses. The proposal would establish final product standards to prevent raw chicken carcasses, chicken parts, ground chicken, and ground turkey products that exceed acceptable levels of salmonella from entering the food chain. “The proposed Salmonella framework is grounded in data and rigorous scientific evaluation and reflects stakeholder feedback,” says Undersecretary for Food Safety Dr. Emilio Esteban. ********************************************************************************** Tropical Rainstorm May Impact U.S. Coast AccuWeather says a developing tropical rainstorm in the Atlantic Ocean could strengthen into a named storm later this week or during the weekend and bring potential impact to the U.S. coast. “The tropical rainstorm is currently battling a harsh environment in a sea of dry air as it moves west across the Atlantic,” says Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva. The tropical rainstorm is currently moving through an area that’s not conducive for development but will soon move into an area with more favorable conditions. “Dry air and wind shear ripped this tropical rainstorm apart,” says Meteorologist Bernie Rayno. “It’s struggling and trying to reorganize from scratch, but it has a 60 percent chance of strengthening into a named storm no sooner than this weekend or early next week.” The rainstorm is moving through an area with very warm waters that can support development, but it will also encounter more disruptive wind shear. *********************************************************************************** Producers Invited to the 2024 Stockmanship and Stewardship Tour The 2024 Stockmanship and Stewardship workshop tour gets underway in August. Producers in the heart of the driftless region can engage with esteemed cattle producers who have been recognized for their land stewardship efforts at the regional and national levels as they participate in an interactive panel, offering insights into their approaches to raising beef cattle while enriching their land. Attendees will see low-stress cattle handling demonstrations that teach how using the animals’ natural instincts helps improve cattle flow and makes handling easier and safer for both humans and animals. The program includes demonstrations using both beef cattle and beef-dairy cross cattle, providing tactics on how to move them based on their different instincts and behaviors. The tour kicks off August 23-24 in Richfield, Utah. After the tour stops in Lancaster, Wisconsin, August 28-29 and Fresno, California, October 18-19, it finishes up in Hamburg, New York on October 25-26. *********************************************************************************** The U.S. Dairy Industry is Evolving The U.S. dairy industry has evolved during the past 20 years, with fewer dairy farms producing more milk. The USDA’s Economic Research Service says this raised questions about how dairy farms have changed in size, location, use of advanced technology, and cost of production. An ERS report addresses the issues of how the dairy farm structure has changed and how it differs by the size of operations and location. The study found that consistent with long-term trends, the number of U.S. dairy farms has fallen while milk production has risen. Moderate shifts in dairy farm locations have occurred between 2020 and 2022, with Texas and Idaho gaining production share while California lost some share. Dairy farm usage has trended upward for several advanced technologies, management practices, and production systems. Larger farms, on average, were more specialized in production and greater adopters of the most advanced technologies and management practices.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 31, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. employment cost index for the second quarter will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 9:30 a.m. The Federal Reserve will announce its decision on interest rates at 1 p.m. and is expected to keep the target unchanged with an upper limit of 5.50%. Weather Heat continuing across the South-Central U.S. on Wednesday will feed scattered showers and thunderstorms as a front moves across the Western Corn Belt. Some of these thunderstorms may be severe and could put out a lot of rain as storms hit areas that have already been hit this week. Many areas will be unfortunately missed and those that are will sit in the heat, reducing soil moisture and stressing row crops.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 30, 2024 |

Non-Real Estate Loan Activity Higher in 2024 As commodity prices have continued to drop, many producers may face economic losses with less balance sheet resiliency. The economists at Agricultural Economic Insights say recent loan data revealed that farmers utilized more non-real estate debt in early 2024. In the first quarter of 2024, total non-real estate debt was 14 percent higher than in 2023. AEI says non-real estate loans increased at the fastest rate in five decades. The last time non-farm real estate debt jumped so quickly was in the late 1970s. However, while the 15 percent increase is rare, increases of 10 percent, which are also large, have occurred quite frequently. With margins squeezed, producers are utilizing more non-real estate debt, especially operating loans. AEI says while the upturn is noteworthy, the rise hasn’t pushed overall debt to record levels. Non-real estate debt trended lower between 2019 and 2023. Higher debt levels will contribute to higher interest expenses. *********************************************************************************** Farm Expenditures Top $480 Billion in 2023 The USDA estimates 2023 farm production expenditures in the U.S. at $481.9 billion, up from $452.5 billion the previous year. The four largest expenditures totaled $238.7 billion and accounted for 49.6 percent of total expenditures in 2023. These include feed at 16.6 percent, livestock, poultry, and related expenses at 11.6 percent, farm services accounted for 11.3 percent, and labor at 10.1 percent. In 2023, the U.S. saw the total average farm expenditure reach $255,047, up 12.4 percent from $226,885 in 2022. On average, U.S. farm operations spent $42,340 on feed, $29,479 on livestock, poultry, and related expenses, $28,800 on farm services, and more than $25,600 on labor. Total fuel expense in 2023 was $16.5 billion. Diesel was the largest sub-component at $10.9 billion, accounting for 66 percent. Diesel expenditures were down 4.4 percent from 2022. Gasoline expenditures reached $2.8 billion, down 5.7 percent from the previous year. LP gas reached $1.8 billion. *********************************************************************************** USDA Trade Mission to Colombia Alexis Taylor, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs will lead 24 agribusinesses and organizations on a trade mission to Bogota, Colombia, August 13-15. The mission’s goal is to boost American agricultural exports and build upon the successes of the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. “Colombia is a significant growth market for U.S. agricultural exports,” Taylor says. “As Latin America’s third-most-populous country, it features an expanding middle class and rising consumer purchasing power.” She also says Colombian consumers are hungry for world-class food and agricultural products that the U.S. offers. In 2023, U.S. agricultural exports to Colombia reached a record $3.7 billion. Colombia ranks as the seventh-largest market for U.S. agricultural exports, while America is the top export market for Colombia’s agricultural products. Colombia’s gross domestic product is expected to continue growing and remain slightly higher than the regional average, setting the table for continued interest in U.S. products. ********************************************************************************** USDA Invests in 29 States to Lower Energy Costs USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the agency is partnering with farmers and businesses to expand access to clean energy and lower energy bills through the Rural Energy for America Program and the Rural Energy for America Technical Assistance Grant Program. USDA is investing $163 million in loans, grants, and technical assistance, that will support 338 clean energy projects in 39 states and Guam. “We’re partnering with people in rural communities across our nation to expand access to clean energy and save rural Americans money,” Vilsack says. “We’re hard at work supporting rural small businesses and farmers as they create jobs for their communities and drive economic prosperity.” REAP enables agricultural producers and rural small business owners to expand their use of wind, solar, geothermal, and small hydro-power energy to make energy efficiency improvements. Those innovations help them increase their income, grow their businesses, and lower energy costs for American families. *********************************************************************************** Corn Growers Want Reasonable Standards for SAF Tax Credits The Biden administration should set fair and reasonable criteria around farming practices for farmers and refineries seeking tax credits for sustainable aviation fuels. Those are comments from the National Corn Growers Association submitted to the USDA. “Ethanol has played a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in cars and trucks and can do the same for the airline industry,” said NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee) after the comments were filed. “But we need a level playing field that allows farmers to meet emissions requirements using environmentally smart practices that will work on their farms.” The issue stems from tax credits allocated under the Inflation Reduction Act for sustainable aviation fuels that would allow farmers to participate in this emerging market. “Imposing a one-size-fits-all standard for attaining the tax credit will make it hard for farmers to contribute to the president’s grand challenge,” he added. “We can help meet those climate goals.” *********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Developing a Producer Education Program The American Sheep Industry Association’s Young and Emerging Entrepreneurs group has received a grant of $89,580. The money comes from the National Sheep Industry Improvement Center to develop a beginning producer education program. It will incorporate online education, producer workshops, and an online forum. “We started the conversation at the American Sheep Industry’s Annual Convention about developing a program,” says Dr. Kelly Froelich (FRAY-lick) of the Young and Emerging Entrepreneurs Steering Committee. “We’ve already developed the online curriculum which will be open to everyone.” Because the committee doesn’t want to overwhelm beginners, the program is basic. They’re seeing an upswing in the number of people interested in sheep, and they want to do everything possible to help answer their questions. In-person workshops will be held in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. A fall lambing school in South Dakota is in the works. For information, go to SheepUSA.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 30, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Of course, grain traders will be watching the latest forecasts as we near August. An index of U.S. consumer confidence for July is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday and the Federal Reserve will hold the first of a two-day meeting with no change in the interest rate expected at Wednesday afternoon's announcement. Weather A front moving through the eastern Midwest and another moving into the Northern Plains are connected through Iowa, and clusters of showers and thunderstorms will be developing across the Corn Belt throughout the day. Any cluster will be able to tap into the heat building across the Southern Plains that is extending farther north into the Iowa front and could become severe with a primary focus of strong winds.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 29, 2024 |

Consequences of No New Farm Bill The farm bill is already a year late, the stakes are high, and time is running out. The American Farm Bureau released its Market Intel Analysis of the consequences of not finishing the legislation and adding another extension of the 2018 bill. While crop insurance is a permanent program, it does need improvements to make it more affordable for all farmers. Plus, the fixed statutory reference prices that were set in 2014 don’t account for unforeseen market forces like the exceptional inflation in recent years. Also, by delaying the farm bill another year, Congress would be delaying help that could slow the consolidation rate of dairy farms. The farm bill’s conservation programs are defined by a fixed amount of money being available, and like the safety net programs, their value gets eroded by high inflation. The farm bill is also a chance to increase research funding and enhance U.S. food security. *********************************************************************************** EPA Releases Draft to Protect Endangered Species from Insecticides The Environmental Protection Agency released its draft Insecticide Strategy. It’s part of an effort to adopt early, practical protections for federally endangered and threatened species. “Ensuring the safe use of insecticides is a critical part of the EPA’s mission to protect endangered species and the environment,” says Jake Li (Lee) of the EPA. “We’re making a significant effort to protect endangered species, support farmers and other insecticide users, and provide critical environmental protections for communities across the country,” Li says. The draft strategy identifies protections that the EPA will consider when registering a new insecticide or reevaluating an existing one. EPA identified protections to address potential impacts for more than 850 species listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The draft identifies protections earlier in the pesticide review process, thus creating a far more efficient approach to evaluate and protect the species that live near the agricultural areas using insecticides. ********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Submits Comments on Greenhouse Gas Mitigation The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition submitted comments in response to USDA’s request for information on a docket titled “The Procedures for Quantifying, Reporting, and Verification of GHG Emissions Associated with Producing Domestic Ag Commodities to Be Used as Biofuel.” In their comments, the Coalition supported USDA’s objective of accelerating the development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuels in the U.S. To achieve that objective, the Coalition urges USDA to consider four overarching principles during the rulemaking process. The SAF Coalition urged the agency to ensure federal policies are science-based and data-driven to unlock the full potential to develop and deploy SAF. They also encourage policies that are technology and feedstock-neutral, with the aim of reducing carbon intensity in a realistic and verifiable way. They’re also asking for sufficient flexibility to accommodate new feedstock technologies and to ensure simple and clear administrative practices that are implementable and manageable. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Quality Council Tour Finds Reasons for Optimism After three days of hard work, participants in the Wheat Quality Council’s Spring Wheat Tour came to the same conclusion. North Dakota farmers may have their best crop in decades. After three days of touring, the average Hard Red Spring Wheat yield was projected at 54.5 bushels per acre, up from 47.4 bushels last year. The durum fields visited had a prospective yield of 45.3 bushels per acre, up from the 2023 projections of 43.9. Two Hard Red Winter Wheat fields on the tour had a projected yield of 51.4 bushels per acre. Dave Green, the Executive Vice President of the Wheat Quality Council, said weather conditions in the weeks before harvest will determine if North Dakota can produce a record-breaking wheat crop. More than 40 millers, bakers, grain company representatives, media members, and government employees toured more than 250 fields of HRS and durum wheat in North Dakota, the host state. *********************************************************************************** Junior Angus Members Support McDonald House Charities National Junior Angus Association members rallied behind the mission of supporting families and took part in the 2024 Angus Impact Project. Pop tabs, meals, and gift cards were donated to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison, Wisconsin. Eighteen states collected 652 pounds of pop tabs, totaling $326, the single-largest donation to ever be made by one organization at the Madison Ronald McDonald House. NJAB vice chair, Lauren Gilbert, led the Angus Impact Project this year and said she was in awe of the number of pop tabs collected by the Association. “It was incredible to see how many people had turned up with so many pop tabs,” she said. Before the National Junior Angus Show, members also served 35 meals donated by Certified Angus Beef to residents on June 28. "Food brings people together, and that's huge, especially during times of need," she added. "It was great to help out." *********************************************************************************** Reaching Consumers at a Dining Event The American Lamb Board and Homemade, America’s largest cooking school, hosted a consumer dinner at the Seattle Cooking Studio on July 20. Consumers attending the event learned during a live cooking demo from chef and cookbook author Ashley Rodriguez before indulging in American Lamb from Anderson Ranches, a local producer. The dinner featured four lamb dishes from various cuts, including the rack, shoulder, and leg. Reed Anderson of Anderson Ranches talked to attendees about local lamb production. “It’s a success when ALB can bring together ranchers, butchers, and chefs to educate consumers about the lamb from farm to table,” says ALB Chair Jeff Ebert. “These consumers left the event with so much information about how lamb is grown and how to prepare amazing dishes. We hope they’ll take this information home and start sharing the lamb story with their family and friends.” For more information, producers and consumers should visit LambBoard.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 29, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Hot Weather, Interest Rates Decision, Crop Condition Update 1. August heat rolls in: The United States Corn Belt will see hotter conditions in most areas this week. The Midwest sees more chances of showers, potentially severe, but those will be hit-and-miss through the week. Things are hotter and drier in the Plains, warmer as well in the Northern Plains and into Canada. Northern corn and soybeans crops can use some warmth after a cool and late start. What's unlikely is more rain to help. 2. Crop condition watch: With weather systems turning warmer and rain spottier, we'll dig into the latest USDA NASs weekly Crop Progress report numbers Monday afternoon to judge where the overall crop sits as August moves in. 3. New interest rate? As we note below, Wednesday is the second day of the July meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee, followed by announcement of any adjustments to federal funds interest rates. The usual press conference with Fed Chair Jerome Powell is later Wednesday afternoon. Our Under the Agridome columnist Philip Shaw recently wrote about how Canada has lowered its interest rate and the possible impact. See: 4. Wildfire watch: As wildfires grow in the U.S. and Canada, we'll be tracking damage areas. During the last few days several communities have had to be evacuated as fires spread. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday. At 10 a.m., we see the latest Grain Inspections numbers. At 2 p.m. USDA releases Livestock and Meat Domestic Data plus Egg Products numbers. At 3 p.m. we have the USDA NASS weekly Crop Progress report including DTN analysis of those numbers. Tuesday sees the 8:15 a.m. Case-Shiller Home Price Index, followed by the 9 a.m. release of Consumer Confidence and Job Openings data. Wednesday reports begin at 7:15 a.m. with ADP Employment stats, then 9 a.m. the release of the Pending Home Sales Index. At 1 p.m., we'll get the FOMC Interest Rate Decision, followed by Fed Chair Powell's press conference at 1:30 p.m. At 2 p.m. we'll see Agricultural Prices and Broiler Hatchery reports. Thursday kicks off with Grain Export Sales and Initial Jobs Claims data at 7:30 a.m., then the 8:45 a.m. comes the S&P U.S. Manufacturing PMI data. At 9 a.m., Construction Spending. Friday reports start at 7:30 a.m. with U.S. employment report and U.S. Unemployment Rate and Hourly Wages. At 9 a.m. the latest Factory Orders data is released, then at 2:30 p.m. the CFTC Commitment of Traders report is released.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 29, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, grain traders will be checking the latest forecasts with a view to prospects for corn and soybean crop conditions in August. USDA's report of weekly export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Outside markets will be interested in the Fed's post-meeting comments on Wednesday. Weather Heat is building in the Southern Plains on Monday and excessive heat advisories and warnings are posted for many in the south-central U.S. A front moving through the Corn Belt will do its best to resist the building heat by producing areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms, some of which may become severe.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 26, 2024 |

NCBA Praises Passage of Interior Appropriations Bill The Public Lands Council and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association applauded House passage of HR 8998, the Department of Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2025. The PLC says the bill protects the rights of land grazing permittees and reels in overreaching BLM regulations. “It addresses Endangered Species Act challenges, defends local communities against land grabs under the Antiquities Act, and recognizes the important role of ranchers – America’s original conservationists – in the stewardship of our nation’s lands,” says PLC President Mark Roeber. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee) says whether you’re a cattle producer on public or private lands, over-regulation from the federal government is a serious challenge. “This package supports American agriculture, protects farms and ranches from burdensome rules, and protect the rights of public lands ranchers who represent an important part of the cattle industry and a driving force in rural economies,” says Eisele. *********************************************************************************** Deere Confirms More Layoffs John Deere, faced with lower customer demand for equipment, declining sales, and a difficult ag economy, confirmed cuts in its global salaried workforce. Corridor Business says Deere didn’t release details on the number of salaried employees affected. In a statement, the company says it’s been forced to make tough decisions, including layoffs at John Deere production facilities and reductions in the global salaried workforce. The most recent round of cuts follow hundreds of previously announced layoffs of Deere’s production workers in recent months. The company didn’t release when the salaried workforce reductions would take place. In a statement, Deere said, “As the largest global manufacturer of agricultural equipment, John Deere, like many others, faces significant economic challenges, rising operational and manufacturing costs, and reduced customer demand, including a 20 percent decline in sales from 2023 to 2024.” Impacted employees get up to 12 months’ severance pay based on years of service. ********************************************************************************** Cotton Trust Protocol Continues Growing The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol announced its continued program expansion for the fifth consecutive year, both in enrolled growers and planted acres. Planted cotton acres enrolled increased to 2.1 million acres, up 31 percent from 2023 and is driven by a 35 percent increase in enrolled growers, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability in the cotton industry. “We are proud to see a steady increase in grower enrollment for the Trust Protocol for a fifth consecutive year, reflecting a continued commitment to sustainability throughout the cotton industry,” says Daren Abney, U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol Executive Director. “It is a collective effort that brings more responsibly produced cotton into the market, providing brands and retailers with greater access to sustainable sourcing options.” With 35 percent increase, enrollment for 2024 now totals 1,327 growers participating in the Trust Protocol. Enrolled acres for the 2023 crop year resulted in 1.9 million bales of cotton. *********************************************************************************** Ag-FDA Funding Bill Pulled From House Floor Vote House Republicans pulled two government spending bills scheduled for a floor vote this week. Farm Policy News says the signals further peril for the leadership’s doomed efforts to pass all the 2025 spending bills before the August recess. The funding bills for the Agriculture Department and FDA, in addition to the Financial Services spending bill, will not be considered on the floor as originally planned. Both measures didn’t make it through the House floor thanks to controversial funding levels and conservative policy riders, including language blocking abortion and contraceptive protections. One report says the Ag-FDA funding bill was pulled off the House floor vote was that “conservative wanted an amendment vote to re-add the controversial abortion pill rider that centrist Republicans had stripped out. Tom Cole, an Oklahoma representative, said he had heard some pro-life concerns over changes to the ag funding bill Republicans expected to vote on this week. *********************************************************************************** Ag Banker Testifies on Farm Economic Conditions The American Bankers Association provided testimony before the House Ag Committee and offered the association’s views on the financial conditions in farm country. Tony Hotchkiss, char of the Agriculture and Rural Bankers Committee, emphasized the critical role banks play in the agricultural economy as the primary source of credit to farmers and ranchers across the U.S. He said that at the end of 2023, more than 3,800 banks in the U.S. had agricultural loans on their books with a total outstanding portfolio of $198.6 billion. While farm banks are prepared to manage potential economic headwinds, Hotchkiss explained that many producers have worked through the liquidity and working capital they built up in recent years due to rising input prices and lower commodity prices. “Across the industry, many bankers believe they may be looking over a cliff in regard to the agricultural economy without changes to current government policy,” said Hotchkiss. *********************************************************************************** Judge Upholds Massachusetts’ Ban on Pork District Judge William Young of Boston largely upheld Massachusetts’ Q3 pork law, rejecting an industry-backed attempt to block its enforcement. This law, known as the Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act, bans the sale of pork from pigs kept in tightly confined spaces. The decision’s key points included the rejection of federal presumption. The judge dismissed arguments that the Federal Meat Inspection Act preempted the state law. He also says that the Massachusetts law merely bans the sale of non-compliant pork meat and doesn’t regulate slaughterhouse operations directly. While the majority of the law was upheld, the judge did rule that a specific provision known as the “slaughterhouse exception” was unconstitutional. The exception allowed certain processors to directly sell non-compliant pork to consumers. The judge determined that the unconstitutional provision could be severed from the rest of the law, allowing the main components of the legislation to remain in effect.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 26, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Commerce Department reports on personal incomes and consumer spending are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as the PCE inflation index for June. The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment for July will be out at 9 a.m. Grain traders continue to watch the latest weather forecasts with a view to conditions in August. Weather Scattered showers continue near the Gulf Coast on Friday, aided somewhat by an upper-level low in the Southern Plains. A front moving through the Northern Plains will bring some relief to recent triple-digit temperatures along with some isolated showers. Temperatures continue to creep upward in most areas east of the Rockies where showers aren't occurring with cooler air behind the front in the Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 25, 2024 |

Defense Department Backs Off Lab-Grown Meat The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association confirmed that the effort to prevent ultra-processed, lab-grown protein in the diet of the American armed forces was successful. The announcement came following news that the U.S. Department of Defense is not pursuing lab-grown protein products for human consumption. “NCBA was the first and only group to fight back against lab-grown protein getting served to our armed forces,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “After weeks of speaking out against the plan, we are thrilled to have DoD confirmation that lab-grown protein is not on the menu for our nation’s service members.” He also says the men and women who make the greatest sacrifices in service to our country deserve high-quality, nutritious, and wholesome food like real beef grown by American farmers and ranchers. “There’s a big difference between defense applications for new tools and our food,” says Sigrid Johannes, NCBA senior director of government affairs. *********************************************************************************** Additional Steps to Protect Against Wildfires The USDA announced additional steps to safeguard western communities in the face of increasingly dangerous and intense wildfires. The agency is building advanced wildfire detection capabilities using satellite technology. An agreement between USDA’s Forest Service, the Interior Department, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration allows the use of NOAA’s Geostationary and Operation Environmental Satellite. This new agreement will use advanced remote sensing capabilities to improve the speed and accuracy of wildfire detection. “This partnership is one of the many ways we’re investing in technology to improve firefighter and community safety,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Wildland firefighting will always require highly skilled individuals on the ground, but with more real-time information, we can reduce the risks to pilots and improve our response time, reducing the risk to impacted communities.” The satellite observations are not only valuable for detecting wildfires but will also be critical for observing smoke from those fires. ********************************************************************************** NASS Releases Watershed Report The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released its Watersheds Report, which provides data to supplement the 2022 Census of Agriculture. Watersheds is the first of six Subject Series to be released for this Census of Ag. The Watersheds Report breaks down select ag census data like farms, land in farms, land use practices, fertilizer and chemical use, and select commodities by using the six-digit Hydrologic Unit code boundaries. “Anyone concerned about the health of a given body of water or watershed should be interested in this data,” says NASS administrator Joseph Parsons. “The Watershed Report provides agricultural and environmental data users with a novel way to examine and compare ag census data.” The type of data in the Watersheds Report can be used by researchers, community organizations, policymakers, and producers themselves to help assess the impact or potential impact of agriculture on the environment and any surrounding bodies of water. *********************************************************************************** Pork Producers Donate $100,000 worth of Pork Pork producers from Virginia, North Carolina, and Iowa announced a generous donation of $100,000 worth of pork products to the Capital Area Food Bank in Washington, D.C. That donation is the equivalent of 54,000 pounds of pork. The donation was a part of the $100K Pork Chop Challenge. Joe and Mandy Neuman of Sloppy Mama’s Barbecue won the $100K Challenge and were on hand for the donation, which was the culmination of the competition that celebrates the finest pork chop dishes in the Capital Beltway Area. “This donation is amazingly helpful to us so we can make sure that families in our region can access the food they need to thrive,” says Emily Lauer-Bader, director of corporate partnerships at the Capital Area Food Bank. The Challenge is hosted by the Virginia Pork Council, with support from the Iowa Pork Producers Association, North Carolina Pork Council, and the National Restaurant Association. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Applauds Letter on 45Z Tax Incentive Clean Fuels Alliance America applauded a bipartisan letter signed by 16 Senators and 36 Representatives and sent to the U.S. Treasury Department. The letter asks Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to publish proposed rules for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit and safe harbor guidance by September 1, 2024, and complete the final rulemaking no later than November 1, 2024. “Lack of regulatory certainty is already putting thriving businesses at risk as fuel producers are unable to make important business decisions regarding their fuel,” the letter says. “Capital investment remains uncommitted, threatening certain projects and expansion plans, including the administration’s stated goals to support new markets like sustainable aviation fuel and low-carbon transportation fuels.” Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels says biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel producers are already producing almost five billion gallons of the advanced biofuels that could qualify for this credit. “They need policy certainty immediately,” he adds. *********************************************************************************** Bird Flu in Dairy Cattle Can Be Stopped Federal officials said this week that the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle can be eliminated. Stat News Dot Com says officials face increasing doubts from experts because the virus is still spreading to new herds. “All signs that we have are, with good biosecurity, with good farmer participation, we will be able to eliminate this,” says Eric Deeble, acting senior adviser for H5N1 response at USDA. He says the reason for the confidence is that investigations are showing that it’s the transportation of the cattle, as well as the shared use of equipment and vehicles, spreading the virus. Deeble says that means cutting off virus access to the cattle at those points in the delivery chain can contain it. “We understand this moves with the cattle and the people that work closely with them, so improving biosecurity should get us to a point where we can arrest the spread,” Deeble adds.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 25, 2024 |

Thursday Ag News 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, second-quarter U.S. GDP, U.S. durable goods orders in June and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. Weather An old frontal boundary continues to create a zone of showers and thunderstorms from southeast Texas to the Carolinas on Thursday where bouts of heavy rain will be possible. A new front is moving through the Canadian Prairies and into Montana during the day, which could spark some rain as well but mostly for northern Alberta. Heat is slowly building eastward ahead of that front into more of the Plains, being especially hot in the Northern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 24, 2024 |

Pork Industry Fuels Jobs and the Economy The National Pork Producers Council released a new economic contribution report detailing the significant impact America’s pig farmers have on the United States agricultural and overall economy. The report highlights the pork industry’s value chain contributions and trends in production and industry structure. Some of the report’s key takeaways include the pork industry supporting an estimated 573,311 direct, indirect, and induced jobs in the U.S. In 2023, more than 60,000 pig farms sold more than 149 million hogs worth over $27 billion in gross cash receipts. The pork industry supports more than $27 billion in personal income and boosts economic activity in services like trucking, grain elevators, insurance, and other rural-based businesses. “America’s pork industry is a vital pillar in our agricultural economy, contributing over $62 billion annually and supporting hundreds of thousands of U.S. jobs,” says Lori Stevermer, NPPC President. “Pork is a vital part of the national economy.” *********************************************************************************** Over 500 Groups Unite to Call for a New Farm Bill Programs that benefit every family in America are too important to put off any longer. That’s the message from the American Farm Bureau and more than 500 other groups that sent a letter to Congressional leaders calling for the passage of a new, modernized farm bill. The groups signing onto the letter represent agriculture, nutrition, conservation, the environment, rural development, and several other economic sectors. The groups say in the letter, “Millions of Americans rely daily on the provisions of the farm bill to produce food, fiber, and fuel to feed their families and others around the world and to voluntarily conserve fish and wildlife and their habitat.” The groups recognize that time is running out to write and pass a farm bill this year. Passing a stopgap extension would put it at risk of further delay following the presidential election, seating a new Congress, and other legislative priorities. ********************************************************************************** Corn Grower Leader Testifies on Farm Financial Conditions A corn grower-leader from Minnesota told the House Agriculture Committee that farmers across the country must have a reauthorized and strengthened farm bill. “Unless conditions change, I believe we are heading into a perfect storm, a storm I don’t think will be fully appreciated until early next year when farmers try to get loans and are unable to do so because they can’t demonstrate the ability to cash flow,” says Minnesota Corn Growers President Dana Allen-Tully. “We have to have policies in place that reflect the realities of farming today.” She also says the stakes in farming are incredibly high, higher than she’s ever remembered them to be. “We’re putting everything we have on the line every year for very thin and oftentimes negative margins,” she also said. “While farmers feed and fuel the economy, they need a strong farm bill that will assist them when the chips are down.” *********************************************************************************** National FFA Members Attend the Washington Leadership Conference For over 50 years, thousands of FFA members from across the country have converged on the nation’s capital each summer for the Washington Leadership Conference. It’s a chance to engage with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects to take back to their cities and towns. FFA welcomed a total of 1,610 members from 44 states. Members spent the week with agricultural and leadership professionals, facilitators, and FFA staff, who guided them through workshops, seminars, and small group activities. The goal was to have the students leave feeling equipped and empowered to impact their local communities and beyond. Students visited landmarks like the Smithsonian and packaged over 350,000 meals for those in need. The capstone of the conference was developing a Living to Serve Plan. The Plan is a civic engagement project that each participant pledged to implement in their communities when returning home. *********************************************************************************** New Education Platform Launches for Angus Juniors A new online learning platform called BEEF Academy was launched this month for members of the National Junior Angus Association. In the future, the platform will even be available to other young people interested in learning more about the beef industry. BEEF Academy was created with support from the Angus Foundation, Ingram Angus, and the American Angus Association. “The Academy blends the missions of these organizations into an online learning experience built especially for young people interested in our industry,” says Jaclyn Boester, the executive director of the Angus Foundation. In the first set of learning modules, junior members learn about the five beef industry segments and how they compete and work together as part of the beef industry. New topics will be added later this year. The BEEF Academy platform is filling a high-quality beef industry education platform that targets young people,” says Caitlyn Brandt, NJAA Director of Events and Junior Activities. *********************************************************************************** How Farmers Adjust Spending During Low Commodity Prices History does repeat itself, especially in agricultural cycles. Rabobank put together a report on how farmers adjust input spending when commodity prices drop. It explores the responsiveness of input volume and price to farm profitability in America, forming a view of how the current downturn will impact the input marketplace through next year. For example, the report says farm machinery is a hard asset that can be maintained, and new purchases can be deferred as needed. That makes machinery the most income-elastic of the major farm input categories. Fertilizer prices are also elastic. Lower fertilizer prices typically shoulder the bulk of changes in expenditures, but farmers can also adjust those volumes as well. Seed spending has increased markedly during the past 20 years as corn revenues increased during the early 2000s. As some seed patents expired, seed production costs are now expected to dictate price, suggesting farmers may see relief ahead.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 24, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. new home sales for June will be out at 9:00 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 9:30 a.m. Also Wednesday morning, the Bank of Canada will announce its decision on interest rates. As usual, grain traders remain focused on the latest weather forecasts. Weather An old and washed-out boundary continues to produce scattered showers from Texas to the Carolinas for Wednesday, a zone that has seen widespread rainfall all week. Some areas of heavy rain will be possible. A small cold front is moving through the Midwest that should produce some limited showers as well. Extreme heat is breaking down in the West, but above-normal temperatures continue to plague that region up through the Canadian Prairies and is leaking through more of the Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 23, 2024 |

Decision on Mexico-U.S. Corn Dispute Expected This Fall The U.S. made a strong case under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement in the dispute with Mexico over genetically engineered corn. Doug McKalip, chief agricultural negotiator in the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office, spoke during the recent National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Congress in Washington, D.C. “We will not rest on this until we get it done,” McKalip said. “It’s critically important not just for corn growers, but farmers of all kinds. If they can do this with corn, they can do it with anything.” He also said the U.S. cannot allow its trading partners to play “fast and loose” with the science. Both U.S. and Mexican officials were given questions by the panel considering the matter and both have responded. A decision is expected sometime this fall. The NCGA’s Corn Congress meets every summer in the nation’s capital to vote on policy positions, elect new board members, and hear from elected officials. *********************************************************************************** Global Poultry Markets Rebounding Despite Challenges The global poultry market outlook is further improving, driven by accelerated growth in poultry meat consumption and disciplined supply growth in many markets. After four years of highly disruptive conditions, global poultry markets are moving toward more “normal” market conditions. Rabobank says most of the global growth was driven by strong local market conditions rather than trade. This is particularly true in emerging markets in Southeast and Southern Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Lower feed prices have made chicken more affordable, supporting demand recovery. The U.S. and EU are performing well this year, with relatively strong demand, controlled producer growth, and rising prices. The main exceptions to the stronger market environment are China and Japan, where overly aggressive growth rates increased supply and reduced profitability. Brazil had also been facing an oversupply, but recent production cuts are expected to help balance their markets. Global trade is predicted to become more competitive. ********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle on Feed Up One Percent The recent Cattle on Feed Report shows cattle and calves on feed for the U.S. slaughter market for feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.3 million on July 1, 2024. The inventory was one percent above July 1, 2023. The inventory included 6.82 million steers and steer calves, up one percent from last year. This group accounted for 60 percent of the total inventory. Heifers and heifer calves accounted for 4.48 million head, up slightly from 2023. Placements in feedlots during June totaled 1.56 million head, seven percent below 2023. Net placements were 1.51 million head. During June, placements of cattle and calves weighing under 600 pounds were 365,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 225,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 350,000 head, 800-899 pounds reached 349,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 165,000 head, and 1,000 pounds-plus hit 80,000 head. Fed cattle marketings totaled 1.79 million head, nine percent below 2023. *********************************************************************************** Organizations Donate Aid to Flooded Areas in Iowa Three of the nation’s top cooperatives announced they will partner to support the American Red Cross in the aftermath of heavy rain and severe flooding, which devastated parts of Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota. CHS, CoBank, and Land O’ Lakes will together donate $100,000 to aid relief efforts in the impacted region. Overflowing rivers have destroyed homes in the three states, swamped farm fields, and washed away bridges. In Rock Valley, Iowa, residents evacuated by boat and helicopter following a levee collapse that made evacuation by roads impossible. Flooding has been especially devastating in rural communities where the full economic impact due to the loss of crops, livestock, and equipment isn’t known yet. “Our hearts go out to those whose lives and livelihoods have been impacted by the recent flooding,” CoBank said in a statement. “While recovery is long-term, we hope our joint contribution will help ease the burden.” *********************************************************************************** Converting Dairy Waste to Renewable Natural Gas Amp Americas, a dairy renewable natural gas (RNG) company has completed a project that converts dairy waste into RNG in Darlington, Wisconsin. The facility, now fully operational at Darlington Ridge Farms, is the latest of Amp Americas 12 operating digesters in Wisconsin, Indiana, Idaho, and Minnesota. The project at Darlington Ridge Farms utilizes continuous stirred tank reactor anaerobic digesters to convert 90,000 gallons of dairy cow waste per day into renewable energy. The project captures methane that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere, purifies it, and then injects it into the Alliant Energy natural gas pipeline. The RNG is used as a clean, carbon-negative transportation fuel, reducing up to 27,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per year. “Our RNG facilities prevent and capture methane from thousands of dairy cows across America,” says Grant Zimmerman, Amp Americas CEO. “Our renewable fuel reduces the cost of sustainably managing dairy waste.” *********************************************************************************** USGC Touts Corn Sustainability in China U.S. Grains Council members met with key partners and customers in China to talk about the eco-friendly benefits of U.S. corn and how the Corn Sustainability Assurance Protocol helps importers qualify their products. The Chinese government recently unveiled its corporate sustainability framework. These procedures go into effect in 2027 and were developed in line with the International Sustainability Standards Board. “The Chinese market is signaling it’s looking to align with international sustainability standards, and this creates an opportunity thanks to U.S. corn growers’ long tradition of conservation and environmental stewardship,” says Manuel (man-WELL) Sanchez, USGC director in China. ”This was the perfect time to introduce the CSAP to the Chinese market and leverage the great work U.S. farmers are already doing to enhance U.S. agriculture’s market share in China.” The sustainability standards that China adopts will have ripple effects on the global economy, and USGC wants U.S. farmers to be ready.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 23, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. existing sales for June are due out at 9:00 a.m. CDT Tuesday, but it is the latest weather forecasts that grain traders will be most interested in. Weather A stalled front across the South continues to be active for Tuesday, bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms from Texas into the Carolinas. Another front dropping south from Canada will keep showers and thunderstorms going across the Great Lakes as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 22, 2024 |

Low Prices Continue Pressure on Farm Income Farmers are on track to harvest some of their biggest corn and soybean crops ever. The Federal Reserve’s Beige Book says the ongoing decline in commodity prices is putting farm income in questionable territory. “Regional Fed banks in Chicago and Minneapolis say the farm income outlook had weakened in recent months,” the Beige Book says. “Agricultural conditions in the Kansas City Fed’s District says farmers faced headwinds from weak crop prices.” The Sixth District of Atlanta said agricultural conditions have improved slightly in recent weeks as cattle and poultry sales remained strong. Farmers in Chicago’s Seventh District have been slow to sell crops from storage and were holding back selling ahead of the fall harvest because of low prices. The Eighth District of St. Louis reported soil conditions have improved relative to the drought conditions during the last growing season. Crop conditions in the 11th District around Dallas broadly improved in most areas. *********************************************************************************** Despite Low Demand, Fertilizer Prices Remain High Fertilizer prices remain higher despite agriculture being past the high-demand spring season. Josh Linville of StoneX told Ag Web Dot Com that multiple global factors are the reason prices have stayed high. Lower European production is the first reason as skyrocketing natural gas prices have cut EU production by 25 percent. Brazil is another reason as high costs have led to a decrease in many of the country’s production plants. China’s restriction on fertilizer exports means the government figured out they can make sure there’s enough for their own people and reduce the domestic price. Restrictions are also coming out of Egypt due to heat and people trying to cool their homes as a result, so natural gas supplies are getting tight. In addition to an export shortage from other countries, the U.S. has also restricted imports from Morrocco, Russia, and China, which Linville says are a big part of the marketplace. ********************************************************************************** Ag Spray Drone Distributors Form Coalition A coalition of agricultural spray drone distributors is banding together to form a grassroots industry group. The move comes in response to proposed legislation aimed at banning drones manufactured by Chinese companies. The coalition consists of Agri Spray Drones, Bestway Ag, Drone Nerds, HSE-UAV, Pegasus Robotics, and Rantizo and intends to represent, protect, and advocate for the interests of the agricultural industry in the use of spray drone technology. Recent legislative proposals like H.R. 2864, which passed in the House, seek to ban drones manufactured by Chinese companies due to security concerns. However, the proposals currently being presented and discussed fail to consider other methods to address security concerns while also avoiding the significant impact such bans would have on the agricultural industry. Drones play a vital role in agriculture, including giving options for aerial application, creating jobs in rural America, and are a positive way to support precision and sustainable agriculture. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Organization Names 2004 American Star Finalists The National FFA Organization announced the 16 finalists for its 2024 top achievement awards: American Star Farmer, American Star in Agribusiness, American Star in Agricultural Placement, and American Star in Agriscience. The American Star Awards represent 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 in FFA, an 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 experiment and report the results. Other requirements to achieve the 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 achievement. One winner will be announced in each category at the 97th National FFA Convention this fall. *********************************************************************************** BQ-9000 Program Assures Quality Biofuel Production The National Renewable Energy Laboratory released its seventh report documenting the quality of biodiesel from the U.S. and Canadian-based producers that participate in the BQ-9000 program. The comprehensive report details the quality of biodiesel based on monthly data collected throughout 2023. The BQ-9000 program, a voluntary quality-control assurance initiative within the biodiesel industry, will continue playing a critical role in ensuring high standards for biodiesel production. The 2023 report features several advancements and a more complete analysis. “The BQ-9000s program’s commitment to quality assurance is evident in the continued improvement and expansion of the parameters we assess,” says Scott Fenwick, technical director at Clean Fuels Alliance America. ‘This year’s report not only reinforces the high standards maintained by biodiesel producers but also provides valuable insights that can drive further achievements in the industry.” The NREL says it remains dedicated to supporting the biodiesel industry through rigorous analysis and disseminating quality data. *********************************************************************************** Corn Sales for Overseas Delivery Declines The USDA says sales of corn to overseas buyers declined during the week ending on July 11 while wheat and soybean sales rose. Corn sales for delivery in the 2023-2024 marketing year totaled 437,800 metric tons. That’s down 19 percent from the prior week and 10 percent from the previous four-week average. Japan was the top corn buyer at 191,200 metric tons. Sales for the next marketing year were reported at 485,700 tons. Exports jumped by 26 percent to 1.1 million tons. Soybean sales rose 10 percent week to week to 228,100 metric tons. USDA says that’s down 29 percent from the average. Egypt was the biggest buyer at 92,000 tons. For the 2024-2025 marketing year, sales were reported at 507,000 tons. Wheat sales rose to 578,500 metric tons, more than double the previous week and up one percent from the average. South Korea bought the most at 119,000 tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 22, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will look over the latest weather forecasts as more corn enters the pollination stage. The presidential election will get more attention this week after President Joe Biden ended his re-election campaign this weekend and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Sporadic showers and some thunderstorms will pop up across the Corn Belt on Monday and could be more focused over Minnesota Mondy afternoon and evening. Meanwhile, a stalled front from Texas to the Carolinas and Virginia will be more active with widespread showers and thunderstorms developing throughout the day but especially Monday afternoon. Temperatures continue to be mild in most areas, though heat over the west is leaking east of the Rockies in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 19, 2024 |

Farmland Values Stabilizing Farmland values have stabilized in Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming. A Benchmark Farm Value Trends Report from Farm Credit Service of America and Frontier Farm Credit says benchmark values rose just 0.07 percent. “The combination of higher interest rates and tighter margins for grain producers is having an impact on cropland values,” says Tim Koch, executive vice president for the two associations that operate as a collaboration. “Several years of strong profitability created optimism in the real estate market and helped offset the impact of the Fed’s rate hikes in 2022 and 2023.” While buyers seem willing to compete for limited land, falling grain prices are shifting attention to the more challenging economic environment. Iowa, which is normally on the leading edge of market trends, saw land values decline for the first time in five years. Despite that pullback, Iowa’s real estate values are up 60 percent since 2019. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Innovate Products Fuel Dairy Market Growth While U.S. consumers drink less milk every year, overall dairy sales are on a positive streak. Cheese, butter, and yogurt are fueling category growth, along with new dairy-based products designed to capitalize on convenience, health, and snacking trends. A new CoBank report says the outlook for dairy retail sales remains strong with additional room for growth even as consumer preferences and purchasing behaviors evolve. “The healthy snacking category is a growing megatrend that dairy products can capitalize on with a host of conveniently packaged solutions from low-fat cheeses to specialty yogurts to functional dairy drinks,” says Corey Geiger, lead dairy economist with CoBank. Cheese continues to anchor the dairy category, with annual sales climbing. Butter is enjoying a comeback in the U.S. as per capita consumption has climbed 43 percent in 25 years. Yogurt has moved from being a morning meal to becoming an anytime snack or healthy dessert choice. ********************************************************************************** Financial Experts Want Support for U.S. Sugar Policy Five dozen farm lenders and financial experts sent a letter to House and Senate Ag Committee leadership urging Congress to strengthen U.S. sugar policy in the farm bill and oppose efforts to weaken the safety net. “An effective safety net is essential when lenders consider extending operating loans to farmers, given the high level of investments necessary to run a successful sugarbeet or sugarcane operation and the financing necessary for processing those crops into raw sugar,” the letter says. Improvements to U.S. sugar policy will help sustain a “stable financial framework for continued investment by family farmers at the farm and sugar-processing levels,” the letter continues. The letter was signed by CoBank and 59 other lending institutions, Certified Public Accountants, and tax professionals in more than a dozen states. Any efforts to undermine the effectiveness of the no-cost U.S. sugar policy would increase the likelihood of farm operating loan defaults. *********************************************************************************** USB Sets Forward-Thinking 2025 Budget The 77 farmer-leaders serving on the United Soybean Board approved $173.8 million for the 2025 fiscal year budget. The budget supports research, promotion, and education investment portfolios selected through the USB Portfolio Development Process. These investments drive demand for U.S. Soy and return value to all U.S. soybean farmers. “With wet conditions in the north and dry conditions in the south, growing soybeans has been a challenge for many farmers across the nation,” says Steve Reinhard, USB chair. “One of the checkoff’s benefits is that farmer-led investments continually focus on building a more resilient soybean to withstand weather conditions, pests, and weed pressure while also prioritizing demand creation.” As Reinhard looks to fiscal year 2025 investments, he’s impressed with the innovative and novel ideas by soybean farmers to not only protect soy production but grow the market across the animal ag sector, biofuels, and product innovations. For information, go to unitedsoybean.org. *********************************************************************************** EIA: SAF Production Capacity Will Continue to Grow The Energy Information Administration is predicting the production capacity of sustainable aviation fuel in the U.S. to increase from 2,000 barrels a day to 30,000 barrels a day this year. That’s if all announced capacity additions manage to successfully come online. Developers expect Phillips 66’s Rodeo Renewed Project to produce about 10,000 barrels a day beginning this summer. Diamond Green Diesel’s Port Arthur SAF project is predicted to produce around 15,000 barrels per day by the end of 2024. SAF is an alternative to petroleum jet fuel. It’s produced from agricultural and waste feedstocks and consumed in blends with petroleum jet fuel. About 1.6 million barrels a day of petroleum jet fuel was consumed in the U.S. during 2023, and the EIA predicts jet fuel demand by 2050 to exceed two million barrels a day. At the beginning of 2024, only two plants could produce SAF: one in California and the other in Montana. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Production Forecast at Eight-Year High U.S. all-wheat production for 2024-2025 is forecast at 2.008 billion bushels, the largest wheat crop since 2016-2017. Production is up 134 million bushels from the previous month and 11 percent higher than the previous year. Larger production for Hard Red Winter and Hard Red Spring are the major factors driving the year-to-year increase in total wheat production, while smaller increases are seen for White and Durum. Soft Red Winter is down from the previous year’s bumper crop. The total area planted to wheat this year is lower than last year, but improved weather conditions in HRW areas resulted in lower abandonment and higher areas harvested for that class. HRW yields are also up substantially with the improved conditions. The HRS production forecast benefits from favorable weather during crop development and results in record yields that more than offset the effect of smaller areas harvested. Stronger supplies should make U.S. wheat exports more competitive.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 19, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets Traders are apt to keep watching the latest weather forecasts, while simultaneously ignoring numerous reports of crop damage. USDA's cattle on-feed report for July 1 will be out at 2 p.m. with June placements expected to be 3% to 4% lower than a year ago. Weather A front that has settled from Texas to the Carolinas will continue with showers for Friday. A system that has moved into the Northern Plains will bring some areas of isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms as well. Mild and dry conditions over the Midwest are a welcome sight for many.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 18, 2024 |

Clean Fuels Intends to Sue the EPA Over Delay Clean Fuels Alliance delivered a formal notice of intent to sue the Environmental Protection Agency for its failure to issue timely 2026 Renewable Fuel Standard RVOs. By statute, EPA is required to finalize volumes 14 months before the start of a compliance year. For 2026, that deadline would come at the end of October 2024. On June 28, the White House Office of Management and Budget released the Spring 2024 Unified Agenda of Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. The agenda set a timeline for EPA to propose the 2026 RFS volumes by March 2025 and finalize the rule by December 2025. “EPA’s failure to timely issue the 2026 RFS volumes compounds another issue: EPA set the volumes for 2023 through 2025 too low,” Clean Fuels says. Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels says, “Stakeholder organizations asked the EPA to ensure it met the deadline for the 2026 rule and get it back on track.” *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuel Tax Credits Out of Reach for Many Farmers Sustainable aviation fuel and clean fuel production tax credits have the potential to benefit farmers while lowering carbon emissions. However, the shortcomings in the provisions could put the benefits out of reach for many U.S. farmers. Four groups, including the American Farm Bureau, American Soybean Association, National Corn Growers Association, and National Farmers Union, sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young urging them to ensure the Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z) works for U.S. farmers. “Without clear domestic feedstock requirements in the tax credit, the benefits of this policy are at risk of being diverted from American farmers,” the letter says. “There is no current requirement that feedstocks be grown domestically, which means foreign feedstock producers can take advantage of the credit.” The groups also say this goes against the broader goal of supporting U.S. agriculture and rural communities. ********************************************************************************** Flash Drought Intensifies in Mid-Atlantic Region Following weeks of intense summer heat and little rainfall, AccuWeather says a flash drought has developed and intensified in a region stretching from the Carolinas to Pennsylvania. A flash drought is described as the sudden arrival of drought conditions that are set in motion by lower-than-normal rates of precipitation, accompanied by abnormally high temperatures, winds, and solar radiation. “Severe and extreme drought conditions developed in the Carolinas, where the lack of rainfall combined with relentless heat have dried out the area,” says AccuWeather Meteorologist Bernie Rayno. “Drought has expanded across the Southeast, where we could also use some rain.” Unlike long-lasting droughts similar to the ones observed across the western United States in recent years, flash droughts are often short-term in nature and can disappear quickly. The effects of a flash drought are most notable in the top layers of soil and lead to detrimental effects on agriculture and crop yields. *********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Center Requests Proposals The National Sheep Industry Improvement Center Board of Directors is accepting grant proposals designed to help improve the American sheep industry. At the request of the American Sheep Industry Association, the Center was established as part of the 2008 Farm Bill. As part of the 2019 Farm Bill, the Center was awarded funding by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service to be used for the Sheep Production and Marketing Grant Program. Grant funding can be used on activities designed to strengthen and enhance the production and marketing of sheep and sheep products in the United States. Financial assistance provided by the Center must be used to accomplish one or more of several specific objectives, including strengthening and improving the long-term sustainability of the lamb and wool industry’s infrastructure by increasing the numbers in production. The average grant in the last four years has been approximately $30,000. For more information, go to nsiic.org. *********************************************************************************** Russian Wheat Harvest Forecast Drops Farmers in Russia’s breadbasket are battling temperatures over 120 degrees and trying to save a wheat crop hit hard by a heatwave, frosts, and even floods. Rostov, one of Russia’s key wheat-growing regions, accounted for 11 percent of the country’s total grain harvest last year, and ag ministry officials are monitoring it to make more adjustments to an already soft 2024 wheat forecast. The ministry’s most recent estimate says the Russian grain harvest will hit 132 million tons, nine percent below the 145 million in 2023 and 16 percent from a record 158 million in 2022. After a serious heatwave followed frosts in the spring, Rostov expects its grain harvest to drop approximately 38 percent this year to ten million tons. An agronomist says the wheat initially came out of winter in good condition, and the harvest prospects were excellent. Now, they’re only harvesting what’s left after a rough season. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Looking for Singers to Enter Anthem Contest The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is looking for the next singing sensation to open CattleCon 2025 in San Antonio, Texas, February 4-6. The 12th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest is accepting entries through October 15 at convention.ncba.org. The contest winner will perform the Star Spangled Banner at the convention’s Opening General Session and receive round-trip airfare to San Antonio, a hotel room for three nights, complimentary convention registration, plus a pair of boots, jeans, and a shirt from Roper or Stetson. Any member of the NCBA, American National CattleWomen, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, or family members are eligible to participate in the process. Previous NCBA National Anthem Contest winners aren’t eligible. The top four finalists will be chosen by October 21, and videos will be posted to the website, where voting will be open to the public from November 1 through November 15. The winner will be announced on November 18.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 18, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. An index of leading U.S. economic indicators will be out a 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Weather A cold front continues its pursuit southward, settling from Texas into the Carolinas for Thursday with scattered showers and thunderstorms. Isolated showers and thunderstorms will also develop in the High Plains as well. Temperatures have become much more comfortable behind that front across the Corn Belt, reducing stress for any areas that have missed out on the recent rainfall.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 17, 2024 |

Groups Warn Against Herbicide Tariffs The National Corn Growers Association joined five other commodity groups in sending a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on possible herbicide tariffs. The groups are asking the secretary to consider the impacts on farmers as she reviews a petition by ag chemical company Corteva that would place duties on imports of the herbicide 2,4-D. “Restricting imports of 2,4-D will have wide-ranging consequences for farmers,” the letter says. “American farmers cannot solely rely on Corteva, which is the only domestic supplier of 2,4-D, because there’s not enough to meet demand.” The letter also says that if it’s granted, the petition would cause availability shortages and hamper growers’ ability to be successful. “Restricting the availability of 2,4-D will be very harmful at a time when farmers are grappling with rising input costs and low commodity prices,” the letter adds. “Farmers can’t handle additional costs in what’s already a period of tight margins.” *********************************************************************************** Brazil’s Corn Harvest Drops but Still Second-Largest Ever Brazil’s farmers are expected to harvest 4.561 billion bushels of corn in the 2023-2024 season, including the country’s first, second, and third crops. Farmdoc Daily says that is 12 percent less than last year’s record harvest. Brazil’s National Supply Company, Conab, says the expected reduction in total corn production is mainly attributed to smaller acreage and lower yields in the second crop that accounts for approximately 75 percent of the nation’s production. Despite weather challenges in a year strongly influenced by El Niño, the anticipated total still will be the second-largest crop Brazil has ever produced. The projected reduction in Brazil’s total corn harvest is a result of two factors: a decrease in planted area caused by low prices and a decline in yields caused by adverse weather in critical growing regions. Conab’s latest update says the total planted area for all crops will fall by 6.3 percent to 51.5 million bushels. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Deadline for Emergency Relief Program Applications The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the deadline for commodity and specialty crop producers to apply for the Emergency Relief Program for 2022 natural disaster losses is August 14, 2024. The Farm Service Agency began accepting ERP 2022 applications in October 2023. “If natural disasters impacted your farm or ranch in 2022, there’s still time to submit your application for Emergency Relief Program assistance,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Don’t delay. Gather up your documents and contact your local office to complete the application process.” Through the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, Congress allocated $3.2 billion in funding to help cover an estimated $10 billion in uncovered crop losses. ERP 2022 covers losses to crops, trees, bushes, and vines due to qualifying calendar-year 2022 natural disaster events like wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, tornadoes, winter storms, freeze (including a polar vortex,) smoke exposure, excessive moisture, qualifying drought, and related conditions. *********************************************************************************** Oklahoma is State Number 13 with HPAI in Dairy Cattle Oklahoma is the 13th state to detect bird flu in dairy cattle. The USDA confirmed it even though the infection happened months ago. Reuters says the confirmation shows the outbreak was more widespread than authorities knew after the virus was first found in dairy cattle in late March. Bird flu has been found in over 150 U.S. dairy herds. The cases are part of an outbreak of H5N1 that’s spread globally in wild birds, infecting domestic poultry and different species of mammals. Even though four dairy workers have tested positive, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the risk to the public remains low. An Oklahoma dairy collected the first positive sample in April when it suspected its herd may have been infected. On its website, USDA reported two positive herds in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Ag Department says the positive sample is from one dairy that has two separate barns. ********************************************************************************** U.S. Soybean Supply to Rebound in 2024-2025 Marketing Year The U.S. soybean supply for marketing year 2024-2025 is forecast at 4.8 billion bushels, eight percent higher than the previous marketing year but down 20 million bushels from last month’s forecast. According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service Acreage Report released on June 28, 86.1 million acres of soybeans were planted in the U.S. for MY 2024-2025, three percent more than last year. The yield forecast remains unchanged at 52 bushels per acre. U.S. soybean production is forecast at 4.4 billion bushels for 2024-2025, down 15 million bushels from last month but 270.3 million bushels higher than production in the previous marketing year. With a lower production forecast and unchanged crush and export forecasts, U.S. ending stocks for 2024-2025 are projected at 435 million bushels, down 20 million bushels from last month’s forecast. The U.S. season-average soybean price for 2024-2025 is down a dime this month to $11.10 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** EPA Announces Earlier Protection from Pesticide Drift The Environmental Protection Agency is putting quicker protections in place for farmworkers, their families, and the general public near where pesticides are applied. EPA will now assess the potential for people to be exposed to a pesticide when it drifts away from where it’s applied earlier in the agency’s review process. This applies to new active ingredient pesticide registrations and new use decisions. This updated process will protect people from pesticide spray drift 15 years sooner in the review process for new pesticides than has historically occurred. “People who live and work near farms can unintentionally be exposed to pesticides, and it’s our job to do as much as possible to prevent that from happening,” says Michael Freedhoff of the EPA. “This new policy ensures that vital public health protections are in place when a pesticide is initially approved so people don’t have to wait years for the protections they need.”

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 17, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. housing starts for June will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Federal Reserve's report of industrial production at 8:15 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will be out at 2 p.m., the same time as USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook. Weather A cold front continues to work its way southward across the Central and Southern Plains through the Ohio Valley on Wednesday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms will develop along and ahead of the front throughout the day and may cause some heavy rain, especially in the Ozarks. Much milder conditions are filling in behind the front while it remains hot ahead of it.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 16, 2024 |

Lawsuit Filed Against BLM Rule The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council filed a lawsuit against the Bureau of Land Management’s “Conservation and Landscape Health” rule. The lawsuit, filed in the District Court of Wyoming, seeks to overturn the rule that threatens generations of family ranching operations in the U.S. by undermining the long-held balance of multiple-use management. “NCBA is suing the BLM to stand up for America’s western ranchers and push back on this harmful rule that only serves as a stepping stone to removing livestock grazing from our nation’s public lands,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “Under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, the BLM is supposed to balance the multiple uses of public lands, including grazing, energy, mining, timber, and recreation.” However, he also says the BLM’s rule upends the system by creating a brand new use for federal lands without Congressional approval and in conflict with federal law. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Corn Farming’s Economic Contribution A new study by the National Corn Growers Association shows American corn growers were responsible for a $152 billion boost to the U.S. economy in 2023. The report looked at the number of ways corn growers help shape the economy, including economic output, contributions to the Gross Domestic Product, tax revenues, labor income, and employment statistics. “The data shows that growers remain deeply rooted in rural America, where they serve as pillars of economic growth,” says NCGA Lead Economist Krista Swanson, who authored the analysis. “They work to foster technological innovation, expand commercial opportunities, advance free trade, build the bioeconomy, and feed a hungry world.” Corn grower production directly contributed $20.7 billion to the gross domestic product and provided $12 billion in labor wages and benefits. The economic impact of corn farming extended across 524 different industry sectors in all 50 states, reinforcing its broad influence on the national economy. *********************************************************************************** USDA Makes Large Investment in Farm to School Grants Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA is awarding a record-breaking $14.3 million in Farm to School Grants to 154 projects in 43 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico. These investments will help 1.9 million children eat more nutritious foods in school while supporting farmers and producers in their local and regional communities. “Farm to School is a huge win for children, schools, farmers, producers, and communities,” Vilsack says. “When schools have access to fresh, local food options with homegrown flavor, they can serve delicious, healthy dishes that kids are excited to eat while also supporting the local economy.” He also says the grants continue USDA’s work to address both food and nutrition insecurity, ensuring that not only are U.S. kids getting fed, but they’re getting fed well. Over 67,000 schools participate in Farm to School, and more information is available on the Farm to School website. *********************************************************************************** Summer Lambventures is Bigger than Ever The American Lamb Board recruited outstanding hosts from around the country to throw their best lamb-themed parties, complete with mouth-watering recipes and stunning photos. Nine hosts were chosen from over 100 applicants to host summer parties for ten friends in June. After nearly 100 partygoers experienced the dishes firsthand, consumers are now going to the AmericanLamb.com website to vote for their favorites and get entered into a drawing for a number of prizes. While the party host with the most votes wins the grand prize, a $1,000 Dream Culinary Prize Pack based on their party personality, consumers can also win themed gift cards just for voting. Voters can discover the hosts and their featured dishes in each category or visit the AmericanLamb.com website to view the full menus. Party themes include the “Patio Party Planners,” “Fit Foodies,” and “Outdoor Adventures.” Consumers can continue to vote for their favorites through August 15. ********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Supports Letter on Higher RFS Volumes A bipartisan group of 37 House members sent a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan encouraging him to support biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuel volumes that fully account for availability and production capacity. Clean Fuels thanked all the Representatives who led the way and signed off on the letter. “Producing advanced biofuels in the U.S. promotes economic opportunities for communities across the country and increases market access for our nation’s farmers,” the letter says. “A strong RFS and available homegrown agricultural feedstocks are crucial to meeting the nation’s goal for new advanced biofuels for sustainable aviation (SAF), maritime, rail, home heating, and off-road heavy-duty markets.” Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels appreciates the bipartisan effort to urge EPA to meet statutory deadlines for the RFS. “Increased production and market space for advanced biofuels has always been the RFS program goal,” he says. “EPA needs to get the program back on track.” *********************************************************************************** Survey Shows Top Five Majors at Ag Colleges Picking out a college major can be a daunting task. Colleges across the Midwest, including the University of Minnesota and South Dakota State University, were surveyed to see which majors had the best graduation and job placement rates. If you are a college student who doesn’t know what major to pick, here are five ag majors found to be in demand. The first is animal science/veterinary science. Careers in animal science include more than being a veterinarian. Another is Ag Business and economics. University of Missouri data says agribusiness management students have an 88 percent graduation rate and 100 percent career success rate. Crop science, while it can get called different names, produces plant specialists of all kinds. General agriculture is an option to explore different ag education sectors. Last is biochemistry, which may not be top of mind in ag education, but it is in many ag and natural resources programs.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 16, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders have been hitting the short side of grains pretty heavy lately and will be watching for rains expected across the Eastern Corn Belt this week. U.S. retail sales for June are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday. Weather A cold front will continue to work south across the Central U.S. Tuesday, providing scattered showers and storms from the Central Plains into the eastern Midwest. Southern areas of the Corn Belt could also see locally heavy rainfall with the storms.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 15, 2024 |

July WASDE Raises Corn Production, Lowers Corn Stocks The July World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates say the 2024-2025 corn outlook calls for larger supplies, greater domestic use and exports, and lower ending stocks. Corn production is forecast up by 240 million bushels on greater planted and harvested area from the June Acreage Report. Yield is unchanged at 181 bushels an acre, and ending stocks are down by five million bushels. The season-average farm price is down ten cents to $4.30 a bushel. Soybean production is projected at 4.4 billion bushels, 15 million lower on less harvested area. The yield forecast is unchanged at 52 bushels, and ending stocks are down 20 million bushels from June. The season-average soybean price is down a dime to $11.10. The wheat outlook is for larger supplies, domestic use, exports, and ending stocks. Ending stocks are predicted at 856 million bushels, the highest in five years. The season-average price is down 80 cents at $5.70. *********************************************************************************** Ag Spending Bills Advance in Both Chambers The Senate Appropriations Committee approved the Agriculture-FDA spending bill 27-0 last week. Farm Policy News says both chambers of Congress have now approved their Fiscal Year 2025 Ag-FDA funding bills out of the full committees. The bill was approved after a minimal debate in the Senate, with Senators quickly approving the bill and the accompanying manager’s amendment. The House Appropriations Committee moved a spending bill forward that will cut the Agriculture Department’s budget by $308 million if it passes in its current form. The bill would allocate $22 billion for USDA. The proposal was approved 29-26 by House Appropriations Committee members and is slated for consideration on the House floor during the week of July 22. The bill sets aside $25.9 billion for USDA, FDA, and related agencies like the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Also, the Senate bill rejects the House bill’s deep cut in the Food for Peace Program. *********************************************************************************** Beef Checkoff Returns Over $13 for Every $1 Spent An independent analysis of the Beef Checkoff thoroughly assessed the effectiveness and additional financial benefits produced by the program’s demand-driving activities. The study, conducted by Dr. Harry Kaiser of Cornell University, had objectives to measure, including whether national Beef Checkoff demand-driving activities increased demand for beef products. The study also wanted to determine the combined benefits of those activities in terms of their incremental financial impact on beef producers and importers. The Beef Checkoff’s Evaluation Committee was very pleased with the results of the latest study and said the statistics uncovered tell them that the committee is achieving the goal of providing exporters and importers with an excellent return on investment. The study calculated the ROI at $13.41 for every dollar spent. Without the Beef Checkoff, the study shows total domestic beef demand would have been 2.4 billion pounds lower per year than the actual results, and prices would have been 7.8 percent lower. *********************************************************************************** USDA Terminates Cranberry Marketing Order The USDA is terminating Marketing Order Number 929, which regulates the handling of cranberries grown in several states, including Minnesota, Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts, and several others. In October 2023, USDA suspended the Cranberry Marketing Committee’s authority to collect assessments and reports from handlers after a continuance referendum failed to show producer support. A notice with the 60-day public comment period on the proposed termination was published in the Federal Register in 2023. During the comment period, the Agricultural Marketing Service received only five comments. After considering the comments, it was determined that the termination of the order was appropriate. USDA informed Congress of the termination in April 2024 in compliance with the requirement to notify Congress at least 60 days before terminating a federal market order. The final rule for this action with public comment analysis was published in the Federal Register on July 12, 2024. More information is available at ams.usda.gov. ********************************************************************************** Fewer Farmers are Responding to NASS Surveys The number of farmers responding to surveys from the National Agricultural Statistics Service has dropped in recent years. Ag Web Dot Com looked into response rates after a new study from the American Statistical Association warned the reliability of U.S. economic data is at risk for several reasons. In the early 1990s, response rates for NASS crop surveys were 80 to 85 percent. By the late 2010s, response rates had fallen below 60 percent in some cases. For a more specific example, the 2017 Census of Agriculture had a response rate of over 71 percent, while the 2022 Census had a response rate of 61 percent. Factors affecting response rates include concerns about data privacy and constraints from farmers. An increasing number of people requesting information from farmers discourages some respondents. Refusal rates are rising as well. Lance Honig of NASS says, “It’s mostly an inability to reach people that’s increasing.” *********************************************************************************** HPAI Hits Minnesota Turkey Flocks The USDA is confirming an outbreak of avian flu affecting two Minnesota turkey flocks. The agency’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed cases in Kandiyohi (can-dee-YO-hi) and Renville counties. The case in Renville County affected more than 15,000 breeder hens. The cases in Kandiyohi County affect nearly 22,000 hens and about 4,300 toms. These are the first cases found in either county in 2024. Minnesota has now seen 17 commercial poultry flocks struck by the virus in 2024. No state has had more flocks struck by HPAI during the 2022 through 2024 outbreak. In 2022, the virus appeared in 81 flocks, and in 2023, it appeared in 34 flocks. The ongoing bird flu outbreak is the largest animal disease event in U.S. history, killing 58.7 million birds across 47 states since January 2022. APHIS has spent at least $1.3 billion in response to bird flu and will eventually reach $2 billion.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 15, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Storms and Crop Conditions, Cattle Placements Lead Coverage 1. Crop reports become important: With each week, the Monday USDA NASS Crop Progress reports give the world increasing insight into how the 2024 corn, soybean and other crops are shaping up. There will be careful attention to crop conditions following the mixed bag of flash droughts and flash floods the past several weeks. 2. Post-Beryl storms: After Hurricane Beryl spun up storms from Texas to New England, some areas will be drier this week. But there are still chances of showers and storms across the Midwest, while a front from the Rockies increases the chance of storms in the Northern and Central Plains. Most areas will see an early week warmup followed by somewhat cooler conditions as the front moves in. 3. Market signals: Last week's World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report brought some slightly bullish news, actually less bearish than expected. We'll watch how world news, including reaction to the weekend assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, influences commodity and equity markets. 4. Dairy herd safety: We're continuing to track the spread of H5N1 avian influenza on dairy cattle, including the latest on biosecurity efforts in the dairy industry. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday, reports start at 7:30 a.m. with the Empire State Manufacturing Survey. At 10 a.m. we'll have latest Grain Inspections reports, followed at 11 a.m. with the ERS Feed Grains Database update. At 2 p.m., ERS Season Average Prices and Wheat Data hits, followed by the 3 p.m. USDA NASS Crop Progress report. We'll have analysis of the latest crop conditions as well. Tuesday reports also start at 7:30 a.m. with a host of updates, including U.S. Retail Sales, Import Price Index, and Imports and Exports numbers. At 9 a.m. there's the Business Inventories and Home Builder Confidence Index. At 11 a.m. is the ERS Oil Crops Outlook. At 2 p.m. the ERS Feed and Wheat Outlooks are out. On Wednesday we'll see Housing Starts and Building Permits reports at 7:30 a.m., with Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization updates at 8:15 a.m. At 9:30 a.m. EIA's weekly petroleum status report including ethanol is out, and at 2 p.m. we'll see Broiler Hatchery numbers. The early reports continue Thursday with the 7:30 a.m. Grain Export sales and Initial Jobless Claims numbers. At 9 a.m., we'll await the latest Leading Economic Indicators and at 10:30 a.m. we'll see the Weekly Economic Index. Friday we'll have the CFTC Commitment of Traders report (COT) at 2:30 p.m., with the latest USDA Cattle on Feed numbers at 3 p.m., including our analysis on those numbers.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 15, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and may have thought a little more about Friday's new supply and demand estimates from USDA, especially regarding corn. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Much of the Corn Belt will see chances for scattered showers and storms Monday. A storm system across Iowa, southern Wisconsin, northern Illinois, and northern Indiana could produce damaging straight-line winds later in the day or Monday night. Large hail and a few isolated tornadoes may also accompany the storms.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 12, 2024 |

Grain Prices Hit Lowest Level Since COVID Grain prices have fallen to their lowest level since COVID-19. A Bloomberg report extended this year’s losses to 17 percent, with grains trading at the lowest point since 2020. It’s a sharp reversal from the post-COVID rally that sent grain prices more than doubling through 2022. University of Illinois Ag Economist Scott Irwin says the falling grain prices could mean significant financial losses for producing corn and soybeans this year. “Regardless of the fine details of crop insurance and government payments, alarm bells should be going off about the scale of potential corn and soybean losses for the 2024 crop in the Corn Belt,” Irwin says. “Right now, the losses look punishing due to the combination of rising expenses in recent years and the significant drop in corn and soybean prices.” He also says corn losses could surpass $200 per acre, and soybean losses could easily reach $98 per acre. *********************************************************************************** Tractor and Combine Sales Drop in June U.S. sales of ag tractors and combines in June fell below the reported sales from the same month in 2023. New Data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says June sales of two-wheel drive tractors dropped 16 percent compared to 2023, while four-wheel drive tractors fell 1.3 percent in the same timeframe. Combine sales declined as well, finishing the month 31 percent below June 2023. “June’s sales of ag tractors and combines follow a May that also showed a sales slowdown,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “This softness in the market follows a robust five years of sales.” He also says the challenges facing the subcompact tractor market illustrate why the passage of a strong farm bill is needed to lift rural America and U.S. farmers. In Canada, sales of four-wheel drive tractors were a bright spot, rising 10 percent in June compared to 2023. Combine sales rose 13 percent. *********************************************************************************** CA Drivers Could Save $2.7 Billion Annually With E15 A new study finds California drivers could save up to 20 cents per gallon if the state allowed gas stations to sell E15 fuel. California is the only state that doesn’t allow fuel made of 15 percent ethanol and 85 percent gasoline. The potential savings for California drivers could reach $2.7 billion annually. “Consumers have the potential to gain significantly from the introduction and purchase of E15,” the study says. “In particular, our estimates suggest an approximately 20 cents per gallon discount for E15 compared with E10 after adjusting for energy content.” The study authors also highlighted the benefit of E15’s lower carbon emissions. “In California, price savings for lower GHG intensity fuels are larger, likely due to California-specific policies incentivizing low carbon fuels,” the study concludes. The study, sponsored by the Renewable Fuels Association, says state regulators are considering the approval of E15 after testing showed it offers important emissions benefits. *********************************************************************************** EPA Could Miss the 2026 RFS Volume Deadline The Environmental Protection Agency is required by statute to finalize 2026 Renewable Fuel Standard volumes by October 31, 2024. However, reports say those volumes for 2026 and beyond could be delayed until 2025. If a unified agenda released by the White House comes to pass, it could mean December 2025 will be the finalization date. Great American Crop Insurance News says the EPA plans to release its RFS proposal by March 2025, with a rule being finalized by the end of next year. Reports say the unified agenda sets deadlines for all regulatory actions but isn’t necessarily final. Under the latest rule set that was finalized in June, the EPA set the RFS volumes only through 2025. The rule was said by those in the industry to have brought some market certainty for the biofuels industry. The unified agenda could mean the next RFS volumes will be set by a new administration. ********************************************************************************** NCBA Concludes Summer Business Meeting National Cattlemen’s Beef Association members wrapped up the summer business meeting in San Diego, California. Cattle producers discussed many of the top issues facing the cattle industry, including risk management, taxes, and business regulation. “Our grassroots members are the NCBA’s backbone,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “The policies passed at the meeting will direct our association’s advocacy efforts in Washington to strengthen our industry’s profitability, reduce the government’s crippling regulations, and safeguard our way of life for the future.” The new policies direct the association to improve disaster relief and risk management programs, advocate for reduced capital gains tax, and oppose burdensome business registration and reporting requirements like the Corporate Transparency Act. Several existing policies were also renewed or amended. Members also discussed the implementation of USDA’s new animal disease traceability rule that will take effect in November. The Summer Business Meeting is one of two to set policy for NCBA. *********************************************************************************** Angus Foundation Golf Tourney Raises Over $15,000 After a three-hour rain delay, 83 golfers enjoyed a fun day of competition at the Angus Foundation Gold Tournament hosted at the Pleasant View Golf Course in Middleton, Wisconsin. The event is held in conjunction with the National Junior Angus Show, the National Junior Angus Association’s largest youth event of the year. “It’s hard to bargain with Mother Nature, but after the morning rain showers, the day was a huge success,” says Jimmy Stickley, Angus Foundation donor coordinator. “The teams and the players that stuck it out had a blast on and off the course, and we can’t thank everyone enough for sticking with us in the morning and seeing the day through.” The tournament welcomed 21 teams and raised more than $15,700 to support the Foundation’s commitment to education, youth, and research. First established in 1980, the Angus Foundation has distributed more than $4.2 million in youth scholarships since 1998.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 12, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will report on producer prices in June at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for July at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports will be released at 11 a.m., followed by DTN's WASDE webinar at 12:30 p.m. Friday is also the last trading day for July grain and oilseed contracts. Weather Later Friday afternoon and into the evening, isolated to scattered storms will form across the Dakotas and Central Plains. Some storms may become severe and lead to damaging winds and hail.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 11, 2024 |

Ag Trade Deficit Jumps in Fiscal Year Through May The agricultural trade deficit, or the value of exports from the U.S. versus imports into the country, increased in the first eight months of the fiscal year. USDA data says the deficit was at $15.2 billion thus far in the 2023-2024 marketing year that runs through September 30. That compares with a deficit of $3.89 billion during the same period last year. From October 1, 2023, through the end of May, exporters shipped $122.3 billion worth of agricultural products. At the same time, the agency report says importers brought in $137.6 billion in goods. The ag trade deficit in the 2023 fiscal year that ended on September 30 totaled a record $17.2 billion. The agency says that compared with a surplus of $1.92 billion a year earlier. Exporters shipped $13.7 billion worth of agricultural products in May while importing $18 billion, for a deficit of $4.27 billion for the month. *********************************************************************************** Flooding in Illinois as Beryl Moves Out The last of Hurricane Beryl is expected to move through the Ohio Valley and into the northeast, which the National Weather Service says will leave flooding in its wake. The agency says flooding is expected in much of northern Illinois as the last of the storm moves out of the region. “Tropical moisture will continue to contribute bands of heavy rainfall,” NWS says. “Another two inches is likely by the end of this week, which will make flooding worse in some areas.” At the other end of the forecast spectrum, extremely hot weather is on the way into western and central Nebraska, bringing the significant potential for wildfires. Temperatures in the region are expected to be among the hottest so far this year. Elevated fire weather conditions are likely as humidity values drop below 20 percent in the Panhandle and far southwest Nebraska. High temps will surpass 100 degrees. *********************************************************************************** Beryl Damage Estimate Approaches $32 Billion AccuWeather’s preliminary estimate of the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Beryl in the United States is $28-32 billion. “Beryl will go down in the history books as a record-breaking hurricane,” says AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter. “It was the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record in the Atlantic Basin, causing catastrophic damage in the Windward Islands, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands before hitting the Mexican peninsula and moving to eastern Texas.” The storm also brought numerous tornadoes and flooding through eastern Texas, into Arkansas, and southeastern Missouri, with the storm then heading through the Midwest and into New England. At this point, flooding rain will become the main threat of the storm, as well as the risk for severe thunderstorms and isolated tornadoes east of the path of the storm. To put it into context, Hurricane Idalia caused $18-20 billion in total damage and economic loss in 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Hosting Final Workshop on Nursery Insurance Option USDA recently expanded its Nursery Value Select Crop Insurance Program to all counties in all states. The Risk Management Agency is encouraging interested nursery producers to learn more about the program through an informational workshop. It will be valuable for producers in the newly expanded areas and especially for the Nursery Field Grown and Container crop insurance program, which ends beginning with the 2026 crop year. The final Nursery Value Select workshop is on Thursday, July 18, at 2 pm Central Time. Nursery Value Select is a pilot program enabling nursery producers to select the dollar amount of coverage that best fits their management needs. Its expansion is part of the RMA’s efforts to provide insurance options for a broader group of producers, including specialty crop producers. Nursery Value Select was first available in 2021, and producers insured more than $460 million in liabilities in 2023. For more information, go to usda.gov. ********************************************************************************** FFA Alumni to Participate in Leadership Conference A select group of 50 FFA alumni from across the country will convene in Des Moines, Iowa, July 21-25 to discuss future issues and opportunities in the field of production agriculture. The annual New Century Farmer Conference convenes FFA alumni, ages 18-24, who have demonstrated leadership in their studies and work experience, earning them a sought-after spot at the conference. “The New Century Farmer Conference provides a pathway for FFA alumni to advance their leadership, personal, and career skills,” says Allie Ellis, Association Director of the National FFA Alumni and Supporters. “The conference is a dedicated time for attendees to explore diverse farm operations with industry experts and peers and learn what it takes to launch and maintain a successful career in agriculture.” Since FFA is primarily for middle and high school students, the conference offers former FFA members who’ve chosen agricultural careers a look inside the business operations of farming. *********************************************************************************** Florida Ag Teacher to Fly with the Blue Angels The Blue Angels Air Show will be featured in Pensacola, Florida this week. They’re welcoming a special guest to fly with them: Austin Courson, an agricultural education teacher, FFA advisor, and incoming assistant principal at J.M. Tate High School in Cantonment, Florida. Every year, the Blue Angels select a “key influence rider” for their work in the community. Courson was selected to fly with them on July 11 due to his steadfast commitment to his students, specifically in agricultural courses and the FFA. Under his leadership, the Tate FFA chapter earned its place among the top-performing 160 chapters out of 9,500 chapters nationwide. Courson teaches the Unmanned Aircraft in Agriculture course at Tate High School, which came about because of a funding grant from the State of Florida to teach the highly-specialized agricultural use of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Course. The course is designed to successfully link agriculture and aviation.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 11, 2024 |

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, U.S. consumer prices in June and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. The U.S. Treasury will release its report of the federal budget in June at 1 p.m. Weather Isolated to scattered showers and storms are possible across the Plains and Midwest Thursday. A few severe storms are possible across the High Plains with the primary threats being localized damaging winds and hail.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 10, 2024 |

Ag Land Market Shows Signs of Settling Farmers National Company says the agricultural land market has been exceptional over the past five years. Value gains show up in all classes of land in every region of the country. “A lot has changed in the last 12 months, and even more has changed in the past five years,” says Paul Shadegg, senior vice president of real estate options. “Moving into the second half of 2023 and the first half of this year, we’ve experienced significant increases in interest rates, declining grain markets, and inflation.” Despite the negative pressures, Shadegg says the land market has been relatively resilient. However, it does show signs of settling in general, including single-digit decreases in specific areas. As buyers consider land purchases during the second half of 2024, the additional expenses for interest and lower commodity prices will be at the forefront of decision-making. “Ag land has never been more valuable,” adds Shadegg. *********************************************************************************** Top Scientists Defend Biofuels in Court Eight of the nation’s top agricultural, biomass, and greenhouse gas lifecycle scientists filed a brief on July 3rd challenging the faulty assumptions underpinning a number of attacks on the Renewable Fuel Standard. The brief was filed in the District Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor highlighted the importance of the brief, calling it a clear signal. “it’s time for environmental advocates to stop parroting fossil fuel companies and start supporting low-carbon biofuels at the gas pump,” Skor says. “Decades of data have demonstrated again and again that bioethanol has not increased crop acreage.” She points out that U.S. farm acreage is largely unchanged since the 1930s. Even the Department of Energy rejected similar claims in a letter to Growth Energy, acknowledging the scientific consensus that U.S. ethanol slashes greenhouse gas emissions by 44 to 52 percent. “It’s time for skeptics to forget debunked research,” Skor adds. *********************************************************************************** May Beef Exports Hit High Point U.S. beef export value topped $900 million in May, the highest point since June 2023. According to data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation, U.S. beef exports totaled 110,133 metric tons, down five percent from a year ago but the second largest amount in 2024. Beef export value reached $902.4 million in May, three percent higher than last year and the highest in 11 months. Exports trended higher year-over-year to Japan, Mexico, the ASEAN Region, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and Central America. January-May beef exports followed a similar trend, increasing five percent in value to $4.29 billion despite a four percent decline in volume. May pork exports totaled 251,447 metric tons, down four percent from a year ago, and valued at $715.8 million. That’s two percent below last year. Shipments to leading market Mexico were below last year’s volume but still trended higher in value, topping $200 million. *********************************************************************************** Finalists Announced for the #100KPork Chop Challenge The #100KPorkChop Challenge is a contest that celebrates restaurants in the Washington, D.C., Capital Beltway area that features unique and delicious pork chop recipes. The Virginia Pork Council, the Iowa Pork Producers Association, the North Carolina Pork Council, and other sponsors have announced the five finalists for the Pork Chop Challenge. After weeks of voting, the five finalists include four restaurants from Washington, D.C., and one from Arlington, Virginia. The five establishments will now advance to the final judging round, where culinary professionals and pork producers will evaluate their dishes. Judging will take place on July 11-12. The winning restaurant will receive a grand prize of $100,000, and an additional $100,000 worth of pork products will be donated to the Capital Area Food Bank, highlighting the competition’s commitment to fighting hunger. “We are immensely proud of all the participating chefs and restaurants,” says Roy Lee Lindsey of the Virginia Pork Council. ********************************************************************************** Federal Ag Spending Bills Considered This Week Appropriations leaders in both chambers of Congress will convene this week with the goal of working out key spending plans. Farm Policy News says the coming weeks are critical for pushing funding bills ahead of the upcoming August recess. The Senate Appropriations Ag-FDA subcommittee is scheduled to mark up its fiscal year 2025 spending bill on Thursday. Senate appropriators will unveil their fiscal 2025 Ag-FDA spending bill in the coming days ahead of what’s expected to be another bruising federal spending clash with House Republicans. Democrats have already expressed staunch opposition to the House GOP’s agriculture spending bill, which includes spending cuts and a controversial pilot program to test restrictions on the types of foods people can buy with SNAP benefits. The House Appropriations Committee is set to vote on that bill on July 10. The Agriculture-FDA funding proposal published Monday would allocate $25.9 billion in discretionary spending in fiscal 2025. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Holds Annual Women and Mentors Retreat The National Corn Growers Association hosted the fourth annual Women and Mentor’s Retreat in St. Louis in June. The program offers a network for women and their male allies, providing mentorships and creating a pipeline of female leaders for NCGA and other agricultural organizations. Participants at the most recent event noted that they were able to grow their leadership, communication, and professional skills while networking with others who are invested in elevating women’s voices in agricultural leadership. “The Women & Mentors Program has inspired me to continue growing as a leader while supporting new and emerging leaders,” says Joan Ruskamp, a participant from Nebraska. “Most importantly, this retreat builds a growing network of women supporting one another no matter what role each of us has in agriculture.” Attendees met with their new mentorship cohorts, which are groups based on similar interests and goals. These networks provide valuable connections and new opportunities for participants.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 10, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders will track the rain progress of Tropical Storm Beryl after it brought moisture to the Eastern Corn Belt Tuesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, the only significant report on Wednesday's docket. Weather As remnants of Beryl exit the Eastern Midwest Wednesday, gusty winds and more rainfall will impact Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. Portions of the east-central Plains and Western Midwest will see pop-up showers and storms later Wednesday afternoon.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 9, 2024 |

Colorado Dairy Worker Becomes Fourth Human Case of HPAI Public health officials in Colorado announced last week that an adult male had tested positive for avian flu. Farm Policy News says the man reported mild symptoms from the infection, including pink eye. The man is a dairy farm employee who was exposed to infected cattle and recovered after antiviral treatment. Since avian influenza was first confirmed in cattle in March, the Colorado man became the fourth reported case of human infection. The other three people who tested positive also worked on dairy farms and successfully recovered. Colorado newspapers report the state now has the largest outbreak of bird flu among dairy cattle in the country. Colorado had more cases in the past month than any other state. The latest federal and state data says Colorado has identified 26 herds so far with cases of avian influenza. Of those, 22 were identified within the last month and are still in quarantine. *********************************************************************************** Summit Wants 50 Percent Pipeline Expansion After Approval Summit Carbon Solutions got approval from the Iowa state regulators for its carbon dioxide pipeline system it wants to build in the state. Summit wants to move forward with expansion requests for that system beginning in late August. Documents filed with the Iowa Utilities Commission show proposed public informational meeting dates for 23 counties that would take about four weeks to complete. The first meeting would be on August 26. The company must hold those meetings in the affected counties before it can negotiate with landowners for easements and file petitions for permits to build the extensions. The 14 proposed offshoots to additional ethanol plants from Summit’s initial proposal would increase the system size in Iowa by about 341 miles, or 50 percent. Summit can’t start laying pipe in Iowa until it obtains permits in the Dakotas. The company can use eminent domain in Iowa to force agreements with unwilling landowners. *********************************************************************************** Hurricane Beryl Makes Landfall in Texas Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Texas early on Monday as a Category 1 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 80 miles per hour. “People in urban and rural areas along the path of Beryl’s track shouldn’t let their guard down this week,” says AccuWeather Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva. “Beryl will bring a risk of tornadoes as far away as Ohio, and downpours from the hurricane could also cause flash flooding as far north as Detroit, more than 1,100 miles from where Beryl made landfall in Texas.” The powerful winds and rough surf from Beryl pushed several feet of storm surge into the coastal areas early Monday, flooding roads and blocking access to several shoreline areas. “The most intense rainfall will occur near the storm’s landfall location along the east-central Texas coast,” says AccuWeather Meteorologist Tyler Roys. The wind knocked out power to over two million homes and businesses on Monday. *********************************************************************************** One Million Acres of Corn Hurt by Flooding Parts of Nebraska, South Dakota, and Iowa are struggling with the aftermath of flooding while still fighting a swollen Missouri River. Ag Web Dot Com says the Mississippi River is facing flood threats as well. Dr. Michael Cordonnier of Soybean and Corn Advisor says it’s possible that up to one million acres of corn will be lost due to flooding. He thinks harvested corn acres will be under 91 percent of plantings this year, down from an average of 91.3 percent. At this stage, corn acres won’t get replanted. It’s also a risky proposition to replant soybeans this late as they would flower while the crop is in early development, resulting in low yield potential. High river levels along the Missouri River are a concern with more rain in the forecast over the next ten days. As many as 18 gauges along the Mississippi River are at major flood stage. ********************************************************************************** Communicating With Farmers Under Stress Webinar in August The Penn State University Extension Service is holding a webinar titled “Communicating With Farmers Under Stress.” The event is aimed at helping participants learn the signs of stress and how to help. It’s scheduled for 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET on August 6, 2024. The program is designed for agriculture industry professionals, loan officers, family members of farmers, and concerned citizens. The session will cover how to communicate with and respond to farmers and their family members when they need assistance. The webinar will help participants learn to build awareness of the stressors affecting farmers and their families and to recognize the signs and symptoms of anxiety and the warning signs of suicide. The webinar is free, but attendees must register before the webinar starts to get the access link. For more information or to sign up, go to the Penn State Extension website at extension.psu.edu, or call 877-345-0691. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Up One Percent The United States inventory of all hogs and pigs on June 1, 2024, was 74.5 million head. That number is up one percent from June 1, 2023, and up slightly from March 1, 2024. The breeding inventory, at 6.01 million head, was three percent lower than last year and slightly lower than the previous quarter. The market hog inventory, at 68.5 million head, was up two percent from 2023, and up slightly from last quarter. The March-May 2024 pig crop, at 34 million head, was up two percent from 2023. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 2.94 million head, up slightly from 2023. The sows farrowed during the quarter represented 49 percent of the breeding herd. The average number of pigs per litter was 11.56 for March-May, compared to 11.36 last year. U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.96 million sows farrow during June-August, down three percent from actual farrowings last year.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 9, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports due out Tuesday, but traders may be thinking ahead to Thursday when the Labor Department releases its morning report on consumer prices in June or to Friday when USDA has its next WASDE report. Traders will keep track of what used to be Tropical Storm Beryl as it brings rain to the Eastern Corn Belt. Weather Tropical Depression Beryl will continue to move across the Central Mississippi Valley and enter the Eastern Midwest Tuesday, providing areas of severe storms and heavy rainfall from southeast Missouri into Ohio.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 8, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Beryl Barrels in, WASDE Friday 1. Hurricane and floods: As of early Sunday morning, Tropical Storm Beryl was forecast to intensify as a hurricane again as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico, especially right before landfall early Monday morning on the Texas coastline. The National Weather Service stated after it moves inland, Beryl will accelerate farther northeastward and become a post-tropical cyclone. Heavy rainfall of 5-10 inches is expected, with localized amounts up to 15 inches, across parts of mid to upper Texas Gulf Coast and eastern Texas starting Sunday through Monday night, leading to flooding concerns. Beryl's rainfall is then projected Monday into Tuesday to be 3-5 inches for parts of the Lower and Middle Mississippi Valley. The exact track is a bit uncertain for this week, although at this time Beryl appears to then go through the Ohio River Valley and then the northeast. Depending on the path, the National Weather Service said this could lead to flash flooding in areas of the Corn Belt that already had several inches of rain in the last few days, or have a more heavy impact on the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers and tributaries. Southern portions of the Missouri River and tributaries are already continuing to rise as floodwaters move south from the Dakota/Minnesota and Nebraska/Iowa areas. Meanwhile, much of the West is under heat advisories or excessive heat warnings, with scorching triple-digit temperatures lasting into early this week. Hot weather is forecast to spread through the week across the northern tier of states while the South-Central stays on the milder end of temperatures. 2.Strategy updates delayed: Due to the Independence Day holiday schedule, which delayed the CFTC Commitment of Traders report, the DTN Six Factors Strategies will get their full weekly update Monday afternoon. That CFTC data is a critical piece of our tracking of noncommercial traders, or "specs" activity, which is one of the six key market factors in our analysis. Don't have access to our Six Factors view? Become a DTN subscriber here: 3. WASDE Friday: July 12 is the July Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. Watch midweek for our preview of the reports, as soon as market analyst expectations reports are in. There we'll review the numbers traders expect to see and add our own analysis. WASDE report coverage begins Friday right after the 11 a.m. reports release, and we'll have updates throughout the morning. Our free webinar on the reports, featuring DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman, goes live at 12:30 p.m. 4. Crop Progress Monday: We'll pay special attention to this Monday's USDA NASS weekly Crop Progress report to see how rains, dryness and flooding have affected various crops, and we'll also see the latest on the 2024 wheat harvest. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday we'll see the 9 a.m. release of Grain Inspections. At 10 a.m. we expect the Survey of Consumer Expectations, followed by 2 p.m. release of Consumer Credit and U.S. Ag Trade Update from ERS. At 2:30 p.m., the delayed CFTC Commitment of Traders report is out (with our Six Factors Strategies update soon following). At 3 p.m. we'll have the USDA weekly Crop Progress report, with our analysis of that soon after. There are no official economic or markets reports Tuesday. Wednesday sees 9:30 a.m. Wholesale Inventories and the EIA Weekly Petroleum Status report, including ethanol production and stocks. At 2 p.m. we'll see latest Broiler Hatchery numbers. Thursday markets will reflect on 7:30 a.m. Grain Export Sales, Initial Jobless Claims, Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Core CPI. At 10:30 a.m., the Weekly Economic Index hits. At 1 p.m. we'll see monthly U.S. Federal Budget numbers. Friday starts with 7:30 a.m. release of Producer Price Index (PPI) and the Core CPI. At 9 a.m. we'll see the Consumer Sentiment report. At 11 a.m., the USDA Crop Production report and July WASDE is out, followed by 2:30 p.m. release of the CFTC's Commitment of Traders report.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 8, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts as the U.S. corn crop gets closer to pollination time. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. The latest week of CFTC data will be released at 2:30 p.m. CDT. Weather Hurricane Beryl made landfall between Corpus Christi and Houston, Texas, early Monday morning and is expected to quickly weaken as it moves north. Eventually, the remnants of the storm will reach across the Lower Mississippi Valley later Monday, providing areas of heavy rainfall to Arkansas and Louisiana.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 5, 2024 |

More Reaction to USDA FMMO Modernization Proposal USDA proposed amendments to all 11 Federal Milk Marketing Orders, and national ag groups shared their reaction, including the American Farm Bureau. President Zippy Duvall says they’ve called for FMMO reform since 2021 and convened a successful first-of-its-kind industry-wide forum in 2022. “We’re pleased with the intent to return the Class 1 skim milk prices to the “higher-of” formula as we wanted,” Duvall says. Farm Bureau is disappointed in changes benefiting processors without regard for struggling dairy producers. Elsewhere, FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative in Madison, Wisconsin, says much of the reform the co-op advocated for appears in USDA’s recommendations. “What we’ve seen shows USDA has acknowledged what dairy farmers, cooperatives, and others have asked them to address for years,” says Sarah Sarbacker, director of communications and marketing. Gregg Doud, President of the National Milk Producers Federation, says not every detail is exactly what they wanted, but “we knew that would be the case.” *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Foods Closing its Iowa Facility Smithfield Foods will close its Altoona, Iowa, ham boning facility and consolidate the production volume at other locations to improve the efficiency of its manufacturing platform. Smithfield says it will provide transition assistance to the 314 employees at the facility who will be affected by the closure. The company will meet with employees individually to provide additional details about the transition plans, including severance and potential employment opportunities with Smithfield. “We appreciate the great work our Altoona employees have done over the years and are committed to supporting every employee through the transition,” says Doug Sutton, chief manufacturing officer at Smithfield Foods. “We’ve been successful in retaining many of our people in positions with Smithfield during previous consolidations and will provide information about opportunities at other Smithfield locations.” Production from Smithfield’s Altoona facility will be consolidated into existing company facilities in Monmouth, Illinois, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Crete, Nebraska. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Up One Percent The U.S. inventory of all hogs and pigs on June 1 was 74.5 million head. USDA says that was up one percent from June 1, 2023, and up slightly from March 1, 2024. Breeding inventory, at 6.01 million head, was down three percent from last year and down slightly from the previous quarter. Market hog inventory, at 68.5 million head, was up two percent from last year and up slightly from last quarter. The March-May 2024 pig crop, at 34 million head, was up two percent from 2023. Sows farrowing during that period totaled 2.94 million head, up slightly from 2023. The sows farrowed during this quarter represented 49 percent of the breeding herd. The average number of pigs per litter was 11.56 for March-May, compared to 11.36 last year. U.S. producers intend to have 2.96 million sows farrow from June-August, down three percent from actual farrowings during the same time in 2023. *********************************************************************************** AEM Launches Manufacturing Challenge Game The Association of Equipment Manufacturers embarked on its largest public engagement initiative in 130 years by introducing the “Manufacturing Challenge” on its “Manufacturing Express” bus tour. It’s an online video game that invites participants to tackle industry-themed questions for a chance to win prizes, including the grand prize of a Ford F-150. The game and the chance to win the grand prize are available to anyone in the continental U.S. who visits manufacturingexpress.org. “The Manufacturing Express tour will visit 80 communities at equipment manufacturing sites, showcasing the contributions of our industry’s workers to local economies and national prosperity,” says AEM President Megan Tanel. “The tour will engage local and regional policymakers to spotlight bipartisan policies crucial for supporting equipment manufacturing companies, their 2.3 million employees, and the industry’s annual $316 billion contribution to the U.S. economy.” The tour began on July 1 in Iowa and finishes in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in November. ********************************************************************************** Moderna Receives HHS Grant to Develop Human H5N1 Vaccine Moderna will get 176 million dollars in federal funding from the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a human vaccine against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. The grant follows outbreaks of the virus in dairy cattle throughout several states. The U.S. has documented three cases of humans with bird flu so far this year, and all had regular contact with dairy cattle. As of this month, over 130 herds in 12 states have been infected by the H5N1 virus. “We’ve successfully taken lessons learned during COVID-19 and used them to better prepare for future public health crises,” says HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra (bah-SEHR-ah). “As a part of that, we continue to develop new vaccines and other tools to help address influenza and bolster our pandemic response capabilities.” HHS also says the funding was made available through the federal-level Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle and allows Moderna to enhance vaccine response capability. *********************************************************************************** USDA Cuts Brazil Soybean Outlook Soybean production in Brazil, the world’s largest exporter, was revised downward by the USDA’s attaché office in Brazil after flooding in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Successful Farming says about 180 people were killed, and roughly 2.4 million were affected by the flooding in southern Brazil. Fields were underwater for weeks after the floods that started in April. Production in the 2023-2024 marketing year is now forecast at 150 million metric tons, a drop of two percent from the previous report. Flooding in the states of Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Parana, and Sao Paulo also contributed to the reduction. The total planted area for soybeans in Brazil in the current marketing year is projected at 113.2 million acres (45.8 million hectares), one percent higher than the previous outlook. CONAB, Brazil’s National Supply Company, forecast a planted area of 46 million hectares last month, and Agroconsult expected 46.4 million hectares.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 5, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as employment data from the U.S. Labor Department. One day after the Independence Day holiday, U.S. grain and livestock futures resume trading at 8:30 a.m. CDT and will have their normal closing times. CFTC data, normally released on Friday afternoon, will not be issued until Monday afternoon. Weather A system moving through the Midwest is pushing a front from the Ohio Valley down into the Delta and Southeast for Friday and scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast over a wide area due to it. A system moving through the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains will bring more isolated showers and storms through. Milder air is being dragged southward and eliminating the extensive heat we have seen over the last few days across the southern tier while heat is building up in the West.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 3, 2024 |

Farmer Sentiment Drifts Lower in June Farmer sentiment lowered in June as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reading of 105 was three points below May’s level. The overall drop in sentiment was due to a five-point drop in the Index of Future Expectations, which dropped to 112, while the June Current Conditions Index increased to 90, one point higher than the May index. High input costs, the risk of lower prices for their products, and rising interest rates continue to weigh on farmer sentiment. The impact of rising interest rates on their farms has become a bigger concern for producers in recent months. Interest rates and high breakeven levels combined with concerns that crop and livestock prices could weaken are holding back producer sentiment and making producers cautious about making large investments. The Farm Capital Investments Index dropped by three points to a reading of 132. The Long-Term Farmland Value Index dropped seven points. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Proposed Updates to FMMOs The USDA released updates to the Federal Milk Marketing Orders. The 332-page proposal released on Monday would restore a rule that makes the Class 1 milk price the higher-of the price of Class 3 and Class 4 for a month. After an initial reading of the proposal, the National Milk Producers Federation reacted positively. “We’re heartened that much of what we proposed after more than two years of policy development, and another year of testimony and explanation, is reflected in USDA’s recommended FMMO modernization plan,” says NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud. “Crafting an effective milk-pricing system for farmers is complex and requires a careful balance.” He also says USDA’s plan acknowledges that complexity, and while it doesn’t match the Federation’s proposal in every detail, Doud says it looks largely in keeping with the comprehensive approach painstakingly determined by the work of dairy farmers and their cooperatives over the past three years. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Producers Attend the 2024 Beef Leaders Institute From pasture to plate, it takes multiple links in the value chain to bring Americans the hamburgers they throw on the grill this Fourth of July. Each link is integral to the success of others, one of many important takeaways for the 25 Angus producers selected to attend the 2024 Beef Leaders Institute. The American Angus Association and Certified Angus Beef host the annual program to develop young cattlemen and women as industry leaders. “Sometimes producers get so focused on raising high-quality cattle that it can prevent them from having a better understanding of how they impact every step along the way to the consumer,” says Kara Lee, director of producer engagement at Certified Angus Beef. “They’re the beginning of the food chain.” The five-day tour started at the American Angus Association in St. Joseph, Missouri, and traveled to six states before finishing at the Certified Angus Beef headquarters in Ohio. *********************************************************************************** Celebrating the International Year of the Woman Farmer Women are responsible for roughly half of the world’s food production. The United Nations’ designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer gives the world a chance to highlight and celebrate the incredibly important role women play in ensuring global food security. It’s a time to underscore and address the various social and economic challenges that women in agriculture face worldwide. USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor says they’re proud of the agency’s role in leading efforts to introduce and generate support for the resolution that was co-sponsored by 123 other nations. It was passed by the U.N. General Assembly in May. “This marked the first time in history that the United States was the lead sponsor of an ‘international year’ at the U.N., demonstrating just how important the role of women in agriculture is to our department, nation, and the world,” Taylor says. ********************************************************************************** Unique Program Pays Illinois Farmers to Improve Soil Health American Farmland Trust and ADM are launching the next season of a program that supports Illinois farmers and the environment. The ADM re:generations™ Program in Illinois encourages farmers to incorporate regenerative agriculture practices into their operations while offering financial incentives for doing so. Enrollment begins in May. The ADM re:generations™ program continues offering flexible contracts to farmers who are willing to adopt cover crops, no-till, and-or provide data to calculate carbon-intensity scores. The program provides payments to farmers who enroll in the program, and carbon assets generated from participation are being claimed by ADM. Farmers can enroll new practice acres as well as previous practice acres. In 2023, AFT and ADM had a very successful year, surpassing their enrollment goal of 225,000 acres enrolled in cover crops throughout the state. The companies also enrolled 630,000 acres in emissions scoring. Enrollment is open and more information is available at farmland.org. *********************************************************************************** Mexico to Drop Plan to Cut Yellow Corn Imports The incoming government in Mexico will discard a key goal of the previous administration to reduce yellow corn imports and achieve self-sufficiency in yellow corn production. Investing Dot Com says the incoming ag minister, Julio Berdegue, says Mexico will focus on maintaining self-sufficiency in the white corn that’s commonly used in tortillas, a Mexican dietary staple. The policy of former president Lopez Obrador aimed to dramatically reduce the imports of yellow corn, most of which comes from the U.S, and boost local production instead. Lopez Obrador wanted to limit the use of genetically modified corn, sparking a trade dispute with the U.S. “Our objective is not to reduce imports but to produce more,” says Berdegue. “Our goal in this six-year term is not self-sufficiency in yellow corn.” Mexico’s appetite for meat is growing, leading to an Increasing demand for corn in the livestock sector, and will mean large imports of yellow corn.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 3, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Reports on U.S. weekly jobless claims and the U.S. trade deficit will be out at 8:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by May U.S. factory orders at 9 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. and the natural gas storage report is at noon. U.S. stock market exchanges close early, at 12:15 p.m. CDT, but grain and livestock futures close at their normal times ahead of Thursday's Independence Day holiday. Minutes from the latest Fed meeting will be released at 1 p.m. CDT. Weather A front that has produced some areas of heavier rain over the western Corn Belt earlier this week is shifting toward the Ohio River for Wednesday. More rounds of showers and thunderstorms are forecast to develop along the front. The next storm system is quickly entering the Plains and will bring scattered showers and thunderstorms of its own, especially across the northern half of the region. Both areas are watching out for some severe weather later Wednesday, but the areas around western Nebraska have a higher risk.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 2, 2024 |

Thirty Million Farm Acres Abandoned Since 1986 In 2022, a University of Wisconsin study claimed that U.S. farmers had converted several million acres of pristine grassland and other “semi-natural areas” to cropland. Researcher Tyler Lark said that was in response to the Renewable Fuel Standard and ethanol production. Two years later, another study by Lark shows a different result. Using satellite imagery from the 2022 study, the newest one in March showed that between 1986 and 2018, over 30 million acres of cropland were abandoned and transitioned into grassland, permanent pasture, forest, shrub land, wetlands, or urban areas. That timeframe encompasses a period of rapid growth in ethanol production. The new study concluded that among the abandoned croplands, 53 percent changed to grassland and pasture, 18 percent to shrub land and forest, eight percent to wetlands, and just five percent converted to urban-suburban land. The Dakotas, Kansas, and Montana saw some of the highest land conversion rates in the country. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow Talks About the SNAP Payment Error Rate Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), chair of the Senate Ag Committee, released a statement on the payment error rate for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. “While states faced many challenges ensuring access to SNAP during COVID and unwinding temporary pandemic flexibilities and benefits, the national error rate reported recently is unacceptable,” she says. “The SNAP payment error rate measures the accuracy of SNAP benefits paid and eligibility determinations by states, not fraud.” She also says, in other words, it’s about accuracy and not fraud. “It’s critical that the program is accurate to protect program integrity and ensure people receive the assistance they need to put food on the table,” Stabenow adds. “SNAP is the foundation of the safety net for nearly 42 million Americans, providing about six dollars a day to help them buy food to feed their families.” She also says SNAP quality control was strengthened in the 2018 Farm Bill. *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Donates Pork to Help in Northwest Iowa Smithfield Foods delivered 34,000 pounds of pork to Rock Valley, Iowa, to provide free, restaurant-quality meals to victims, first responders, and volunteers impacted by severe flooding in Northwest Iowa. Smithfield, with more than 600 employees in nearby Sioux Center and Orange City, Iowa, donated items like loins, ribs, and pork chops that will provide over 140,000 servings of protein. “Recent catastrophic flooding has left many of our Northwest Iowa neighbors without basic necessities like electricity, drinking water, and food,” says Jonathan Toms, senior community development manager for Smithfield Foods. “By partnering with a non-profit like Mercy Chefs, we’re able to provide support and hope for our neighbors in times of need as the community continues to recover from storm damage.” Mercy Chef’s mobile kitchen will serve restaurant-quality meals to anyone in need in the Rock Valley community. The team will also distribute meals to those unable to make it there. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open For Bright Future Fund Grants American Farmland Trust has begun accepting applications to help farmers nationwide improve farm viability, access, transfer, permanently protect farmland, or adopt regenerative ag practices. AFT’s Brighter Future Fund’s “National Grant for Historically Underserved Farmers and Ranchers” provides grants of up to $5,000 per project. The grant focuses its support of beginning, socially disadvantaged, limited resource, women, and veteran farmers and ranchers to support greater equity and opportunities for all in agriculture. In 2024, the grant program will continue to fund farmers and ranchers nationwide, with additional support available to those affected by the Smokehouse Creek Wildfire in Texas and expanded support in New York and New England. “We deeply appreciate our many supporters, including corporate, individuals, and AFT members that all made it possible for us to help farmers across the nation,” says Ashley Brucker of AFT. “These grants inspire a ripple effect of enriching families and entire communities.” ********************************************************************************** Dairy FARM Program Releases Updates The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management Program released new versions of the Animal Care and Workforce Development Programs. The new standards refine, update, and improve agriculture-leading benchmarks for animal care and workforce best practices. “This summer is an opportunity to showcase FARM’s commitment to continuous improvement,” says Emily Yeiser (EYE-ser) Stepp, executive director of FARM, an industry collaboration managed by the National Milk Producers Federation. Formally reviewed every three years, the Animal Care and Workforce Development program areas underwent revisions to ensure appropriate standards and processes are conducted via FARM’s second-party evaluations. Animal Care Version Five updates focus on refining and clarifying previous standards surrounding euthanasia, fitness for transport, calf management, and continuing education. Workforce Development Version Two updates the evaluation tool used to assess and encourage the adoption of HR and safety best practices. Environmental Stewardship Version Three will launch this summer and include a new greenhouse gas model. *********************************************************************************** Safety When Grilling and Smoking on the Fourth of July On July Fourth, the aroma of barbecue will fill the air as people come together to celebrate with quintessential American cooking pastimes: grilling and smoking meat. Food is a big part of celebrating the Fourth, aside from the fireworks. USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service is asking everyone to take the proper precautions during food prep. Thaw the meat or poultry first. Marinate your protein in the refrigerator. Do not marinate on the counter. Keep the raw meat and poultry separated. Use different cutting boards and utensils for raw meats and poultry. Do the same thing when the food is fully cooked. Keep the smoker and grill at a safe temperature. Cook the meats to a safe internal temperature as measured by a food thermometer. Cook all raw beef, pork, lamb, veal steaks, chops, and roasts to a minimum internal temp of 145 F before removing from the heat source.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 2, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports on Tuesday's docket, but traders may pay attention to the latest weather forecasts as more rain and chances for severe weather threaten the northwestern Corn Belt again. Wednesday will have several reports ahead of the Independence Day holiday on Thursday. Weather A system moving through Canada is pushing a cold front into the Corn Belt, laying down from Kansas into Wisconsin by Tuesday evening. Thunderstorms from Monday night should diminish as they move east into the Great Lakes Tuesday morning but redevelop Tuesday afternoon and evening with more rounds of heavy rain possible, especially around Iowa. Severe storms will be possible as well, with the greatest risk around southern Iowa and northern Missouri. It will remain hot across the South and Southeast as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 1, 2024 |

Cattle Producers Celebrate Supreme Court Decision The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision that reins in the legal concept of Chevron deference and will reduce overreaching regulations from federal agencies that lack congressional authority. “Elected officials in Congress should make laws, not un-elected bureaucrats at federal agencies,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “Cattle producers have experienced numerous instances of federal agencies enacting overreaching regulations on our farms and ranches, exceeding their authority granted by Congress.” Eisele is also grateful that the Supreme Court is reining in these federal agencies and putting power back in the hands of those elected to represent citizens in Washington. While the case decided by the Supreme Court didn’t directly involve cattle production, it did challenge the Chevron deference, which gives federal agencies the authority to interpret statutes they consider vague. NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart says Congress has ceded too much authority to un-elected bureaucrats in recent decades. *********************************************************************************** Planted Acreage Report Shows Less Corn, More Soybeans The USDA released its June Planted Acreage Report with some caveats. U.S. farmers still have 3.36 million acres of corn to plant and 12.8 million soybean acres. Corn planted area for all purposes is currently estimated at 91.5 million acres, down three percent, or three million acres, from last year. Soybean planted area for 2024 is estimated at 86.1 million acres, up three percent from 2023. The all-wheat planted area for 2024 is estimated at 47.2 million acres, down five percent from last year. The 2024 winter wheat planted area, at 33.8 million acres, is down eight percent from last year and one percent from the previous estimate. Of this total, about 24.1 million acres are Hard Red Winter, 6.14 million acres are Soft Red Winter, and 3.59 million acres are white winter. The all-cotton planted area for 2024 is estimated to be 11.7 million acres, up 14 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Grain Stocks Reports USDA’s June Grain Stocks Report shows corn stocks in all positions on June 1, 2024, totaled 4.99 billion bushels, up 22 percent from June 1, 2023. Of the total stocks, 3.03 billion bushels are stored on farms, 37 percent higher than last year. Off-farm stocks hit 1.97 billion bushels, four percent higher than in 2023. Soybeans in all positions on June 1 totaled 970 million bushels, up 22 percent from June 1, 2023. On-farm stocks were up 44 percent from last year at 466 million bushels. Off-farm stocks, at 504 million, are up six percent from last year. Old crop all wheat stored in all positions totaled 702 million bushels, up 23 percent over 2023. On-farm stocks are estimated at 139 million bushels, up 12 percent from last year. Old crop Durum wheat stocks in all positions on June 1 totaled 21.1 million bushels, down 24 percent from a year ago. *********************************************************************************** Survey Shows Americans’ Renewable Energy Support is Declining A Pew Research Center survey shows some Americans are driving a decline in America’s support for renewable energy. While solar and wind power remain popular, support for expanding them is dropping. In 2020, solar expansion had the backing of 90 percent of the people surveyed, and that’s now down to 78 percent. Wind has seen a similar dip, from 83 percent in 2020 to 72 percent now. “Although broad public support for renewable energy is still there, the breadth of that support is less widespread than it was four years ago, or even one year ago,” says Alec Tyson, the report’s lead author and associate director of research at Pew. The Pew report, titled, “How Americans View National, Local, and Personal Energy Choices,” shows tempered interest in EVs. Survey respondents are showing reluctance to embrace initiatives like phasing out gas-powered vehicles. Three in ten Americans would consider buying an EV. ********************************************************************************** NCGA: USTR Makes Strong Case in Trade Dispute Officials from the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office hammered arguments made by Mexican representatives during oral arguments about Mexico’s ban on imports of genetically modified corn used in some food products. The ban was issued in early 2023. USTR filed a dispute settlement under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement over the issue in August of that year. “The science overwhelmingly shows that genetically modified corn is safe for consumers and doesn’t harm native plants,” says National Corn Growers Association President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). “U.S. officials did a great job of making their case, and more importantly, they successfully argued that the Mexican government doesn’t have the scientific evidence to support its actions or claims.” During the hearing, U.S. officials argued that Mexico didn’t conduct a risk assessment to support its claims and that the documentation provided was over 20 years old. They also said Mexico’s regulatory agencies previously determined that GMO corn is safe. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expanding Specialty Crop and Organic Insurance Options The USDA is expanding crop insurance options for specialty and organic growers beginning with the 2025 crop year. USDA’s Risk Management Agency is expanding coverage options by allowing enterprise units by organic farming practice, adding enterprise-unit eligibility for several crops, and making additional policy updates. This is the first of several announcements this summer, which will include the expansion of the shellfish policy in the Northeast and new coverage for grape growers in the West and beyond. These expansions and other improvements build on other recent RMA efforts to better serve specialty crop producers and reach a broader group of producers. “The Risk Management Agency is excited to expand coverage options for specialty and organic growers, including the availability of enterprise and optional units for many producers,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “Expanding our coverage options gives producers more opportunities to manage their risks, and we’ll have more announcements soon.”

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 1, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - More Wet Weather, Cyberattack Recovery, Holiday Market Break 1. Independence Day market holiday: U.S. Markets will be closed Thursday; we'll resume market coverage, including our daily videos, early Friday morning. Canadian markets also will be closed on Canada Day on July 1. 2. Flooding updates, hurricane develops: More rain is expected through the week, which may be bad for areas already dealing with flooding, but good for areas that had been dry. DTN models increase rain chances with every fresh run. . We're also watching what might be the U.S. impact of the first hurricane of the season in the Atlantic Ocean -- Hurricane Beryl rapidly strengthened from a tropical depression on Friday to a Category 3 hurricane by Saturday evening as it heads towards the Caribbean. The major hurricane is currently forecast by the National Hurricane Center to become an "extremely dangerous" Category 4 hurricane when it hits the Windward Islands. 3. More on SCOTUS rulings: We'll continue to dig into how the latest Supreme Court decisions may influence farm and agricultural interests. 4. Cyberattack recovery: We're continuing to follow the slow recovery of thousands of automobile and farm equipment dealerships in the U.S. and Canada that were affected when CDK Global was hit with a ransomware cyberattack on June 19. The dealerships use CDK's software system in their businesses. Farmers were affected after these companies were forced to shut down their computers after the attack and do everything manually temporarily. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday, at 8:45 a.m. the S&P Manufacturing PMI is out. At 9 a.m., Construction Spending and ISM Manufacturing reports hit. Grain Inspections come out at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. brings the Grain Crushings and Co-products, and Fats and Oils report. At 3 p.m. we'll have the USDA Nass Crop Progress Report, where many will be looking at crop conditions from the areas of flooding and heavy rainfall recently. Tuesday is a light day, with only the 9 a.m. Job Openings report to consider. Wednesday makes up for that, starting with the 7:15 a.m. ADP Employment figures, 7:30 a.m. Initial Jobless Claims and U.S. Trade Deficit reports. At 8:45 a.m. the S&P Services PMI is out, followed by 9 a.m. release of Factory Orders. At 9:30 a.m. we'll see the EIA Weekly Petroleum Status, including ethanol numbers. At 1 p.m. there is the anticipated release of the Minutes of June FMOC (Fed) meeting. At 3 p.m. we'll see the latest Broiler Hatchery and Dairy Products numbers. Thursday, July 4, there are no economics reports and markets are closed. Friday hopefully everyone rejoins the markets with all fingers accounted for. At 7:30 a.m. we'll have Grain Export Sales, U.S. Unemployment, Unemployment Rate and Hourly Wages figures. At 2:30 p.m. we'd normally see CFTC Commitment of Traders reports, but that may be delayed until Monday due to the holiday break. The weekly update of U.S. Drought Monitor Map could also be delayed.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 1, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, manufacturing indices will be reported from around the globe early Monday with the U.S. index for June due out at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by NASS's Fats and Oils report at 2 p.m. and the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Markets in Canada are closed for Canada Day. Weather A storm system moving into the Northern Plains on Monday is already producing areas of showers and thunderstorms across portions of the Western Corn Belt. A lot of the storms will weaken this morning but will redevelop this afternoon and evening closer to the main cold front. Severe weather and areas of heavy rain are forecast, with southern Nebraska having the best chance for both Monday. Highs: 60s/70s Canadian Prairies; 70s/80s Pacific Northwest, Northern Plains, Midwest; 80s/90s Central Plains, Delta, Southeast; 90s/100s Southern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 28, 2024 |

Rabobank: Consumers Battle Fatigue Over Food Prices Rabobank’s 2024 July 4th Barbecue Index reached an unprecedented level this year. Hosting a ten-person barbecue on the Fourth of July will cost $99, the highest total on record. This year, beef, beer, soda, and lettuce comprise 64 percent of the total cost. With food prices unlikely to reverse course, Rabobank says this may be the last time we’ll see a summer cookout for ten cost less than $100. Food inflation jumped 25 percent from 2019 to the end of 2023. The additional inflation in the first half of 2024 has been the tipping point. “The consumer is waving the white flag on food inflation,” says Tom Bailey, senior consumer foods analyst at Rabobank. “With an added two percent in price hikes in 2024, coupled with the disparity between the cost of eating out and cooking at home at the widest point in history, we’re seeing heightened fatigue and frugality.” *********************************************************************************** CLA Stresses a Balanced Herbicide Strategy CropLife America sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency addressing the Office of Pesticide Program’s April update on the agency’s Draft Herbicide Strategy. It’s part of the EPA’s framework to meet its obligations under the Endangered Species Act. CLA’s letter lauds the agency’s issuance of the Draft Herbicide Strategy and the extent to which it reflects significant input from interested stakeholders. The letter also offers recommendations on how the Draft Herbicide Strategy can be successfully finalized and implemented. CLA emphasizes the necessity of pesticide use with the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats, urging EPA to take realistic farming practices into consideration. “Understanding the needs of our nation’s growers is imperative to the success of the ESA, and any mitigation put in place will only work if real-world implications of how we farm are considered,” says Alexandra Dunn, CLA President and CEO. “We want a practical and scientifically sound plan.” ********************************************************************************** USDA to Accept Expanded ELA Program Applications The USDA will begin accepting applications on Monday, July 1, for its updated Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP). The goal is to provide financial assistance to eligible dairy producers who incur milk losses due to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza infection in their dairy herds. The Farm Service Agency expanded ELAP through the rule-making process to assist with a portion of financial losses resulting from reduced milk production when cattle are removed from commercial milking in dairy herds having a confirmed positive H5N1 test. Positive tests must be confirmed through the National Veterinary Service Laboratories. “USDA remains committed to working with producers, state veterinarians, animal health professionals, and federal partners as we continue to detect the presence of H5N1 in dairy herds and take additional measures to contain the disease spread,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We’re committed to providing the support needed to help producers recover.” *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Welcomes USDA Request for Information Clean Fuels Alliance America welcomed Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack to the June Member Meeting this week. He announced a Request for Information regarding climate-smart ag practices for biofuel feedstocks. These practices can further lower the lifecycle carbon scores of advanced biofuels like biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel. Vilsack says the agency is looking for information on crops, crop practices, and how they can be documented, certified, and traced. “We greatly appreciate acknowledging our industry’s need for both timely and accurate rules on climate-smart ag practices,” says Kurt Kovarik, Clean Fuels Vice President of Federal Affairs. “We also appreciate that the secretary understands the importance of having guidance for 45Z well in advance of January 1, 2025, so farmers, producers, and fuel customers have the certainty they need to continue to produce and use low-carbon biomass-based diesel.” Clean Fuels Alliance hosted 100 industry representatives this week. *********************************************************************************** Getting Consumers Cooking American Lamb The American Lamb Board remains focused on educating consumers about cooking lamb at home. Many lamb purchasers cite the lack of confidence in cooking lamb as a significant barrier when cooking lamb at home. Plus, consumers who purchase lamb to cook at home are more likely to reserve lamb for special occasions and holidays. ALB is helping make American Lamb a more mainstream at-home dinner choice through partnerships with two virtual cooking class programs. Kittch and Homemade are innovative new ways to reach and inspire consumers to cook American Lamb at home for weeknight dinners. “We know lamb purchasers are motivated to buy lamb when they have access to easy-to-follow recipes,” says ALB Chairman Jeff Ebert. “These new partnerships take that to a new level by providing both recipes and interactive online classes to let consumers prepare lamb dishes at home alongside chefs across the country.” For information, go to lambboard.com. *********************************************************************************** Gavins Point Releases Continue to Decline on the Missouri River Inflows into the Gavins Point Dam on the Missouri River near Omaha, Nebraska, have dropped to nearly 10,000 cubic feet per second. Current releases from Gavins Point are 20,000 CFS and are lowering to 16,000 CFS on Thursday. “We will reevaluate the conditions on Friday, June 28, and if inflows into the Gavins Point Dam from unregulated tributaries continue declining, we may have an option to lower the releases to 13,000 cubic feet per second to reduce the impacts downstream from Gavins Point,” says John Remus, chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. Average daily inflows to Gavins Point in June are 32,000 CFS, with average daily releases from the Fort Randall Dam upstream making up 28,900 CFS of the inflows, leaving 3,100 coming in from tributaries and rainfall. The current pool elevation at Gavins Point is 1,207.8 feet and slowly declining. The average elevation for June is 1,206.1 feet.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 28, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The PCE inflation index for May will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as May reports on U.S. personal income and consumer spending. At 11 a.m., USDA releases its Acreage and June 1 Grain Stocks reports followed by DTN's webinar at 12:30 p.m. Weather A system is moving through the Canadian Prairies and has wrapped up in the region, causing a band of heavy rain from Alberta through Manitoba and down through the northwestern Corn Belt since Thursday. That has caused some areas of heavier rainfall in portions of the northwestern Corn Belt that have been dealing with flooding. A wave of morning showers continues eastward, but the front to the system should produce more showers and thunderstorms there and into the southwestern Corn Belt later today and tonight, the latter of which could see some significant severe weather. A burst of colder air is moving in behind the front. Highs: 50s/60s Canadian Prairies; 60s/70s Northern Plains; 70s/80s Pacific Northwest, Midwest; 80s/90s Central Plains, Southeast; 90s/100s Southern Plains, Delta.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 27, 2024 |

Iowa Approves Carbon Pipeline Project The Iowa Utilities Board granted approval for a proposed carbon pipeline project to begin in the state. That clears the way for Summit Carbon to build that segment of the pipeline that covers 688 miles in 29 Iowa counties. The board hasn’t yet granted a permit that would allow construction to begin. However, Summit can now use eminent domain to acquire the land they need to complete the project. The board issued a final 507-page decision and order. “After weighing a number of factors for and against Summit’s petition, the board found that the service provided by Summit Carbon will promote the public convenience and necessity,” the board wrote in the decision. Summit will be required to submit “numerous revised exhibits” before the board issues a permit and before construction begins. “The momentum will continue when we file our South Dakota permit application in early July,” says Summit CEO Lee Blank. *********************************************************************************** States to Begin Voluntary HPAI Testing on Dairy Farms The USDA says four states will begin voluntary pilot programs to test bulk milk tanks on dairy farms for bird flu. Louisiana Illuminator says the move is intended to help dairy farmers ship herds across state lines and make it simpler for public health officials to track any spread of the virus. Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Texas will be in the first round of voluntary participation, and other states are likely to follow. Eric Deeble, acting senior advisor for H5N1 response, says, “This list of participating states is just the beginning. It’s important for us to get these four states going so the other states could watch how the program works and gain additional confidence in the idea.” He also says the agency is in close conversations with about a dozen other states who are very interested in participating. Launching the pilot program is “an important step forward.” ********************************************************************************** Groups React to Latest Packers and Stockyards Rule U.S. agriculture groups reacted to the USDA’s latest proposed Packers and Stockyards rule titled “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets.” National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane calls the proposed rule a “direct attack” on cattle producer profitability. “By creating criteria that effectively deems any innovation or differentiation in the marketplace improper, USDA is sending a clear message that cattle producers should not derive any free market benefit but be paid one low price, regardless of quality, in the same of so-called fairness,” he says. National Chicken Council Interim President Gary Kushner says the latest rulemaking retreads a failed proposal from more than a decade ago, which was written by a plaintiff’s lawyer who made money suing poultry companies. “The current facelift to the ‘Harm to Competition’ rule would open the floodgates to frivolous and costly litigation,” Kushner says. “The proposal would inflict billions in economic harm.” *********************************************************************************** National Wheat Foundation Hosts Officials in a Farm Tour The National Wheat Foundation hosted a wheat farm tour this week for congressional staff and USDA employees. Wheat grower Eric Spates of Maryland gave visitors the chance to explore the farm, witness the wheat harvesting process, and listen to speakers who specialize in the ag industry. The discussion centered around crucial topics like risk management, conservation, pesticide programs, environmental issues, and what happens to wheat when it leaves the farm. “One of the Foundation’s main goals is educating people about wheat and farming,” says Bernard Peterson, Chairman of the National Wheat Foundation and a Kentucky farmer. “Wheat accounts for 20 percent of the calories consumed worldwide, so it’s a vital food crop and essential that everyone understands the complex issues that farmers face every day.” The objectives of the tour focused on strengthening participants’ appreciation for the intricacies of farming. Eric Spates is a dedicated board member of various farm organizations. *********************************************************************************** Flooding Will Impact the Agricultural Supply Chain Flooding in several northern states is a reminder that weather events impact crop growth and the ability to transport that crop. Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook), executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, says the closure of roads and bridges will result in farmers and elevators having to incur expensive detours to access delivery locations. “One of the biggest examples of the impact of flooding on rail infrastructure is the destruction of the BNSF Railway bridge across the Big Sioux River near Sioux City, Iowa,” Steenhoek says. “This will require considerable time to replace.” Considerable soybeans and grain continue to move at this time of year. The flooding is occurring in regions with a number of soybean processing facilities, which operate year-round. The damage will clearly impact those facilities. Even if a farmer isn’t directly impacted by the damaged infrastructure, it will cost more to ship commodities to operating sections of the transportation network. *********************************************************************************** Groundbreaking for New Grape Improvement Center The USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences hosted a groundbreaking for a new state-of-the-art grape research facility on the Cornell AgriTech campus. The over 70,000-square-foot facility will be named the National Grape Improvement Center and will house the ARS Grape Genetics Research Unit and ARS Plant Genetic Resources Unit. In addition, four Cornell grapevine research projects will move into the research facility. “Ag research conducted by USDA and Cornell University will both enhance U.S. grape production and ensure farmers are better able to fight the impacts of climate change,” says USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small. “Investing in the National Grape Improvement Center helps to maintain our national food security while also building a stronger and more resilient food system.” ARS and university employees will work to enhance grape production efficiency, profitability, and sustainability for the United States grape industry.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 27, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, along with weekly U.S. jobless claims, an update of first-quarter U.S. GDP, U.S. durable goods orders for May and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. Stats Canada reports new planting estimates Thursday morning. The U.S. Energy Department's report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. USDA's hog and pigs inventory report will be out at 2 p.m. Weather A front continues in the Southeast for Thursday, where some showers will be possible today. But the next big storm is moving into the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies where it is already producing areas of showers and thunderstorms down to the Texas Panhandle. Showers and thunderstorms will become more widespread in these areas later this afternoon and especially this evening, with a significant risk of severe weather and heavy rainfall. Highs: 60s/70s Pacific Northwest, Canadian Prairies; 70s/80s Midwest; 70s/90s Northern Plains; 80s/90s Central Plains, Delta, Southeast; 90s/100s Southern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 26, 2024 |

Clean Fuels Petitions EPA on RFS Volumes Clean Fuels Alliance America filed a formal petition asking the Environmental Protection Agency to reconsider Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for 2024 and 2025. The agency set biomass-based diesel and overall advanced volumes significantly below the actual production of the fuels, ignoring available data on the rapid build-out of production capacity. The low volumes are discouraging production, sacrificing greenhouse gas emissions reductions, and undercutting the economic benefits intended under the program. “We warned the EPA that the no-growth rule they set would undercut investments, economic opportunities for the industry, and environmental benefits,” says Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs at Clean Fuels. “We’re now asking the EPA to use the industry’s demonstrated production in 2023 as a baseline and allow additional growth in 2024 and 2025.” Clean Fuels is also asking the agency to set 2024 and 2025 biomass-based diesel volumes to 5.1 billion and 5.6 billion gallons, respectively. *********************************************************************************** Growmark Testing Biodiesel in Semi-Tractor Fleet Growmark has partnered with Optimus Technologies to test biodiesel in five of its semi-tractors. The move may be a potential pathway to transitioning its entire fleet to low-carbon fuels. The engine upgrades from Optimus ensure heavy-duty diesel engines operate dependably in all weather conditions on either biodiesel or traditional diesel. The Growmark fleet drives five million miles annually. The pilot with only five heavy-duty trucks is going to be significantly lower in carbon dioxide emissions and the other pollutants found in traditional diesel, plus it will help improve air quality in communities near busy trucking routes. The U.S. Department of Energy cites a life cycle analysis by the Argonne National Laboratory Study concluded that biodiesel emissions for 100 percent biodiesel are 74 percent lower than emissions from petroleum-based diesel. Optimus says it’s happy to partner with Growmark and show that decarbonization is financially and environmentally sustainable for heavy-duty fleets today. ********************************************************************************** USDA Rule Clarifies Unfair Practices The USDA announced new action to support a fairer, more competitive, and more resilient meat and poultry supply chain. USDA’s “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets” proposed rule would tackle longstanding challenges around interpretations of unfairness and competitive injury for the livestock, meat, and poultry sectors. The rule is designed to support farmers and growers and reduce food costs for consumers. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack made the announcement during an event at the Center for American Progress showcasing the push to create more affordable and competitive agricultural markets. The event highlighted USDA’s wide-ranging progress to enhance the Department’s ability to enforce the Packers and Stockyards Act, including previous rulemaking and an enforcement partnership with the Department of Justice. “The proposed rule stands for clear and transparent standards so that markets function fairly and competitively for consumers and producers alike,” Vilsack says. “It’s designed to give farmers a fairer shake.” *********************************************************************************** Stabenow: Stop the Politics Around SNAP Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow says the only path to passing a bipartisan farm bill is holding together the farm and food coalition that’s formed the foundation of past farm bills. “However, recent attempts to fracture that coalition through misleading statistics and an inaccurate portrayal of how the farm bill works have stalled progress on negotiations and risks forcing another 2018 extension,” Stabenow says. She also points out that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is designed to respond to fluctuations in the economy. Recent figures show that nutrition spending decreased by 13 percent since fiscal year 2022. “Year-to-year changes in SNAP spending do not take away from funding for other farm bill programs,” she says. “Similarly, year-to-year changes in spending for crop insurance and commodity programs during disasters or economic downturns don’t take away funding from SNAP.” Stabenow also says it’s time to get real and pass a farm bill. *********************************************************************************** May Egg Production Drops Two Percent U.S. egg production totaled 9.1 billion during May 2024, down two percent from May 2023. Production included 7.81 billion table eggs and 1.3 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.2 billion were broiler-type and 99.7 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during May totaled 372 million, down three percent from last year. May egg production per 100 layers was 2,450 eggs, up one percent from May 2023. Total layers in the U.S. on June 1 reached 371 million, down three percent from 2023. The 371 million layers consisted of 306 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 61.7 million producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.83 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. The rate of lay on June 1 was 78.9 eggs per 100 layers. Egg-type chicks hatched during May totaled 58.2 million, one percent below May 2023. Broiler-type chicks hatched during May totaled 860 million, up one percent from May 2023. *********************************************************************************** State Disasters Declared Due To Flooding The governors of Iowa, South Dakota, and Minnesota have all issued emergency declarations as heavy rains that began late last week flooded several rivers in the Upper Midwest. A large number of counties in southeastern South Dakota, southwestern Minnesota, and northwest Iowa saw rainfall amounts from Thursday through Saturday between five to eight inches. The National Weather Service says there are spots in the region that received as much as 15 inches. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds requested an expedited presidential disaster declaration. “We’re still in a very early response stage, but the projected damage is staggering,” Reynolds said. Two major railroads in the region were seeing bridge closures and track damage in the Iowa-Minnesota-South Dakota region. BNSF lost a bridge over the Big Sioux River between Iowa and South Dakota. It’s too early to determine crop damage, but most Missouri River bottom fields were already in standing water before the past deluge.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 26, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Weather remains a likely focus of grain traders, although we can't guarantee they're comprehending what they see. A report on U.S. new home sales in May at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday will be followed by U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 9:30 a.m. Keep in mind, the report's finding of ethanol production is for last week, before widespread flooding erupted in the northwestern Corn Belt. Weather Clusters of showers and thunderstorms that developed on Tuesday continue across the Ozarks into the northern Delta early Wednesday. The storms developed on a cold front that continues to sag southward and will be located from Oklahoma up through the Northeast by Wednesday afternoon, when additional showers and thunderstorms should fire up, some of which may be severe again. The next system moving into the Pacific Northwest should fire up some showers and thunderstorms in the High Plains Wednesday afternoon as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 25, 2024 |

$25 Million to Help Expand Rural Internet Access USDA’s Rural Development Undersecretary, Dr. Basil Gooden, says the agency is making $25 million available through the Broadband Technical Assistance Program. The funding is intended to help local organizations, cooperatives, and Tribes expand affordable, high-speed internet projects in rural communities. The department is now accepting applications. “USDA is committed to making sure that people, no matter where they live, have high-speed internet,” says Undersecretary Gooden. “USDA is partnering with small towns, Tribes, local utilities, rural cooperatives, and private companies to increase access to this critical service, which will boost opportunities and build bright futures.” He also says that’s how you grow the economy not just in rural communities, but around the nation. The BTA program provides funding to help communities and organizations receive or deliver broadband technical assistance and training that will expand high-speed internet into rural and Tribal communities. Applicants must apply in one of two categories found at Grants.gov. *********************************************************************************** Rain Causing Concerns for U.S. Crops Rains in parts of the Midwest and intense heat in the East are causing significant concern for U.S. crops. The University of Illinois’ Farm Policy News says more wet weather continues to raise the fear of more flooding. In the Midwest, the focus is on too much rain that could result in flooded corn and soybean fields, especially in the upper Midwest. Floodwaters have risen in northwest Iowa, where 13 rivers overflowed their banks. Entire neighborhoods and whole towns have been evacuated, and Spencer, Iowa, imposed a curfew Sunday for the second straight night after flooding that surpassed the 1953 record. Reports says that northern Nebraska, southeastern South Dakota, southern Minnesota, and northwest Iowa received eight times the typical average rainfall. And the forecast says more rain is on the way this week. Fields around Mankato, Minnesota, were planted, drowned out, drained, got replanted, and have now drowned out again. ********************************************************************************** Bird Flu Infects Two More Iowa Dairies Iowa officials have detected avian flu in cattle on two more Sioux County, Iowa, dairy farms. Successful Farming says that brings the total to eight in the last two weeks. The Iowa Department of Agriculture says one of the affected herds has about 500 cattle, and the other is much smaller, with just 45 animals. Sioux County has the largest number of dairy cattle in any Iowa county, with 40 licensed dairies. That means approximately one-fifth of those herds in the county have been infected by HPAI. Cows almost always recover from the virus within two weeks. The virus is often fatal for domestic birds and infected three Iowa poultry flocks this year, including a Sac County flock with 4.2 million egg-laying chickens in late May, as well as two turkey farms, one of which was affected last week. Entire flocks get culled to help keep the virus from spreading. *********************************************************************************** Purdue Studies Starting Salary for Ag Grads Between 2020 and 2025, there will be an estimated total of 59,400 annual job openings in the agricultural job sector. Purdue University doctoral student Joshua Strine authored a study on the average starting salary for agricultural graduates. The average posted starting salary in those five years reached a high of $63,945 in January 2023. The lowest was $42,247 in February 2023. More recently in the study, the average salary was $53,594 in January 2024. Multiple trends show up in the data. First, there was an increase in posted salaries from 2022 to 2023. The average salary of job openings in 2022 and 2023 were $49,373 and $56,147, respectively. Salaries were also higher in 2021 at $52,051. One possible explanation is the increased demand for employees as companies transitioned back to full operation after COVID-19. Companies may have had to increase the wages they were offering to recruit more at-home workers back into the office. *********************************************************************************** Cattle on Feed and Milk Production Down Slightly Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the U.S. for feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.6 million head on June 1. That number was slightly below June 1, 2023. Placements in feedlots during May totaled 2.05 million head, four percent above 2023. Feedlot placements were 1.98 million head. Fed cattle marketings in May reached 1.96 million head, slightly higher than in 2023. In another USDA report, milk production in the 24 major dairy-producing states during May totaled 18.9 billion pounds, down 0.7 percent from May 2023. April’s revised production reached 18.3 billion pounds. Production per cow averaged 2,122 pounds for May, three pounds below May 2023. The number of milk cows on farms reached 8.89 million head, 52,000 less than in May 2023, but 5,000 more than April 2024. Total United States May milk production reached 19.7 billion pounds, down 0.9 percent from May 2023. *********************************************************************************** Army Corps Monitoring Minnesota Flooding The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively working to monitor flood conditions throughout the Upper Midwest, including in Minnesota, after heavy rains. The Engineers’ water managers currently have all the dam gates above the water from Lock and Dam 2 in Hastings, Minnesota, to Lock and Dam 10 in Guttenberg, Iowa. The gates are not needed to maintain the minimum nine feet of depth with the current conditions. “Because the recent rain events fell with the Minnesota River basin, the rain adds more water to the Mississippi River and will take several weeks to drain,” says Dan Fasching, St. Paul Corps of Engineers water manager. “Any additional rains during the next few weeks have the possibility to increase the flood risk.” Further south near La Crosse, Wisconsin, Corp officials closed Blackhawk Park on June 21 due to recent heavy rains and high river levels. For flooding info, visit usace.army.mil.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 25, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Grain traders that acted surprised to hear of weekend flooding Monday may want to check the news and weather a little closer Tuesday. Stats Canada reports on Canada's consumer prices Tuesday morning. An index of U.S. consumer confidence in May will be out at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's monthly cold storage report is set for 2 p.m. Weather A cold front is drifting south through the Corn Belt for Tuesday. Early severe thunderstorms from northern Illinois into Michigan will be watched to see if they can be maintained throughout the day. But additional showers and thunderstorms will develop along the front later Tuesday afternoon and evening from Nebraska to Michigan, which may continue south overnight into Wednesday. South of the front, it continues to be hot.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 24, 2024 |

Senators Want Answers on Cooking Oil Imports Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) are pressing the Biden administration on the steps it’s taking to address the recent surge of used cooking oil imports. Last year, the U.S. imported three billion pounds of used cooking oil, half of which came from China. That’s up from a total of 200 million pounds imported in 2020. The senators sent a letter to the EPA, USDA, the USTR’s Office, and Customs and Border Protection. They point out concerns by some in the renewable fuels industry that large amounts of imported UCO may be a blend of UCO with virgin vegetable oils such as palm oil, which is directly linked to deforestation in Southeast Asia. That would constitute fraudulent value distortion of the commodity designed to take advantage of tax incentives in addition to Renewable Identification Number (RIN) fraud under the RFS. They want to ensure the integrity of clean fuel policies. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan The USDA joined 20 agencies in releasing an updated Climate Adaptation Plan to ensure federal operations are increasingly resilient to climate change impacts. The updated adaptation plans advance the National Climate Resilience Framework, which helps to align climate resilience investments across the public and private sectors through common principles and opportunities for action to build a climate-resilient nation. Communities from coast to coast are experiencing the impacts of climate change through crop yields depleted by drought and other impacts like flooding and wildfires that have washed away roads, businesses, and homes in many areas. “USDA has taken a department-wide approach to consider the impacts of climate change on our mission delivery and those we serve,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “From USDA headquarters to field offices nationwide, these efforts enable USDA to support the agriculture and forestry sectors and diverse communities across the country as they face climate change.” ********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Continues to Grow The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition welcomed ten new companies and organizations involved in the development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuel into its membership. The new companies bring the membership count to more than 50. The new members include leaders in energy, aviation, aerospace, and SAF production. “We are excited to welcome this additional group of leading companies and organizations into our coalition,” says Allison Graab (Grahb), Executive director of the SAF Coalition. “The expansion of our membership shows the deep and growing support that SAF enjoys from many stakeholders, and together, we will continue advocating for federal policies that will support and increase SAF production.” The new companies include Honeywell, Shell, Southwest Airlines, and others. Since its founding in April, the nonprofit coalition has leveraged the collective strength of the SAF value chain to advocate for the incentives and policies necessary to promote U.S. competitiveness in the emerging SAF marketplace. *********************************************************************************** Animal Ag Leaders Explore New Facets of the Industry The third cohort of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture’s Advanced Training for Animal Agriculture Leaders met for in-person training in Topeka, Kansas. The leadership training included ten educational sessions featuring ranchers, butchers, cooks, and leadership experts. “The most recent meeting in Topeka was eye-opening for me and again drove home what many of us are fighting for. The preservation of agriculture with the injection of new technology for sustainability,” says Sarah Coleman, executive director of the Kentucky Horse Council. “Listening to the team at NextGen Cattle Company was an incredible reminder that the food animal industry is constantly honing their skills to create animals that can feed the world, as fiscally and ethically responsible as possible.” The leadership training course is sponsored by the United Soybean Board and Farm Credit. It was created by the NIAA to empower animal agriculture professionals to strengthen leadership development and industry collaboration. *********************************************************************************** Lamb Industry Group Releases Summer SWAG As the summertime cranks up, American Lamb producers want you to know it’s the perfect time to share American Lamb at fairs, festivals, and farmer’s markets. They’re thrilled to introduce new summertime SWAG items in the Shop on the Lamb Board website. These items are not just for display but a way for people to proudly promote American Lamb at all the hot summer events on the calendar. For example, the brand new “Ewe are my Sunshine” t-shirts are on sale at two for $30. The design is great for everyday events. “As direct marketers, we are always looking for cost-effective ways to promote our product at events, and utilizing the professionally curated marketing pieces on the Lamb Board site is a great way to amplify local marketing efforts,” says ALB Chairman Jeff Ebert. The new apron and recipe books are also a must-have for any grilling and cook-off competitions. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production and Inventories Increase The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output and stockpiles both rose in the seven days ending on June 14. Ethanol production increased to an average of 1.057 million barrels a day. The EIA report says that was up from 1.023 million barrels from the prior week. Output in the Midwest was reported at 998,000 barrels a day, up from 967,000 barrels a week earlier. Gulf Coast production increased to an average of 26,000 barrels per day from 25,000 the previous week. West Coast output jumped to 12,000 barrels daily from 10,000 the week before. East Coast output was steady at 12,000 barrels per day. The EIA says the Rocky Mountain region was the lone decliner, dropping to 10,000 barrels a day, on average, from 11,000 barrels the week before. Ethanol stockpiles in the week ending on June 14 increased to 23.617 million barrels, up from 23.22 million a week earlier.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 24, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts, especially looking at rain possibilities for the Eastern Corn Belt and reports of flooding in the northern Corn Belt. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A system is moving through Canada, but its cold front is moving through the Northern Plains early Monday morning. The front will continue to push southeast into the Central Plains and Upper Midwest throughout the day. Lots of heat and humidity south of the front will be fuel for thunderstorms across the Upper Midwest especially Monday afternoon and evening. Severe weather will be possible with hail and strong wind gusts being likely in thunderstorms that do occur.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 21, 2024 |

Stabenow: Republican Farm Bill Framework Uses “Magic Math” Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chair of the Senate Ag Committee, released a statement after the Congressional Budget Office published its revised 10-year budget projections. “Today’s updated projections from the CBO prove what we’ve been saying all along. The House Republican bill is unpaid for, relying on magic math and wishful thinking,” she says. “In exchange for blocking USDA’s ability to provide real-time assistance to farmers through the CCC to address emergency challenges, House Republicans received only a small fraction of the $50 billion hole they need to fill to pay for the bill.” She also says her Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act is meaningful and responsible. “More importantly, it doesn’t fracture the farm and food coalition that is the foundation of every successful farm bill,” she adds. “I did the hard work of securing new resources outside the farm bill,” she says. “Now is the time to start negotiating.” *********************************************************************************** Dairy Co-op Wants Accurate Payment Provisions in the Farm Bill Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative announced efforts in partnering with several other dairy industry supporters to codify the protection of timely payments and accurate testing as legislative text in the next farm bill. The request to move these specific FMMO provisions into legislation was prompted by the uncertainty created when volumes of milk are de-pooled, leaving farmers outside of the FMMO and outside of the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service. This action aims to extend those protections, currently granted when a processor is pooled, to all farmers and processors regardless of their participation in the FMMO. “Only 70 percent of U.S. milk is covered by the FMMO today, which leaves farmers that produce those 68 billion pounds of milk outside the order and its protections,” says Tim Trotter, Edge CEO. “It’s time to ensure that all U.S. dairy farmers are granted the same confidence and assurance as those within the FMMO system.” ********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Alliance Files Lawsuit Against EPA Clean Fuels Alliance America asked the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals to review the EPA’s final Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles – Phase 3. In the final rule, the Environmental Protection Agency evaluated a range of alternative fuel and engine configurations for 2027-2032 heavy-duty vehicles. However, the agency specifically declined to consider biodiesel and renewable diesel in combination with existing engines that are already widely available. “EPA put its thumb on the scale to favor electric and hybrid vehicles that are not guaranteed to be widely available in the timeframe addressed by the rule,” says Kurt Kovarik, vice president of federal affairs for Clean Fuels Alliance America. “The agency refused to consider the increasing availability of biodiesel and renewable diesel as an achievable, affordable technology for meeting the goals of heavy-duty truck rules by 2032.” The Alliance represents the entire biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel industry supply chains. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Holding Large Corn and Soybean Stocks After stockpiling crops for much of this season due to low commodity prices, many U.S. farmers continue to turn away buyers despite few signs that prices will improve. Farm Policy News says grain supplies are ample, and early ratings of summer crops are good. While USDA will update on-farm corn and bean stocks numbers at the end of June, a recent report showed corn stocks at the farm level were just over five billion bushels on March 1, the second-highest on-farm stocks on record for that date. In states like Iowa, Nebraska, and Illinois, corn stocks on-farm were 105 to 160 million bushels higher than last year. Farmers are also holding on to soybeans on-farm at a much higher level in 2024 than last year. The March Grains Stocks Report said that soybean stocks stored on farms are estimated at 933 million bushels, up 24 percent from a year ago. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook USDA released its June 2024 Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook that shows the 2024 beef production forecast is virtually unchanged. Heavier cattle weights are expected to partially offset tight cattle supplies. The 2025 beef production forecast is raised with expectations of continued high cattle weights and a shift in marketings from late 2024 into early 2025. Minor changes to cattle price projections from last month’s forecast reflect changes in recent price data. The beef trade forecasts are unchanged from last month. Milk production forecasts for 2024 and 2025 remain unchanged from the last projection at 227.3 and 229.3 billion pounds, respectively. The all-milk price for 2024 is projected at $21.60 per hundredweight. Second-quarter pork production was adjusted upward by 40 million pounds to 6.73 billion pounds on expectations of higher average dressed weights and higher-than-expected ready-to-slaughter hogs from the December-February pig crop. Also, projected poultry broiler production in 2024 was increased. *********************************************************************************** USDA Wants Better Understanding of Forest and Grazing Practices The “Conservation Practice Adoption Motivations Survey” is a joint project between the National Agricultural Statistics Service and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The survey will be mailed to 43,000 forest and grazing landowners and managers across the country. The survey is designed to gather information on why people choose to use different conservation practices and whether they use those practices over time. The data will help improve voluntary conservation programs. NASS will mail an invitation to respond early online at agcounts.usda.gov starting on June 24. Four different conservation categories are researched through CPAMS overall: crop practices, confined livestock practices, grazing practices, and forestry practices. This year, NASS will survey grazing practices and forestry practices. Crop practices and confined livestock practices were surveyed in 2022. “By responding, you can help shape the future of conservation, agriculture, and forestry,” says NASS Administrator Joseph Parson. Responses are confidential and used for statistical purposes only.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 21, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by U.S. existing home sales in May and the index of U.S. leading indicators, both at 9 a.m. USDA's cattle on-feed report for June 1 is set for 2 p.m. Weather A front that has been waffling around the Plains and Upper Midwest all week continues to produce heavy rain in the Upper Midwest for Friday, likely in a couple of rounds of repeated and training showers and thunderstorms, some of which may be severe. South of the front it continues to be hot and humid and with less of a connection to the Gulf of Mexico, it will be very dry as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 20, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Back from the Juneteenth holiday on Wednesday, traders will catch up with the latest weather forecasts. Weekly U.S. jobless claims, May U.S. housing starts and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor will all be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday. The U.S. Energy Department's report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by the weekly energy inventory report at 10 a.m. Weather A front, which has waffled around the northwestern Corn Belt all week long, will continue to be active for Thursday. The eastern end of the front is being pushed into the Northeast though, and so areas of showers and thunderstorms will be spread out from Nebraska and South Dakota to New England. Due to the recent rainfall and forecast rainfall in the northwest, some flooding will be possible in South Dakota. South of the front, it continues to be hot, with excessive heat watches and warnings across the Eastern Corn Belt into the Northeast.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 19, 2024 |

Emissions Lawsuit Against EPA Filed on Tuesday The National Corn Growers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, and the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association joined the American Petroleum Institute in filing a lawsuit against the EPA. The suit, filed in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, challenges the Environmental Protection Agency’s heavy-duty vehicle emissions standards for model years 2027-2032. The groups say the EPA exceeded its congressional authority with regulation targets that rely too heavily on electrification and don’t fully appreciate the role of low-carbon fuels like ethanol. NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee) says the EPA tried imposing a one-size-fits-all approach to addressing the climate by prioritizing electric vehicles over other climate remedies like corn ethanol. “Farmers rely on heavy-duty trucks to transport livestock long distances, and they choose the shortest route to keep animals in vehicles for as little time as possible,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “Battery-powered vehicles extend the time that animals and drivers are on the road.” *********************************************************************************** Brazil Upholds Tariff on U.S. Ethanol The Foreign Trade Chamber at Brazil’s Ministry of the Economy upheld an 18 percent tariff on U.S. ethanol. With support from the Brazil Association of Fuel Importers, the U.S. ethanol industry and the U.S. government previously submitted comments advocating for permanent tariff removal during a public consulting period that ended on April 11. Together, the U.S. ethanol industry – including the U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy, and the Renewable Fuels Association – reacted to the decision. “We remain extremely disappointed with this result and urge the Brazilian government to remove tariff barriers on U.S. ethanol and use this as an opportunity to strengthen the bilateral agenda and stimulate trade cooperation between Brazil and the U.S.,” they said in a statement. “The tariff has placed a heavy financial burden on Brazilian consumers in a misdirected effort to protect the domestic Brazilian industry, which continues enjoying free and increasing access to the U.S. market.” ********************************************************************************** HPAI Research Proposals are Welcome Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza continues to infect a wide range of animals from birds to sea mammals to cattle. The virus has spread to dairy cattle and farm workers, and more HPAI research is needed to enhance surveillance and response capabilities. The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research has a program called Rapid Outcomes from Agricultural Research, or ROAR. The program awards research grants in response to emerging and unanticipated food and agriculture threats. The ROAR Program welcomes research proposals related to HPAI response, prevention, or mitigation. The agriculture industry urgently needs research to understand the recent transmission of HPAI into dairy cattle and to develop effective solutions to protect livestock, producer bottom lines, and America’s food supply. FFAR is interested in research to inform HPAI response, prevention, or mitigation, including work on HPAI pathogenesis, transmission, and biosecurity enhancements on dairies. The ROAR webpage includes more information on program requirements. *********************************************************************************** Minnesota Students Win Dairy Checkoff Competition A University of Minnesota team took first place in the Dairy Management Inc.’s New Product Competition with a new cheese spread. The winning product met the contest’s guidelines of creating innovative dairy-based products for consumers’ health and wellness needs. The students created Yay-tost, a creamy Norwegian-style brown, whey-based cheese spread that offers health-conscious consumers a good source of protein, contains three grams of dietary fiber, and is an excellent source of calcium. The product comes in an aluminum squeeze tube that is recyclable. The four winning students are studying food science and earned a first-place prize of $10,000. They were recognized during the American Dairy Science Association’s annual meeting in Florida. They first got the idea by noticing there’s a “niche missing for high-protein spread.” The consistency of the product is somewhere between cream cheese and peanut butter and has almost no fat. To learn more, go to usdairy.com. *********************************************************************************** Brown Retires From the National Chicken Council After serving for more than 13 years, Mike Brown has retired from his role as President of the National Chicken Council. “We thank Mike for his hard work in building a strong foundation at NCC and for his years of work to promote the chicken industry in Washington, D.C.,” says NCC Chairman Ryan Day. “We are now turning our attention to conducting a nationwide search to choose the right person to lead this organization and this great industry into the next decade and beyond.” Day also announced that the NCC Executive Committee has appointed Gary Kushner to serve as the interim president. Kushner recently retired after serving as NCC’s outside general counsel for more than 40 years. Prior to that, Kushner served as in-house legal counsel to what was then the American Meat Institute. “NCC has a fantastic team that is laser-focused on advocating for America’s chicken producers,” Kushner says. *********************************************************************************** Nominations Open for FSA Local County Committees Nominations are now being accepted for farmers and ranchers to serve on local USDA Farm Service Agency county committees. The committees make important decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally. All nomination forms for the 2024 election must be postmarked or received in the local FSA office by August 1. “Serving on a county committee is your chance to ensure that other producers who share your interests, your production practices, and your perspective are represented,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Nominations are now open, and elections begin in November, so don’t miss this chance to help FSA serve all producers.” Elections for committee members will occur in certain Local Administrative Areas. Producers may be nominated for candidacy if they participate or cooperate in a USDA program and reside in the LAA that is up for election this year. Nationwide, over 7,700 ag community members serve on their county committees.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 18, 2024 |

Judge Blocks Disaster Program Special Funding to Minority Farmers A Texas federal judge has temporarily blocked a USDA disaster relief program from giving preferential funding to women and minority farmers. The judge sided with a group of plaintiffs who claimed the program illegally discriminates against white male farmers. The judge’s order ruled the program likely violated the plaintiffs’ constitutional rights to equal protection under the law. Agriculture Dive says he halted the USDA from making payments or providing additional relief to people based on its “socially disadvantaged farmer or rancher” designation until a resolution has been reached. The ruling follows a lawsuit from Texas farmers who claimed they would have received more funding under disaster and pandemic relief programs had they been another race or gender. Critics say the ruling is a step backward following decades of systemic racism and policies that largely benefited white farmers. USDA says the program reflects the Farm Service Agency’s interest in remedying past discrimination. *********************************************************************************** Despite Progress, Farm Bill Passage Still Unlikely There’s been recent progress toward a 2024 Farm Bill, but is it fast enough? Farm Policy News from the University of Illinois says lawmakers have hinted that passage of a full farm bill this year is growing more unlikely. Another extension of the 2018 Farm Bill remains the most likely outcome before the end of the current extension in September. Farm Policy News says Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow is pessimistic that the House Ag Committee-passed bill will make it through the House, and she fears a Senate bill may face the same fate. Stabenow rejected Republican proposals because of cuts to nutrition spending and removing “climate guardrails” in the Inflation Reduction Act funding. Several industry experts point out that the bill is unlikely to pass because lawmakers have only completed a small portion of the necessary steps to pass a bill and eight steps are left to go. ********************************************************************************** USDA Recognizes National Pollinator Week This week is National Pollinator Week. The USDA is recognizing and celebrating the event as pollinator species like bees and other insects, birds, and bats all play a critical role in producing more than 100 U.S. crops. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the nation’s farmers depend on a vibrant ecosystem to feed and fuel communities, and pollinators are a big part of that. “This week and every week, it’s critically important that we protect pollinators and their habitats,” he says. “Healthy pollinator populations are essential to the continued success and well-being of agricultural producers, rural America, and the entire U.S. economy because, without them, many of our nation’s crops wouldn’t be able to produce as many fruits, nuts, or vegetables.” USDA supports the critical role pollinators play in the food system through research, data collection, diagnostic services, pollinator health monitoring, pollinator habitat enhancement programs, pollinator health grants, and financial assistance programs. *********************************************************************************** American Soybean Association Seeking Nominations for Recognition Awards The American Soybean Association would like to recognize exceptional soy volunteers and leaders and requests the public’s help with candidate nominations. During the 2025 Commodity Classic, individuals will be honored for state association volunteerism, distinguished leadership achievements, and long-term, significant contributions to the soybean industry. The nomination period is open through October 25. The ASA Recognition Awards categories include the Outstanding State Volunteer Award, which recognizes individuals who’ve given at least three years of service to their state soybean associations. The Distinguished Leadership Award is given for visionary leadership within ASA or a state soybean association with at least five years of leadership service. The ASA Pinnacle Award is an industry-wide recognition of individuals who’ve demonstrated the highest level of contribution and lifetime leadership within the soybean industry. All nominations must be received online no later than Friday, October 25. Nominations by telephone, email, and other means will not be accepted. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for PLC Annual Meeting Registration is open for the Public Lands Council’s 56th Annual Meeting in Grand Junction, Colorado, from September 17-19. PLC President Mark Roeber says at a time when federal lands ranchers are facing tremendous government overreach, he can’t think of a better time to come together to coordinate the Council’s policy and advocacy efforts. ”In the last year, federal rulemakings finalizing regressive changes to the Endangered Species Act and NEPA, along with the Bureau of Land Management’s Public Lands rule, have posed threats to the foundation of our livelihoods,” Roeber says. “I’m honored to host the annual meeting in my home state, near the grazing allotments my family has worked on since 1889, and hope that all federal permittees attend as we work to safeguard our industry for the next 100 years.” In Washington, D.C., PLC defends the rights and interests of cattle and sheep producers who utilize federal lands and grazing permits. *********************************************************************************** First USDA Trade Mission Dedicated to Indigenous Products Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, is in Vancouver, Canada, for a first-of-its-kind trade mission. The mission is intended to develop export markets for Tribal and Native Hawaiian businesses and products. “This historic trade mission showcasing products from Tribal and Native Hawaiian producers is long overdue, and Canada couldn’t be a better host country,” Taylor says. “Indigenous nations on both sides of the border share strong historical connections to their lands, trading networks, and agricultural practices.” Taylor is also proud to represent USDA with the unique opportunity to be the change that stakeholders want to see in the industry. “USDA continues seeking opportunities to support Tribal and Native Hawaiian priorities, including the restoration of vital trading networks for their agricultural resources,” she adds. “International relationships are an excellent tool for strengthening agricultural communities and businesses at home.” Taylor is leading a delegation of officials from 15 Tribal agribusinesses.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 18, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales in May is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, followed by the Federal Reserve's report on May industrial production at 8:15 a.m. Traders remain attentive to the latest weather forecasts in several parts of the world. Weather A frontal boundary has shifted a bit, but still remains in the Western Corn Belt for Tuesday. Morning thunderstorms across northern Minnesota may become severe, with additional thunderstorms expected to develop from Kansas through Minnesota Tuesday afternoon and evening, which may also be severe and drop some heavy rainfall. South and east of the front, it continues to be very hot and humid. Some isolated showers and thunderstorms will develop in the heat, which would keep a lid on high temperatures where they occur.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 17, 2024 |

4WD Tractor Sales Up in May Compared to 2023 U.S. sales of four-wheel-drive tractors rose 9.4 percent in May compared to 2023. Data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says this increase follows April 2024’s uptick of 24 percent compared to the year before. The data also indicates U.S. year-to-date sales of four-wheel-drive tractors are up 3.2 percent. Total U.S. agriculture tractor sales dropped 11.5 percent compared to May 2023, while combine sales fell 17 percent compared to last year. “After the resilience of the last five years, we’re starting to see softness in pockets of the market,” says AEM vice president Curt Blades. “Although the total year over year numbers show declines, subcategories of the market remain strong, particularly larger equipment.” Canadian sales of four-wheel-drive tractors also increased in May, with an uptick of 5.7 percent, but fell 7.5 percent compared to May 2023. Total combine sales jumped 58 percent and tractor sales dropped 10.7 percent compared to 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Funds to Support Farmworkers Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the USDA is awarding $50 million to 141 awardees in 40 states and Puerto Rico. The funds come through the Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program and will reach 177 unique agricultural operations and more than 11,000 workers. The awards are intended to improve the resiliency of the U.S. food supply chain by addressing agriculture labor challenges and instability, strengthening protections for farmworkers, and expanding legal pathways for labor migration. “These awards will largely support small and mid-sized farms to ensure they can hire and retain the workers they need to be competitive in the market, while also lifting rural communities across the country,” Vilsack says. “Farmworkers make an incredibly important contribution to food and agriculture and ensure we have food on our tables every day.” FLSP was put together with significant input from immigration, labor, and agricultural stakeholders like farmers and farmworkers. ********************************************************************************** Cautious Optimism at the World Pork Expo The 36th World Pork Expo hosted more than 12,000 producers and industry professionals from 37 countries at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. “World Pork Expo brings out the best in the swine industry,” says Lori Stevermer, NPPC President and Minnesota pork producer. “There are so many educational and networking opportunities.” Exhibitors look forward to talking with producers from all over the country and around the world. Several exhibitors noted that after a long period of losses, producers are beginning to re-invest in their facilities, adopting new technologies and asking questions so they can continue to raise pork as efficiently and effectively as possible. Producers discussed several priorities with exhibitors, including precision feeding to reduce feed costs and improve the sustainability of their operations. In other words, producers want to produce more with less. A Novus International account manager noted producers are taking action to improve productivity and maximize profitability. *********************************************************************************** BLM Director Grilled by Senate Republicans Bureau of Land Management Director Tracy Stone-Manning testified at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources hearing. She was pressed by Republicans on the committee on topics like renewable energy, conservation, and mining. The committee Republicans accused Stone-Manning of advancing President Biden’s agenda without listening to people directly impacted by the agency’s work. It was the first appearance by the BLM director since she was confirmed to her post on a party-line vote in 2021. Stone-Manning said she was committed to helping the nation achieve the president’s goals of eliminating carbon emissions from the power sector by 2035. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) said the director’s decisions have a significant effect on people’s jobs, on their family budgets, on the quality of public education, and on Wyoming’s entire state economy. “Ms. Stone-Manning has been busy making decisions that will crush Wyoming’s economy and lay waste to local communities in the years ahead,” he added. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Elects New First Vice President The National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Board has elected Jed Bower of Washington Court House, Ohio, as the organization’s next first vice president for the new fiscal year, which begins on October 1. Bower says it’s a great honor to be elected to this role by his fellow board members. “With a new strategic plan in place, this is an exciting time to serve in a leadership role on the board,” he says. “I look forward to working with my fellow board members, in partnership with grower leaders and staff from across our national and state partner organizations, to lead NCGA toward a future that I am confident will best serve U.S. corn growers.” Bower raises corn and soybeans with his wife, Emily, and children, Ethan and Emma, on their fifth-generation family farm. On October 1, Kenny Hartman of Illinois becomes NCGA President, and Bower takes over in October 2025. *********************************************************************************** Flags Over Harvest Campaign for Farm Rescue Titan International is continuing its fourth annual Flags Over Harvest campaign. The company will give away free American flags for farmers to proudly display on their equipment during the harvest season. For every flag requested, Titan will donate $5 to Farm Rescue, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting farmers who have faced major illnesses, injuries, or natural disasters. Through the 2023 growing season, Farm Rescue provided essential assistance to 64 farm families across its eight-state service territory. Whether it was planting, haying, harvesting, or livestock feeding, Farm Rescue’s dedicated volunteers were there to lend a helping hand. Farm Rescue has been the beneficiary of Titan’s Flags Over Harvest campaign since 2021, and the partnership is on track to raise $20,000 in support of the organization’s vital assistance operations. “We are immensely grateful for the generous support we have received from Titan International,” says Tim Sullivan, Senior Development Officer at Farm Rescue.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 17, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders continue to keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A stalled front from Nebraska to Wisconsin is producing areas of heavy rain and thunderstorms already Monday morning. While this activity should wind down, additional showers and thunderstorms will develop later Monday, potentially becoming severe both along that line and northwest into the Dakotas and western Minnesota. Heavy rain and flooding is also a potential hazard. South and east, temperatures will soar well above normal and be excessive, with limited showers to cool things off.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 14, 2024 |

China Bans Meat Exports from U.S. West Coast Facility China has banned meat exports from a West Coast cold storage facility near the Port of Oakland after traces of the feed additive ractopamine were found in beef shipments. The Food Safety and Inspection Service said that Chinese customs workers detected the feed additive that’s banned by more than 150 countries. Agriculture Dive says the move is creating significant obstacles at an important trade gateway to Asia. China suspended those exports out of Cool Port Oakland on May 27. The ban on Cool Port Oakland has disrupted operations for meat exporters as far away as the Midwest. Those export companies rely on the facility to transfer their freight from rail to ocean before it ships out of the Oakland port. “China’s suspension of this facility has caused disruption for beef, pork, and poultry exports,” says Joe Schuele (SHEE-lee) of the U.S. Meat Export Federation. “Exporters must use other Bay Area facilities.” *********************************************************************************** Groups Sue EPA Over Emissions Rule The American Petroleum Institute teamed up with ag groups to sue the Environmental Protection Agency over its light-duty and medium-duty vehicle emissions standards for model years 2027-2032. While API is the lead petitioner, The Fence Post says the National Corn Growers Association and the American Farm Bureau Federation are co-petitioners. “By approving tailpipe standards that focus exclusively on electric vehicles, EPA ignored the benefits corn ethanol plays in reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” says NCGA President Harold (WOOL-lee). “It may take decades to get enough electric vehicles on the road to significantly lower emissions.” AFB President Zippy Duvall says, “Impractical standards for light-duty and medium-duty trucks will drive up the cost of farm vehicles and force farmers to rely on a charging network that doesn’t exist in rural areas.” The new rule requires 68 percent of new passenger vehicles and 43 percent of new medium-duty trucks and vans to be electric by 2032. ********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Applauds Launch of Congressional SAF Caucus The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition’s Executive Director, Allison Graab (Grahb), applauded the formal establishment of the bipartisan Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus in the U.S. House. “The SAF Coalition thanks Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS) and Dusty Johnson (R-SD) for their leadership in establishing the bipartisan Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus and highlighting the significant opportunity to ensure a sustainable future for the aviation industry,” Graab says. “The SAF Coalition looks forward to working with this caucus and other allied efforts within both the House and the Senate to accelerate the development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuels in the U.S..” She also says SAF and other emerging aviation technologies will increase U.S. economic competitiveness, enhance American energy security, and spur job creation here at home in the United States. The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition represents the entirety of the SAF value chain and is working together to rapidly invest in the SAF sector. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Innovation Challenge The USDA and the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) launched a global challenge to advance scientific research that will produce breakthroughs for nutrition security. The “Nourishing Next Generation Agrifood Breakthroughs” innovation challenge will fund teams led by early-career scientists, those who have received a Ph.D. within the past ten years. The goal is to help catalyze new discoveries and mobilize transformative research that simultaneously tackles America’s most important societal challenges. The competitive Innovation Challenge will spark high-risk, high-reward research through innovations at the intersection of nutrition security and climate-smart agriculture. USDA and FFAR will provide up to $2 million to successful applicants across multiple teams who propose a compelling vision about how their research can support sustainable food production, promote human health, and enhance real-world nutrition security. “Through the challenge, we are investing in researchers who are sources of disruptive ideas and breakthrough solutions in agricultural science,” Vilsack says. *********************************************************************************** CFA Applauds Letter Urging Higher RFS Volumes A bipartisan group of 18 Senators sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan encouraging the agency to complete 2026 RFS rules and raise RFS volumes. They want higher volumes for biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels to levels that are consistent with production and availability. The letter points to the discouraging market signal EPA sent with the 2023-2025 volumes and the negative impact on local economies and jobs in the clean fuels industry. “Biofuels play a critical role in emissions reduction for heavy-duty transportation, including aviation, shipping, rail, and trucking, while opening up economic opportunities for American farmers,” the letter says. “A strong RFS and availability of homegrown agricultural feedstocks bolster the domestic fuel supply and are critical for keeping up the progress we’ve made in decarbonizing our roads, seas, railways, and skies.” Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America says the EPA must act in a timely manner. *********************************************************************************** America’s Farmers Support America’s Pastime The American Sugar Alliance joined the National Cotton Council, U.S. Rice Producers Association, Farm Credit Council, Ducks Unlimited, and Purina to help support the upcoming Congressional Baseball Game. Founded in 1909, the Congressional Baseball Game brings together members of Congress and fans for a bipartisan game that raises money for local charities. Baseball is one of America’s favorite pastimes with help from American agriculture. For example, sugar crop farmers produce the sugar used to make lemonade and cotton candy. Peanut growers produce the crunch and salty peanuts. Corn growers produce the kernels popped into the delicious popcorn. Wheat growers produce the wheat needed to make tasty hot dog buns, pretzels, and beer. That’s just the start. The grass in the outfield likely came from a turf farmer, the wood for bats came from a forester, and the leather for the baseball gloves and baseballs likely came from a rancher.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 14, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The University of Michigan's early consumer sentiment index for June will be out at 9 a.m. CDT. Traders continue to keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts with above-normal temperatures prevalent for at least the next 10 days. Soybean crush estimates from the National Oilseeds Processors Association are scheduled for Monday, June 17. Weather A front has stalled out around Kansas and will lift northward a bit on Friday, bringing areas of showers and thunderstorms to the Central Plains, with some eastward extension of showers through the Ohio Valley. It will be quieter elsewhere for most of the day with hot temperatures south of the front.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 13, 2024 |

USDA Release June WASDE Report The June World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates Report says the 2024-2025 U.S. corn outlook is unchanged relative to last month. The season-average price received by producers remains at $4.40 a bushel. USDA will release its Acreage Report on June 28, which will provide survey-based indications of planted and harvested areas. The soybean outlook includes higher beginning and ending stocks. With increased supplies and no use changes, soybean ending stocks are predicted at 455 million bushels, up by 10 million. The soybean price is forecast at $11.20 per bushel, unchanged from last month. The June wheat outlook is for larger supplies, unchanged domestic use, increased exports, and lower stocks. Supplies are raised as wheat production is forecast at 1.875 billion bushels, up by 17 million from last month. Ending stocks are lowered slightly from last month but still significantly higher than last year at 758 million bushels. The season-average price is $6.50. *********************************************************************************** More Mixed Reaction to Senate Republican Farm Bill Framework Reaction continues to be mixed to the farm bill framework released by Senate Ag Committee Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR). Farm Credit Council applauded Senate Ag leaders for putting out ideas to move the farm bill forward. “Economic conditions in agriculture are tightening, and America’s farmers and ranchers need the certainty of a five-year farm bill,” says FCC President and CEO Todd Van Hoose. “We need that certainty this year.” The National Association of Conservation Districts applauded Boozman’s framework, noting that it supports the NACD’s top farm bill request by calling for the incorporation of all remaining Inflation Reduction Act conservation investments into the conservation title of the bill. Response from Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) was more mixed, saying that she and Boozman have had many conversations about getting ideas on paper and that this is a welcome development. “Now it’s time to do the hard work,” she says. ********************************************************************************** Damage Estimates in Brazil Top $600 Million Rio Grande (GRAN-day) do Sul, a major crop producer and agribusiness zone in Brazil, has been hard hit by unprecedented flooding. Record rainfall has affected more than 90 percent of the state, an area comparable to the United Kingdom. The University of Illinois’ Farmdoc Daily says floods and landslides have destroyed food-storage facilities, disrupted harvests, and damaged soils. The National Confederation of Municipalities estimates losses exceeding $600 million in the agricultural and livestock sectors of Rio Grande do Sul. The State Ag Department reports at least 48,000 producers and approximately eight million acres were affected by the May flooding, which began as the summer crop season was ending. Another report says 144 storage facilities were directly affected in Rio Grande do Sul, impacting more than 1.1 million tons of grain. Flooding has led to an estimated loss of 2.71 million tons of soybeans, an equivalent to 100 million bushels. *********************************************************************************** Agency Investing in Wildfire Risk Reduction and Forest Quality Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small spoke during a meeting of the Western Governors Association and covered a number of topics. Small says USDA is investing almost $66 million in projects to reduce wildfire risk, protect water quality, and improve forest health across the nation. She also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Western Governors’ Association that reestablished the framework for cooperatively responding to the many challenges faced across the Western landscapes. The memorandum also fosters better integration of forest and rangeland health and wildfire risk reduction projects across different land ownerships. “People across rural America face growing wildfire threats to their homes, business, infrastructure, and resources,” says Torres Small. “Through the investments we are announcing, we are investing in state and local governments, Tribal partners, and private landowners to ensure our landscapes are healthy, our infrastructure is strong, and our communities stay safe from the risk of wildfires.” *********************************************************************************** Former Oregon Rep Calls for Expanded Support for SAF Former Oregon Representative Greg Walden is calling on Congress to increase federal support for sustainable aviation fuel production. The former House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair says the U.S. is within reach of realizing truly transformative innovations in energy like SAF that will increase domestic production, further U.S. energy security, and create new markets for industries like aviation that are essential to our economy. “The next few years are critically important for the future of SAF, yet significant economic barriers are preventing the immediate expansion of SAF,” Walden says. “Demand for SAF already far exceeds supply, and the relatively limited amount of SAF currently available is much more expensive than conventional jet fuel.” Despite tax credits and other government support, more longer-term federal assistance is needed. “Seeing market opportunities, other nations are boosting production, imposing SAF mandates, and procuring supply in their attempts to corner the SAF market,” he adds. *********************************************************************************** FFA Members Will Attend the Summer Next Gen Conference The National FFA Organization is hosting its summer Next Gen Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from June 25-28. The conference topic is “Food Products and Processing Systems, and high school attendees will learn through informational sessions, panels, and tours. “We’re looking forward to the students learning more about the value of food products and processing systems during the upcoming Next Gen Conference,” says Joe Martin, Program Specialist for Advocacy, Literacy, and Ag-Based Experiences with National FFA. “One of the key goals of FFA is to equip our future workforce pipeline with talent that will feed, fuel, and clothe the world.” The conference is a big educational opportunity for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors that meets this goal. Tour locations in Minneapolis during the conference include Second Harvest Heartland, Cargill, Food Building, and Ardent Mills. With FFA membership at 945,000, those interested in attending are selected through a competitive application process.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 13, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as reports on weekly U.S. jobless claims, the producer price index for May and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report will be out at 9:30 a.m. Weather A small storm system is moving out of southern Canada and dragging a cold front through the Corn Belt where showers and thunderstorms are and will continue to develop for Thursday. Areas of heavy rain and some severe weather are expected, with the greatest risk from the Missouri-Iowa border into northern Illinois.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 12, 2024 |

Boozman Unveils Senate Ag Republicans Framework Senator John Boozman (R-AR), ranking member of the Senate Ag Committee, unveiled the Senate Republican-drafted framework answering the call for a “farmer-focused” farm bill. “From the onset of this process, we have sought to draft a farm bill that reflects the needs of stakeholders,” Boozman says. “The world has changed dramatically since the 2018 bill became law, and the unprecedented challenges and economic uncertainty that farmers now face are only projected to get worse in the coming years.” He also says that’s why farmers have been calling on senators to put more farm in the farm bill. The Senate Republican Committee members say the framework modernizes the safety net, facilitating the expansion of access to overseas markets, fosters breakthroughs in agricultural research, and grows the rural communities that farmers, ranchers, and foresters call home. They also say it does all that while making historic investments in conservation and protecting nutrition programs. *********************************************************************************** Ag Stakeholders React to Republican Farm Bill Framework Several key agricultural groups and stakeholders issued responses to the Senate Ag Committee Republicans’ farm bill framework. Gregg Doud, President and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, calls it a strong framework that marks another important step in enacting a farm bill. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association also reacted positively to the framework, noting that it’s a farm bill framework that cattle producers can proudly support. National Sorghum Producers Chair Craig Meeker says his group calls it a forward-thinking farm bill, and it’s put together to meet the ever-evolving needs of America’s hardworking farmers and ranchers. Democratic reaction to the Republican framework was less supportive. “By copying the approach taken by House Ag Committee Republicans, the Senate Ag minority has chosen to ignore Democratic warnings by putting forth policies, especially on nutrition, that the Democrats cannot and will not accept,” says House Ag Committee Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA). ********************************************************************************** USDA: File Crop Acreage Reports After Planting is Complete Agricultural producers should make an appointment with their local Farm Service Agency office to complete crop acreage reports before their application deadline after planting is complete. July 15 is a major deadline for most crops, but acreage reporting deadlines vary by county and crop. “By filing an accurate and timely acreage report for all crops and land uses, including failed acreage and prevented planting acreage, producers can avoid the loss of important safety net, disaster assistance, conservation, and crop insurance benefits,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Call your local office to make an appointment to report your acres once planting is complete.” An acreage report documents a crop grown on a farm or ranch, its intended use, and it’s location. Producers should contact their FSA county office for acreage reporting deadlines that are specific to their county. “While you’re there, check on any other FSA business that might need attention,” Ducheneaux adds. *********************************************************************************** Border Agents Strike Deadline is Friday More than 9,000 Canadian border agents are set to strike on Friday. The union representing them says if a deal isn’t reached with the federal government by Thursday at midnight, the strike begins Friday at 12:01 a.m. CTV News says the Public Service Alliance of Canada moved the deadline after extending negotiations with the Treasury Board last week. Border workers were set to strike last Friday at 4 p.m. While the government notes that nine of every ten border officials are essential and can’t strike, supply chain slowdowns are still likely. The union has said it would “work to rule.” That means they won’t do anything over what’s required by their contract. Canada gets 37 percent of its fruit and 75 percent of its vegetables by refrigerated truck freight from the United States. If there’s a slowdown, that could put the perishable objects in danger if they can’t be delivered on time. *********************************************************************************** Crop Insurance Coverage Exceeds 500 Million Acres in 2023 For the first time, farmers and ranchers bought crop insurance policies on more than 500 million acres of land last year. The buying push was driven by the surging popularity of forage policies. Enrollment in crop insurance was up 85 percent between 2016 and 2023. USDA data says in 2021, insured acreage had grown to 444.5 million acres, and 40 percent of it was covered by a forage policy. Enrollment rose to 493.8 million acres in 2022 and to 539.5 million acres in 2023. To put that in perspective, there are almost 880 million acres in U.S. farms. “A decade ago, crop insurance covered around 290-295 million acres annually and field crops accounted for more than 75 percent of insured acres,” wrote economist Dylan Turner in USDA’s Amber Waves magazine. “Forage crops now make up an increasing portion of those acres.” Forage crops reached 40 percent of insured acres in 2021. *********************************************************************************** NASCAR Race in Iowa Powered by Ethanol Iowa Corn is the entitlement partner of the first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race in the state, happening this weekend in Newton, Iowa. The Iowa Corn 350, powered by ethanol, will showcase the performance of ethanol at the fastest short track on the planet, which is surrounded by corn fields. “As a farmer, seeing NASCAR run on ethanol is a proud moment,” says Iowa farmer Stan Nelson, also the President of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board. “Gearing up for the weekend ahead, I am pleased to share with the NASCAR family how we utilize higher blends of ethanol to make a sustainable difference every day with a cleaner-burning, more affordable fuel option at the pump.” The Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol, is at 6 p.m. Central Time on Sunday, June 16, and be shown live on the USA Network. It’s the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race at the Iowa Speedway.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 12, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for May will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is at 10 a.m., followed by USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports at 11 a.m. The Federal Reserve's interest rate announcement is set for 1 p.m., followed by the Fed Chairman's press conference and the Treasury Department's report on the federal budget for May. Weather A small system and front will move across the Upper Midwest for Wednesday. Some isolated showers are there already Wednesday morning, but increasing temperatures will lead to potential for severe storms in the region later in the day and Wednesday night. The rest of the country is largely dry outside of the Florida Peninsula, where heavy rain is falling.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 11, 2024 |

Wyoming Joins List of States With HPAI Infection in Dairy Cattle The Wyoming Livestock Board and the Wyoming Department of Agriculture received confirmation last week that Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has been found in a dairy cattle herd. The National Veterinary Services Laboratory confirmed the infection, the first case of HPAI in a Wyoming dairy farm. “The Livestock Board encourages all dairy producers to closely monitor their herd and contact their veterinarians immediately if their cattle are symptomatic,” says Hallie Hasel, Wyoming State Veterinarian. “The primary concern with this diagnosis is on-dairy production losses, as the disease has been associated with decreased milk production.” Hasel also reiterated that the risk to cattle is minimal and the human health risk remains very low. Symptoms of cattle infection include a drop in milk production, loss of appetite, changes in manure consistency, thickened or colostrum-like milk, and low-grade fever. Dairies are required to ensure that only milk from healthy animals enters the food chain. *********************************************************************************** Fairness to Farmers Makes June Dairy Month Work June is National Dairy Month. It’s hard to have a national dairy month without dairy, and it’s hard to have dairy without dairy farmers. What hasn’t worked out well for milk producers since 2019 is the current Class One mover, the formula that helps set the price of fluid milk under the Federal Milk Marketing Orders. That formula was changed in the 2018 Farm Bill. Under current rules, which were adjusted so that milk processors could better manage pricing risk, dairy producers have lost an estimated $1.2 billion compared to the previous formula. The losses are occurring because farmers now bear a disproportionate part of the burden when prices turn volatile. That wasn’t foreseen when the change to the formula first went into effect. The National Milk Producer’s Federation proposal during the FMMO hearing restores the old formula, as does the farm bill recently passed by the House Agriculture Committee. *********************************************************************************** Feeding U.S. Military Members Lab-Grown Meat The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association condemned a recently announced U.S. Department of Defense-sponsored research grant that will fund the development of lab-grown meat products by a biotechnology manufacturing company called BioMADE. NCBA says it’s outraged that the Department of Defense is spending millions of taxpayer dollars to feed America’s heroes like lab rats. “U.S. cattle producers raise the highest quality of beef in the world, with the lowest carbon footprint, and American troops in all branches deserve to get that same wholesome, natural meat and not the ultra-processed, lab-grown protein that is cooked up in a chemical-filled bioreactor,” says National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “This misguided research project is a giant slap in the face to everyone who has served the country.” The NCBA, which has represented cattle producers since 1898, says American veterans and active-duty troops deserve so much better than this. *********************************************************************************** Food Spending Varies by State The Economic Research Service recently analyzed food sales trends at the state level and found a wide variation in the results. U.S. per capita food sales reached $7,102 in 2023. The biggest variation took place between Food at Home and Food Away From Home. Nationally, about 45 percent, or $3,179, of food purchases went toward food at home. Per capita food at home ranged from a low of $2,503 in West Virginia to a high of $4,157 in Alaska. Higher per capita food-at-home sales were typically concentrated in the Northwestern and Mountain West States, as Washington, Colorado, Oregon, and Utah rounded out the top five. Illinois, Minnesota, Indiana, and Oklahoma followed West Virginia with the lowest per capita FAH sales in 2023. Per capita, food away from home purchases in 2023 were higher nationally than any year on record at $3,923. Washington, D.C., had the highest total FAFH at $10,644. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Tax Changes May Make U.S. Soybeans More Attractive Reports are showing a surprising tax change in Brazil has the potential to make soy grown in the world’s largest soybean exporter less competitive with supplies from the U.S. A provisional measure signed by Brazil’s president limits the ability of Brazil’s commodity exporters and processors to monetize tax credits. To compensate, merchants will likely have to raise soy prices, making beans grown in Brazil less competitive with American soybeans, at least in the short term. Amius Ltd., a risk management firm, says in this scenario, there would be a shift in soybean demand to the U.S., removing Brazil as a competitive source between August and September, accelerating the U.S. export program. Arlan Suderman (SOO-der-man), chief economist with StoneX, says Brazilian soybean processors and biofuel producers will essentially have higher tax costs and lower margins. “The revenue drop will shift some crush and biofuel activity to Argentina and the U.S.,” Suderman told Reuters. ********************************************************************************** Farm Loan Delinquencies Reach New Low Despite falling net farm incomes, rising interest expenses, and generally low producer sentiment, Agricultural Economic Insights says farm loan delinquencies improved in 2023. Across all commercial banks, the share of farm loans classified as delinquent fell to only 0.91 percent in the fourth quarter of last year. The previous low points in farm real estate delinquency rates were from 2005 to 2007 and 2014 to 2015. It’s worth noting that loan delinquencies at those times dipped to 1.5 percent. The current dip featuring delinquency rates below one percent is uncommon. The average fourth-quarter delinquency rate has been 2.2 percent since 1991. However, farm real estate deficiencies haven’t been meaningfully above the long-run average since 2012. Delinquency rates for farm non-real estate loans also fell in 2023, reaching 0.71 percent. While also historically low and below the long-run average of two percent, the lowest non-real estate delinquency rate was 0.59 percent in 2014.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 11, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders continue to keep close watch over the weather in various parts of the world. The Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting and will be able to include Wednesday's consumer price index in its interest rate decision at 1 p.m. CDT Wednesday. Weather A small system is moving through Manitoba Tuesday morning with showers across the Upper Midwest that should become more isolated. Showers and thunderstorms are found across west Texas and the Florida Panhandle as well, but most of the country is mild and dry for the day.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 10, 2024 |

Support AM Radio in Every Vehicle AM radio is a lifeline for many individuals, particularly those living in rural areas with limited access to reliable internet or cell phone coverage. In 2023, several automakers announced they had removed or planned to remove broadcast AM radio receivers from electric vehicles due to electromagnetic interference generated by electric batteries. AM radio helps keep rural residents apprised of news that may impact their businesses, health care, education, and family. It’s also available when the power goes out and cell towers go offline. The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act ensures this essential service is accessible to all Americans. The American Farm Bureau, the National Association of Broadcasters, and the National Association of Farm Broadcasting are asking you to let lawmakers know how important AM radio is and ask them to support the act. Go to the Farm Bureau website and participate in the action alert by sending a message at fb.org/action-alert. *********************************************************************************** Minnesota Reports First Case of H5N1 in Dairy Cattle Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has been confirmed in a dairy herd in Benton County, Minnesota, the state’s first confirmed case of H5N1. A producer noticed clinical signs in a handful of cows, and the next day more than 40 cows had signs of a fever. Samples from the sick cows were tested at the University of Minnesota and USDA, and both confirmed the virus. “We knew it was only a matter of time before this detection would reach our doorstep,” says Minnesota State Veterinarian, Dr. Brian Hoefs (Huffs). “It’s important for dairy farmers to follow the example of this herd and test sick cows.” HPAI symptoms in dairy animals mostly affect late-stage lactating cows, and include a fever, a drop in milk production, loss of appetite, and changes in manure consistency. No matter the status of each herd, biosecurity can reduce the risk of disease spreading onto or off farms. *********************************************************************************** Food Prices Slightly Higher in May The U.N. Food and Agricultural Organization’s Food Price Index stood at 120.4 points in May, up 0.9 percent from its revised April level. Increases in the price index for cereal and dairy products slightly more than offset decreases in those for sugar and vegetable oils. The meat index was unchanged. It was the third consecutive monthly rise in the index but still remained down 3.4 percent from the same time in 2023 and 25 percent below the peak in March 2022. The Cereal Price Index took the biggest jump in May, rising 7.3 points, or 6.3 percent, from April to average 118.7 points in May. The Sugar Index saw the biggest drop, coming in at 117.1 points, down 9.5 points or 7.5 percent. The Meat Price index averaged 116.6 points in May, down 0.2 points. The Dairy Price Index reached 126 points, up 2.3 points, or 1.8 percent, from April. *********************************************************************************** Grains Council Travels to Mexico to Talk Trade U.S. Grains Council Chair Brent Boydston and Past Chair Josh Miller went south of the border for meetings with major stakeholders in the U.S. and Mexico corn trade market. The goal was to maintain positive communications and relationships with one of U.S. agriculture’s most valuable customers. “With the recent political obstacles and challenges to rail transport logistics affecting grain imports from Mexico, it’s vital for the Council to work in tandem with the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service in Mexico to keep shipments moving,” Boydston says. “U.S. producers and Mexican importers and end-users alike need reassurance that trade will continue operating smoothly, and it’s our duty to facilitate that goal.” The delegation also met with staff from a leading global food production company that offers products in 112 countries to discuss how U.S. producers can meet the company’s demand. USGC is trying to keep U.S. ag as the premier option for Mexican importers. *********************************************************************************** Ag Retailers Report Their 2024 Outlook The nation’s top ag retailers responded to a CropLife Survey on their 2024 outlook. The survey asked retailers about their overall outlook on the 2024 growing season based on market performance through spring fieldwork and planting time. On a scale of one to 10, with 10 being “better than expected,” the retailers seem pleased with 2024. A little more than eight out of 10 survey respondents rated the year so far between a five and a ten. To break it down further, 53 percent of the nation’s top ag retailers said the 2024 growing season rates between a five and seven on their 10-point scale. Another 33 percent indicated that so far, the year rates as an eight to 10 in their regions of the country. Compared to last year, that was a six percent improvement over 2023. Only 14 percent rated the season between a one and four. ********************************************************************************** NC State Gets $30 Million from Jeff Bezos North Carolina State University was awarded a $30 million grant over five years from the Bezos Earth Fund. The funds are intended to lead to a center of excellence to create a biomanufacturing hub for plant and cell-based dietary proteins that are environmentally friendly, healthy, accessible, and affordable. The center will include numerous partners from academia and industry to research, create, and commercialize new technologies for manufacturing various protein products. Efforts will focus on multiple areas, including improving the palette of materials used to extract proteins or to use as raw materials for fermentation and cell cultivation. NC State will also reach out to community stakeholders to understand their perceptions, preferences, and expectations of sustainable protein foods and use the results to inform outreach strategies. The funds will also help to set standards for educating and training students and personnel in advanced food technologies and form a curriculum that covers all age groups.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 10, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Traders return from the weekend and will catch up on the latest weather forecasts as well as any market-related news. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A front that brought heavy rain to some areas of the middle of the country this weekend is pushing into the South, bringing some showers and relieving temperatures. Another system is moving into the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains, where showers and thunderstorms will develop as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 7, 2024 |

Concerns About Farm Finances The Federal Reserve reports that farm finances remain a concern. The Fed’s Beige Book noted that 10 of the 12 districts reported slight or moderate growth in May, while the other two had no change in activity. Agricultural reports were mixed. “While drought conditions have eased in some districts, there’s still a concern about farm finances and incomes,” the Beige Book says. “Overall outlooks grew more pessimistic due to reports of rising uncertainty and greater downside risks.” In Atlanta’s Sixth District, agricultural conditions weakened slightly. Chicago’s Seventh District showed a slight increase in farm income during the reporting period. Some contacts in the Ninth District of Minneapolis reported some moderation in input costs was expected to benefit producer margins. Agricultural economic conditions in the Tenth District around Kansas City were softer through early May, and farm finances tightened slightly. Conditions were mixed in the Eleventh (Dallas) and Twelfth (San Francisco) Districts. *********************************************************************************** First H5N1 Case Confirmed in Iowa The Iowa Department of Agriculture and USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service have detected a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in an O’Brien County dairy herd. It’s Iowa’s first reported case of HPAI in dairy cattle. To date, APHIS has confirmed over 80 dairy cases on farms in South Dakota, Texas, Ohio, North Carolina, Michigan, Kansas, Idaho, New Mexico, and Colorado. Iowa’s Ag Department will announce additional response measures soon. “Given the spread of HPAI within dairy cattle in many other states, it’s not surprising that we would have a case given the size of Iowa’s dairy industry,” says Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. “Poultry producers and dairy farmers should immediately harden their biosecurity measures, limit unnecessary visitors, and report symptomatic birds or cattle.” Naig also says the situation is evolving and officials will continue to be in close communication with stakeholders, USDA, and other states *********************************************************************************** NPPC Announces Top Policy Issues The National Pork Producers Council hosted a policy panel discussion at the 2024 World Pork Expo. Producer leaders and experts highlighted the need to work with both sides of the aisle to support America’s pork producers. Preparing for and preventing foreign animal diseases, navigating the challenges posed by California Proposition 12, increasing market access programs for U.S. pork, and protecting herd health are the key priorities that NPPC has successfully advocated for in the farm bill. “Having a proactive, producer-focused advocacy plan has enabled NPPC to elevate our common interests to impact inclusions in the 2024 House Farm Bill,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. Dr. Anna Forseth, NPPC director of animal health, says America’s pork producers continue to face threats from foreign animal diseases like African swine fever. “Farm bill funding can address those risks and help mitigate an outbreak that could lead to billions of dollars in losses,” Forseth says. *********************************************************************************** Food Insecurity Increases in the American Midwest American food insecurity is increasing the most drastically in the Midwest, and the number of food-insecure people increased by over 40 percent in several states from 2021 to 2022. The data comes from the annual “Map the Meal Gap” report issued by Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks. The national rate of food insecurity is about 13 percent across all counties, but some areas are struggling with hunger at a much higher rate. North Dakota, up 57 percent, South Dakota up 45 percent, and Iowa, up 45 percent, saw the biggest increases in the number of food-insecure people from 2021-2022. Washington, D.C., Hawaii, and Nevada saw the lowest rates of increase. Child food insecurity also exists in every U.S. county, with the highest rate at 48 percent in East Carroll Parish, Louisiana. The report also says eight out of 10 highest food-insecure counties are located in the southern states. *********************************************************************************** Milk Producers Call for Milk Pricing Fairness The National Milk Producers Federation leadership expressed confidence that farmers would soon see a fairer system for milk pricing. During the recent Board of Directors’ meeting, NMPF also highlighted dairy farmers’ robust response to the challenge of H5N1 influenza in dairy cattle. “Even with all the stress on the farm, there’s still not a better industry,” says Randy Mooney, a dairy farmer and member of the Dairy Farmers of America Cooperative. USDA is expected to release its plan for Federal Milk Marketing Order modernization at the beginning of July. NMPF has helped lead the push for updated rules that better reflect the current industry, a three-year effort that culminated in a 49-day FMMO hearing last year. The meeting was held in conjunction with the Young Cooperators Fly-In, during which young dairy farmers met with lawmakers to advocate for the industry. During the meeting, the board also voted to elect three new members. ********************************************************************************** The World’s First Seedless Blackberry Pairwise, a company specializing in genetics-based innovations for food and agriculture, has developed the world’s first seedless blackberry. Interested Engineering Dot Com says blackberries are helpful with regards to boosting bodily functions and improving digestion and sugar levels. They also significantly reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and help prevent cardiovascular diseases. Despite the benefits, studies show more than 30 percent of berry buyers don’t purchase them because of the seeds. The seedless blackberry was created using the company’s proprietary Fulcrum Platform. They offer a complete suite of novel tools used for CRISPR (crisper) application in plants. CRISPR is short for Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindrome Repeats. The CRISPR technology is the one scientists use to selectively modify the DNA of living organisms. “With the precision of CRISPR, we are able to develop these thornless and compact traits without sacrificing consistency in flavor and quality for consumers,” says Pairwise co-founder Haven Baker.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 7, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department reports new employment figures for May at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday. Traders will keep watch over the latest weather changes and try to learn more about the proposed tax change in Brazil, affecting agriculture. Weather A quieter weather pattern is in place through most of next week, though we've got one disturbance moving into the Plains for Friday. Isolated showers are possible across the Northern Plains, but the disturbance will move along a stalled front in the Central Plains, with potential for severe thunderstorms across Nebraska and Kansas that may include large hail. Though much of the country is also milder, hot temperatures continue around Texas as well as the West.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 6, 2024 |

Young Farmers Testify on Challenges, Need for Farm Bill America’s farmers and ranchers are counting on Congress to deliver a new, modernized farm bill. That was the message delivered by Kevin Lussier (LOO-sher), Chair of Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers &Ranchers Committee. “The future of American dairy farming depends on investment in the next generation,” he said. “By increasing access, we can ensure the next generation of farmers have the tools and resources we need to thrive.” He also stressed the need for Congress to pass a farm bill this year. Tessa Parks, a young farmer from Minnesota, testified on behalf of the National Farmers Union. “The farm safety net favors larger and more established farms, land is expensive, and capital is difficult to access,” she said. “Ongoing consolidation limits our access to a fair and open marketplace.” The hearing took place before the Senate Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Commodities, Risk Management, and Trade. Senate farm bill markup is expected soon. *********************************************************************************** TFI President Testifies on Phosphate and Potash Corey Rosenbusch, president and CEO of The Fertilizer Institute, gave testimony in the House of Representatives in support of phosphate and potash, two of three essential nutrients for ag productivity. The hearing before the House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources focused on several bills related to critical minerals, including the Phosphate and Potash Protection Act of 2024. If enacted, the legislation would direct the U.S. Geological Survey to conduct an immediate review to determine the need for adding phosphate and potash to the Critical Minerals List. “As the world population continues growing, it’s imperative that the sustainable production and use of fertilizers continues to provide the ability to grow more food without needing more land on which to grow it,” Rosenbusch said during testimony. Only 14 countries produce potash, with Belarus and Russia providing nearly 40 percent of global production. The U.S. imports roughly 95 percent of its needs. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Turning to More Soybeans Many farmers are turning to soybean planting because of a better chance to make a profit this year. Heavy rainfall in many areas is closing the window of opportunity for corn planting. Reuters says the USDA forecast farmers to plant 86.5 million acres of soybeans in U.S. farm country. However, some industry experts predict soybean acres could increase by another one million acres or more thanks to wet weather and soils. Farmers are facing high production costs due to a jump in already-high interest rates, which will take a bite out of most or all of the potential returns on corn this year. In an annual early season crop budget estimate, ag economists at the University of Illinois projected negative average farmer returns in the state for both corn and soybeans, though losses would likely be smaller for soybeans, which require less fertilizer and pesticides than corn. *********************************************************************************** Farm Rescue Expanding Emergency Efforts for Farmers Stratovation Group, a marketing and communications firm, has partnered with Farm Rescue, a non-profit that has provided aid to farmers and their families experiencing a crisis since 2005. Stratovation says it will support numerous aspects of Farm Rescue’s communication efforts. “We strongly believe in the work Farm Rescue does to care for farmers and ranchers across the U.S., whether that’s sending in a crew to help with planting on the front end or helping with harvest at season’s end,” says Cam Camfield, founder and CEO of Stratovation Group. “Our media specialists are the best in the world and will help Farm Rescue get the word out about their efforts to aid farmers in crisis.” Dan Erdmann, marketing program manager at Farm Rescue, says they’re continually looking to expand their impact and reach. “We hope that every farmer in need will know we have the resources available to help,” Erdmann says. *********************************************************************************** NSP Hands Out Sorghum Improvement Awards National Sorghum Producers presented Michael Lenz and Larry Richardson with awards for Outstanding Achievement in Sorghum Improvement at the Sorghum Improvement Conference of North America. These biannual awards are given at the gathering of the U.S. sorghum research community and acknowledge and honor their exemplary service and achievements in the sorghum industry. Lenz’s career began in several significant roles in prominent sorghum industry companies. His innovative breeding strategies have significantly shaped the sorghum landscape, addressing many critical issues. The second recipient, Larry Richardson, dedicated his career to advancing the sorghum industry through his leadership at Richardson Seeds, where his company became a front-runner in producing food-grade and ultra-short grain sorghum varieties. The award for Outstanding Achievement in Sorghum Improvement dates back to 1961. Recipients include, among others, the forefathers of the modern hybrid sorghum industry. As of today, more than 60 individuals have won the award. Visit sorghumgrowers.com/recognition to view past winners. ********************************************************************************** Michigan State Develops New Potato A new genetically engineered potato developed by Michigan State University potato breeder Dave Douches (DOO-shehs) has been granted an exemption from the biotechnology regulations placed on genetically-modified products. The Kal91.3 potato is bred from an MSU potato variety named Kalkaska. The newly developed potato can be stored in cool temperatures for long periods of time without sucrose, the compound that sugar is typically stored in potatoes as getting converted into reducing sugars such as fructose and glucose. Without as many reducing sugars, off-color browning and caramelization can be minimized in the Kal91.3 potato, leading to healthier and higher-quality products, including potato chips. The new potato can also reduce the environmental impact of the growing process without as many fertilizers and pesticides needed to maintain the potato during storage. Many producers store their chipping potatoes at around 50 degrees Fahrenheit to convert sucrose into reducing sugars, but that makes them more susceptible to rot.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 6, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as reports on weekly U.S. jobless claims, the April trade deficit, first-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report will be out at 9:30 a.m. We send special thanks to our D-Day veterans. Weather A front is clearing the country on Thursday, going off the East Coast and taking the active weather pattern with it. Much drier conditions are developing behind the front, though some limited showers will still be possible near the Great Lakes and in the southwestern Plains. Temperatures are also a lot milder for much of the country, though heat continues to build in the West and remains warm across the far south.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 5, 2024 |

Farmer Sentiment Recovers in May Farmers’ outlook improved in May as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index rose to 108, a nine-point increase from April. The Index of Future Expectations climbed 11 points to 117, and the Current Conditions Index rose six points. The Future Expectations Index boost reflects farmers expecting conditions to improve, although it’s clear that 2024’s financial challenges are still a concern. A rise in crop prices from the April survey’s date to mid-May played a role in boosting farmer sentiment this month. By mid-May, Eastern Corn Belt corn prices had risen by two to three percent since the April survey was conducted. The Farm Financial Performance Index rose to 82 in May, up six points from April. The index asks producers to compare their farm’s expected financial performance to last year. Producers’ outlook on capital investments improved modestly, with the Farm Capital Investment Index up four points to 35. *********************************************************************************** Chicken Council Critical of USDA Proposal The National Chicken Council released a statement responding to the announcement of USDA’s new proposed rule, “Poultry Grower Payment Systems and Capital Improvement Systems.” NCC President Mike Brown says these are solutions in search of problems that do not exist. “This is the latest example of the Biden administration racing to impose its anti-business regulatory agenda ahead of November’s election,” Brown says. “This rule, which Congress never asked for, will lead to rigid, one-size-fits-all requirements on chicken growing contracts that would stifle innovation, lead to higher costs for consumers, decrease competition, and cost jobs by driving some of the best farmers out of the chicken business.” He also says the administration likes to deflect the blame at our country’s food producers as the reason for high grocery prices, instead of looking in the mirror at their failed policies and increased regulation. “We plan to express strong opposition in comments,” Brown adds. *********************************************************************************** Groups Respond Positively to New USDA Rule on Competition Several agricultural groups responded positively to USDA’s release of the Poultry Grower Payment Systems and Capital Improvement Systems proposed rule. The National Farmers Union says the rule addresses abuses by the poultry industry of broiler chicken producers under the “tournament” ranking system as well as situations where the poultry companies make coercive facility investment demands of growers. The Organizations for Competitive Markets and Competitive Markets Action released a statement applauding the USDA for stepping up to prevent the exploitation of contract poultry growers across America. “We hope to see these regulations swiftly finalized,” says Marty Irby, president of Competitive Markets Action. Steve Etka, policy director of the Campaign for Contract Agriculture Reform, says the rule addresses situations in which poultry companies take advantage of contract growers and is an important step in bringing fairness to the contracting practices used by large poultry companies to contract with farmers raising chickens for them. *********************************************************************************** Pork Producers Launch the 100K Pork Chop Competition Competition is open for restaurants in the Washington, D.C., area to sign up for the inaugural #100kporkchop competition. The event will identify the area’s best pork chop and award the winner with a $100,000 cash prize. Additionally, pork producers will donate $100,000 worth of pork products to food banks in the Capital Beltway area. “Pork is one of the most versatile and affordable meats on the market, and we hope to showcase that through this fun, albeit highly competitive challenge,” says Roy Lee Lindsey of the Virginia Pork Council, one of the sponsoring organizations. Once registration closes on June 17, the #100kporkchopchallenge runs in two phases. From June 19 to July 3, the public can visit participating restaurants and vote in the People’s Pork Chop Awards for their favorite chop. The top vote-getters move on to a competition in July. For more information on the challenge, go to #100kporkchopchallenge.com. *********************************************************************************** First Major Heat Wave in Southwest U.S. The season’s first big heat wave will bring scorching temperatures and high wildfire risk to parts of the Southwestern U.S. this week. An AccuWeather forecast says the warming trend will bring rising temperatures to parts of California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Idaho, and Wyoming through Friday. High-temperature records will be challenged, with temps forecast to climb between five and 20 degrees above historical averages. AccuWeather meteorologists say a bulge in the jet stream due to high pressure building in the atmosphere and a storm offshore from California will allow the heat to build without any showers or thunderstorms in much of the West. Millions of people in the Southwest will feel the intense heat this week. “Locations throughout California’s interior Sacramento and San Joaquin (wa-KEEN) valleys will match or set daily record highs through the week,” says AccuWeather meteorologist Alyssa Glenny. Highs of 110 degrees or higher are possible. ********************************************************************************** Promoting Sustainable Fuel Options in the Maritime Industry The International Standards Organization released an updated version of the specification for fuel use in marine applications. The new spec sets forth the detailed requirements for maritime fuels, including biodiesel blends up to B100, ensuring their sustainability and safety for use in nearly every distillate and residual fuel grade. This marks a significant step forward in promoting sustainable fuel options within the maritime industry. “With the adoption of this updated specification, we are paving the way for higher blends of biodiesel use in marine transportation,” says Scott Fenwick, Technical Director at Clean Fuels Alliance America. “Biodiesel offers a viable solution for reducing emissions now while promoting sustainability on a global scale.” By adopting the updated spec, ISO aims to facilitate the integration of low-carbon liquid fuels, including biodiesel, into the maritime fuel supply chain while contributing to greater greenhouse gas emissions reductions and supporting worldwide efforts to combat climate change.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 5, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department reports on first-quarter productivity at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 10 a.m. Weather remains an important topic of conversation for traders, especially around the Black Sea region where wheat conditions have been dry. Weather A cold front is being pushed through the Midwest and Southern Plains on Wednesday, where it will produce widespread showers and thunderstorms, but lower potential for severe weather. Some areas of heavy rain are possible. Cooler air moving in behind this system is setting up a drier pattern for most areas, though some showers will still develop across the eastern Canadian Prairies and northern tier of the U.S. today.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 4, 2024 |

IGC Report Shows Drop in Global Grain Production The International Grains Council released its Grain Market Report highlighting key global grain production and trade forecasts. The report shows a reduction in the forecast for world total grains production (wheat and coarse grains) for 2023-2024 now at 2.297 billion metric tons, down by four million metric tons month-on-month. The decrease is primarily due to lower estimates for sorghum and barley. Despite increased carry-ins cushioning the supply outlook, carryover stocks were cut by three million metric tons to 588 million. The forecast for global grain trade in 2023-2024 is raised by eight million metric tons, driven by larger wheat and maize flows. World soybean trade in 2023-2024 is projected to increase by two million metric tons, inventories will be higher, and trade will likely reach an all-time high of 172.2 million metric tons. Global rice production for 2023-2024 is revised up by three million metric tons, leading to higher consumption. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposes Next Steps to Fairer Markets and Transparency The USDA announced the next steps it’s proposing to address the many complex competition issues in agricultural markets and create a fairer playing field for poultry growers and farmers. USDA is proposing the rule “Poultry Grower Payment Systems and Capital Improvement Systems.” The new rule would address a range of abuses that have occurred in relation to grower ranking payment systems, commonly called “tournaments.” It also addresses abuses of additional capital investment requirements that poultry companies commonly ask of their contract growers for broiler chickens. This rule is the third in a suite of Packers and Stockyards Act rules that USDA has undertaken to create fairer markets, which ultimately will lead to lower grocery prices for hardworking families. USDA is also announcing new publicly available cattle market transparency tools. These and previous actions are intended to enhance transparency, stop retaliation and discrimination, reduce costs, and support market fairness in every circumstance. *********************************************************************************** Nominations Open for FARM Excellence Awards The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program announced the nomination period is open for the 2024 FARM Excellence Awards. These awards spotlight participating farms and FARM Evaluators that demonstrate excellence in their engagement with the FARM Program. Awards are divided into four categories: Animal Care & Antibiotic Stewardship, Environmental Stewardship, Workforce Development, and FARM Evaluator of the Year. “These awards serve as a thank you to farmers and evaluators for their efforts in ensuring best management practices in on-farm social responsibility,” says Emily Yeiser (EYE-sehr) Stepp, FARM Program Executive Director. Nominations are accepted from fellow dairy farmers, community members, extensions, cooperative and processor staff, veterinarians, themselves, or others. Nominations are due by August 1. Nominated farms must have a current FARM Program evaluation in the respective category and be in good standing with the program. For more information or to make a nomination, go to nationaldairyfarm.com. ********************************************************************************** Sign-Up Open for Grassland Conservation Reserve Program The USDA announced that agricultural producers and private landowners can now sign up for the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program. The sign-up runs until June 28, 2024. Grassland CRP, offered by the Farm Service Agency, is a voluntary working lands conservation program that enables participants to conserve grassland and provide important conservation benefits for wildlife, soil health, and carbon sequestration, all while continuing most grazing and haying practices. “Grassland CRP is a vital conservation tool that supports two of USDA’s top priorities: the well-being of American agriculture and the health of America’s grasslands, which provide critical environmental benefits for wildlife and carbon sequestration,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “The interest from agricultural producers is at an all-time high and proves that agricultural productivity and conservation priorities are not exclusive from one another but can coexist and complement one another.” More than 2.3 million acres got accepted in the 2023 Grassland CRP Sign-Up. *********************************************************************************** Worker Layoffs and Strikes in Ag Companies Deere and Co., the world’s top seller of farm machinery, will cut an unknown number of employees from its global production and salaried workforce. That’s according to a letter sent to employees last week that was seen by Bloomberg. Farm Policy News from the University of Illinois says the company faces rising operational costs and dropping demand. That’s from a letter signed by Chief Executive Officer John May. The announced layoffs will add to the more than 650 employees who have been or are scheduled to get laid off at Deere. Meantime, Cargill workers in Ontario began a strike last week. The beef processing facility in Guelph (GWELF) closed down last week as hundreds of workers took to the picket lines. The cost of living and the ending of a two-dollar-an-hour COVID premium were key issues raised in collective bargaining meetings. Cargill provided a statement saying it’s disappointed in the outcome. *********************************************************************************** TSCRA Announces Fall 2024 Internship Opportunities The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, the largest and oldest livestock association in the Southwest, announced applications are now open for the fall 2024 internship programs. The Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association internship programs provide a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students to network with stakeholders throughout the beef industry and gain valuable experience working alongside Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association staff and leadership. All experiences are paid and offer a unique platform for students to actively engage in and contribute to association happenings. Fall 2024 opportunities include a TSCRA internship, a semester-long internship in Fort Worth, Texas, which offers a variety of opportunities in administration, communications, education, events, membership, and more. Interns will gain firsthand experience in the day-to-day functions of the association. They also offer a TSCRA Government Relations Internship, which is a semester-long internship in Austin, Texas, which focuses on various federal and state policy-related issues.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 4, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. factory orders for April are due out at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday, the only significant report of the day. Traders are keeping close watch on the latest weather forecasts and any news about a possible peace deal in the Middle East. Weather An old front across the South continues to be active Tuesday morning with a cluster of severe thunderstorms moving through southeastern Oklahoma and headed for the Mississippi River. Behind it, a front moving through the Northern and Central Plains is also producing showers and thunderstorms. This front will get more active across the Upper Midwest later today with potential for severe storms. The southern tier of the country will largely follow suit.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 3, 2024 |

USDA Announces $824 Million to Protect Against H5N1 The USDA announced it’s taking several additional actions to ensure the health and viability of the nation’s livestock and poultry. The agency is adding an additional $824 million in emergency funding from the Commodity Credit Corporation to bolster these efforts. It’s also launching a new voluntary H5N1 Dairy Herd Status Pilot Program to give producers more options to monitor the health of their herds and move cows quickly while providing ongoing testing and expanding USDA’s understanding of the disease. The main benefit for farmers who enroll in the voluntary pilot program is that they can prove their herds are free from H5N1 with results from a National Animal Health Laboratory Network facility. If the herds test negative for three consecutive weeks, farmers will be able to move animals without additional pre-movement testing currently required under the federal order. Producers from participating states can begin enrolling the week of June 3. *********************************************************************************** ND Supreme Court Sides with Summit A North Dakota Supreme Court ruling favored Summit Carbon Solutions, a pipeline company currently in a dispute with landowners over the right to access properties to survey the land. The decision affirms a lower court ruling that the pipeline company didn’t need permission from landowners before they accessed property to determine a possible route for the company’s carbon pipeline. Yahoo says some landowners refused to grant Summit access to survey their property as Summit continues trying to build a carbon capture pipeline. Summit says it’s secured over 80 percent of its proposed North Dakota route through voluntary easements, but some landowners refused. North Dakota law doesn’t require written notice to landowners for survey access and allows crews access for projects that would benefit the public to show up at any time. Attorneys representing the landowners say the owners should get compensated, and written notice should be required upfront before getting access. *********************************************************************************** Make Ag Safety a Priority Accidents will happen, and taking the extra time to plan safety precautions can save lives. The agriculture industry is filled with risk, injury, and danger at about every turn. Cultivating Caution is a monthly webinar series exploring the latest research, recommendations, and tips for staying safe and healthy while working in today’s agriculture industry. The series is cosponsored by the University of Illinois, FarmDoc, and University of Illinois Extension. In the monthly webinar, experts will cover a different safety topic and share resources from various concepts around machinery safety, farm stress, mental health, and the future of ag safety. Topics include Heat Stress and Illness, Injury Surveillance Efforts, Farm Safety for Youth, Crisis Resources for Farmers, Addressing Mental Stress and Health, and the Future of Ag Safety. Sessions will begin at 11 am Eastern Time on the third Tuesday of the month, starting on June 18 and ending on November 19. ********************************************************************************** Lambventures Grill-off Heats Up The American Lamb Board is kicking off its new summer promotion highlighting delicious and nutritious American lamb, perfect for grilling, smoking, and outdoor entertaining. ALB is recruiting nine consumers from across the country who love to cook and entertain those summer parties and compete in the Lambventures Grill-off. Consumers can sign up now to participate in one of three categories: Patio Party Planner, Fit Foodie, or Outdoor Adventurer. If selected, applicants will throw a party for ten friends in June. Competitors will craft a lamb dish and menu, host a themed party, and capture photos to be submitted to ALB for public voting beginning on July 1 on the americanlamb.com website. “The Lambventure Grill-off is a way to inspire consumers to grill American lamb for summer gatherings,” says Jeff Ebert, ALB Chair. The host with the most votes wins the grand prize Dream Culinary Prize Pack valued at over $1,000. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Output Hits Two-Month High The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output reached its highest level in almost two months while inventories dropped during the seven days ending on May 24. Production rose to an average of 1.068 million barrels per day, up from 1.019 million a week earlier. The agency’s report says that’s the highest level since the week ending on March 29. The Midwest, which produces more ethanol than any region in the country, saw its production rise to an average of 1.007 million barrels a day, up from 94,000 a week earlier. Gulf Coast output increased to 27,000 barrels a day from 23,000 a week earlier. West Coast production rose to 10,000 barrels from 9,000 the week earlier. East Coast and Rocky Mountain production was stable at 12,000 barrels and 11,000 barrels, respectively. Ethanol stockpiles during the week ending on May 24 were reported at 23.207 million barrels, the lowest since December 15. *********************************************************************************** Culver’s Makes Large Donation to FFA Culver’s firmly believes in supporting U.S. dairy farmers, and they put that support into action. During National Dairy Month in June, the restaurant chain is encouraging people to support dairy farmers by enjoying their favorite frozen dairy treat, Culver’s Fresh Frozen Custard. Culver’s has long credited its relationships with farmers who produce quality dairy for the success of its Fresh Frozen Custard. “Every dish, cone, shake, malt, and Concrete Mixer we serve is a result of the farmers working every day to bring them to our tables,” says Culver’s co-founder Craig Culver. To deepen its long-standing support for the next generation of farmers, Culver’s is pledging an additional $25,000 donation to the National FFA Organization to help fund dairy-specific programming and lesson plans. With the donation, Culver’s hopes to inspire and equip future dairy farmers with the tools they need to continue providing the nation’s growing population with high-quality dairy.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 3, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check on the latest weather forecasts and will also read what members of OPEC+ decided regarding oil production at Sunday's meeting. Early Monday, world reports of manufacturing indices will roll in with the U.S. index due out at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m., followed by NASS's Fats and Oils report at 2 p.m. and weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A system moved into the Plains over the weekend and continues east into the Midwest on Monday, spreading scattered showers and thunderstorms through the western half of the region. The front to the system extends down into the Southern Plains, which will also be active with showers and thunderstorms. Both regions could see pockets of severe weather developing Monday. Another system is moving into the Canadian Prairies and will bring more showers there and to the Northern Plains as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 31, 2024 |

U.S. Ag Trade Deficit Widens The U.S. agricultural trade deficit is projected to increase again to $32 billion in fiscal year 2024, a $1.5 billion increase from the February projection. Those numbers come from the USDA Economic Research Service’s quarterly May 2024 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade. “U.S. agricultural exports during fiscal year 2024 are projected at $170.5 billion, unchanged from February,” the report says. “Higher exports of livestock and dairy, as well as increased ethanol sales largely offset reductions in grains, feeds, oilseeds, and horticultural products.” U.S. agricultural imports are forecast at $202.5 billion, a $1.5 billion increase driven predominantly by higher horticultural products and livestock and dairy imports.” Horticultural product imports are forecast to be up $1.5 billion to $99.6 billion, led by increases in fresh fruits and vegetables. The report also says livestock, poultry, and dairy imports are projected up $600 million to $28.7 billion, driven by higher dairy and livestock projections. *********************************************************************************** China Blocks Beef Imports from JBS Meat processor JBS says China blocked shipments from the company’s Colorado plant because traces of ractopamine (rack-TOE-pah-meen), a feed additive, were found in beef headed to China. The Poultry Site says Brazil-based JBS, the world’s biggest meat processor, announced in a statement that it’s working with U.S. and Chinese authorities to resolve the situation. No other JBS beef facilities in the U.S. have been impacted by the Chinese announcement. Ractopamine is a feed additive used to boost animal weight. At least 160 countries, including the EU, Russia, and China, have banned or restricted the supplement’s use. Earlier this year, food safety, environmental, and animal rights groups filed a lawsuit against the Food and Drug Administration seeking to force it to reconsider approvals of ractopamine. The groups say the additive is putting human health at risk and causing greater stress in farm animals before slaughter. USDA officials had no immediate comment. *********************************************************************************** Tennessee Farmer Heading to Prison for Crop Insurance Fraud A Tennessee farmer is heading to prison for his second conviction of illegally taking money from the federal crop insurance program. Insurance News Dot Net says David Manion, a tobacco farmer in Tennessee and Kentucky, was given a 42-month prison sentence in U.S. District Court. Manion’s first conviction took place eight years ago when he was sentenced to spend one day in custody after admitting he defrauded the crop insurance program. Earlier this year, Manion pleaded guilty to another count of federal crop insurance fraud based on knowingly making false statements and reports on applications for crop insurance between 2016-2022. According to federal court records, Manion carried out the fraud by having his children insure crops in their names on land that he owned. Manion’s attorney reached an agreement with federal prosecutors in which he’d pay almost nine million dollars in fines. Two million dollars has already been paid. ********************************************************************************** Extreme Heat Heading to the Southwest and Central U.S. A heat dome led to record-high temperatures and expanding drought conditions in Mexico and is now forecast to expand northward. AccuWeather says the dome will bring higher temperatures to parts of the Southwestern and Central United States in the coming weeks. Meteorologists say 82 percent of Mexico was experiencing conditions ranging from abnormally dry to exceptional drought as of May 1. Almost 12 percent of Mexico was impacted by the harshest drought category. Records show this has been the worst drought for most of Mexico since 2011 when only four percent of the country wasn’t experiencing abnormally dry or drought conditions. With no significant moisture to help reduce the sun’s rays, the same drought has helped boost temperatures to record levels. The highest temp recorded in Mexico this year has been 124 degrees at Galinas on May 9. That’s less than two degrees from the all-time high of 125.6 degrees Fahrenheit. *********************************************************************************** Partnership Advancing Regenerative Ag in Cotton A nationwide partnership led by the Soil Health Institute’s U.S. Regenerative Cotton Fund is creating opportunities to advance sustainable cotton farming. The fund’s approach to advancing economic insights, soil health measurement, and education has made significant progress in the U.S. Cotton Belt since its establishment. “The soil health benchmarks SHI is providing are a great way to help farmers set realistic soil health goals and measure their success,” says fifth-generation cotton farmer Zeb Winslow, who hosted a recent field demonstration at his farm in North Carolina. Launched in 2021, the fund is a farmer-facing, science-based initiative to support long-term, sustainable U.S. cotton production, with the goal of eliminating one million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent from the atmosphere by 2026. “Reaching farmers where they’re at is important if we’re going to continue the soil health movement,” Winslow adds. The fund is active in Alabama, California, Mississippi, and several other states. *********************************************************************************** Funds for Restoring Wetlands on Agricultural Land The USDA will invest up to $50 million in fiscal year 2024 through the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) to support conservation partners with local projects. Those projects should help protect, restore, and enhance critical wetlands on agricultural lands and help mitigate climate change. With funding from the 2018 Farm Bill and the Inflation Reduction Act, WREP empowers eligible conservation partners to work with local agriculture producers to protect, restore, and enhance high-priority wetlands on agricultural lands. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is accepting proposals until August 16, 2024. NRCS is prioritizing proposals that focus on producers who conserve wetlands or that are anticipated to benefit disadvantaged communities, contributing to NRCS’ efforts to advance equity and environmental justice in its delivery of conservation programs. “Our goal is to help mitigate climate change through our conservation programs while improving critical natural resources like wetlands and wildlife habitat,” says NRCS Chief Terry Cosby.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 31, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as reports on U.S. personal income and consumer spending for April. The PCE inflation index for April will also be released at 7:30 a.m., a factor in the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions. Later Friday morning, Stats Canada will release Canada's first-quarter GDP. Weather A system in Canada pushed a front into the Upper Midwest to Central Plains which has stalled and will continue to produce areas of scattered showers throughout Friday. The South-Central U.S., which is between that front and another stalled boundary, will continue to produce heavier rain and some severe thunderstorms. Flooding is again possible in some areas that have seen it recently down there.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 30, 2024 |

U.S., EU Consider Bird Flu Vaccinations The United States and European Union are taking steps to acquire or manufacture H5N1 bird flu vaccines. Reports say the vaccines would protect at-risk poultry and dairy workers, veterinarians, and lab technicians. Experts say this could curb a pandemic threat. U.S. officials are already moving bulk vaccine that closely matches the current virus into almost five million vaccine doses. These actions come after the rapid spread of a new bird flu that first emerged in late 2020, killing a large number of wild birds and domestic poultry. In 2024, the virus began infecting several mammal species, including cattle. The virus has infected a large number of cattle in nine states and two dairy employees. The Food and Drug Administration estimates that 20 percent of the U.S. milk supply shows signs of the virus, increasing chances of a wider spread. Officials told Reuters the sole focus should be on preventing that. *********************************************************************************** Renewable Diesel Production Surpasses Biodiesel The Renewable Fuel Standard mandates that a specific volume of certain biofuels be used each year in transportation fuel. One category of biofuels in the mandate is biomass-based diesel. For many years, biodiesel filled that part of the mandate. Biodiesel production grew steadily in the early 2000s to hit a peak of 1.8 billion gallons during the 2018-2019 marketing year. Renewable diesel has displaced biodiesel’s share of the market. Production of renewable diesel has grown from 40 million gallons in the 2010-2011 marketing year to 2.3 billion gallons in 2022-2023, surpassing biodiesel production for the first time. Combined, biodiesel and renewable diesel pushed total biomass-based diesel production to an all-time high in 2022-2023. As that part of the biofuels sector has mostly expanded since 2001-2002, an increasing share of soybean oil produced in the U.S. is now used for the biofuel, going from one percent in 2001-2002 to 46 percent in 2022-2023. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow Applauds Strengthening Integrity in Carbon Credit Markets Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chairwoman of the Senate Ag Committee, applauded the Biden administration’s progress in strengthening the integrity of voluntary carbon credit markets. She says this marks a critical step to help those markets reach their full potential as a valuable tool to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. “Our farmers and foresters are an important part of the climate solution,” Stabenow says. “Voluntary carbon credit markets generate new revenue streams for farmers, foresters, and rural communities, and there is clear enthusiasm across private industry and the public sector to tap into that potential.” She also says this announcement will strengthen the integrity of those markets and build a foundation for the future. The Biden administration released voluntary principles for participation in voluntary carbon markets. The release builds on the guidance recently proposed by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission related to the listing of voluntary carbon credit derivative contracts. ********************************************************************************** NSP Partnership to Empower Growers Farmers Edge, a digital ag company, and the National Sorghum Producers announced a new strategic partnership aimed at enhancing sustainable farming practices for sorghum growers. The partnership will support growers participating in NSP’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Grant Program funded by the USDA. Together, Farmers Edge and NSP will help growers seamlessly integrate advanced technology solutions for capturing essential on-farm data, including Carbon Intensity Scoring, thus contributing to broader environmental goals. Using FarmCommand®, Farmers Edge’s end-to-end platform, growers can make more informed decisions, monitor and improve their CI scores, and easily work with NSP to extract and export data verifying their environmental impact. With this data, growers have an opportunity to monetize their sustainability initiatives, solidify sorghum as a climate-smart commodity, and support their farms’ long-term financial viability. “We’re excited to collaborate with Farmers Edge to bring innovative solutions to sorghum farmers,” says NSP PCSC Program Managing Director Matt Durler. *********************************************************************************** Export Inspections of Corn Decline Inspections of U.S. corn for overseas delivery declined week to week while bean and wheat assessments improved. Corn inspections during the week ending on May 23 fell to 1.08 million metric tons. USDA says that’s down from 1.23 million a week earlier and 1.35 million during the same week last year. Examinations of soybeans for export increased to 212,105 tons, up from just over 192,200 tons the previous week. However, that’s down from the 256,600 tons inspected during the same week last year. Wheat assessments jumped to 398,900 tons from 228,200 tons a week earlier and 391,000 tons during the same week in 2023. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 36.3 million metric tons of corn for offshore delivery. Soybean inspections totaled 40 million tons, while wheat examinations reached 18.3 million tons. The corn total is higher than last year, while soybeans and corn are lower. *********************************************************************************** The Science of Soil From Feeding Minds Press Young readers, gardeners, and educators have a new agricultural adventure to dig into with the latest children’s book from Feeding Minds Press. “The Soil in Jackie’s Garden” is a cumulative-style picture book that tells the story of Jackie and her garden friends as they discover the wonders of soil and how things grow. Loaded with scientific facts about soil, plants, pollinators, decomposers, and more, “The Soil in Jackie’s Garden” will engage readers ages six and up in becoming environmental stewards, learning how to care for a garden, understanding a plant’s life cycle, discovering the power of pollinators, and the importance of composting. The book is written by award-winning nonfiction children’s book author Peggy Thomas, who’s also the author of “Full of Beans: Henry Ford Grows a Car,” the winner of the 2020 American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture Book of the Year Award. Education materials are included with the book.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 30, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Weekly U.S. jobless claims, first-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor will all be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report will be out at 9:30 a.m., followed by the weekly energy inventory report at 10 a.m. USDA's weekly export sales report will be out Friday morning, along with an important inflation indicator. Weather A system moving through the Canadian Prairies is pushing a cold front through the Northern and Central Plains Thursday morning, which will get into the Upper Midwest by this evening. To the south, the front will pivot in the region but also be near enough to an old boundary across Texas that should produce scattered showers and thunderstorms and severe weather in the southwestern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 29, 2024 |

Another Step Toward Net-Zero for U.S. Dairy The National Milk Producers Federation says the Food and Drug Administration’s approval of Elanco’s Bovaer (boe-vair) is another important step toward a net-zero future. Bovaer and other new technologies that reduce enteric emissions will help U.S. farmers get rewarded for participating in voluntary, producer-led sustainability initiatives, which is critical for the success of such efforts. NMPF also thanks the FDA for its support. “Consumers around the world are demanding lower-carbon foods,” says NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud. “Innovations such as Bovaer will help American dairy farmers remain globally competitive and maintain their role as leaders in more sustainable dairy production.” NMPF is also grateful to USDA for supporting dairy farmers as they prepare to use Bovaer on their operations. “We’re grateful the department awarded more than $90 million to dairy farmer-owned cooperatives and partner organizations for innovative feed management under the Regional Conservation Partnership for fiscal year 2023,” Doud adds. *********************************************************************************** USMEF to Promote Underused Cuts of Meat The U.S. Meat Export Federation finished its spring conference last week with a closing session focusing on the red meat industry’s efforts to build international demand for beef and pork cuts with limited domestic use. Jessica Spreitzer, USMEF Director of Trade Analysis, highlighted their marketing efforts showcasing the attributes of underutilized U.S. cuts. She talked about USMEF strategies to develop demand for cuts specifically from the pork loin and beef round primals, pointing to estimates that loin exports now account for about 20 percent of U.S. production, up from ten percent five years ago. On export demand for underutilized beef cuts, she noted that export markets account for 42 percent of the total U.S production of the gooseneck round, 30 percent of the chuck shoulder clod, and 18 percent of the top inside round. “The export side adds pricing competition, potential customers, and brings added value to underutilized cuts,” Spreitzer adds. *********************************************************************************** Cattle on Feed Down One Percent The latest Cattle on Feed report shows the U.S. herd dropped by one percent in April. Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.6 million head on May 1, 2024. That level was one percent below May 1, 2023. Placements in feedlots during April totaled 1.66 million head, six percent below 2023. Net placements were 1.6 million head. In April, 335,000 cattle and calves weighing under 600 pounds were placed in feedlots, while 600–699-pound placements totaled 220,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 375,000 head, 800-899 pounds totaled 451,000 head, and 900-999 pounds were 205,000 head. Placements of cattle weighing 1,000 pounds or greater totaled 70,000 head. Marketings of fed cattle in April totaled 1.87 million head, ten percent higher than in 2023. Other disappearances totaled 56,000 head during April, ten percent above April 2023. ********************************************************************************** USDA Requests Information on Next Steps for Growing Climate Solutions Act The USDA is seeking information from the public on protocols that may be considered for inclusion in a new Greenhouse Gas Technical Assistance Provider and Third-Party Verifier Program. This is the main program of the Growing Climate Solutions Act. The input is being collected through a Request for Information and will be considered in the preparation of a proposed rule to establish the program. “High-integrity voluntary carbon markets offer a promising tool to create new revenue streams for producers and achieve greenhouse gas reductions from the agriculture and forest sectors,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “However, a variety of barriers have hindered agriculture’s participation in voluntary carbon markets, and we are seeking to change that by establishing a new Greenhouse Gas Technical Assistance Provider and Third-Party Verifier Program.” Establishing the program is the next step in implementing the Growing Climate Solutions Act. Submit comments during the 30-day period at regulations.gov. *********************************************************************************** Seven FFA Members Named Presidential Scholars Seven FFA student members have been named U.S. Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students. The seven students were named winners for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education. Of the 3.7 million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 5,700 candidates qualified for the 2024 award, and 161 students received the honor. The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, established in 1964 by President Lyndon Johnson, was created to recognize the nation’s most distinguished high school graduating seniors. In 2015, the program was expanded to recognize students demonstrating ability and accomplishment in career and technical education. “We are extremely proud of this accomplishment for these seven FFA members,” says National FFA CEO Scott Stump. “We know that our members are current and future leaders, and this demonstrates the students’ academic excellence.” The complete winners list is at ed.gov/psp. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Bans Avian Products from Australian State U.S. imports of poultry and other avian products from the Australian state of Victoria are banned in a bid to stop the spread of bird flu. That statement comes from USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Imports of poultry, commercial birds, and hatching eggs have also been prohibited. Processed avian products and byproducts from Victoria will need an import permit or government certificate from APHIS showing they’ve met the agency’s requirements. Avian and egg products must have a thoroughly cooked appearance and be contained in hermetically sealed packaging and cooked in a commercial method so items are stable without refrigeration. Items can also have an import permit or certification from APHIS showing they were handled per the agency’s usual requirements. The list of banned products includes “hunter-harvested, non-fully finished avian trophies and meat,” APHIS says. The agency also says any restrictions will be updated as more information becomes available.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 29, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders continue to keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts, especially around the Black Sea region. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will be released at 1 p.m. CDT Wednesday. Weekly energy inventories, usually released on Wednesday, will be out Thursday, due to the Memorial Day schedule. Weather A weak system continues from the Midwest into the Mid-Atlantic on Wednesday, as does a stalled front across the Southern Plains. But the next system will move through the Canadian Prairies and drag a front through the Plains, where severe weather will be more likely.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 28, 2024 |

AFBF and NFU Respond to Farm Bill Markup American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall responded to markup and passage of the Farm Bill out of the House Agriculture Committee Thursday. Duvall says, “We applaud the bipartisan vote after 13 hours of rigorous debate, but know that tight margins in both chambers and a crowded congressional calendar will present challenges in the next legislative steps." Duvall urged the Senate Agriculture Committee to schedule a farm bill markup. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew added, "A successful farm bill needs broad bipartisan support. We applaud today's progress, but we know that significant improvements will be needed to advance this bill." At the NFU Convention held in March 2024, delegates approved a special order of business outlining the organization’s priorities for the 2024 Farm Bill, including advancing NFU’s Fairness for Farmers campaign, maintaining and improving the farm safety net, and strengthening conservation programs. *********************************************************************************** Coalition Applauds Inclusion of Sustainable Aviation Provisions in Farm Bill Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition’s Executive Director, Alison Graab welcomed Farm Bill markup and inclusion of sustainable aviation provisions in the bill. Graab says, “The provisions of the bill affirming sustainable aviation fuel as an advanced biofuel and providing for greater USDA collaboration regarding sustainable aviation fuel underscore the significant role of sustainable aviation fuel.” Sustainable aviation fuel made from renewable biomass and waste resources have the potential to deliver the performance of petroleum-based jet fuel but with a fraction of its carbon footprint, giving airlines solid footing for decoupling greenhouse gas emissions from flight, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. By growing biomass crops for sustainable aviation fuel production, American farmers can earn more money during off seasons by providing feedstocks to this new market, while also securing benefits for their farms like reducing nutrient losses and improving soil quality. The Sustainable Aviation Coalition represents the entirety of the sustainable aviation fuel value chain. *********************************************************************************** Livestock Groups Welcome Farm Bill Markup Livestock groups welcomed the House Agriculture Committee's action to markup the Farm Bill. The National Pork Producers Council says the bill supports all pork producer's farm bill requests, including a federal fix to the host of Prop. 12 issues plaguing producers and consumers. NPPC President Lori Stevermer says, "I'm pleased to see the U.S. House Agriculture Committee seize the opportunity to stop a potential 50-state patchwork of differing on-farm regulations." A 2018 California ballot initiative, Proposition 12, prohibits the sale of uncooked whole pork meat not produced according to the state's arbitrary housing dimensions. National Cattlemen's Beef Association President Mark Eisele says, "This Farm Bill protects the cattle industry from foreign animal disease, supports producers’ voluntary conservation efforts, and safeguards our food supply.” And National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Greg Doud adds, “We commend Chairman Thompson and committee members from both parties for approving a 2024 House Farm Bill that includes critical dairy priorities.” The legislation extends the Dairy Margin Coverage program though 2029, among other dairy priorities. *********************************************************************************** Grassley, Feenstra, Ernst Demand Higher RVO Levels Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, both Iowa Republicans, are demanding the Environmental Protection Agency raise 2024 and 2025 renewable volume obligations for biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels. The lawmakers joined Representative Randy Feenstra, also an Iowa Republican, in a letter to President Biden and EPA Administrator Michael Regan. The letter states, "For the biomass-based diesel industry to continue to grow, it needs certainty and predictability, and this requires RVOs that adequately reflect the growth potential of biomass-based diesel production." The agency last year set RVOs at levels that the lawmakers say fail to align with market conditions and production outlook, contributing to biodiesel plant closures in the Midwest, including in Carroll County, Iowa. The letter also touted reduced emissions of renewable fuels. According to a life cycle analysis completed by the Argonne National Laboratory using the GREET model, 100 percent biodiesel reduces emissions 74 percent compared to petroleum diesel. *********************************************************************************** House Subcommittee Advances AM for Every Vehicle Act Lawmakers recently advanced the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act out of a subcommittee. The House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Innovation, Data and Commerce's marked up and passed the legislation for full committee consideration. The action follows a subcommittee hearing on April 30, and mirrors the draft legislative language that was the focus of hearing. Representatives from the National Association of Broadcasting and the National Association of Farm Broadcasting attended that hearing. During Thursday’s markup, Representative Debbie Dingell, a Michigan Democrat, noted that automakers are ready to commit to voluntarily keeping AM radio in vehicles but added, "I also think AM radio should be in all — in cars as well as trucks, boats, agriculture, and recreational vehicles. I think we need to study those issues.” Legislation to require AM radio as a safety feature in all vehicles currently has 61 cosponsors in the Senate and 254 cosponsors in the House of Representatives.  *********************************************************************************** Masters of Beef Advocacy Program Celebrates 25,000 Graduates Two years ago the Masters of Beef Advocacy program managed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, hit 20,000 graduates. Now, the program celebrates an additional 5,000 graduates – reaching a new milestone for advocacy in the beef industry. Created in 2009, the MBA program is a free, self-guided online course that provides members of the beef community – from farmers and ranchers to students, supply chain members and consumers – with the tools and resources needed to become a strong advocate for the beef community. In 2021, the MBA program launched MBA NextGen – which updated training modules, splitting the course into five online lessons. After completing NextGen, MBA graduates can enroll in MBA Continuing Education where graduates can continue their education with more lessons Graduates can also access monthly newsletters and join the program’s Facebook community where updates are given on the latest consumer trends.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 28, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Weather, Farm Bill and Crop Progress 1. Market closed Monday: Commodity markets are closed for the Memorial Day holiday, as we honor those who've made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The DTN newsroom also will be closed, although some new stories are appearing on our products throughout the holiday weekend. Watch for market reports late Monday night; DTN subscribers will see their next Early Word market reports Tuesday morning. 2. Farm bill progress: As of this writing, the House Agriculture Committee advanced a $1.5 trillion farm bill out of committee on a bipartisan vote. Check out DTN Ag Policy Editor Chris Clayton's blog comparing this farm bill's progress to those he has covered since 2007 at . Clayton and DTN Political Correspondent Jerry Hagstrom will continue with news on the farm bill as it happens. 3. This week's weather: The final system in the incredibly active pattern moves through Sunday and Monday, though showers may linger into Tuesday. We'll see a short break, then another system will come through late in the week and weekend. Planting windows are tight, so our weekly Crop Progress report updates (out Tuesday due to the holiday) bear watching. 4. Final planting date looms: As rain stalls planting, the final planting date for full crop insurance coverage for corn is May 31 in some key production states. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday, no reports due to Memorial Day holiday. Tuesday, at 8 a.m. the Case-Shiller Home Price Index hits the street. At 9 a.m. we'll see the latest Consumer Confidence numbers, followed by Grain Inspections at 10 a.m. and the 3 p.m. release of the USDA NASS weekly Crop Progress report. Wednesday we'll see the Broiler Hatchery numbers at 2 p.m. Then Thursday is a busier day, starting with several 7:30 a.m. reports, including Grain Export Sales, Initial Jobless Claims, the first quarter revision of US GDP numbers, U.S. trade balance and retail and wholesale inventories. At 9 a.m. we'll see Pending Home Sales reports. Friday reports also kick off at 7:30 a.m. with Personal Income and Spending, PCE Index and Core PCE Index numbers. At 2:30 p.m. we'll have the CFTC's Commitment of Traders report.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 28, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, traders will catch up on the latest weather forecasts and any market-related news. A report on U.S. consumer confidence in May will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m., followed by NASS's weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Isolated to scattered showers continue in the Midwest Tuesday. A stalled front is already producing scattered showers and thunderstorms across the southern half of the Plains that has become severe in northern Texas. The next storm is approaching the Pacific Northwest as our pattern stays active.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 24, 2024 |

USDA Expands Support for Producers to Stop H5N1 Spread in Dairy Cattle USDA Thursday expanded support for dairy producers taking mitigation measures to protect cattle from H5N1. USDA will now provide financial support, up to $1,500 per premises, to any producer to develop and implement a biosecurity plan based on existing secure milk supply plans. In addition, USDA will provide a $100 payment to producers who purchase and use an in-line sampler for their milk system. USDA is supporting producers by covering fees for veterinarians to collect samples for H5N1 testing. Veterinary sample collection costs are eligible to be covered from April 29, 2024, up to $2,000 per premises. USDA will pay for the cost of shipping samples to National Animal Health Laboratory Network labs for testing, not to exceed $50 per shipment for up to two shipments per month for each premise. Further, USDA will soon issue a rule making funding available from the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-raised Fish Program to compensate eligible producers with positive herds who experience loss of milk production. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Domestic Fertilizer Investments Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Thursday announced USDA is investing in domestic fertilizer projects to strengthen competition for U.S. agriculture. The funding comes via the Fertilizer Production and Expansion Program. USDA is awarding $83 million in 12 states for projects through the program that provides grants to independent business owners to help them modernize equipment, adopt new technologies, build production plants and more. Vilsack says the investments will, “increase domestic fertilizer production and strengthen our supply chain, all while creating good-paying jobs that will benefit everyone.” The investments will boost domestic fertilizer production, strengthen competition and lower costs for U.S. farmers. USDA is making awards to facilities in California, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon and Washington. To date, USDA has invested $251 million in 57 projects across 29 states through the program. *********************************************************************************** AVMA Applauds Veterinary Priorities in the Farm Bill The House and Senate Agriculture Committees have taken action to pass a new Farm Bill that would reauthorize many federal programs essential to veterinary medicine. Working with lawmakers and stakeholder groups, AVMA's sustained advocacy led to the inclusion of the veterinary profession's top legislative priorities that will help protect animal welfare and maintain public health. AVMA President Dr. Rena Carlson says, “AVMA's continued advocacy has led to the inclusion of reauthorizations, funding, and legislation that will help protect animal and human welfare while advancing veterinary medicine.” Key provisions for AVMA include the Healthy Dog Importation Act and reauthorization of animal disease prevention and management programs. Further, AVMA supports the reauthorization of the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program, and the Veterinary Services Grant Program included in the farm bill. AVMA is the nation's leading representative of the veterinary profession, speaking for more than 105,000 member veterinarians nationwide. *********************************************************************************** Weather Experts Voice Atlantic Hurricane Season Concerns With the Atlantic Hurricane Season beginning on June 1, AccuWeather meteorologists are concerned about a serious threat of rapidly intensifying storms during the 2024 season. Rapid intensification of tropical storms and hurricanes is defined as a tropical storm or hurricane that quickly gains wind intensity of at least 35 mph in 24 hours or less. AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Forecaster Alex DaSilva says rapidly intensifying tropical storms and hurricanes pose a major threat along the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastlines. DaSilva says, “The warmer the oceans are, the more favorable the environment will be for tropical development and intensification.” The switch to a La Niña pattern, record-shattering warm ocean temperatures in the Main Development Region at the surface, and warm waters at deep depths are all red flags for AccuWeather expert meteorologists. The minimum temperature threshold for tropical development is roughly 80 degrees Fahrenheit. AccuWeather expert meteorologists say many areas of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and southwest Atlantic basin are already above that threshold. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Solar Energy Development Varies by Region Solar energy development has been concentrated in the Atlantic and West regions of the United States, especially in California, North Carolina, and Massachusetts, according to new data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. These states are among those with policies that have promoted renewable energy development—much of it occurring in rural areas. Between 2016 and 2020, utility-scale solar capacity in rural areas more than doubled, increasing to 45 gigawatts, 3.7 percent of U.S. electric power capacity, and the number of solar projects increased from 2,316 to 3,364. Roughly 70 percent of the solar projects installed between 2009 and 2020 in rural areas were located on agricultural land. About 336,000 acres of rural land were estimated to have been directly affected by solar development. USDA reported the data in a recent report that examined land cover and land cover change associated with solar and wind farms over the period 2009–20. *********************************************************************************** Rock the Crop Sweepstakes deadline is June 6 Firestone Ag, a business of Bridgestone Americas, will close entries for the 2024 Rock the Crop Sweepstakes on June 6. This year's sweepstakes is open exclusively for chapters of the National FFA Organization. One lucky FFA chapter will receive a private on-farm concert with Nashville-based country artist Hailey Whitters along with and educational session with Firestone Ag field engineers to learn about farm tires. This is the third year Firestone Ag has offered the Rock the Crop Sweepstakes, but the first time it has been exclusive to FFA members as the organizations celebrate 80 years of FFA support by Firestone Ag. Merritt Gilbert of Firestone says, "as we mark this milestone for Firestone Ag and FFA, we're excited to share this fun and unique entertainment and educational opportunity with young people who are interested and invested in agriculture.” The 2024 Rock the Crop entries must be submitted by FFA chapter advisors on behalf of the members before June 6, 2024. Complete rules and instructions are available online.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 24, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. durable goods orders for April are set for release at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for May at 9 a.m. USDA's monthly cold storage and cattle on-feed reports will be out at 2 p.m. Dow Jones survey expects USDA to find 11.5 million head of cattle on feed as of May 1, down 0.9% from a year ago. Weather A front continues to be active from the Southern Plains through the Mid-Atlantic on Friday and will produce some pockets of showers and thunderstorms, some of which may be severe. But the bigger threat is a system moving through the Northern Plains into Ontario for the day. It has already produced a significant batch of severe thunderstorms overnight, now getting into Iowa. The front to the system will either continue this line of storms or form a new one later in the day centered on Illinois that could also produce severe storms. And has been the case all week, heavy rain will also be a possibility.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 23, 2024 |

Coalition Urges Congressional Fix to Prop 12 The National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau led a coalition of over 900 ag stakeholders in supporting a federal fix to California’s Prop 12 in the next farm bill. In a letter to House Ag Committee leadership, the coalition highlighted several problematic parts of the proposition, including marketplace mayhem. The coalition says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack warned the House Ag Committee that unless Congress provides a solution to Prop 12, there will be “chaos in the marketplace.” Prop 12 could inspire a patchwork of state laws to fuel consolidation. Without congressional action, the letter says producers are “at risk” of arbitrary and conflicting state laws in all 50 states. Prop 12 may also lead to international trade retaliation, adding that Canada has already raised concerns. The letter also says the U.S. Supreme Court and Secretary Vilsack agree that only Congress has the authority to handle this issue. *********************************************************************************** House Farm Bill Draws More Support Ahead of Markup U.S. ag groups continue to react to the House Ag Committee’s farm bill ahead of markup on May 23. The National Corn Growers Association says many of the recommendations in the bill written by Ag Committee Chair GT Thompson would be an improvement upon existing programs for the nation’s corn growers. The Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance (FACA) says several of its recommendations are included that will help their industries achieve their climate mitigation potential while preserving and creating new economic opportunities. The American Farm Bureau says the House farm bill includes much-needed investment in the farm safety net, including making crop insurance more affordable. The Farm Credit Council applauds the legislation for including bipartisan credit provisions that would make it simpler and less expensive for beginning farmers to get the financing they need. The American Sheep Industry also says the bill is favorable in helping its producers manage risk. *********************************************************************************** Thompson Proceeding with Farm Bill Markup The markup for House Ag Committee Chair GT Thompson’s farm bill will move ahead on Thursday despite scores from the Congressional Budget Office that raise questions. The CBO says the scores provided don’t amount to offsets that would allow the bill to be budget-neutral. That term means it wouldn’t cost more than the current spending level. The Fence Post says Thompson believes the committee should still go through the process even though the bill isn’t fully offset. One of Thompson’s aides pointed out that the CBO won’t provide a formal score until after the committee votes on the bill and moves it to the House floor for action. It’s also important to move on the bill because it’s being considered under the May 2023 budget baseline. CBO will revise the baseline in June, meaning the entire bill would have to get rewritten under the new baseline, which could take months. ********************************************************************************** May is World Trade Month May is World Trade Month, and this is World Trade Week on the calendar. The USDA says it’s the perfect opportunity to highlight the importance of trade to the farm sector and the nation as a whole. Roughly about 20 percent of all U.S. agricultural production gets exported, providing a critical source of farm income, supporting over a million jobs, and generating nearly $200 billion in additional economic activity each year in our rural communities and beyond. U.S. agricultural imports have grown significantly, posting the three highest years in history from 2001-2004. Some of the agency’s trade policy and market development work is behind the scenes, including efforts to knock down trade barriers like India’s tariffs on U.S. poultry and berries which were reduced in March. Some of the work is more forward-facing, like the trade missions and trade shows that put producers and exporters in direct contact with potential customers. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Get Federal Funds From RAPP The American Feed Industry Association has received $800,000 in federal funding through the USDA’s Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP). “This support will enable us to expand our efforts in developing and expanding export markets for U.S. animal food products,” says AFIA President and CEO Constance Cullman. In 2023, the overall export value for feed, feed ingredients, and pet food stood at $13.4 billion, and the total volume of exports of these products amounted to 19.8 million metric tons. “That demonstrates the significant role the animal food industry plays in overall U.S. ag exports,” she adds. The American Soybean Association, ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health Program, and the U.S. Soybean Export Council also received funding under RAPP. “New international markets are critical to sustaining U.S. soybean growers’ success,” says ASA President Josh Gackle. “This program will open new opportunities for success while improving on the success of other programs.” *********************************************************************************** Farmers Finding Out Carbon Equals Cash Truterra, an agricultural sustainability business, announced that its carbon sequestration program has paid more than $21 million to farmers for sequestration and reduction of over 1.1 million metric tons of carbon in its first three years. The program has also seen significant growth in enrolled acres. In 2023, total acres increased by 99 percent over 2022. In 2022, the total acres enrolled increased by 151 percent over 2021. The company says its carbon program is gaining momentum as a leader among farmers and retailers. “Our differentiated approach matches agronomics with economics to help farmers make sustainable practice changes,” says Truterra President Jamie Leifker. “What’s more, these carbon assets could help organizations with sustainability goals if they make agriculture a part of their toolkit of solutions.” Truterra’s carbon program is also experiencing growth in farmer participation. In 2023, the number of farmers in the program grew by 58 percent compared to 2022.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 23, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be 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. U.S. new home sales for April will be out at 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. More rain is expected to keep field conditions wet in Nebraska and Iowa after Tuesday's storms. Weather A front that has stalled itself out near the Ohio River will continue to produce scattered showers and thunderstorms from the Southern Plains up through the Mid-Atlantic on Thursday. Some of those thunderstorms could be severe. Another system is entering the Northern and Central Plains and will produce showers and thunderstorms of its own. Severe weather will occur with this storm as well, with the greatest threat in eastern Nebraska.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 22, 2024 |

USDA Awards $300 Million to Diversify Export Markets Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA is allocating $300 million to 66 organizations under the new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program. The funds will be used to build demand for American food and farm exports in high-potential markets around the world. Vilsack launched RAPP in October 2023, authorizing $1.2 billion in Commodity Credit Corporation funding to help American exporters expand their customer base beyond established markets. “By enabling U.S. exporters to expand their footprint in diverse and dynamic new markets, RAPP will help make them more competitive and resilient in an increasingly volatile global trade environment,” Vilsack says. “We know the potential is there, but it takes time and money to grow new markets.” The funding is designed to focus on regions like Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and South and Southeast Asia, where consumer demand and purchasing power are growing. “USDA is pleased to provide help accessing these opportunities,” Vilsack adds. *********************************************************************************** Groups Receive RAPP Funding for Export Development Multiple major U.S. agricultural organizations were pleased to receive funding allocations from the USDA’s Regional Agricultural Promotion Program. One of the groups, the U.S. Meat Export Federation, is “honored and grateful” for the funding from RAPP. “This additional investment in foreign market development is very timely and will be especially helpful in expanding demand for U.S. red meat in emerging markets,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Ryan LeGrand, President and CEO of the U.S. Grains Council, says RAPP funding is a game changer. “This will allow a significant expansion of the great work that the Council and staff are already doing worldwide,” LeGrand says. Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast are also thrilled to receive funding under RAPP. Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast CEO Brendan Wilson says it’s a privilege to empower small and medium-sized businesses in their 23 member states to sell their food and agricultural products internationally. *********************************************************************************** Biofuel Groups Ask Supreme Court for SRE Review The Renewable Fuels Association and Growth Energy petitioned the Supreme Court requesting a review of the Fifth Circuit Appeals Court’s decision on small refinery exemptions. Biodiesel Magazine says the groups want the nation’s highest court to review the November 2023 opinion regarding the EPA’s denial of several small refinery exemption petitions. In April 2022, the Environmental Protection Agency denied 36 SREs that had been filed under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Those petitions were filed by 36 small refineries located in 18 states. The Fifth Circuit Court vacated the EPA denials in a divided 2-1 opinion. “As our petition makes clear, the Fifth Circuit Court never should have heard this challenge brought by refiners,” says Geoff Cooper of the RFA. “EPA decisions on small refinery exemptions are national in scope because the RFS establishes requirements for the nation. The D.C. Circuit Court is the only proper venue for reviewing the decision.” ********************************************************************************** USDA Report Shows Ag Export Volume by Commodity Export markets are an important sales outlet for American food and agricultural production. Since 2008, an average of 20 percent of the value of all U.S. agricultural output has been shipped to destinations in other countries. The export market is a growing one for U.S. non-manufactured products, a group that includes commodities like grains, oilseeds, and produce. In the last decade, the exports of these commodities have increased as a percent of production at a rate of 1.4 percent annually. For commodities such as food grains, exports make up about 65 percent of the production value. Fruits and tree nut exports make up 44 percent of the production value. In contrast, the U.S. exports a lower share of the value of manufactured goods, including sweeteners, bakery products, and dairy products. This overall share has been declining since 2012, indicating that a greater percentage of production is being retained for domestic consumption. *********************************************************************************** FCA Among Top Ten Places to Work The Farm Credit Administration earned a top ten ranking in the 2023 Best Places to Work in the Federal Government survey. It placed fifth among 30 small federal agencies, defined as those having at least 100 but less than 1,000 employees. FCA’s overall “engagement and satisfaction” score was 83.5, up from last year’s 80.2. The score was based on employee responses to three questions related to FCA being a good place to work, job satisfaction, and overall satisfaction with the organization. Among the other key rankings for FCA in the small agency category are 86.8 in Diversity, 94 in Effective Leadership, an 84 in Accessibility, an 84.3 in Professional Development, and an 88 in Work-Life Balance. “FCA’s roster of top-notch employees remains focused on ensuring the Farm Credit System is a dependable source of credit,” says FCA Board Member Jeffery Hall. “The survey ranking is a testament to our talented workforce.” *********************************************************************************** April Milk Production Drops Slightly Milk production in the 24 major milk-producing states during April reached 18.3 billion pounds, down 0.2 percent from April 2023. March’s revised milk production, at 18.9 billion pounds, was down 0.5 percent from March 2023. The March revision represented an increase of 78 million pounds, or 0.4 percent, from last month’s preliminary production estimate. Production per cow in the 24 major states averaged 2,064 pounds for April, eight pounds higher than April 2023. The number of milk cows in the 24 states was 8.89 million head, 55,000 fewer than in April 2023 and 6,000 head less than March 2024. Milk production in April totaled 19.1 billion pounds, down 0.4 percent from April 2023. Production per cow in the United States averaged 2,049 pounds for April, nine pounds higher than April 2023. The number of milk cows on farms in the United States was 9.34 million head, 74,000 fewer head than last April.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 22, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. existing home sales for April will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. Minutes from the latest Fed meeting will be released at 1 p.m. Traders continue to keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts. Weather A strong system that brought heavy rain and severe weather to the Upper Midwest Tuesday will have its cold front settle near the Ohio River for Wednesday, which should remain active. The southern end of the front, which goes back down into Texas, may be more active with a higher risk of severe weather. Heavy rain along the front could cause flooding over the next few days.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 21, 2024 |

Groups React to House Farm Bill Ahead of Markup Some of America’s leading agricultural organizations are reacting to the House version of the farm bill put forth by Ag Committee Chair GT Thompson ahead of markup on May 23. American Soybean Association President Josh Gackle believes the legislation will significantly enhance the effectiveness and accessibility of the farm safety net. The National Sorghum Producers say the legislation will reinforce the safety net and strengthen crop insurance and conservation programs. The American Farm Bureau points out that the conservation and research programs help farmers protect the resources they’ve been entrusted with and allow American ag to innovate. U.S. Wheat Associates says the food aid programs in the House farm bill ensure that more food will go directly into the bellies of hungry people around the world. Corey Rosenbusch, president of The Fertilizer Institute, says the text will encourage greater adoption of nutrient stewardship and conservation practices by growers across the country. *********************************************************************************** Funds to Help Specialty Crop Exports Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, announced funding for the first five projects under the new Assisting Specialty Crop Export initiative. The ASCE initiative is designed to create more, new, and better markets at home and abroad for U.S. producers and agribusinesses. The partnership between USDA and the specialty crops sector will focus on projects to address non-tariff trade barriers that hinder U.S. exports of fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, horticultural crops, and related products. “We’re excited to be accepting proposals from partners interested in implementing projects that will target cross-cutting issues that were identified in our discussions with a diverse set of stakeholders,” Taylor says. “Specialty crop exports totaled $25.8 billion last year, increasing the bottom line for our producers and driving economic development in local communities and beyond.” She also says the agency looks forward to expanding specialty crop exports and generating more benefits. ********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Working on Possible FMD Response The American Sheep Industry Association was awarded a grant of over $111,000 from the National Disease Preparedness and Response Program. The goal is to evaluate the traceability of livestock marketed in an auction setting utilizing electronic identification in a Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak through collaboration with industry and state partners. The collaboration’s purpose is to demonstrate how electronic ID systems when utilized in a livestock auction market setting, can enhance animal disease traceability and decrease response time in a Foreign Animal Disease outbreak. ASI will accomplish this by simulating two FMD outbreak trace exercises of animals like sheep, goats, and cattle sold through Oregon livestock markets. The first exercise will be based on the current animal ID system used by the livestock auction markets to provide rapid animal movement traceability information to state animal health officials. The second has to do with an electronic ID system in auction markets. *********************************************************************************** Watch Out for Asian Longhorned Ticks The invasive Asian longhorned tick can pose a risk to humans, animals, and livestock. University of Illinois Extension found it in west central Illinois for the first time. Asian longhorned ticks were first found in the U.S. in 2017, but they’ve likely been here longer and are now confirmed in 19 other states. The Asian longhorned tick is an invasive pest of concern for livestock because severe infestations can impact livestock production. Teresa Steckler of Illinois Extension is a commercial agriculture specialist in cattle who says Asian longhorned ticks have been found in large numbers on livestock, sheep, and cattle so far, resulting in severe distress and, in some cases, death. “Spring is a busy time for farmers and ranchers as they put cattle out to pasture, but it’s important that producers take some time to look for tick infestations,” Steckler says. “People need to be more vigilant and take precautions.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Recruiting Exporters for September Trade Mission to Vietnam The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is now accepting applications from current and potential U.S. exporters for a trade mission to Vietnam September 9-13. Participants will attend events in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi (ha-NOY), and will also engage with buyers from Burma, Cambodia, and Thailand. “Southeast Asian markets hold immense opportunity for U.S. exporters,” says Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. “In 2023, the U.S. exported $3.1 billion worth of agricultural products to Vietnam, maintaining a sizable market share across several food and ag-related categories, including cotton, dairy, distillers grains, fresh fruit, poultry, soybeans, and tree nuts.” She also says USDA is confident that the agency can help U.S. exporters grow and diversify their markets in Southeast Asia and boost economic returns for America’s farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses. Trade missions connect key importers for business-to-business meetings and learn more about local and regional market conditions. *********************************************************************************** Senate Releases Water Infrastructure Bill Lawmakers released legislation last week authorizing the Army Corps of Engineers to study and carry out a host of water infrastructure and environmental restoration projects across the country. The biennial Water Resources Development Act directs the Army Corps’ flood control, navigation, and ecosystem restoration efforts. The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee will mark up the bill on Wednesday. This year’s legislation would focus on protecting communities from increasingly severe floods and droughts and promoting economic activity at the nation’s ports,” says Tom Carper (D-DEL), chair of the committee and the bill sponsor. It includes projects and programs relevant to all 50 states, prioritizes initiatives to help disadvantaged communities, and directs the Army Corps to finish certain previously authorized projects. “From protecting our communities against powerful storms or intense droughts and keeping our waterways active at our ports, the work of the Army Corps strengthens the American economy,” Carper says.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 21, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are not many reports on Tuesday's docket, but Canada will issue a report on consumer prices for April. Traders continue to keep close watch on the latest weather forecasts and especially any new information from the status of crops in Ukraine and Russia, where conditions are expected to be mostly dry this week. Weather A low-pressure center is strengthening in the Upper Midwest for Tuesday. It has already brought heavy rain and thunderstorms to some areas overnight and that will continue through the region throughout the day. Severe storms are looking likely, especially Tuesday afternoon and evening with the greatest threat centered on Iowa but could extend all the way down into Texas. All modes of severe weather are possible for today.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 20, 2024 |

Corn Growers Disappointed in ITC Decision on Imports The U.S. International Trade Commission agreed to advance a petition by Corteva Agribusiness to place anti-dumping and countervailing duties on imports of 2,4-D shipping from China and India. The National Corn Growers Association says the decision will have a negative impact on U.S. farmers. “We are disappointed that the ITC didn’t listen to the feedback from farmers about how harmful these tariffs can be to rural America,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). “Corn prices are already low, and input costs have been rising, so this decision will only compound our problems.” Six of the nation’s major commodity groups sent a letter to the International Trade Commission in April, encouraging it to vote against advancing the petition. Growers have said the imports covered by this case are the major source of supply other than Corteva, the only U.S. manufacturer. America’s farmers cannot rely upon a sole domestic supplier of 2,4-D. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bill Reaction Ahead of House Markup House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member David Scott says the discussion draft of the farm bill released by Chairman GT Thompson “confirms his worst fears.” He accuses Republicans of planning to pay for the farm bill by taking food out of the mouths of hungry children. “They’re also restricting farmers from receiving the climate-smart conservation funding they so desperately need,” Scott adds. “The draft also bars the USDA from providing financial assistance to farmers in times of crisis.” The National Pork Producers Council applauded Thompson’s discussion draft, saying he listened to stakeholders before putting pen to paper. “He addressed the most pressing issues facing agriculture, and that’s how government should work,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. Among the key inclusions in Thompson’s draft are legislative solutions to the problems triggered by California’s Proposition 12 and language preserving the resources needed to protect the nation’s food supply through foreign animal disease prevention. ********************************************************************************** Winter Wheat Tour Final Results The Wheat Quality Council’s Hard Winter Wheat Tour wrapped up last week after three days of scouting 449 fields in Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma. Great American Crop Dot Com says the total weighted average yield for hard winter wheat was estimated at 46.5 bushels per acre. That’s over a 50 percent increase from 2023. Last year’s tour estimate was an even 30 bushels per acre. The official tour projection for total wheat production to get harvested in Kansas is 290.4 million bushels. This number is the average of estimated predictions from tour participants who gathered the information. Based on May 1 conditions, NASS predicted the crop to be slightly lower at 267.9 million bushels, with a yield of 38 bushels per acre. Many of those fields are still two to four weeks from harvest, so Kansas Wheat Dot Com says a lot can happen between now and then to affect yield. *********************************************************************************** Soybean Seed Costs Have Risen Sharply Since 1997 The Economic Research Service reports that the cost of soybean seeds per acre has risen more than 260 percent since 1997, while total soybean production costs have risen 157 percent. “In 1997, U.S. farmers spent an average of $19.72 per acre on soybean seeds,” the ERS report says. “That expense rose by more than 260 percent by 2023 when U.S. farmers were spending $71.03 per acre on soybean seeds.” The agency says much of the cost increases occurred between 1997 and 2010 when seed costs increased by 200 percent. Much of the cost increase for soybean seeds came about because of technological advancements, including changes to planting methods, seeding technologies, and seed quality. “In the mid-1990s, seed companies began selling genetically engineered soybean seeds to farmers,” the report adds. “Regional adoption rates in 1997 were between eight and 21 percent, and by 2002, rates jumped from 60 to 96 percent.” *********************************************************************************** Grants to Help Dairy Industry with Disease Preparedness The National Milk Producers Federation received funding from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program. The funding will help with two projects designed to advance cattle disease preparedness. The first award will expand on funding the federation received in 2021 to build the National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Biosecurity Program. The FARM program provides dairy farmers with the tools to protect the health of their herd and employees from everyday and foreign animal diseases. The second award will bring together stakeholders, including dairy cooperatives, milk haulers, milk testing labs, state and federal health officials, and National Animal Health Laboratory Network lab directors to conduct a gap analysis and create a report outlining current capabilities and guidance for the industry and policymakers to implement a foot-and-mouth disease diagnostic using bulk tank milk samples to provide herd-level disease surveillance in the event of an outbreak. *********************************************************************************** Clover Campaign Raises $1.3 Million for 4-H Youth Tractor Supply Company, in partnership with the National 4-H Council, announced that its Paper Clover Campaign raised over $1.3 million for 4-H youth nationwide, moving the fundraiser’s grand total to over $20 million. “We are filled with gratitude and admiration for how our local communities have shown up to help so many young people across America access 4-H programming,” says John Ordus, chief stores officer at Tractor Supply and a member of the National Council of 4-H board of trustees. “In the span of 13 years, we’ve achieved remarkable results, and we are on pace to reach another milestone even faster.” The biannual Paper Clover fundraiser invites customers to purchase a paper clover at checkout in any Tractor Supply stores nationwide or online at TractorSupply.com. Ninety percent of all donations directly support 4-H youth in the state in which they were made, while the remaining 10 percent support national 4-H programming.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 20, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Wheat, Weather and Cattle Reports 1. This Week's Weather: Several disturbances and systems will move through the country during the week and into the next weekend. This will keep the precipitation pattern active, especially through the Corn Belt. Systems will have slight access to Gulf of Mexico moisture, which can create heavy rain with thunderstorms in the active pattern. Temperatures will be up and down as systems go by but be favored to be cooler in the Northern Plains and Prairies and warmer across the South and East. 2. Wheat Tour Thoughts: We'll recap this past week's Hard Winter Wheat tour, with broader thoughts and reflections from Crops Editor Jason Jenkins. 3. Bird Flu Numbers Rise: We'll be continuing to report on the situation around highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), or bird flu, in U.S. dairy herds. 4. Cattle Bulls Back in Town: Despite chilling news on bird flu in dairy herds, we're continuing to watch how low herd numbers prop up prices. . 5. Economic Reports This Week: Monday, at 10 a.m. we'll see the latest Grain Inspections report. Milk Production hits at 2 p.m., followed by our coverage of the weekly USDA Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Tuesday, no reports. Wednesday, at 9 a.m., the Existing Home Sales report is released, and then at 9:30 a.m. the EIA Weekly Petroleum report, including ethanol production and inventory is live. At 11 a.m. is the release of the minutes of the Fed May FOMC meeting. At 2 pm, Broiler Hatchery numbers are available. Thursday reports start early with Grain Export Sales and Initial Jobless Claims out at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 8:45 a.m. S & P flash services and manufacturing PMI. At 9 a.m. is New Home Sales, then Livestock and Poultry Slaughter at 2 p.m.â?¯Friday reports start at 7:30 a.m. with Durable Goods Orders. At 9 a.m. the Consumer Sentiment and the Michigan Consumer Survey numbers drop. At 2 p.m. the latest Cattle on Feed report is out, then the 2:30 p.m. release of the CFTC Commitment of Traders report

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 20, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on weather events and the latest forecasts from several different crop areas around the world. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday and NASS's weekly Crop Progress report is at 3 p.m. Weather A system that brought scattered showers and severe storms to the Plains on Sunday is heading through the Midwest on Monday with much of the same. Another system is right on its heels, getting into the Plains Monday night with scattered showers and more severe weather potential.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 17, 2024 |

Stabenow Issues Statement on Farm Bill House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) and Senate Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) issued a statement on farm bill development. “House and Senate Democrats remain committed to passing a strong, bipartisan farm bill that strengthens the farm and family safety nets and invests in our rural communities,” they said. “America’s farmers, families, workers, and rural communities deserve the certainty of a five-year farm bill, and everyone knows it must be bipartisan to pass.” The Democratic leaders also say House Republicans are undermining this goal by proposing policies that split the bipartisan coalition that has always been the foundation of a successful farm bill. “We need a farm bill that holds the coalition together and upholds the historic tradition of providing food assistance to our most vulnerable Americans while keeping our commitment to farmers every day,” they also say. “We are willing to work on a truly bipartisan farm bill.” *********************************************************************************** Railroad Staffing Shortages Compromise Safety and Service Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) called on the six Class One railroads to address severe staffing shortages that are endangering workers, increasing the risk of derailments, and raising costs for farmers, businesses and consumers. She wants the railroads to provide an update on their long-term staffing strategies to get back on track. “Farmer, manufacturers, paper mills, energy producers, and many other industries are dependent on efficient and cost-effective freight rail,” Baldwin says. “Recently, service levels from Class One railroads experienced severe disruptions and certain metrics, particularly staffing, have yet to return to pre-COVID-19 levels.” That means much of the industry is reversing any progress it’s made so far. Since implementing a strategy to reduce costs by using longer trains and fewer staff, Class One railroads have reduced overall staff numbers by 30 percent. That’s compared to a three percent decrease in carloads and a one percent drop in tons of freight. ********************************************************************************** USB Announces Soy Innovation Challenge Winner The United Soybean Board is pleased to announce Clean Label Solution as this year’s Soy Innovation Challenge Grand Prize Winner. Through a proprietary fermentation process, Clean Label Solution delivers high-value beef and dairy cattle feed from soybeans and soybean meal. U.S. soybean farmers produce a high-quality and eco-friendly feed ingredient for the livestock supply chain, making soybeans a preferred choice for animal agriculture. The protein in soybeans provides a valuable source of nutrients for cattle, but they can’t consume the soy oil component. In trials of Clean Label Solution’s Bi-Pass Pro+ feed product, cattle could digest 30 percent of the soy protein that otherwise passes through the animal without use. This boosts milk and meat production while curbing methane emissions. It also offers a more sustainable ingredient that replaces the need for palm oil in cow feed. The Soy Checkoff is proud to grant Clean Label Solution with a $75,000 prize. *********************************************************************************** Beef Organizations Concerned About Imports Leaders of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association along with their Canadian and Mexican counterparts signed a joint statement pledging to work together on a number of issues. The three organizations will continue advocating for greater oversight of emerging lab-grown proteins, protecting cattle from animal diseases, and promoting the sustainability of the cattle industry. “The signing of this joint statement is an important step that unites cattle producers across North America and around the world to promote and protect efficient cattle production,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). The three organizations also signed a letter to the U.S., Mexican, and Canadian governments asking them to re-engage in opening markets for beef exports and provide stronger science-based oversight of beef imports. Unfortunately, the three governments have expanded market access for beef imports while providing fewer opportunities for beef exports. Continuing this will only put North American cattle producers at a competitive disadvantage. *********************************************************************************** AEM Pleased With Turnout on the National Mall The Association of Equipment Manufacturers were pleased with this year’s Celebration of Modern Agriculture on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The event facilitated an array of substantial policy discussions with the agency officials who directly impact regulations critical to the equipment industry. More than 15,000 people attended the three-day event, which featured combine harvesters, milking equipment, sprayers, planters, irrigation equipment, and tractors of all sizes. “We had equipment and experts on-site to discuss PFAS, emissions, and autonomy with the heads of divisions at EPA and the Labor Department who oversee those issues,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “We dove into many topics because engagement like that doesn’t happen every day.” Nick Tindall, AEM Senior Director of Regulatory Affairs, says the interactions went further than political appointees. “Scores of career staff swarmed our exhibits,” Tindall says. “Those are the people who will impact regulations for decades to come.” *********************************************************************************** Farm Bill Lobbying Exceeds $500 Million A new report from The Hill says that pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and agriculture interests have combined to spend over $400 million lobbying Congress on a new farm bill. The Union for Concerned Scientists says that’s more than four times the amount of money spent by the public sector and civil society. The report also found that between 2019 and 2023, giant agribusinesses, food and agriculture industry associations, and other interest groups reported a combined $523 million in federal lobby expenditures on disclosure reports that listed ‘farm bill’ among the specific lobbying issues. “Lobbying by the agribusiness sector has steadily increased,” the report says. “In just the last five years, the agribusiness sector’s annual lobbying expenditures have risen 22 percent, totaling more on federal lobbying than the oil and gas industry and the defense sector.” Top lobbying spenders included the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the American Farm Bureau Federation, and Koch Industries.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 17, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. report of leading economic indicators for April is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Friday. Traders continue to keep watch on the latest weather forecasts in several major crop regions. Weather A storm system, though pretty weak, continues to move east of the Mississippi River with scattered showers and thunderstorms for Friday. Pockets of heavy rain and severe weather across the Gulf Coast are also expected for Friday. Another system is wrapping up in the Canadian Prairies with scattered showers there and into the Northern Plains, with a risk of severe storms there as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 16, 2024 |

Grocery Prices Drop in April The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the food price index was unchanged in April after increasing 0.1 percent in March. The index for food at home decreased 0.2 percent during the month. Three of the six major grocery store food group indexes decreased in April, while the remaining three had price increases. The price index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs decreased by 0.7 percent in April, led by a 7.3 percent decline in the egg index. The fruits and vegetables index declined 0.8 percent over the month. The index for cereals and bakery products increased 0.6 percent in April. The index for other food at home and the index for dairy and related products both increased 0.1 percent during the month. The food away from home index rose 0.3 percent in April, as it did in March. The food-at-home index rose 1.1 percent during the past 12 months. *********************************************************************************** Groups Ask Treasury for Prompt 45Z Credit Guidance Twenty-five trade associations representing producers, feedstock providers, blenders, consumers, and retailers of low-carbon biofuels sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. They’re asking the Treasury Department to finalize and publish guidance for the 45Z Clean Fuels Production Credit as soon as possible. The new credit is designed to incentivize domestic production of low-carbon fuels on a technology-neutral basis. The value of the credit is based on the life-cycle greenhouse gas emission score of each fuel. “With the credit set to take effect on January 1, 2025, our member companies may face significant headwinds and business risks if this guidance isn’t published promptly,” the letter says. “Any extended delays in publishing the guidance may disrupt project timelines, impede capital flows, and threaten existing production and demand for low carbon renewable fuels.” Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs for Clean Fuels Alliance America, says the need for policy certainty is urgent. ********************************************************************************** USDA Easing Transition to Organic Production Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced new programs, partnerships, grant awards, and an additional $10 million in funding to expand markets for organic products and help producers transition to organic production. These programs will support the development of new and better markets for domestic organic products, provide hands-on training to producers making the transition to organic production, and ease the financial burden of obtaining organic certification. “Offsetting the costs for organic transition helps more farmers realize higher margins sooner while giving consumers more access to high-demand organic products,” Vilsack says. “The partnerships and technical support we offer will ease the transition for producers, and the investments in grant projects we’re announcing will reduce the organic industry’s reliance on imports, lower cost barriers for businesses transitioning to organic, and address crucial infrastructure needs.” USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service awarded approximately $24.8 million for 23 grant projects through its Organic Market Development Grant Program. *********************************************************************************** Grassley Leads Delegation in Asking for Federal Aid Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) led the state’s delegation in calling on USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to swiftly approve Iowa’s request for federal assistance. Governor Kim Reynolds and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig made the request on behalf of farmers hit by severe storms and tornadoes last month. Reynolds and Naig are seeking immediate issuance of a USDA Secretarial Designation authorizing the Farm Service Agency disaster programs, including the Farm Loans Program and the Emergency Assistance for Livestock Program. The USDA designation would assist farmers in eight counties while recovering from April’s storms. “We respectfully ask that you activate any and all eligible assistance for the affected eight counties as a result of severe storms, including 24 tornadoes that impacted Iowa on April 26-27,” the letter says. “A significant emergency response was needed as a result of these severe storms that damaged grain bins and farm equipment.” *********************************************************************************** Renewable Diesel Glut His Refiner Profits U.S. fuel makers recently rushed to redo their production plants and make them capable of producing renewable diesel. Reuters says that rush has created an excess supply of the low-emissions biofuel that’s shrinking refiner profit margins and threatening to slow or halt the development of what’s still a young industry. Turmoil in the renewable diesel and biodiesel sector could become a significant roadblock to future investments in biofuels. The U.S. Energy Information Administration says that could potentially stall the transition away from fossil fuels. There’s so much supply available that some producers have shut down plants this year, and industry stakeholders say more are likely to go out of business before the end of 2024. U.S. renewable diesel production capacity nearly quadrupled following COVID-19 from 79 million gallons a year in 2021 to three billion gallons by 2023 as refiners were seeking ways to survive the transition away from petroleum-based products. *********************************************************************************** Retaliation Fears After Administration Increases Chinese Tariffs President Biden increased tariffs on Chinese goods under Section 301 of 1974’s Trade Act. The hike goes on $18 billion worth of imports from China, prompting significant concerns that China might impose tariffs on the U.S. agricultural products that the Asian nation imports. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai says the move is a response to China’s “unfair and anticompetitive economic practices.” Tariffs are going up on critical manufacturing and mining sectors, including steel, aluminum, semiconductors, electric vehicles, batteries, solar cells, and certain critical minerals. National Journal notes that Biden “doubled down” on former President Trump’s tariff policies, keeping the Trump tariffs in force and imposing even more in an effort to keep China from dominating the emerging clean-energy global market. CNN says China has vowed to “resolutely defend its interests” because of the new U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports and says these barriers would affect the two countries’ “wider relationship.”

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 16, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, April U.S. housing starts and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. A report on U.S. industrial production is set for 8:15 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. At 2 p.m., USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlooks will be released. Weather A system is stretched out from the Upper Midwest down through Texas and will proceed slowly eastward for Thursday. While thunderstorms will be possible in the Great Lakes and Mid-Mississippi Valley, the best chances for severe storms will occur across Texas. Heavy rain will accompany the thunderstorms, which could produce flooding there and eastward across the Gulf Coast going through Thursday night. Another system has entered the Canadian Prairies and will be active there and the Northern Plains with scattered showers.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 15, 2024 |

Legislators Want $1.2 Billion for Conservation Funding Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Chris Coons (D-DEL), along with 24 of their Senate colleagues, called on the Senate Appropriations Committee to fully fund agricultural conservation programs in the FY 2025 funding bill. “Land-based mitigation measures in agriculture, forestry, and other land use sectors represent some of the most important options currently available for large-scale emissions reductions and the removal and storage of carbon dioxide at scale,” the senators wrote in a letter to Appropriations Committee leadership. “We need strong investments in USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation staff and resources to support farmers, ranchers, and foresters to help mitigate and adapt to climate change.” The senators highlighted the success of ag conservation programs like EQIP, the Conservation Stewardship Program, and many others. They want full farm bill funding for these programs that provide technical and planning assistance to farmers and help producers across the country manage their working lands more sustainably. *********************************************************************************** Organic Posts Record Sales in 2023 U.S. sales of certified organic products approached $70 billion in 2023, a new record for the sector. Dollar sales for the American organic marketplace hit $69.7 billion last year, up 3.4 percent. That’s according to the 2024 Organic Industry Survey released this week by the Organic Trade Association. Despite stubborn price inflation seen throughout retail stores, consumers still looked for the USDA Organic label in good numbers. The organic marketplace recalibrated its supply chain and reconciled the cost of doing business in part with increased retail pricing. Produce held its spot as the largest organic category in 2023, continuing to be the primary point of entry for consumers into the organic market. In 2023, the produce category grew by 2.6 percent to $20.5 billion. Top sellers in the organic produce section were avocados, berries, apples, carrots, and pre-packaged salads. The second biggest category was grocery sales at $15.4 billion. ********************************************************************************** CropLife American Applauds Miscellaneous Tariff Bill CropLife America applauds the introduction of the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill sponsored by House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chair, Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE). The bill supports manufacturers, farmers, consumers, and communities by reducing or eliminating tariffs, on a temporary basis, on products that aren’t available in the U.S. The previous MTB expired in December 2020, resulting in businesses and their customers paying more than $1.5 billion in anticompetitive tariffs, equal to $1.3 million per day. That money should and can be invested in job creation and innovation. “CLA is appreciative of Representative Smith’s leadership in this first step to re-establish an MTB process that’s fully retroactive,” says Alexandra Dunn, CLA president and CEO. “This allows for investments to support research and development of the important innovations and technology farmers need to grow the world’s food, fiber, fuel, and other pesticides needed to keep our communities safe from pests and diseases.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing $250 Million to Reduce Wildfire Risk Deputy USDA Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small announced that $250 million is available to help at-risk communities protect homes, businesses, and infrastructures from catastrophic wildfires. The announcement through the Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program will fund 158 projects to help communities in 31 states, two territories, and 11 tribes to develop community wildfire protection plans, which include removing overgrown vegetation that can fuel fires that threaten lives, livelihoods, and resources. Last year, more than two million Americans were displaced by extreme weather events, including wildfires. Now in its second year, the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program helps communities in the wildland-urban interface maintain resilient landscapes, create fire-adapted communities, and ensure safe, effective wildfire response. Those are all goals unified under the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy and aligned with the objectives of the National Climate Resilience Framework. Examples include almost $10 million to Oklahoma’s Cherokee Nation to improve fire mitigation. *********************************************************************************** Sugarbeet Farmers Want Sugar Policy Support Two sugarbeet farmers recently took to the pages of their home state papers to praise U.S. sugar policy for helping keep the food supply secure and supporting their family farms. They said that sugar policy must be preserved and strengthened in the next farm bill. Colorado farmer Paul Schlagel (SHLAY-gel) grows sugar beets in Boulder County, Colorado. He wrote an op-ed piece saying the economic pressures and significant cost increases facing farmers require a stronger farm safety net. “It’s more important than ever that we have the strongest safety net possible to sustain current sugar production levels and maintain our national food security,” Schlagel wrote. “Without a strong safety net, family farms like mine would be driven out of business and countless jobs eliminated.” Montana farmer Shane Strecker says the closure of Sidney Sugars in Montana and the resulting economic and job losses were warning signs against weakening the no-cost U.S. sugar policy. *********************************************************************************** Reminders For Storing Planters When Finished There’s a lot of other work to be done when planting finishes. The temptation may be to let it sit there until next season. Planter experts say that could mean a risk of problems next spring. “For your planter to run at peak performance, efficiency, and accuracy, what you do now to properly store it is just as important, if not more important, than how you prepare for planting next spring,” says Brad Niensteadt, lead product specialist with Kinze (KIN-zee). He offered a checklist, which includes storing the planter in a sheltered area if possible. Moisture and planters are not a good combination, plus the trade-in value is much better if you keep it inside. Remove all dirt and trash wrapped on sprockets or shafts. Any residue will draw moisture and cause corrosion. Make sure you clean drive chains and coat them with rust-preventative spray or remove and submerge them in oil.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 15, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. consumer price index for April will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest weather forecasts, checking for planting opportunities in the U.S. Weather Two storms continue their slow march through the country as a lead one over the East Coast continues to produce showers there and the far eastern Corn Belt. Meanwhile, a second one that moved into the Plains on Tuesday slowly drifts eastward with scattered showers and thunderstorms for the Western Corn Belt as well. Some severe weather will be possible out of Both storms, with the higher likelihood for strong winds and hail in the southwestern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 14, 2024 |

Solar Storm Knocks Out GPS During Planting While a solar storm brought the aurora borealis to a large part of the U.S., it also played havoc with farmers in the middle of spring planting. 404 Media says the storm broke critical GPS and precision farming abilities in tractors and agricultural equipment at a time when they’re especially important. These outages forced many farmers to momentarily bring their planting to a stop. One chain of John Deere dealerships gave farmers a heads-up that some of the systems in their tractors were “extremely compromised.” They said farmers planting crops while the precision equipment was compromised may face problems when they go to harvest. Nebraska farmer Kevin Kennedy told 404 Media that all of his tractors were sitting at the ends of each field and shut down because of the solar storm. Dennis Wolf of South Dakota said his equipment showed the tractor going in circles and the auto steer didn’t work. *********************************************************************************** Key State in Brazil Still Battling Intense Flooding Rio Grande (GRAN-day) do Sul, one of the biggest soy and rice producers in Brazil continues to experience intense flooding. France 24 Dot Com says the region had been counting on a record harvest of over 22 million tons of soybeans, but extreme weather could affect five million tons of the harvest. Before the rain began, a quarter of the soybean fields were left to be harvested. Nilvo Bosa (BO-sah), president of a small farmer cooperative, says, “In a year, we have suffered drought and three floods, including this one, which reached levels we’ve never seen before.” He also says farmers in Rio Grande do Sul cannot access their fields at all because they are under 13 to 16 feet of water. About 15 percent of Brazil’s rice was waiting to get harvested before the floods came, and the government has already announced plans to import rice to counter any potential shortfall. ********************************************************************************** Four-Wheel-Drive Tractor Sales Higher in April U.S. sales of four-wheel-drive tractors increased 24 percent in April compared to 2023. That’s according to new data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Also, U.S. four-wheel-drive tractor sales are up 1.9 percent year-to-date. Unit sales of 100-plus horsepower tractors in April increased by 7.2 percent compared to last year, which followed a March jump of 3.2 percent. Combine sales also increased in April, growing 6.7 percent compared to 2023. “The modest growth in four-wheel-drive tractor sales in April is an indicator of the resilience of the overall agricultural industry,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “The smaller horsepower market continues to be a challenge, but we remain optimistic for the long-term strength of the ag equipment market.” Combine sales in Canada shot 73.5 percent higher in April compared to last year and are 17.7 percent higher to date in 2024. Canadian four-wheel-drive tractors grew 7.2 percent compared to 2023. *********************************************************************************** House Ag Chair Releases Detailed Farm Bill Proposal House Ag Committee Chair G.T. Thompson (R-PA) released a more detailed, title-by-title overview of his farm bill proposal. The National Sorghum Producers say the chairman has been consistent in his messaging that the farm bill must be highly effective for producers and, by any measure, his framework makes some strides on behalf of America’s farm and ranch families. The full overview includes many key provisions like increasing the statutory reference prices by 10 to 20 percent for all covered commodities in Title 1. His proposal increases the Agricultural Risk Coverage guarantee to 90 percent of the benchmark revenue and expands the maximum payment band to 12.5 percent for both ARC-IC and ARC-CO. It also increases marketing loan rates for most commodities. National Sorghum Producers and other organizations will sort through the details during the next week. A full draft could come next week, and Thompson has markup scheduled for May 23. *********************************************************************************** Milk Producers Pleased with Progress in D.C. Gregg Doud, president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, commended House Ag Chair G.T. Thompson for including language in the House farm bill regarding the Class 1 mover. Thompson’s proposal would restore the previous “higher of” Class 1 Mover Formula. The prior mover served well for decades, while the current mover has cost farmers more than $1 billion in Class 1 skim milk revenue and undermined orderly milk marketing. “We are also grateful for the inclusion of language to require mandatory manufacturing plant cost studies to help inform future discussions on make allowances,” Doud says. The Federation also thanked Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and federal leadership for offering assistance to dairy producers as they meet the challenges of H5N1 in dairy cattle. “We look forward to collaborating with USDA and other agencies as we monitor and contain this outbreak and do what we can to help our farmers,” Doud adds. *********************************************************************************** Alabama Bans Cultured Meat Alabama is now the second state in the nation to ban the sale of cultured meat. Last week, Governor Kay Ivey signed SB23 into law, making the manufacture, sale, or distribution of food products produced from cultured animal cells a Class C misdemeanor as of October 1. According to the bill, civil penalties could range from $100 for a Class 2 violation up to $10,000 for a Class 5 violation for food sales establishments that violate the provisions of the bill. However, Feedstuffs says the legislation doesn’t prevent any federal institution of higher education or a person who’s partnered with a governmental entity or higher educational institution from conducting research in Alabama regarding the production of cultivated food products. Alabama’s ban follows Florida’s legal precedent taken earlier this month. Florida governor Ron DeSantis says his state will increase meat production and encourage residents to consume 100 percent real beef.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 14, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's producer price index for April will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, another clue for Fed policy. Brazil's crop agency, Conab, is expected to release new estimates for Brazil's corn and soybean production early Tuesday. Weather A system is slowly moving through the Ohio Valley Tuesday morning and will bring areas of showers and thunderstorms east of the Mississippi River. Another system is moving into the Northern Plains that will get some showers going there but also a bit farther south in the Central Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 13, 2024 |

May WASDE Includes An initial U.S. Crop Assessment The May World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates report includes USDA’s first assessment of domestic and international supply and demand prospects. The 2024-2025 U.S. corn outlook calls for larger supplies, greater domestic use and exports, and higher ending stocks. The corn crop is projected at 14.9 billion bushels, down three percent from last year. The yield projection is 181 bushels per acre. Total corn supplies are forecast at 16.9 billion bushels. The season-average farm price is down 25 cents to $4.40. The soybean outlook is for higher supplies, crush, exports, and ending stocks. The crop is projected at 4.45 billion bushels and ending stocks at 4.8 billion bushels, up by eight percent. The season-average price is forecast at $11.20 a bushel, down from $12.55 last year. The wheat forecast is 1.85 billion bushels, up three percent from 2023. Yield will be 48.9 bushels, and the season average price is $6 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** Winter Wheat Production Forecast is Up Two Percent U.S. farmers are expected to produce 1.28 billion bushels of winter wheat this year, according to the Crop Production Report released last week by USDA’s Natural Agricultural Statistics Service. In the first winter wheat production forecast for NASS, production is expected to increase by two percent from last year. As of May 1, the U.S. yield is expected to average 50.7 bushels per acre, up by 0.1 bushels from last year’s average of 50.6 bushels per acre. Hard Red Winter Wheat production is forecast at 705 million bushels, up 17 percent from a year ago. Soft Red Winter Wheat, at 344 million bushels, is expected to decrease by 23 percent from 2023. White Winter Wheat is forecast at 229 million bushels, up 16 percent from last year. Of the White Winter Wheat production, 17.3 million bushels are Hard White, and 211 million bushels are Soft White. NASS surveyed approximately 8,300 producers. ********************************************************************************** Bill Would Strengthen Crop Insurance Brad Finstad (R-MN) and Michelle Fischbach (R-MN) introduced the Federal Agriculture Risk Management Enhancement and Resilience Act into the House last week. The FARMER Act is intended to strengthen crop insurance and make higher levels of coverage more affordable for producers. The Act would increase premium support for higher levels of crop insurance coverage, which will enhance affordability and reduce the need for ad-hoc disaster assistance. It would improve the Supplemental Coverage Option by increasing premium support and expanding the coverage level, providing producers with an additional level of protection. The legislation would direct the Risk Management Agency to conduct a study to improve the effectiveness of SCO in large counties. “Farming is one of the most honorable professions in our country,” says Finstad. “Crop insurance is their number one risk management tool, providing certainty they need to feed the world.” Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Get Good Money for Leasing to Solar Companies Solar energy is gaining traction across the country, and Farm Journal says it’s surprising how much solar companies pay farmers to lease their ground. A survey of farmers shows the majority are being offered more than $1,000 per acre by companies for solar leasing, and that possibly could drive up the price of future cash rental rates. The Purdue University Ag Economy Barometer recently asked how many farmers had engaged with companies about leasing land for solar installation. “It was 19 percent who said they’ve had discussions, which is a big percentage of respondents who’ve had those conversations,” says Purdue economist Michael Langemeier. “That doesn’t mean they’ve signed up, but they’ve actually been approached about it.” The bigger surprise may be the rates companies offered farmers, including 58 percent who say the rates were over $1,000 per acre. Thirty percent say they were offered between $1,000 to $1,250 an acre. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeks Partnership Proposals on CRP Benefits The USDA strongly encourages eligible conservation partners to submit proposals for $10 million in available funds to research the Conservation Reserve Program’s environmental benefits. CRP is one of the world’s largest voluntary conservation programs with an established track record of preserving topsoil, sequestering carbon, reducing nitrogen runoff, and providing healthy wildlife habitat. Funding this research with partners outside of USDA will enable the Farm Service Agency, the agency responsible for administering CRP to best focus the program’s future functionality and goals based on the collective research results. Proposals for funding consideration are due June 7, 2024. Through the CRP Monitoring, Assessment, and Evaluation Program, FSA works with partners to study the benefits of the various ways CRP is implemented. USDA is seeking proposals for projects to survey, sample, and measure ecosystem benefits, citizen science, and in general, evaluate the overall impacts of CRP. All interested organizations are encouraged to apply. *********************************************************************************** USGC Expanding Opportunities in Established Asian Markets The U.S. Grains Council recently organized marketing conferences promoting U.S. corn fermented protein (CFP) and dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) in South Korea and Taiwan. Both countries are already important trade partners for U.S. agriculture but still have significant opportunities for growth in CFP and DDGS exports through increasing interest from the animal feed and aquaculture industries in the region. “Taiwanese importers and U.S. producers enjoy a relationship resulting in billions of dollars in sales each year,” says USGC Taiwan Director Michael Lu. “The Council and its partners are working to find avenues to new buyers and introduce different uses to consumers to build an even stronger bond between the U.S. and Taiwanese industries.” Opportunities continue developing in South Korea, one of the top seafood-consuming countries in the world, and its aquaculture industry is expanding to meet that demand. For more information about USGC’s work in Asia, go to grains.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 13, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and any news from the Middle East or pertaining to Russia's wheat crop. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT. NASS's weekly Crop Progress report is set for 3 p.m. Weather A storm system will bring scattered showers across much of the Corn Belt on Monday. Some pockets of heavy rain will develop, but light to moderate rain is most likely. That is not so for the Gulf Coast which will see areas of heavy rain and severe weather throughout the day. Another system is bringing showers to the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies as well as our active pattern continues.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 10, 2024 |

New Joint Regulatory Plan for Biotechnology The Environmental Protection Agency, the Food and Drug Administration, and USDA have developed a plan to update, streamline, and clarify their regulations and oversight mechanisms for biotechnology products. The joint plan is intended to ensure public confidence in the biotechnology regulatory system and improve its transparency, predictability, coordination, and efficiency. The new plan incorporates processes and timelines to implement regulatory reform, such as identifying guidance and regulations to update, streamline, clarify, and identify the potential need for new guidance or regulations. The major areas of biotechnology product regulation include modified plants, animals, and microorganisms, along with human drugs, biologics, medical devices, and cross-cutting issues. The three agencies intend to implement their joint efforts like clarifying and streamlining regulatory oversight for genetically engineered plants, animals, and microorganisms. They will also update and expand their information sharing through a Memorandum of Understanding to improve and broaden communication and coordination oversight of modified microbes. *********************************************************************************** Age of U.S. Farmers Still Concerning The average age of U.S. farmers remains a concerning topic. Farmdoc Daily says the 2022 Census of Agriculture confirms that U.S. farmers continue getting older. However, America’s farmers are also becoming younger relative to the U.S. population. Relative to the rest of the population, the farmers have become slightly younger over the last 60 years. Since 1960, farmers’ ages have increased 7.6 years while the median age of the U.S. population has increased 8.8 years. The average age of the U.S. farmer is 58.1 years as of the 2022 Census. The share of farmers between 45 and 64 was lower in the 2022 versus the 2017 Census of Ag. In contrast, the shares of people less than 45 and over 65 increased from 19 to 22 percent and from 34 to 39 percent, respectively. In the 2022 Census, 85 percent of farmers older than 65 reported being involved in day-to-day farming decisions. *********************************************************************************** U.S., Mexico Dairy Industries to Collaborate Leading dairy representatives from the U.S. and Mexico met this week to renew their commitment to collaborate and advocate for mutually beneficial dairy policies. This was the sixth meeting between top U.S. and Mexico dairy organizations since 2016. The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council steered the U.S. delegation, which consisted of more than 14 member companies, farmer representatives, and NMPF and USDEC staff. “Our two industries share so many similar challenges that call for us to work together,” says Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. “Mexico is and will continue to be a valuable partner for U.S. dairy, and these meetings will help strengthen those ties and set the dairy sectors in both countries up for continued success.” The two sides signed several agreements, including those to preserve, facilitate, and improve trade and grow consumption in both countries to benefit consumers and the industries. *********************************************************************************** Johnson Introduces Bill to Streamline Broadband Installation Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) introduced legislation to streamline the permitting process for broadband infrastructure projects. The FOREST Act is intended to cut down on bureaucratic red tape to improve broadband access in rural America. “Regulations and red tape are making it harder for us to deploy broadband in rural America," Johnson says. "My bill will reduce the unnecessary red tape so we can get more and better service across our country.” The lengthy permitting process on federal lands has prevented the government from improving broadband access, even though billions of dollars are available to improve broadband deployment. The FOREST Act expedites broadband projects in places where the government has already conducted the appropriate environmental and historical preservation reviews. “We appreciate Representative Johnson’s leadership on this bill to ensure broadband providers can efficiently and responsibly complete projects on federal lands,” says Brandon Heiner, Senior VP of Government Affairs for U.S. Telecom. *********************************************************************************** 12,000 People Visit Ag on the Mall The Association of Equipment Manufacturers partnered with other ag industry stakeholders to showcase American agriculture at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. It was a chance to show the public how farmers feed and fuel the world while protecting the environment for future generations. More than 12,000 people came to the National Mall for the second Celebration of Modern Agriculture. The three-day event featured combine harvesters, milking equipment, sprayers, planters, irrigation equipment, and tractors of all sizes. The public also saw interactive and hands-on exhibits by grower groups and agriculture innovators. This year’s theme was “The Future of Food and Farming.” The showcase of the event focused on the advances driving American agriculture’s long history of producing more while reducing its environmental footprint. “The latest agricultural innovations are much more than just tractors – these technologies are powering a sustainable future,” says Megan Tanel, President of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. *********************************************************************************** The World Pork Expo Draws Nearer The National Pork Producers Council hosts the 2024 World Pork Expo June 5-6 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. The NPPC invites those attending the event to engage with the latest insights across all facets of the pork industry. This year, the event features a new two-day schedule and the return of the world’s largest pork-specific trade show. Other highlights include the return of free educational seminars and the introduction of the Young Pork Associates Issues Meet. “In a constantly changing industry like ours, it’s important to stay informed and innovative,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. “This is especially true as we welcome young people eager to make a difference, and the Expo is all about improving knowledge for all professionals and supporting young talent in the industry.” The Young Pork Advocates Issues Meet is a speaking event for young people passionate about the pork industry’s future.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 10, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The University of Michigan's early index of consumer sentiment for May is set for 10 a.m. CDT. USDA's WASDE report and NASS's Crop Production report for winter wheat will be out at 11 a.m. CDT, followed by DTN's 12:30 p.m. WASDE webinar. The WASDE report will include estimates for the new 2024-25 season. Weather The final push of a system will move through eastern areas Friday with scattered showers and thunderstorms, with some severe weather possible across the far Southeast. Other isolated showers will pop up around the northern Mississippi Valley and southern Texas; otherwise, many areas will be mild and dry Friday, a break from the heavy rain and severe weather we have seen this week.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 9, 2024 |

Global Pork Production Returning to Profitability A recent Rabobank report says the global pork industry is starting to shift as sow herd numbers begin to plateau after declining for some time. The stabilization is a result of better-than-expected consumption trends coupled with reduced production costs across most regions. These factors are contributing to a more optimistic outlook for hog prices and are encouraging producers to consider rebuilding their herds. “The industry’s improved supply-demand balance has led to a contraction slowdown,” says Christine McCracken, senior animal protein analyst with Rabobank. The U.S., Canada, and China are seeing healthier herds, which means more hogs are available. Higher global stocks of grains and oilseeds have resulted in lower feed costs for producers, which is a beneficial boost for the industry. Despite a drop in some key Asian markets’ consumption, pork is maintaining its position as a cost-effective protein choice for worldwide consumers, especially in light of high beef prices. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Floods Hit Food Silos, Disrupt Shipping Heavy flooding in southern Brazil has hit food storage facilities in lower areas and hampered producers’ ability to get grain shipped to ports. Port News says that’s jeopardizing the nation’s exports and causing significant trouble for the economy in Rio Grande (GRAHN-day) do Sul, a state that produces a lot of soy, rice, wheat, and meat. ANEC, an association representing global grain exporters, says access to the Port of Rio Grande has been disrupted because a local rail line stopped operating. The group that represents firms like Cargill and Bunge also cited road blockades forcing grain trucks to travel an extra 250 miles through alternative routes to reach the port, which increases freight costs. The unprecedented event has left entire towns under water and destroyed critical infrastructure in the capital and rural areas while also killing livestock and catching farmers in the final stages of their corn and soybean harvests. *********************************************************************************** FDA Hosting Webinar on Ag Water Final Rule The Food and Drug Administration published a rule replacing the pre-harvest water quality criteria and testing requirements set in 2015. The new rule adopts a systems-based approach to identify and mitigate potential contamination risks. On May 20 from 1-2 P.M. (ET), the FDA will hold an information webinar about the recently published Agricultural Water Final Rule. The webinar will last an hour, and FDA will provide an overview of the final rule and answer pre-submitted questions and live Q and A. Under the new rule, produce farmers must conduct annual agricultural water assessments, considering factors like water system, water use practices, crop characteristics, environmental conditions, and potential impacts from nearby land. Based on the assessments, farmers must then implement mitigation steps if contamination risks are identified. These requirements apply to all produce farmers except those growing sprouts. Reaction to the new rule has been mixed. For more information, go to fda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Making Fewer Changes Low commodity prices, high input costs, and disappointing 2023 growing season results are influencing farmer decisions in 2024. The “2024 Farmer Speaks” survey reveals that farmers are taking a more conservative approach in their decision-making. They’re making fewer changes overall, driven by concerns about short-term prospects and long-term finances. Fertilizer remains the primary focus for adjustments despite more moderate prices. Fifty-two percent of growers purchased fertilizer early, marking a decrease of seven percent from last year’s record high. Farmers say their intent to buy more ag equipment has dropped by 24 percent in one year. Farmers are also switching crop protection products far less than ever before. Survey respondents indicate they’re using the same products as last year or are undecided. Thirty-six percent of farmers reported purchasing seeds early, anticipating possible shortages in 2024. Approximately half of the farmers are actively evaluating options or have already signed carbon credit contracts. *********************************************************************************** Meat Institute Updates Animal Handling Guidelines To help drive the meat industry forward, the Meat Institute has updated its Animal Handling Guidelines and Animal Welfare Audit. The changes include scores for each criterion, allowing the Institute’s members to set goals. The Meat Institute also released a new bison animal welfare audit. The guidelines and audit were authored by the Meat Institute’s Animal Welfare Committee and Colorado State University Professor Temple Grandin. “The Meat Institute has a long-standing commitment to animal welfare,” says Julie Anna Potts, AMI CEO. “Through these updated guidelines, and as part of the Protein PACT, Meat Institute companies continue to advance high standards of animal care.” The Meat Institute will highlight the updated guidelines and audit changes next week in Kansas City. AMI Conference topics will include improving animal welfare throughout the supply chain and prioritizing safe animal handling. The Institute is also publishing stunning and body condition scoring guidance for meat and poultry companies. *********************************************************************************** USDA Looking for Committee Members The USDA is seeking nominations for four positions on the Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production. USDA will accept nominations until July 7. The 12-member Committee, which first convened in 2022, is part of USDA’s efforts to increase support for urban agriculture and innovative production. Committee members provide input on policy development and help identify barriers to urban agriculture as USDA works to promote urban farming and the economic opportunities it provides across the country. “The Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Committee has already submitted more than a dozen recommendations to the Ag Secretary and continues to provide direct feedback to USDA about how to better serve producers and communities,” says Terry Cosby, Chief of USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. “New members will provide valuable input on innovative production, higher education, the supply chain, and urban farming to guide our programs and policies.” More information is at usda.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 9, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be 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 natural gas storage report follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to watch over the latest weather forecasts and the possibility of another Israeli offensive into a Hamas stronghold. Weather A system that produced significant severe weather in Mid-South on Wednesday is pushing a front toward the Gulf and East Coasts, which will see the threats continue for Thursday. All modes of severe weather will be possible. A stretched-out trough will maintain some showers from the Central Plains through the Midwest as well as provide some cooler temperatures.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 8, 2024 |

Farmer Sentiment at Lowest Level Since 2022 Farmer sentiment dropped sharply in April, as indicated by the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. It fell 15 points to an April reading of 99. Both of the subindexes of the barometer also dropped. The Current Conditions Index dropped 18 points to 83, while the Future Expectations Index fell by 14 points to 106. April marked the lowest reading since June 2022. The sentiment drop was driven by worries regarding the current financial situation on producers’ farms and anticipated financial challenges in the coming year. The decline was also driven by broader concerns about financial performance and farmland values. The Farm Financial Performance index declined to 76 in April, a seven-point drop from the previous month. Only 24 percent of the respondents anticipate interest rates rising over the next year, down from 32 percent from March. Fewer farmers say they expect to see farmland values rise over the next year. *********************************************************************************** Texas Wildfire Loss is Worth $123 Million The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service economists project the Panhandle wildfires caused $123 million in preliminary agricultural losses, making it the costliest on record. The wildfires began on February 26 and burned 1.2 million acres, making it the largest wildfire in Texas history. “The recovery process will be ongoing, and we’ll continue to provide support,” says Rick Avery, AgriLife Extension Director. The losses include more than 12,000 dead cattle, lost grazing values, and fence repair costs, according to economists. The initial loss estimates span from February through mid-March. Other estimates include $68.7 million lost in ranch infrastructure, fences, barns, corrals, well pump motors, windmills, and stocks of hay or feed. They estimate $26 million lost in long-term grazing in fire-damaged pastures and range and short-term emergency feeding costs. Producers lost an estimated $27 million worth of cattle, which includes both cattle and estimated losses of this season’s calf crop. *********************************************************************************** USDA Asked to Restore Canceled NASS Reports Representative Jim Costa (D-CA) and Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) led 70 colleagues in sending a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack regarding the National Agricultural Statistics Service. The officials want him to reverse the USDA’s decision to cancel or discontinue several NASS reports. The July Cattle Report, the Cotton Objective Yield Survey, and County Estimates for Crops and Livestock reports provide farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers with transparent livestock, grain, and fiber market insights as they position themselves to effectively manage risk and build supply and demand estimates, which help determine commodity sourcing plans to remain operational. “The reports slated for discontinuation are highly valuable to the entire U.S. agricultural sector, and particularly for cattle, cotton, and grain,” the lawmakers say in the letter. “Relatedly, the reports offer a great deal of transparency and market anticipation for the entire ag sector.” The letter is supported by multiple American agricultural organizations. *********************************************************************************** Construction Begins on $106 Million Precision Ag Research Center Construction of the National Center for Resilient and Regenerative Precision Agriculture at Nebraska Innovation Campus launched with a ceremonial turning of dirt on May 6. The state-of-the-art research center is a partnership between the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and the Nebraska Innovation Campus. The Center will focus on the challenges and opportunities in agricultural innovation for the 21st century. The new center will be a $160 million USDA laboratory. It’s expected to double the USDA’s science and support staff presence at the University of Nebraska. The new greenhouse space in the center will allow ARS to perform research on wheat, barley, sorghum, forage and bioenergy grasses, and other crops. The complex will also function as a hub for multidisciplinary experts, including scientists and engineers who will collaborate with industry and producers to improve water and food security, increase the resilience of the agricultural landscape, and enhance agricultural profitability. *********************************************************************************** Safety During Severe Weather Valley View Vet Supply in Kansas wants you to stay safe on the farm during severe weather. One of the first steps they recommend is to download a trusted weather app. That helps you stay informed and ahead of a possible severe storm. If you have multiple farms or family and friends in other towns, set up notifications in several areas. If you have livestock, bring them in during a severe weather watch. Don’t wait until it’s a warning. Have basic first-aid items on hand, such as wound care spray, gauze pads, and vet wrap, should they be needed for any injuries caused by the storm. Do some preparations well in advance. Have items safely secured in the barn to avoid as much debris as possible. Store enough fresh water to provide five to 10 gallons per horse per day should the water shut off. Microchip horses to help speed up recovery. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Launches 60th Yield Contest Celebrating a remarkable milestone, the National Corn Growers Association proudly launched its 60th annual Yield Contest on May 1. Spanning six decades, the event is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of corn growers across the nation. The contest continues to attract participants eager to push the boundaries of agricultural innovation. “As we celebrate sixty years, we reflect on the achievements of past winners and the legacy of innovation that defines the event,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). “This contest showcases the incredible potential of American agriculture and also fueled a spirit of camaraderie and collaboration among growers nationwide.” The contest is open for entries from now until August 14, and this year’s contest promises to be another thrilling chapter in corn-growing history. “As we look to the future, we remain committed to fostering this legacy, inspiring growers to push the boundaries of what is possible,” Wolle adds.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 8, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders continue to keep close track of weather forecasts in several important crop regions. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT and includes a report on weekly ethanol production. Weather Although a system continues to spin around the Northern Plains, where some heavy rain has fallen recently, a system will sneak underneath it across the South-Central states Wednesday and into the Ohio Valley for Wednesday night. Another round, or rounds, of widespread showers and thunderstorms, including a good chance for severe weather, exists in the Delta and Mid-South states Wednesday afternoon and evening.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 7, 2024 |

March Pork Exports Steady, Beef Value Rises U.S. pork exports in March were steady with last year’s volume and edged higher in value. Pork exports totaled 260,430 metric tons in March, up 0.1 percent from a year ago, valued at $740.8 million. That’s up two percent year-over-year and the seventh-highest on record. March shipments to South Korea were the largest on record. 2024 first quarter pork exports increased six percent while export value climbed seven percent. U.S. Meat Export Federation data shows beef exports below last March’s large volume, but exports were the highest since June 2023. March beef exports reached 108,200 metric tons, down 10 percent from last year but still the highest of 2024. Export value was $889.9 million, down slightly from last year but the highest level in nine months. March exports of U.S. lamb were 35 percent below last year at 246 metric tons, while export value dropped five percent to $1.5 million. *********************************************************************************** Union Members Tell Congress Sugar Policy Means Good Jobs Sugar workers who are members of the International Association of Machinists were recently on Capitol Hill talking about how strong U.S. sugar policy supports union jobs in America. They told members they’re proud of that much sugar made in America and done so by a union workforce. “U.S. sugar policy provides so much opportunity for people in rural communities,” says Cornelius Fowler, a Florida Crystal truck driver with 16 years of experience on the job. “They have great benefits and great programs that allow individuals to want to further their career.” The American Sugar Alliance says American sugar workers benefit from good jobs, upward mobility, and the investments that U.S. sugar companies make in workforce development. Many of America’s sugar processing facilities are in areas where jobs are limited, and the sugar workers praised the opportunities they’ve been provided by working in sugar. “In South Florida, we’re thriving,” one worker said. *********************************************************************************** Senators Want Coordinated Response to Avian Flu Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and John Cornyn (R-TX) are calling for enhanced interagency coordination in the federal response to the avian flu outbreak. In a letter, the senators urged the USDA to work with the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among other authorities, as it addresses avian flu cases and disseminates information to states and the public. They say previous outbreaks have benefited from a consortium strategy wherein the USDA brought in the brightest minds in epidemiology and animal health research to lessen the potential economic and societal cost of the spread. “We ask that the USDA take a similar approach – including additional research on wild bird deterrents, vaccines, and advanced biosecurity practices - when combating the outbreak,” the lawmakers wrote. “A successful response to this outbreak demands a commitment to keeping farmers, ranchers, and veterinarians informed of the latest developments.” *********************************************************************************** Brazil Soy Harvest Hit by Floods The outlook for the soybean harvest in Rio Grande do Sul of Brazil is deteriorating swiftly after torrential rain flooded fields, with about a quarter of the beans still to be harvested. Rio Grande do Sul was on track to become the second-largest producer in Brazil behind Mato Grosso. Farm Policy News says the impact of the downpours left entire cities and farms underwater in the state, which could cause up to a 15 percent drop in harvest in Rio Grande do Sul. Harvest predictions in the state range between 19 and 20 million metric tons and will include qualitative and quantitative losses. In most affected areas, estimates range from 70 to 80 percent of the soybeans suffering some level of damage. The Rio Grande port has not suspended operations, but handling is notably slower. Experts in Brazil said the market will soon discover that USDA overshot its Brazil harvest predictions. *********************************************************************************** Level Up Safety During Planting Whether current spring conditions have a number of tractors parked or in fields, it’s going to be a fast-paced planting season this spring. While the planting season can seem routine, the ag industry is always prone to risks, accidents, severe injuries, and even death. The University of Illinois Extension released a list of safety measures to implement during planting. Some steps include moving equipment when there is less traffic and making sure to use hazard lights, active turn signals, all mirrors, and add reflective tape. Drive on mapped-out routes from fields typically containing less traffic and identify areas where the equipment can be pulled over safely. Make sure to avoid distractions like cell phones and radios. For drivers who encounter moving farm equipment, slow down when approaching that equipment. Allow extra time for traveling or take alternate routes to destinations in rural areas during farming seasons. Most of all, be patient. *********************************************************************************** Food Prices Rise Slightly in April The U.N. Food and Agricultural Organization’s Food Price Index reached 119.1 points in April, up 0.3 points from its revised March level. The increase in the Meat Price Index and smaller upturns of Vegetable Oil and Cereal indices slightly more than offset decreases in those for Sugar and Dairy products. Although it registered a second monthly rise in April following a seven-month lower trend, the Index was down 9.6 points, or 7.4 percent, from its corresponding value one year ago. The biggest jump took place in meat, with the index at 116.3 points in April, up 1.9 points from March, the third-consecutive monthly increase. The Sugar Index took the biggest drop, falling six points, or 4.4 percent, to 127.5 points in April. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 130.9 points, up 0.3 points month-on-month, hitting a 13-month high. The Cereal Price Index averaged 111.2 points in April, also up 0.3 points.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 7, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports on Tuesday's docket, but traders have plenty to watch, including the latest weather forecasts for major crop regions, news from Ukraine and news from the Middle East. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports for May will be out Friday morning. Weather A system that has stuck itself in the Northern Plains continues to spin there with some areas of heavy rain over Montana and into the Canadian Prairies. Meanwhile, it is pushing a cold front eastward through the Midwest with a line of showers and thunderstorms. The line will probably break apart Tuesday morning, but additional thunderstorms will develop Tuesday afternoon and evening across eastern areas of the Midwest, which may become severe with all hazards possible.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 6, 2024 |

Ground Beef Samples Safe from Bird Flu The USDA says all the ground beef samples sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory for PCR testing were negative for the H5N1 bird flu virus. Farm Policy News says USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service collected 30 samples of ground beef from retail outlets in the states with dairy cattle herds that tested positive for H5N1. The national laboratory reported that all samples tested negative for the virus. “These results reaffirm that the meat supply is safe,” the USDA says. The Food and Drug Administration says preliminary results of testing additional dairy products continue to show that pasteurization inactivates the bird flu virus. The FDA has tested 297 total retail samples of pasteurized dairy products, and the results released last week represent tests on 201 of those samples to date. The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service recently added Colorado to the list of states with dairy herd infections. *********************************************************************************** Tariff Increases on Moroccan Fertilizer Approved The National Corn Growers Association says they’re worried about the availability and price of inputs after the Department of Commerce approved a tariff hike on phosphorous fertilizer from Morocco. The Department intends to raise those tariffs from 2.12 percent to 14.21 percent. Commerce’s actions came after Mosaic, a domestic fertilizer company, requested the action from the agency in 2023 over an import dispute with another multinational company. “The price of corn has dropped, and input costs are already high, so the Commerce Department’s decision is the last thing farmers need,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). “If fertilizers continue to go up in price and are hard to secure, farmers will only have the Mosaic Company and Commerce Department to thank.” The proposed new rate would be the final retroactive tariff for 2022 imports and be the new provisional rate for imports from November 2024 and onward until the next administrative review. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Organizations Advocate for More Trade Opportunities U.S. trade policy can strengthen supply chain resiliency and ensure that U.S. dairy continues growing as a global leader. That’s the testimony that Tony Rice, Trade Policy Director for the National Milk Producers Federation, gave at a hearing before U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. The U.S. dairy industry exported more than $8 billion worth of products in 2023, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing significantly to the national economy. During his testimony, Rice highlighted the need for a more proactive U.S. trade policy agenda that tackles global trade barriers and enhances market access to key partners. “An inclusive, worker-centered trade policy should reflect the central role that comprehensive trade agreements and American exports play for the ag economy and the many farmers and workers throughout the supply chain who rely on it,” Rice says. He also recommended that the USTR incorporate dairy-specific elements in trade negotiations to facilitate a robust supply chain. *********************************************************************************** Florida Bans Lab-Grown Meat Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill banning the sale or production of lab-grown meat in the state. “Florida is fighting back against the global elite’s plan to force the world to eat meat grown in a petri dish or bugs to achieve their authoritarian goals,” he said in a press release. “Our administration will continue to focus on investing in our local farmers and ranchers, and we will save our beef.” Florida Senate Bill 1084 enacts a wide-ranging ban on cultivated meat, making it illegal “for any person to manufacture for sale, sell, hold, or offer for sale or distribute cultivated meat in Florida.” Violators face misdemeanor penalties, and businesses caught selling the product could have their licenses suspended. “We must protect our incredible farmers and the integrity of American agriculture,” says Florida Ag Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “Lab-grown meat is a disgraceful attempt to undermine our proud traditions and prosperity.” *********************************************************************************** AFB Selects 12th Partners in Advocacy Leadership Class The American Farm Bureau recently selected an outstanding group of leaders in agriculture as the organization’s 12th Partners in Advocacy Leadership Class. AFBF designed PAL to help agricultural leaders accelerate their engagement abilities and solidify their roles as advocates for agriculture. “Being able to successfully advocate at all levels for agricultural issues that benefit rural communities is more important than ever,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “We applaud the members of the 12th class for their interest in honing the necessary skills to promote issues that are important to those in the farm-to-consumer food chain.” PAL training involves four learning modules designed to develop specific advocacy skills while exploring components of leadership and its theories and philosophies. The modules build on one another over the two years of the program and include intense, in-person, hands-on training. PAL graduates get the experience and confidence to effectively engage all critical ag stakeholders. *********************************************************************************** The Beef Checkoff Partners with Little League Baseball and softball are underway and soon followed by the start of the summer grilling season. The “Beef, It’s What’s for Dinner” brand, funded by the Beef Checkoff, is excited to announce a partnership between beef and baseball as a proud partner of the Little League World Series. “This partnership provides a unique opportunity to reach a younger audience and their families with facts about beef and the recipes they will love,” says Dan Gattis, NCBA Federation Division Chair. The partnership, which will name beef as the official sponsor of the Perfect Home Plate with Little League, will include a variety of advertising opportunities, including a digital video series to inspire consumers to choose beef. It will culminate with a beef dinner the night before the opening game of the Little League World Series to fuel the athletes with high-quality protein and prepare them for 11 days of intense competition.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 6, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - May WASDE and Wet Fields Top Headlines 1. WASDE Friday: The May World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report hits the wires at 11:00 a.m. We will post those numbers shortly after 11, with updates and analysis throughout the morning. Look for our preview expectations for the report mid-week. 2. Weather Reports: We'll be both watching for more rain as well as how the past rains are slowing planting in some key production areas. There is a lot of consternation on social media about wet soils and idle planters. 3. Cab-view insights: We'll add to those field reports by continuing introductions of this season's View From The Cab farmers. 4. Mental Health Report: We continue featuring articles from the May Progressive Farmer magazine, "Rays of Hope" series on mental health in rural America. 5. Economic Reports this Week: Monday reports start at 10 a.m. with Grain Inspections. At 2 p.m., the U.S. Agricultural Trade Data and Dairy Products reports are out, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report, at 3 p.m., with our analysis soon after. Tuesday the Consumer Credit report hits at 2 p.m. Wednesday, at 9 a.m., we'll see Wholesale Inventories followed by the 9:30 a.m. release of EIA's Weekly Petroleum Status report, including ethanol production and stocks. Thursday begins at 7:30 a.m. with the Grain Export Sales and Initial Jobless Claims. At 10:30 a.m. the Weekly Economic Index is released. Friday starts with the 9 a.m. Consumer Sentiment, then the May WASDE with our full coverage at 11 a.m. At 1 p.m., the Monthly Federal Budget report is out, followed by the 2:30 p.m. CFTC's Commitment of Traders report.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 6, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be busy catching up on the latest weather forecasts and checking the news. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday. NASS's weekly Crop Progress report is at 3 p.m. Weather A big storm system will bring multiple impacts to the Plains on Monday, getting into the Upper Midwest tonight as well. A significant severe weather outbreak is forecast from Nebraska to Oklahoma, especially on the southern end, which could be a major tornado outbreak. Strong winds and heavy rain will accompany the storm system in the Plains as well. Farther east, scattered showers and thunderstorms continue across the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys as well as the Mid-Atlantic.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 3, 2024 |

Stabenow Releases Farm Bill Overview Just hours after House Ag Committee Chair GT Thompson (R-PA) released his farm bill overview, Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) released the Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act. The act contains more than 100 bipartisan bills and is designed to put the farm bill back on track. “This is a serious proposal that reflects bipartisan priorities to keep farmers farming, families fed, and rural communities strong,” Stabenow says. “Farmers, families, and rural communities cannot wait any longer for the 2024 Farm Bill.” Among the act’s highlights, it makes investments into the farm safety net and supports beginning, underserved, and small farmers and ranchers. She says it also helps families working hard to make ends meet by investing in nutrition assistance that puts food on the table, increasing access to fruits and vegetables, and supporting people on the path to self-sufficiency. It also invests in rural broadband and improving health care. *********************************************************************************** Corn, Sorghum Growers Challenge EPA Test Procedures The Texas Corn Producers, Texas Sorghum Producers, and National Sorghum Growers have filed a petition in the Fifth Circuit Court to review fuel economy test procedures. The procedures are in the Environmental Protection Agency’s new Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles. The rule lays out EPA’s “audacious” electric vehicle mandates to which the agency expects automakers to respond by making 69 percent of new vehicles electric or plug-in hybrid by 2032. This move comes with a large price tag for Americans: some $870 billion in vehicle technology costs alone. The groups say buried inside the hundreds of pages in the mandate is a specific regulation setting fuel economy test procedures that arbitrarily and illegally penalize ethanol- and liquid-fueled vehicles. In turn, that ultimately penalizes the corn and sorghum farmers who contribute to U.S. ethanol production. The groups say EPA hoped no one would notice. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Respond to Farm Bill Movement U.S. ag groups are reacting to the House and Senate Ag Committee leaders who released their farm bill overviews. “We are very pleased with the Farm Bill framework from House Ag Chair GT Thompson,” says Ethan Lane, VP of government affairs with the NCBA. “We are especially pleased with the focus on voluntary conservation programs that are increasingly popular with cattle producers. However, the Senate version suffers from a lack of producer input.” The American Farm Bureau says both proposals acknowledge that farm programs require additional investment due to falling commodity prices and higher interest rates. “Details are important,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “There’s still a lot of work to do.” Corey Rosenbusch of The Fertilizer Institute was pleased to see many of TFI’s priorities included in both overviews. “We’re happy to see so many of the industry’s priorities around conservation and nutrient stewardship included in both frameworks,” he says. *********************************************************************************** Seventy Percent Lower Crop Yields Without Pesticides CropLife America commissioned the University of Arkansas to conduct a three-year assessment that evaluates the environmental benefits and impacts of pesticide application on corn, cotton, and soybeans. The study examined crop productivity with and without pesticides (herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides) for the three crops. The assessment’s key results include the fact that without pesticides, yields of corn, cotton, and soybeans would drop up to 70 percent, underscoring the indispensable role of pesticides in agriculture. Cultivating corn, cotton, and soybeans without pesticides resulted in upwards of three times more land, water, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions. Pesticides enhance productivity and significantly reduce pressure on our water, land, and energy resources per bushel of corn and soybeans, and per pound of cotton. “The researchers’ findings support the role pesticides play in helping feed, fuel, and clothe the world’s growing population in a sustainable manner,” says Alexandra Dunn, CropLife America President and CEO. *********************************************************************************** Farmers, Firefighters Join Forces to Eliminate Forever Chemicals Firefighters rely on various tools to do their jobs, including firefighting foam to combat fires. However, traditional foams are risky due to harmful PFAS, or “forever chemicals.” With farmer investment, the safer alternative called SoyFoam eliminates this exposure, prioritizing the well-being of the nation’s first responders. A partnership between Cross Plains Solutions and the soy checkoff gives firefighters one less thing to worry about while they keep our communities safe. SoyFoam is 100 percent free of intentionally added PFAS and is certified as biodegradable by the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development. It’s also certified 84 percent biobased through the USDA’s BioPreferred Program. Another benefit of SoyFoam for the soybean industry is that it’s made with soy flour, using the meal component of soybeans. “One of our main priorities is to create biobased alternatives that are safer for people and our environment,” says Steve Reinhard, chair of the United Soybean Board. *********************************************************************************** Nominations Open for 2025 Farm Dog of the Year Farmers are invited to submit nominations for the 2025 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year contest, which comes with cash prizes and bragging rights. It’s the seventh year of the contest, supported by Nestle Purina PetCare, which celebrates farm dogs and the many ways they support farmers and ranchers. The grand prize winner will be the Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year and take home a year’s worth of Purina Pro Plan dog food and $5,000 in prize money. The winner will be recognized at a Farm Dog of the Year award ceremony at the Farm Bureau Convention in San Antonio, Texas, in January 2025. “Farm dogs play an important role on the farm, coming alongside farmers to pitch in and to keep us company in our work,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. Desired attributes for the winner include helpfulness to the farmer and family, playfulness, and obedience.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 3, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's employment report for April is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, important numbers with consequences for interest rate policy. Traders will continue to watch the latest weather forecasts closely and will be watching for any news of a possible strike in Argentina. Weather A front continues through eastern areas of the country on Friday with scattered showers and thunderstorms east of the Mississippi River. The active pattern continues though, with another system entering the Plains which should bring about scattered showers and thunderstorms and another risk of severe weather from Nebraska to Texas again.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 2, 2024 |

Administration Releases SAF Tax Credit Rules The Biden administration released guidance on its sustainable aviation fuel subsidy program that allows corn-based ethanol to qualify for the program if it’s sourced from farms using climate-friendly growing techniques. Farm Policy News from the University of Illinois says SAF can be made from corn, soy, or other agricultural products. To access the subsidies that make it economically viable, refiners must demonstrate their fuel is at least 50 percent lower in emissions than petroleum jet fuel. Ethanol-based SAF can meet that threshold only if corn farmers use a bundle of agricultural practices that include no-till, cover cropping, and efficient fertilizer application that holds carbon in the soil. The announcement also says soy-based biodiesel will qualify if the soy farms use a combination of no-till and cover cropping. SAF producers are eligible for a tax credit of $1.25 to $1.75 per gallon. “This is a stepping stone,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. *********************************************************************************** Ag Reacts to New SAF Tax Credit Guidance The 40B tax credit guidance and modified GREET model begins to unlock the door for U.S. ethanol producers and farmers to participate in the emerging market for sustainable aviation fuels. However, the Renewable Fuels Association says more work must be done to fully open the market to ethanol. “We believe less prescription on ag practices and more flexibility and additional low-carbon technologies and practices should be added to the modeling framework,” says RFA chief Geoff Cooper. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the administration’s all-or-nothing approach to recognizing the value of climate-smart agricultural practices may ultimately limit innovation and overall SAF production. The American Soybean Association says the announcement went “sideways” because, for soybean oil to qualify, they must be grown using no-till and cover cropping. “Specifying only two practices out of a variety of options will further restrict soybean oil use as a SAF feedstock,” says Josh Gackle, ASA President. *********************************************************************************** House Ag Chair Releases Farm Bill Draft House Ag Committee Chair GT Thompson (R-PA) shared his title-by-title overview of the bipartisan policies and priorities included in the 2024 Farm Bill. He called the legislation a product that happens when the development process is extensive and transparent, which included feedback from members of both political parties, stakeholder input from across the U.S., and some tough conversations. Thompson says he plans to markup his bill on May 23. Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) says, “Ag Committee Democrats presented a farm bill counterproposal to our Republican colleagues as part of an ongoing, years-long process that could invest tens of billions in the farm bill safety net without any cuts to SNAP benefits.” The Hagstrom Report says Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chair of the Senate Ag Committee, will release her farm bill proposal today (Wednesday). Her proposal will include summaries and a section-by-section explanation but will not include the text. *********************************************************************************** Bill to Delist Gray Wolf Passes House Congressman Tom Tiffany (D-WI) and Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s bill to delist the gray wolf from the Endangered Species Act passed the House by a vote of 209-205. The “Trust the Science Act” would remove the gray wolf from the list of federal endangered species, ensure that action is not subject to judicial review, and restore authority back to state lawmakers and wildlife officials to control the gray wolf population. “The science is clear that the gray wolf has met and exceeded recovery goals,” says Tiffany. “Passing the House is an important first step towards restoring local control over the skyrocketing gray wolf population in Wisconsin.” The Act requires the Interior Secretary to reissue the 2020 Department of the Interior final rule that delisted the gray wolf in the lower 48 United States and ensures the reissuance of the final rule will not be subject to judicial review by activist judges. *********************************************************************************** Farm Loans Can Support Climate-Smart Ag Practices The USDA’s Farm Service Agency reminds agricultural producers that Farm Loan Programs can be used to support a variety of climate-smart practices. They include many practices that farmers already use, like cover cropping, nutrient management, and conservation tillage. “Farmers and ranchers are already doing their part to be stewards of our land, but some may lack the financial resources to take their efforts to the next level,” says Farm Service Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “The Farm Service Agency offers a variety of loans that can help those who would like to explore opportunities in their operations to make them more efficient and make a positive impact on our environment.” FSA loans can provide capital needed to invest in climate-smart practices and equipment including the establishment of rotational grazing systems, precision agriculture equipment, or machinery for conversion to no-till residue management. Climate-smart ag practices generate significant benefits, including capturing and sequestering carbon. *********************************************************************************** Culver’s Donating to Local Ag Initiatives For the tenth straight year, Culver’s is offering guests a single scoop of Fresh Frozen Custard in exchange for a $1 donation to local FFA chapters and other agricultural education organizations. It’s a part of the annual “Scoops of Thanks Day” that celebrates the impact of farm-fresh dairy that makes Culver’s Fresh Frozen Custard beloved by guests. Guests can choose between How Now Brown Cow, Chocolate, or Vanilla for their single scoop in exchange for the $1 donation. This year, guests can also make their donation in exchange for a single scoop of Fresh Frozen Custard through the Culver’s website or on the Culver’s app. Culver’s hopes to surpass the results from last year’s Scoops of Thanks Day, on which the brand served up more than 153,000 scoops during the fundraiser at nationwide locations. To find the nearest Culver’s location and celebrate Scoops of Thanksgiving Day, go to Culver’s location page.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 2, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for March, a report of first-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report follows at 9:30 a.m. and traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts closely. Weather A system moving into the Midwest on Thursday is bringing broken lines and clusters of showers and thunderstorms through the middle of the country. While there is some risk for severe weather from Wisconsin through Texas, it is much lower than in recent days. Instead, heavy rain falling over saturated ground could lead to some flooding in additional areas, especially around eastern Texas and Louisiana.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 1, 2024 |

Government to Test Ground Beef in Bird-Flu States The U.S. government announced it will collect samples of ground beef from retail stores in the states with outbreaks of bird flu in dairy cattle. Reuters says the government is confident that the meat supply is safe. Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have said the overall public health risk is low, but it is higher for those with exposure to infected animals. Scientists believe the outbreaks are more widespread in cows than officially reported based on findings of H5N1 particles in about 20 percent of milk samples. The Food and Drug Administration says that preliminary results of gold-standard PCR tests showed pasteurization killed the bird flu virus in milk. USDA will analyze retail ground beef samples with PCR tests that indicate “whether any viral particles are present,” according to a statement. USDA’s mandatory testing rule for lactating dairy cattle began this week. *********************************************************************************** Biofuels Have Heating Oil Industry on Net-Zero Track The Northeast heating oil industry is on track to achieve the ambitious goals outlined in the Providence Resolution, a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A new analysis from the National Oilheat Research Alliance says the industry has already surpassed its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 15 percent by 2023, instead achieving a reduction of 26 percent in emissions. The reduction comes from a combination of energy efficiency improvements and the increased use of renewable fuels such as Bioheat Fuel, a blend of sustainable biodiesel with conventional home heating oil. The industry celebrated a number of successes and innovations, including manufacturers introducing burners and heating systems to the market that are certified for blends of up to 100 percent biodiesel, or B100. Heating oil state associations advocated for biofuel blending requirements in Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island that will eventually require blends as high as 50 percent biofuel. *********************************************************************************** Aerial Application Aircraft on Display in D.C. The National Agricultural Aviation Association is participating in Ag on the Mall at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., May 6-8. Themed the Future of Food and Farming, Ag on the Mall celebrates and showcases America’s equipment manufacturers, farmers, ranchers, and innovators all working together to drive the tradition of doing more with less environmental impact. The NAAA booth will display an aerial application Bell Jet Ranger Helicopter equipped with a liquid spray system for applying crop protection materials. The helicopter, along with a spray boom simulation model and other informational displays, will give federal legislators, regulatory officials, and National Mall visitors an up-close opportunity to learn about the essential role ag aviation plays in modern food production. American farmers use aerial application to treat 127 million acres or approximately 28 percent of cropland each year to help control insects and plant diseases and to apply fertilizer and seeds more efficiently. *********************************************************************************** Experienced USDA Official Joins Sugar Alliance Casey Bean, a veteran of the USDA, is joining the American Sugar Alliance as the organization’s trade consultant. Bean will work with ASA to analyze the complex global trade issues that impact U.S. sugar farmers and shape America’s no-cost sugar policy. With more than thirty years of experience working with the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, Bean’s work at FAS spans multiple regions across the globe, including countries like Bolivia, China, Colombia, Ecuador, and many others. He participated in trade negotiations and enforced the rules critical to maintaining a level playing field for U.S. agriculture as a member of the Senior Foreign Service, both while overseas and as a senior director at FAS headquarters. “We are excited to welcome Casey to the team at this critical juncture for America’s sugar producers and farm policy,” says Cassie Bladow (BLAY-dough), Chairwoman of the ASA. “His expertise will help move us forward into the future.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Still Taking Applications for Colombia Trade Mission Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, leads an agribusiness trade mission to Bogota, Colombia, August 13-15. USDA is still accepting applications from current and potential U.S. exporters interested in joining the delegation. “Colombia represents a top-tier food and agricultural export destination for American farmers, ranchers, and processors,” she says. Colombia is the largest South American market for U.S. agricultural products and the seventh-largest market for U.S. food and beverage exports globally. Since the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement was implemented in 2012, America’s agricultural exports to Colombia have grown 237 percent, reaching a record $3.7 billion in 2023. “As the second-most populated country in South America, Colombia enjoys highly favorable demographics coupled with 20 years of continuous economic growth that saw a 36 percent increase in median household income,” Taylor adds. U.S. agribusiness representatives will meet with potential importers from across Colombia, and FAS staff will provide market briefings. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn and Bean Inspections Decline USDA data says inspections of corn and beans for overseas delivery declined week to week while wheat assessments improved. Corn inspections during the seven days ending on April 25 fell to 1.23 million metric tons. The agency report says that was down from 1.66 million a week earlier and 1.52 million during the same week last year. Soybean assessments totaled 250,332 tons, down from 443,508 tons during the previous week and 407,973 tons at the same point last year. Wheat inspections were up to 481,183 tons last week, up from 450,323 tons the week prior and more than 365,500 tons the same week in 2023. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 31.6 million metric tons of corn for export. That’s up from 23.9 million tons assessed during the same time last year. Soybean inspections now total 39.7 million tons versus 47.5 million during the same time last year.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 1, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Manufacturing indices from around the world will roll in early Wednesday morning. The ISM index of U.S. manufacturing is set for 9 a.m. CDT, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. At 1 p.m., the Federal Reserve will conclude its meeting with a rate announcement, expected to stay unchanged, and will be followed by a press conference with Chairman Jerome Powell. At 2 p.m., NASS will release its monthly Fats and Oils report. Weather Yet another system in the long line of disturbances that is keeping the weather pattern active will be moving into the Central and Southern Plains on Wednesday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast throughout the Plains and Prairies as well as parts of the Midwest, but severe storms will be possible from southern Nebraska southward that may also cause some heavy rainfall.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 30, 2024 |

Trade Associations Ask EPA to Meet Important November Deadline for E15 Trade associations representing feedstock providers, advanced biofuel producers, and low-carbon fuel customers want EPA to propose and finalize robust 2026 Renewable Fuel Standard volumes by November’s deadline. The groups’ letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan highlights the dramatic drop in the value of RFS compliance credits because of EPA’s unreasonably low 2023-2025 volumes. According to the association’s letter, the situation prompted several production facilities to close and now threatens investments in feedstock processing capacity as well as the production of sustainable aviation fuel. “We recognize that sustainable biofuels offer some of the most substantial immediate benefits to deliver carbon reductions,” the letter says. “While we continue to make investments in producing, distributing, and using low-carbon fuels, EPA can and should send a strong signal to the market through a robust RVO.” Groups signing on to the letter include Clean Fuels Alliance, the American Soybean Association, and many others. *********************************************************************************** Strong Farmland Demand Remains The agricultural economy has faced some challenges during the past year, with increased interest rates and decreased commodity prices. However, farmers are the eternal optimists. Farmers National Company reports that overall farmland demand remains extraordinarily strong and land values are holding steady in most areas. Troy Swee, Assistant Vice President of Farmers National, says even in the slight downward turn in the ag sector, the company continues to get phone calls and emails from farmers and investors looking to expand their landholdings. “High-quality land continues to sell at a level comparable to the spring of 2023,” he says. “However, lower quality farms and farms with a few blemishes on them have seen a seven to 15 percent reduction in price.” He also predicts that land values will continue holding steady for the first half of 2024, even after getting into early summer, when the sales volume typically begins to shrink. *********************************************************************************** Global Fertilizer Growth Expected Despite Challenges Operating costs keep getting higher while commodity prices fall at the same time. Rabobank says this combination has led to a squeeze on farmers’ operating margins, which are now below the average of the past two years, making farmers more cautious about investing in their farms. “Despite these headwinds, the fertilizer sector is showing resilience,” says Bruno Fonseca, senior analyst of farm inputs at Rabobank. “Geopolitical factors, among other issues, could present further obstacles, yet growth in fertilizer use is anticipated to persist.” There are certain fertilizers vulnerable to a decline in demand. Nitrogen fertilizer prices are on a downward trajectory, influenced by diminished demand and falling natural gas prices. The phosphate market experienced a price surge early in 2024 when China shifted its focus to domestic needs, curtailing global exports. Potash is witnessing a robust supply due to increased exports from Belarus and Russia, leading to lower prices. *********************************************************************************** Milk Checkoff Drives Consumption in Cincinnati A checkoff-led pilot in Cincinnati schools that offered lactose-free chocolate milk increased consumption and reached students who weren’t drinking milk because of real or perceived lactose intolerance. The National Dairy Council and American Dairy Association Mideast worked with Cincinnati Public Schools to offer the country’s first single-serve lactose-free chocolate milk package to six elementary and four high schools in the fourth quarter of 2023. Because of the program’s success, it was expanded to include all 15 CPS high schools through June of this year. Key findings of the pilot were that when students have the option to choose lactose-free milk, both milk selection and meal participation increase overall. When compared to the rest of the district, the pilot schools experienced a 16-percent increase in milk consumption and a seven percent higher meal participation. Tracy Enslen of ADA Mideast says the pilot proved meeting unmet demand with innovative offerings can drive consumption. *********************************************************************************** Stakeholders for the SAF Coalition Forty companies and organizations that hold a stake in the development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuel united to form the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition. The organization is made up of airlines and aircraft operators, agricultural enterprises, aircraft and aircraft equipment manufacturers, airports, technology developers, labor unions, and biofuel producers. The goal of the new nonprofit, nonpartisan coalition is to rapidly scale investment in the SAF sector and advocate for the incentives and policies necessary to promote U.S. economic competitiveness in the emerging SAF marketplace. While SAF Coalition members have been working together informally for years, this newly formed organization will leverage the collective strength of the entire SAF value chain to accelerate the development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuels in the U.S. “The membership of this coalition shows the deep support that the SAF enjoys across aviation’s many stakeholders,” says Alison Graab, the Executive Director for the Coalition. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Want Support for American West Amid Drought Senators and representatives from Western states called on the Biden administration to make further investments to address long-term drought. “Drought remains a severe risk for American farmers and ranchers and threatens farmland and local economies that rely on dwindling water resources, especially in states West of the 100th Meridian,” the letter says. “We’re asking the administration to bring all resources to bear in helping address the long-term drought and aridification of the Western United States.” The lawmakers applauded the ongoing efforts by the administration to support the American West as it faces a 1,200-year-level drought, including through the Western Water and Working Lands Framework and by opening up Inflation Reduction Act funding. “Investments to comprehensively address the short-term drought recovery and future resilience in the American West must include both smaller-scale on-farm measures and larger-scale upstream watershed restoration and improvements,” the letter adds. “Reliable water is critical to any rural community.”

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 30, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's employment cost index for the first quarter will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT. The Federal Reserve begins its two-day FOMC meeting and is expected to keep the federal funds rate target unchanged with an upper limit of 5.50%. Traders continue keeping close watch on the latest weather forecasts in major growing areas. Weather Another storm system in the active pattern is moving through the Plains and into the Upper Midwest for Tuesday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms will develop across the middle of the country yet again, with potential for severe weather from eastern Kansas through Iowa. Large hail and damaging winds are the primary threats with these storms.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 29, 2024 |

SAF Climate Model Coming on Tuesday The University of Illinois Farm Policy News says the Biden administration is expected to release a climate model for its sustainable aviation fuel subsidy program on Tuesday. The rule will dictate how ethanol producers can use climate-smart agriculture to qualify for tax credits in the production of SAF. The ethanol industry views SAF as a way to build demand for its products going forward, as gasoline consumption is expected to decline. A Reuters report says the administration will release a preliminary climate mode for its sustainable aviation fuel subsidy program in the coming weeks that’s more restrictive than what the ethanol industry had expected. The report says it will leave producers with a pathway to the subsidies if they can partner with corn growers that use sustainable farming practices. “To access SAF subsidies, producers must demonstrate that their feedstock is 50 percent lower in emissions than jet fuel,” Reuters says. *********************************************************************************** Colombia Restricts U.S. Beef Imports Due to HPAI Colombia has become the first country to restrict U.S. beef imports due to HPAI infections in dairy cattle. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says there is “no scientific basis” for the restrictions. “Columbia is the only country that has officially restricted imports of U.S. beef,” the organization says. “We are encouraged that the vast majority of our trading partners are following the science on the matter.” The U.S. is Colombia’s largest supplier of imported beef, making Columbia’s attempt to suspend beef imports from specific U.S. states is unworkable and misguided. “It’s created uncertainty for Colombian importers and their customers and suppliers,” USMEF says. “This will greatly disrupt trade.” The organization appreciates the efforts of the U.S. government to address Colombian officials’ concerns, and they’re hopeful that the matter can be resolved as soon as possible. The U.S. exported about $40 million in beef and beef products to Colombia last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Finalizes Salmonella Policy in Chicken Products The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced its final determination to declare Salmonella an adulterant in raw breaded chicken products when they exceed a specific contamination threshold. The final determination is part of the FSIS’ broader efforts to reduce Salmonella illnesses associated with America’s raw poultry. FSIS will set requirements for other poultry products later in 2024. “The policy will allow us to stop the sale of these products when we find levels of Salmonella contamination that could make people sick,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. However, the National Chicken Council says the policy will likely cost jobs. “This abrupt shift in longstanding policy has the potential to shutter plants, cost jobs, and take safe food and products off the shelves,” says NCC President Mike Brown. “These changes are designed to reduce outbreaks in a product that’s only been associated with one outbreak in the last nine years.” *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Crop Graded Number One for Five Straight Years The U.S. Grains Council released its 2023-2024 Sorghum Quality Report and for the fifth year in a row, U.S. Sorghum was, above average, graded above the requirements for U.S. No. 1 certification. “The Council’s annual sorghum quality report is an extremely important tool for defending our existing export markets and gaining market share in new ones because it shows exactly what to expect from the U.S. product every year,” says Brent Boydston “The report is always well-received by everyone along the sorghum value chain, and the Council is proud to have offered it for the last half-decade and for many years into the future.” The report is funded through the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service Agricultural Trade Promotion Program and the United Sorghum Checkoff Program. It provides international customers and other interested parties with accurate information about the 2023-2024 U.S. sorghum crop. Samples were drawn central and southern regions of America. *********************************************************************************** Texas Ag Commissioner Expresses Gratitude for Help As Texas continues recovering from the devastating fires in the Panhandle, The Texas Agriculture Department thanks their valued counterparts in other state ag departments around the nation. Departments in states like Alabama, Iowa, and South Carolina have provided unwavering support, prayers, and resources which have been an example of solidarity and compassion. “The outpouring of support from our fellow state agriculture leaders has been moving during this tough time,” says Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller. “I’d like to give a Texas-sized thank you to our fellow states for having our backs.” For example, the Alabama Ag Department delivered 27 loads of hay totaling 546 round bales in the Texas Panhandle. The South Carolina Ag Department and in-state partners donated 12 tractor-trailer loads of hay, consisting of 402 bales of hay. “Across our nation, the agriculture community always pulls together when it matters most,” says South Carolina Ag Commissioner Hugh Weathers. ********************************************************************************** NCBA Statement on Final Traceability Rule National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Mark Eisele, a Wyoming rancher, reacted to USDA’s final animal traceability rule. USDA’s final traceability rule updates the existing requirement for animal identification that has been in place since 2013, switching from solely visual tags that are both electronically and visually readable for certain classes of cattle moving interstate. “Many producers are already familiar with using these visual tags and under the new rule, they will instead use electronic tags,” Eisele says. “NCBA worked hard to secure $15 million in funding for producers to reduce the cost of implementing the change.” He also says NCBA remains committed to safeguarding producers’ private data and continuing to reduce the cost of ear tags for farmers and ranchers. To avoid the potential of devastating financial losses during a possible foreign animal disease outbreak and help producers return to commerce, NCBA says America needs an efficient animal disease traceability system.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 29, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Sustainable Fuels Ruling, Storms Recovery, Mental Health Lead the Week 1. Planting progress: There have been a lot of spring crops put in the ground between rainstorms -- and it's also been a weekend of wild weather in the heart of the country. On Monday, we'll cover USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report, due out at 3 p.m., to get the national and state-by-state perspective as we get ready to roll into May. 2. Stormy weather: From Friday through the weekend, the Plains and Midwest have gone through several rounds of storms and severe weather, including an outbreak of dangerous tornadoes, heavy rain, large hail and high winds. As rural communities and cities cleaned up from the storm damage, there are areas starting the week with flood watches and warnings stretching from Kansas and Missouri down to the Gulf Coast. More rain is likely through the week and weekend. Areas that need rain will welcome the moisture. We'll especially watch Kansas, as drought continues to creep in there. In the Eastern Corn Belt and Delta, where it's been wet, farmer hope to be spared more rainfall. On top of watching planting progress around the storms, we'll keep tracking the potential for severe weather threats. 3. Aviation fuel ruling: We could see a final rule on what products qualify for the sustainable aviation fuel tax credit. Hanging in the balance is how ethanol fairs as such fuel, and a favorable ruling could lift some weight off corn prices. 4. Mental health special issue: This week, Progressive Farmer subscribers will receive the May issue, which features an in-depth package on mental health on the farm and in rural America. We'll look at the unique challenges farmers and ranchers face, from significant stress to limited access to options in rural areas. However, we'll also include the rays of hope -- including useful information to help maintain your mental wellness and how to help others. We'll kick off the coverage of those stories online later in the week. 5. Economic reports this week: Reports start Monday at 10 a.m. with U.S. Grain Inspections. At 2 p.m. we'll see livestock and meat data and the latest poultry production numbers, followed by USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Then Tuesday includes 7:30 a.m. release of Employment Cost Index, then 8 a.m. S & P Case-Schiller Home Price Index. At 9 a.m. the latest Consumer Confidence numbers are released followed by 2 p.m. NASS Agricultural Prices report. Wednesday's reports include 7:15 a.m. ADP Employment numbers, 9 a.m. Construction Spending, ISM Manufacturing and Job Openings (JOLTS). At 9:30 a.m. is the EIA Weekly Petroleum numbers, including ethanol. At 1 p.m. the Fed's interest rate decision becomes public, followed by Fed Chair Jerome Powell's press conference at 1:30 p.m. At 2 p.m. we'll see the release of Broiler Hatchery, Fats and Oils, Flour Milling and Grain Crushings reports. Thursday starts with 7:30 a.m. release of Grain Export Sales, Initial Jobless Claims, U.S. Trade Balance and Productivity reports. At 9 a.m. the Factory Orders report hits, and at 10:30 a.m. is the Weekly Economic Index. Friday sees the U.S. Employment and Unemployment and the U.S. Hourly Wages reports at 7:30 a.m. At 2 p.m. is the Consumer Credit numbers, then the 2:30 pm. release of the CFTC's Commitment of Traders report.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 29, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Traders will return from the weekend, checking the latest weather forecasts around the globe and any news from the world's hot spots. USDA's report of weekly export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday. NASS's weekly Crop Progress report follows at 3 p.m. Weather Another week of busy weather is on tap with a system on Monday bringing scattered showers to portions of the Midwest and Delta. Storm damage and flooding from the weekend will create some delays to planting.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 26, 2024 |

Rabobank released its North American Agribusiness Review Rabobank released its North American Agribusiness Review, a bi-monthly analysis of market conditions and trends across North American agriculture. Among the highlights, the report says American consumers have proven far more resilient than expected, and they continue analyzing the drivers behind evolving consumption patterns. Grocery sales have started to recover as food inflation has slowed. “Our upstream market expectations are mixed, with continued weakness in some sectors and expected recovery in others,” says RaboResearch head Roland Fumasi. For example, in the beef sector, Rabobank says in early 2024, U.S. beef imports will expand while exports shrink. However, U.S. beef and cattle demand posted early highs this year. In corn, the industry consensus is that farmers will find a way to get planted corn acres up to 91 million as most planting conditions have been favorable. Headwinds against soybeans include higher interest rates and a stronger dollar, which appreciated against several currencies. *********************************************************************************** AMI Calls for Worker Protections at Beef Facilities As the USDA issued a nationwide order requiring lactating dairy cows to test negative for HPAI before transport, the American Meat Institute says that properly prepared beef remains safe to eat. The Institute is asking the USDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to provide worker safety guidance specific to beef processors to ensure workers get better protected from infection. “We’re calling on the agencies to issue additional specific guidance to ensure USDA Inspectors and meat company workers stay protected from infection,” says NAMI President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “We will continue to work with USDA, state and local veterinarians, and our cattle producer partners to both stop the spread of the virus and to ensure beef production continues.” She also commends the USDA and CDC for working overtime to understand the spread of the virus and to determine its effects on the health of people and animals. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Supports USDA Orders on Lactating Cows The National Milk Producers Federation supports USDA orders on lactating cows. “Since the virus was first discovered in cows, H5N1 in dairy cattle has been primarily an animal health concern,” says Gregg Doud, President and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation. “The USDA announcement and actions underscore that concern and focus on the well-being of animals and those who care for them.” USDA, FDA, and scientific research have established what accumulated science has indicated all along: The consumer milk supply is safe. “Pasteurization renders the H5N1 virus, like other viruses, inactive, an important reminder for consumers of its value as a basic safeguard for human health,” Doud says. “That said, the presence of this virus in dairy herds, as well as dairy farmers’ own commitment to animal and human health, makes USDA’s actions on testing and interstate travel appropriate.” Dairy farmers stand ready to ensure healthy animals, workers, and consumers. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Applauds Nebraska SAF Credit Growth Energy celebrated the significant legislation that will speed investment in Nebraska’s production of sustainable aviation fuel. The bill was signed by Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and will provide a 75-cent per gallon tax credit for the production of aviation fuel that reduces lifecycle emissions by at least 50 percent. That number is calculated based on the most recent version of the GREET model. “We applaud every one of the biofuel champions in Nebraska who worked hard to advance this exciting legislation,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “These incentives promise to propel Nebraska into a leadership position on SAF, which is the single most promising new market for low-carbon biofuels.” She also says with the right incentives and the best available science, as afforded by the Argonne National Laboratory’s GREET model, this approach promises to fast-track investments in low-carbon aviation that will benefit our climate, economy, and rural communities. *********************************************************************************** USDA Continues Investing in Rural High-Speed Broadband USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small announced that the agency is partnering with rural cooperatives, local organizations, and tribes to support more high-speed internet deployment in 11 states. USDA is awarding $5.2 million in cooperative agreements through the Broadband Technical Assistance Program, which is funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The funding will extend the reach of other high-speed internet programs to meet the goal of connecting every community with affordable, reliable high-speed internet. “Keeping the people of rural America connected with reliable, high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of the country,” Torres Small said during an appearance in Texas. “USDA is partnering with small towns, cooperatives, local utilities, and private companies working to ensure that people, no matter where they live, have access to high-speed internet.” She also says that’s how to grow the economy, not just in rural communities, but across the nation. ********************************************************************************** Rising Gas Prices May Plateau Soon After weeks of paying higher prices, those increases at the gas pump may be nearing a halt as refineries complete the transition from winter to summer gas blends. The changing fuel blends come with the changing seasons. Depending on the calendar, gas prices can be more expensive based on the blend drivers choose to use. “As the nationwide changeover to summer gasoline is now behind us, at least one of the three factors that had been actively causing prices to rise in the last couple of months is behind us,” says Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy. “The largest pain point is refinery maintenance, and that will take a few more weeks to complete.” He also says production output should increase as that work finishes, which will likely put downward pressure on gas prices. Triple A says the distinction between summer and winter fuel is how easily it evaporates based on the temperature.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 26, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as the PCE inflation index for March. The University of Michigan's final consumer sentiment index for April is due out at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to keep a close watch over the latest weather forecasts. Weather A storm system in the Central Plains will move northeast into the Upper Midwest on Friday. Widespread areas of rain and thunderstorms developed Thursday night and will continue in waves through Friday as well. Some of those thunderstorms will be severe throughout the day with the emphasis in the mid-Missouri Valley for the strongest storms Friday afternoon and evening.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 25, 2024 |

USDA Requires H5N1 Testing for Interstate Movement of Dairy Cattle The Department of Agriculture Wednesday mandated testing for H5N1 of dairy cattle that cross state lines. The move is to protect the U.S. livestock industry from the threat of avian influenza. Before interstate movement, dairy cattle are required to receive a negative test for Influenza A virus at an approved National Animal Health Laboratory Network laboratory. Owners of herds in which dairy cattle test positive for interstate movement will be required to provide epidemiological information, including animal movement tracing. USDA has identified spread between cows within the same herd, spread from cows to poultry, spread between dairies associated with cattle movements, and cows without clinical signs that have tested positive. On April 16, APHIS microbiologists identified a shift in an H5N1 sample from a cow in Kansas that could indicate that the virus has an adaptation to mammals. USDA has not found changes to the virus that would make it more transmissible to humans and between people. *********************************************************************************** FDA Reaffirms Pasteurization is Effective against HPAI The Food and Drug Administration confirmed again this week pasteurization of milk consistent with the federal Grade "A" Pasteurized Milk Ordinance destroys harmful pathogenic bacteria and other microorganisms, including Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. The data cited by the FDA is consistent with other studies demonstrating that the legally required temperature and time for milk pasteurization will readily inactivate HPAI. Viral fragments detected after pasteurization are nothing more than evidence that the virus is dead and have zero impact on human health. Further, federal rules prohibit milk from sick cows from entering the food supply chain. The National Milk Producers Federation and International Dairy Foods Association encourage the FDA to continue to gather scientific data and information that is consistent with its plans. The FDA has also remained consistent in its vigilance against raw milk consumption. Raw milk is a key vehicle in the transmission of human pathogens. As this situation continues to evolve, the dairy organizations strongly discourage the consumption of raw milk. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack Announces New School Meal Standards Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced major steps to promote the health of America's children through school meals. Nutrition standards for school meals will be gradually updated to include less sugar and flexibility with menu planning between Fall 2025 and Fall 2027. The Department arrived at these changes after listening closely to public feedback and considering the latest science-based recommendations from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The new rule continues the work of the Biden Administration to address both food and nutrition security. Vilsack says, “When we raise the bar for school meals, it empowers our kids to achieve greater success inside and outside of the classroom.” For the first time, added sugars will be limited in school meals nationwide. Schools can continue offering flavored and unflavored milk, which provides essential nutrients children need, such as calcium, vitamin D and potassium. Current nutrition standards for whole grains will not change. *********************************************************************************** Crop Insurance Payments to Farmers Vary by Farm Type About 13 percent of U.S. farms participated in Federal crop insurance programs in 2022, with the highest share from small family farms. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports small family farms accounted for 54 percent of the participants in Federal crop insurance programs and received 12 percent of the insurance payments. Small family farms harvested 26 percent of all cropland acres. Midsize and large-scale family farm operators accounted for a slightly lower proportion of Federal crop insurance participants, 42 percent, but harvested most of the U.S. cropland acres, 67 percent, and received 80 percent of payments from Federal crop insurance. Larger farms like these account for 46 percent of agricultural acres operated in 2022. Researchers with USDA's Economic Research Service examined survey data and found that participation rates varied widely across commodity production. In 2022, 62 percent of farms producing row crops purchased Federal crop insurance, while nine percent of farms growing specialty crops, such as fruits, vegetables, and nursery crops, did the same. *********************************************************************************** USDA Urging South Texas to Protect Citrus from Invasive Pests South Texas citrus is under attack and USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is asking residents for their help. Texas citrus in the Lower Rio Grande Valley is at risk of being infested by invasive and damaging fruit flies. APHIS and the Texas Department of Agriculture are inspecting and surveying fruit trees in residential yards and commercial properties to check for signs of invasive plant pests and to protect the food supply and agricultural economy. Residents can help by cooperating with surveys and taking steps to keep invasive fruit flies off their backyard fruit. The main threat this season is an invasive fruit fly that is native to Mexico and Central America. While this fruit fly is harmless to people and pets, it feeds on more than 40 kinds of fruits and vegetables. Invasive fruit fly larvae, more commonly known as maggots, can infest homegrown fruit, mature into adult flies, and then fly into commercial areas and spoil new harvests. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Offers Fall Semester Internships The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association seeks applications for fall internships. The programs include a public policy internship and a meetings and events internship. The public policy internship, based in Washington, D.C., is held in conjunction with the Public Lands Council and gives students an opportunity to learn about government relations and advocacy on behalf of the cattle industry. The meetings and events internship, based in Denver, Colorado, provides students with the chance to learn about managing large events like NCBA’s annual convention and summer business meeting. NCBA Vice President Gene Copenhaver says, “Interning at NCBA is a great way to start your career and the work you do will have a positive impact on America’s hardworking farmers and ranchers.” Both internship applications are now open and available on the careers page of ncba.org. Internships begin in August 2024 and end in December 2024. Applications are due by May 31, 2024. Learn more online at beef.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 25, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, and updates of first-quarter U.S. GDP and the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. pending homes sales in March are set for 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. Weather A stalled front and a system approaching from the West will increase showers and thunderstorms across the Plains on Thursday. Severe weather will be a risk from Nebraska southward with all hazards on the table. Background winds will likely be breezy as well. Frosty morning temperatures in the Midwest will quickly rise Thursday morning.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 24, 2024 |

Pipe Supplier Sues Summit Carbon Solutions An Arkansas pipe manufacturer is suing Summit Carbon Solutions for 15 million dollars. Summit wants to build a carbon dioxide pipeline system in multiple Midwestern states, including Iowa. The lawsuit, filed by Welspun Tubular, says Summit hired the company to produce 785 miles of pipe starting in May 2023 at a cost of $183 million. However, Summit’s pipeline network is scheduled to cover 2,500 miles in five states but has taken longer than expected to get approval. Summit says construction may begin in early 2025. An agreement allowed Summit to delay pipe production for up to six months until November 2023. Welspun notified Summit it would proceed with pipeline production in February, but Summit eventually canceled the agreement. The Nebraska Examiner says state regulators in North and South Dakota rejected the company’s initial pipeline routes. The Iowa Utilities Board is poised to decide whether to issue the company a permit. *********************************************************************************** Drone Operators Urged to Give Right of Way The U.S agricultural industry is entering the growing season, which means things will get busy. The National Agricultural Aviation Association is asking all uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) operators (or drones) to be mindful of low-altitude crewed or manned agricultural aircraft operations. Agricultural vehicles treat 127 million acres of cropland in the U.S. each year to help farmers increase productivity and protect their crops, in addition to pastureland, rangeland, and forestry. UAS are not allowed above 400 feet without a waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration, and manned agricultural aircraft fly as low as ten feet off the ground when making an application. This means they share the low-altitude space with many drones. “With the growing number of uncrewed aircraft operations over the last few years, it’s critical for their operators to be aware of low-flying, manned agricultural aircraft,” says Andrew Moore, chief executive officer of the National Ag Aviation Association. *********************************************************************************** Investing in Clean Energy and Domestic Biofuels The USDA is funding more than 700 clean energy projects to help lower energy bills, expand access to domestic biofuels, create new jobs, and find new market opportunities for farmers and ranchers. Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small announced more than $238 million in loans and grants available through the Rural Energy for America Program and the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program. “As we celebrated Earth Day, we’re excited to partner with hundreds more family farms and small businesses to address the impacts of climate change, grow the economy, and keep rural communities throughout the country strong and resilient,” Torres Small says. $194 million in loans and grants will be available through the REAP program to support projects in 35 states and Puerto Rico. USDA is also investing $43 million in grants through the HBIIP to business owners that will help increase the availability of domestic biofuels in 15 states. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Oppose Sale of Iowa Fertilizer Plant The University of Illinois Farm Policy News says Iowa farmers told officials that they should block the sale of the Iowa Fertilizer Company to Koch Industries. The sale is worth 3.6 billion dollars. Farmers attending the Iowa Farmers Union’s listening session told Lina Khan, the Federal Trade Commission Chair, that consolidation is already squeezing their slim profit margins. The plant located in southeast Iowa received approximately $45 million in local, state, and federal economic development incentives and tax benefits over a decade ago to encourage the plant’s construction. Farmers point out that the acquisition would be the latest in a series of mergers and consolidations that have limited the number of companies they can purchase farm supplies and equipment from and sell livestock and crops. Four companies account for 75 percent of the nation’s supply of nitrogen. Khan didn’t say whether the FTC is investigating the Iowa Fertilizer Company sale. *********************************************************************************** March Milk Production Drops Almost One Percent Milk production in the 24 major states during March totaled 18.8 billion pounds, down 0.9 percent from March 2023. February revised production, at 17.4 billion pounds, was up 2.9 percent from February 2023. The February revision represented an increase of about 82 million pounds, or 0.5 percent, from last month’s preliminary production estimate. Adjusting the February production for the additional day due to the leap year causes February’s revised production to be down 0.7 percent on a per-day basis. Production per cow in the major states averaged 2,115 pounds for March, three pounds below March 2023. The number of milk cows on farms in the 24 major states was 8.88 million head, 71,000 less than in March 2023, and 7,000 head less than February 2024. Milk production during the January-March quarter totaled 56.9 billion pounds, up 0.1 percent from 2023. The average number of milk cows during the quarter totaled 9.33 million head. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn Export Inspections Improve USDA data shows inspections of corn for overseas delivery rose week to week while bean and wheat assessments declined during the week ending on April 18. The agency report says export inspections of corn rose to 1.62 million metric tons, up from 1.35 million tons the previous week. That’s well above the 938,000 tons assessed during the same week last year. Examinations of soybeans for offshore delivery declined to 435,000 tons from more than 446,000 a week earlier. However, that number was up from the 380,000 tons inspected a year ago. USDA says wheat inspections were reported at 450,275 tons, down from just over 620,000 tons the previous week. Since the start of the marketing year, the agency has inspected 30.3 million metric tons of corn for delivery, up from 22.4 million last year. Soybean assessments now total 38.5 million tons, while wheat inspections are now at 16.4 million tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 24, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. durable goods orders in March is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. USDA's monthly cold storage report will be out at 2 p.m. Traders are keeping close watch on weather conditions around numerous global crop regions. Weather A stalled front in the southern half of the Plains will be the focus for some showers and thunderstorms on Wednesday, the precursor to some more active weather the region will see over the next couple of weeks. Across the Midwest, that front has brought in a round of colder air, which led to some frosts Wednesday morning and probably more widespread cold for Thursday morning.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 23, 2024 |

25 States Sue EPA Over Vehicle Emissions Attorneys from 25 states sued the Environmental Protection Agency last week to block rules intended to reduce emissions from cars and light trucks and encourage electric vehicle manufacturing. The group of attorneys general says the agency exceeded its authority. The lawsuit is challenging the regulations for passenger vehicles, finalized on March 20 by the Biden administration. The group of states was led in the filing by Kentucky and West Virginia. Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman says the rules would harm the American economy, threaten jobs, and raise prices while undermining the U.S. electrical grid. Coleman also says there is very little interest in electric vehicles in his state. “The administration is willing to sacrifice the American auto industry and its workers in service of its radical green agenda,” Coleman says. “We aren’t buying it.” EPA chief Michael Regan says the rule imposes “absolutely no mandate” on manufacturers to adopt electric vehicles. *********************************************************************************** Fed Releases April Beige Book The Federal Reserve Board released its April Beige Book last week. It summarizes current economic conditions and includes observations on the agricultural economy. In Atlanta’s Sixth District, agricultural conditions showed improvement in recent weeks, with continued resilience in the cattle market and strong dairy demand. In the Seventh District of Chicago, fieldwork in preparation for planting was well ahead of the usual pace given warmer-than-normal temps. In the Eighth District of St. Louis, total acres planted at the end of March were similar to last year, but there are concerns about wet weather in multiple states. In Minneapolis’s Ninth District, warm weather and widespread mild drought conditions led to a mixed outlook going into planting. In the Eleventh District of Dallas, drought remained prevalent in West Texas and Southern New Mexico. In the Twelfth District around San Francisco, rainfall provided much-needed water for crops but did cause some flooding. *********************************************************************************** Trade Mission Underway in India Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, arrived in New Delhi, India this week to launch a USDA-sponsored agribusiness trade mission. Taylor leads a delegation of officials from 47 agribusinesses and farm organizations and 11 state departments of agriculture. All are seeking to develop and expand business opportunities with importers in India. “As the world’s most populous country and fifth-largest economy, India is primed for continued growth as a top destination for U.S. food and agriculture products,” says Taylor. “With a growing middle class that’s expected to exceed 660 million by 2030, India presents a strong consumer-oriented market where exports from American agribusinesses and producers can flourish.” Participants representing a diverse array of American food and agricultural products get the chance to reinvigorate existing relationships and forge new connections with local importers. The U.S. and India have a long history of agricultural trade and an enhanced bilateral relationship. *********************************************************************************** FARM Program Celebrates Dairy Conservation Efforts The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program released findings from its Conservation Practice Questionnaire highlighting the leading stewardship of dairy farmers. The findings were released as FARM and the National Milk Producers Federation observed Earth Day. The questionnaire, a voluntary addition to the FARM Environmental Stewardship (ES) Program, highlights some of U.S. dairy farmers’ conservation efforts, including practices and technologies that show effective water, energy, and other resource stewardship. As of this month, the questionnaires show that 79 percent of dairy farmers reuse or recycle water on their farms. Ninety percent of participating farms report implementing field conservation practices. Also, 68 percent of farmers use recycled manure, recycled sand, or byproducts as bedding for their cows. More than 97 percent of participating dairy farmers use energy-saving technologies and practices. To further support dairy farmers’ efforts to implement conservation practices and technologies, FARM launched a searchable database of resources. *********************************************************************************** One Billion for Emergency Food Aid The USDA and the U.S. Agency for International Development will deploy $1 billion in Commodity Credit Corporation funding to buy U.S. commodities to provide emergency food assistance around the world. “America’s farmers are the most productive and efficient in the world, and we rely on them to supply safe and nutritious food not only to our nation but to the global community,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The U.S. produces more commodities than we can consume, so we have the opportunity to partner with USAID and extend this food to those in our global community who are struggling.” An initial $950 million will support the purchase, shipment, and distribution of U.S. wheat, rice, sorghum, lentils, chickpeas, dry peas, vegetable oil, cornmeal, navy beans, pinto beans, and kidney beans. These are commodities that align with traditional USAID international food assistance programming. USAID has selected 18 countries for the initial round of support. *********************************************************************************** Cattle on Feed Up One Percent on April 1 USDA data shows the number of cattle on feed at the start of this month rose one percent year-over-year. Cattle and calves on feed for slaughter in feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more rose to 11.8 million head in the week through April 1. An agency report says inventories included 7.27 million steers and calves, a two percent increase, and 4.56 million heifers and heifer calves, a one percent increase from the same point last year. March placements, meanwhile, plunged 12 percent to 1.75 million head. Net placements totaled 1.69 million head. 330,000 head of cattle weighing less than 600 pounds were placed in feedlots. Cattle between 600 and 699 pounds totaled 260,000 head. Around 460,000 head weighing between 700 and 799 pounds were placed, as were 466,000 head weighing 800 to 899 pounds. Marketings of fed cattle also dropped in March, falling 14 percent to 1.71 million head.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 23, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders have several points of weather attention to monitor, including the U.S., South America, Europe and southwestern Russia. A report on March U.S. new home sales will be out at 9:00 a.m. CDT and is the only significant report of the day. Weather A small storm system is moving through the Midwest on Tuesday and should bring scattered showers to the region. Some isolated showers may develop along the cold front across the Southern Plains as well. Temperatures will fall again behind the front, leaving some frosty conditions for Wednesday and Thursday mornings in the Midwest.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 22, 2024 |

EPA Issues Waiver for E15 Sales The Environmental Protection Agency is issuing an emergency fuel waiver to allow E15 gasoline to be sold during the summer driving season. The agency says the move will provide communities with relief at the pump from ongoing market supply issues created by the ongoing Ukraine war and conflict in the Middle East by increasing the fuel supply and offering a variety of fuel blends that consumers can choose from. “EPA is taking action to ensure that American consumers have more choices at the pump,” says Administrator Michael Regan. “Allowing E15 sales during the summer driving season will increase fuel supply while supporting American farmers, strengthening our nation’s energy security, and providing relief to drivers across the country.” Current estimates indicate that on average, E15 is about 25 cents a gallon cheaper than E10. The Clean Air Act allows the EPA administrator to temporarily waive certain fuel requirements to address shortages. *********************************************************************************** Corn Growers Applaud EPA Decision on E15 The Environmental Protection Agency used its authority to prevent drivers from losing access to lower-cost and lower-emission E15, a higher ethanol blend marketed as Unleaded 88. The National Corn Growers, who have advocated for the move, applauded the decision. “This waiver is good news for corn growers and those in rural America who will benefit economically from this decision and for consumers who will save money at the pump during a busy travel season,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “We deeply appreciate the EPA, the administration, and our congressional allies for all their work on this issue.” Under current policy, E15 cannot be sold at terminals beginning on May 1 and at retail stations starting on June 1. NCGA is working with allies, including the petroleum industry, on federal legislation that would provide permanent, year-round access to E15. Higher ethanol blends help significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions and fuel prices. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Producers Wrap Up in Washington, D.C. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association finished a successful Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. The three-day event brought in cattle producers from across the country to Washington to meet with federal agencies and their elected members of Congress. “The conference was a great opportunity to meet with our representatives and discuss issues with agencies like USDA, EPA, and the Fish and Wildlife Service,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele. “I’m thankful for the NCBA team’s work they do every day in D.C., and meetings like this are so valuable for showing policymakers how the decisions they make in Washington impact our farms and ranches thousands of miles away.” This year, 300 cattle producers traveled to Washington and participated in 170 meetings on Capitol Hill. During the three-day event, NCBA members discussed their priorities for the next farm bill, including the need for animal health, disaster relief, risk management, and voluntary conservation programs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Application for Colombia Trade Mission USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Colombia on August 13-15. USDA is now accepting applications from current and potential U.S. exporters who have interest in joining the delegation. “Colombia represents a top-tier food and agricultural destination for American farmers, ranchers, and processors,” says Taylor. “As the second-most populous country in South America, Colombia enjoys highly favorable demographics coupled with 20 years of continuous economic growth,” she says. Colombia is the largest South American market for U.S. agricultural products and the seventh-largest market for U.S. food and beverage exports globally. Since the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement was implemented in 2012, U.S. ag exports to Colombia have grown 237 percent, reaching a record $3.7 billion in 2023. Export opportunities to Colombia include healthy foods, fresh fruit, meat and meat products, beans, seafood, dairy products, and more. For more information, go to fas.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Volatile Weather Possible in Early May AccuWeather forecasters say the spring severe weather season may quickly shift into high gear with favorable tornado conditions in the final days of April and through the first two weeks of May. “It’s the time of the year when you don’t have to wait long for one severe weather outbreak to give way to another one,” says Long Range Forecaster Joe Lundberg of AccuWeather. “Springtime is a severe weather time of year, and we expect that this May will be no exception.” A cold front will move across the Midwest, Ohio Valley, and the Northeast starting on April 23. It will stall out across the South-Central Plains and the northern Gulf states by April 25 and 26. Showers and thunderstorms can develop along the front in the Central Plains. “A strong, slow-moving storm will rotate through the southern Rockies and into the Plains in late April,” says Paul Pastelok of AccuWeather. *********************************************************************************** BLM Rule Threatens Multiple Use of Public Lands The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council expressed concerns with a new rule from the Bureau of Land Management. The BLM’s final “Conservation and Landscape Health” rule reimagines the agency’s requirements to manage lands for multiple uses, including grazing. “Ranchers have always and will always be serious partners in conservation and sensible land management, but after a year of feedback from agricultural organizations and local stakeholders, BLM has decided to move forward with the most concerning parts of this proposal,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele. “It is incredibly concerning that this rule makes serious additions to the land leasing structure for federal lands without authorization or direction from Congress.” The final rule runs counter to the agency’s multiple-use mandate under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976. NCBA and PLC fear the rule will open the door for grazing to get removed from federal rangelands entirely.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 22, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Active Weather, What's New in Land Trends 1. Land trends: We continue our tracking of latest land trends with the start of a series featuring data from a new information partner. Watch as we kick off that land feature, with more information on the background of it, this week. 2. More active precipitation systems: Colder air moving through the weekend and early in the week brings some frost and freeze warning dangers, as well as sparking general precipitation across the South and parts of the Midwest. This and previous systems are easing drought conditions in many areas, a welcome tradeoff for some planting delays. There's especially good signs of rain moving through the Southwest and into the Plains states. 3. View From The Cab introductions: One of most popular long-term series, View From the Cab, kicks off this week with introductions of our featured farmers from Idaho and Kentucky. We're in our 20th year of this series, which each week tracks the activities and thoughts of a pair of farm families as they work through the crop season. 4. Podcast conversations: Our weekly Field Posts podcast series continues with comments around the latest Cattle on Feed reports, as well as existing episodes featuring farmer entrepreneurs and our take on recent grain market reports. 5. Economic reports this Week: Monday, USDA's weekly export inspection numbers are out at 10 a.m. Then USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report is at 3 p.m., followed by our analysis. Tuesday sees March U.S. new home sales report at 9 a.m. On Wednesday, the U.S. durable goods orders in March is set for 7:30 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. USDA's monthly cold storage report will be out at 2 p.m. Then Thursday starts with USDA's weekly export sales at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and as updates of first-quarter U.S. GDP and the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. pending homes sales in March are set for 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. Friday we'll watch for U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending at 7:30 a.m., the same time as the PCE inflation index for March. The University of Michigan's final consumer sentiment index for April is due out at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 22, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets After Israel fired a missile at Iran on Thursday evening, you can bet traders will be monitoring any new developments over the weekend as well as checking weather forecasts around the world. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday. NASS's weekly Crop Progress report is at 3 p.m. Weather Chilly air brought some frosts to the Midwest Monday morning. A small system will work across the northern tier with isolated showers across the Canadian Prairies, Northern Plains, and Upper Midwest. Winds will be a bit breezy in these areas as well. Otherwise, it will be a rather quiet day in most areas and should be a good one to get out and do some fieldwork where soil conditions allow.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 19, 2024 |

Groups Ask ITC to Kill Possible Herbicide Duties Six of the nation’s major commodity groups sent a letter to the U.S. International Trade Commission today encouraging it to vote no in advancing a petition from Corteva Agribusiness. The petition asks ITC to place antidumping and countervailing duties on imports of the herbicide 2-4D shipped from India and China. The letter says if the case continues beyond the preliminary stage, farmers across the country could soon find it difficult to access critical supplies. “Corteva is the only U.S. supplier of 2-4D,” the letter says. “To put it simply, America’s farmers cannot rely on a sole domestic supplier of 2-4D to meet nearly all of the market’s needs, which cannot fully be met without imports.” Duties on 2-4D imports from the two countries would intensify an already difficult period for many growers as key input costs continue to rise. The USDA is projecting record-high farm production cash expenses for 2024. *********************************************************************************** CNH Industry Moving Jobs to Mexico CNH Industrial plans to lay off over 200 employees at its Racine (RAY-seen), Wisconsin facility and shift that work to Mexico. That’s according to a statement from Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin. CNH Industrial, a manufacturer of agricultural equipment, intends to reduce costs by $150 million as part of a company-wide reorganization. “Agricultural machinery has been made in Racine for over 175 years and made Case-New Holland into an international manufacturing powerhouse,” Baldwin wrote in a letter to Scott Wine, CEO of CNH Industrial. “Moving production to Mexico is a slap in the face to the workers who have given so much, and it would destroy the institutional knowledge that your workforce has developed over decades.” Over 1,000 United Auto Workers members ratified a new contract with CNH in January 2023 after a strike lasted over 260 days. Baldwin questioned if this round of layoffs was “retribution” following the UAW strike. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces New Financial Access Tools and Resources The USDA has a new Livestock Indemnity Program Decision Tool and farm loan resources available to agricultural producers who help other producers access USDA disaster assistance and farm loan programs. The new LIP tool and the farm loan informational video resources were developed in partnership between FarmRaise and USDA’s Farm Service Agency. “By providing a collaborative outreach and technical assistance to the agricultural community, the FSA’s partnerships with organizations like FarmRaise increase the awareness of and the broader participation in our extensive suite of farm and farm loan programs,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Offering innovative tools and resources with help from our cooperators breaks down program delivery barriers ensuring equitable access to our programs for millions of rural, urban, and small-scale to mid-sized producers.” The LIP Decision Tool helps producers who suffered losses, while the optional decision tool gives the producers guidance on needed documentation. For information, go to farmraise.com/usda-fsa. *********************************************************************************** Bright Forecast Ahead for U.S. Sugar Industry The University of Missouri’s Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute recently released its outlook for U.S. agriculture. They project that American sugar production remains strong and is expected to grow despite challenges seen over the past couple of years. Those challenges include factory closures in Montana and Texas. “Despite the new and existing challenges, the forecast is bright for American sugar production as long as the farmers’ safety net is strengthened,” says Dr. Rob Johansson, director of economics and policy analysis at the American Sugar Alliance. Most of America’s sugarbeet growers are planting their crops, while California’s growers have started their harvest. Sugarcane producers in southern states are finishing their harvest. USDA is forecasting a near-record 9.2 million tons of sugar will be produced in the U.S. this year, meeting about 74 percent of U.S. demand with domestically-produced supplies. That would make America the fifth-largest sugar producer in the world. *********************************************************************************** Nunn Introduces Year-Round E15 Bill Iowa Third District Congressman Zach Nunn introduced the Year-Round E15 Act that would allow the eight states that’ll have year-round E15 in 2025 to have it this year too. “Let me be clear,” Nunn says on his website. “This bill wouldn’t be necessary if the Administration had done the right thing to begin with, but it’s needed to provide certainty for farmers, producers, and the families who benefit from less expensive fuel.” Nunn also says biofuels support 57,000 jobs in his home state of Iowa, which reduces pump prices and decreases greenhouse emissions by roughly 50 percent. The bill would extend the Reid Vapor Pressure volatility waiver to ethanol blends above 10 percent to allow for year-round E15 sales in Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Don Bacon and Adrian Smith of Nebraska, Nikki Budzinski and Eric Sorenson of Illinois, and Minnesota’s Brad Finstad are co-sponsors. *********************************************************************************** USDA Settles Packers and Stockyards Case The USDA entered into a stipulation agreement with Dennis Kolb Dairy Sales of Pennsylvania on February 13 for alleged violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act. Under the agreement terms, Dennis Kolb Dairy Sales waived the right to a hearing and paid a civil penalty of $12,600. An investigation by the Agricultural Marketing Service revealed between March 2023 and July 2023, the company failed to pay timely on 18 livestock purchases totaling over $96,300. Payments were up to 40 days late. The P&S Act requires subject entities to issue the full payment for livestock by the close of the first business day following the purchase and transfer of possession. Failure to pay for livestock purchases in a timely manner is a violation of the P&S Act. The Act authorizes the Ag Secretary to assess civil penalties of up to $33,896 per violation against anyone after notice and a hearing opportunity.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 19, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for April is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Friday. USDA's Cattle on Feed report for April 1 is set for 2 p.m. with 11.844 million head expected to be found on feed, up 2% from a year ago. Traders continue to monitor weather forecasts and events in the Middle East. Weather A strong cold front is moving through southern and eastern areas of the U.S. on Friday. Some showers and thunderstorms are possible along the front. Behind the front, cold air continues to pour into the country, which will create widespread frosts and freezes across much of the Plains and Midwest through the weekend.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 18, 2024 |

Report Shows Ransomware Attacks in Ag Industry The Food and Agriculture – Information Sharing and Analysis Center released its first annual report on ransomware incidents in the U.S. food and agriculture sector. The report shows that while there were fewer ransomware incidents in the industry than other sectors, ransomware actors have shown a level of sophistication and understanding of sector victims. The Food and AG-ISAC found 167 ransomware attacks against the sector out of 2,905 total ransomware incidents studied in 2023, which was 5.5 percent of all attacks. Ransomware hackers use malicious code to encrypt critical data so an organization cannot access files, databases, or applications, rendering systems unusable unless the victim pays a ransom. “Ransomware remains a serious threat to all business sectors, including the food and ag industry,” says Jonathan Braley, Director of the Food and Ag-ISAC. “Despite several hacker disruptions by law enforcement, cyber attackers often operate in countries that turn a blind eye to their efforts.” *********************************************************************************** AFBF to USDA: Restore NASS Surveys The American Farm Bureau urged USDA to reverse its decision to cancel livestock and crop surveys that are crucial to the success of America’s farmers and ranchers. The National Agricultural Statistics Service recently announced it would no longer provide a July cattle inventory survey, as well as county-level estimates for crops and livestock and the objective yield survey for cotton. Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall sent a letter to USDA emphasizing the importance of the surveys, particularly the July cattle report. “NASS’s two reports regarding the total U.S. cattle inventory, published in January and July, give farmers, ranchers, researchers, and other data users a full picture of supplies in the U.S. cattle sector at the beginning and in the middle of each year,” he says. “This allows for a fair assessment of the cattle market for the next six months.” Eliminating the mid-year report will put the market in the dark. *********************************************************************************** Land O’ Lakes CEO in TIME’s Top 100 List TIME names Beth Ford, Land O’ Lakes president and CEO, to the 2024 TIME 100, its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world. The list recognizes the impact, innovation, and achievement of the world’s most influential individuals. “I’m honored to be mentioned among this impressive group of people,” Ford says. “Our farmers, cooperatives, and ag retailers carry the most risk in the food system.” She also says without investment in rural America, including its communities, businesses, and families, the interconnected global food chain is vulnerable. “We all owe so much to the grit, determination, and resilience of the people who feed us all,” she adds. Ford has held senior positions in seven companies in six industries. She leads by not only addressing and delivering financial performance but also by addressing the important global issues and structural changes that can improve areas directly impacted by food and agriculture. *********************************************************************************** Hormel Settles Price-Fixing Litigation Hormel Foods is the latest U.S. pork producer to reach a settlement in the ongoing allegations of a price-fixing conspiracy in the meat industry. In the first settlement round, Hormel will pay $2.43 million to the commercial indirect purchaser class in the case. “Meat and Poultry” says court documents reveal this is the third settlement between commercial and institutional indirect purchasers following earlier settlements with JBS and Smithfield Foods. The monetary relief in the case is now up to more than $57 million. The price-fixing litigation dates back to 2018. The allegations were consolidated and transferred to a Minnesota district judge in December 2022. Seaboards Foods LLC previously reached a settlement with plaintiffs in which it agreed to pay almost $10 million. Plaintiffs previously alleged that a group of pork processors who control 80 percent of the pork market manipulated the market in an attempt to keep a ceiling on prices. *********************************************************************************** House Ag Committee Plans Farm Bill Markup by Memorial Day House Ag Committee Chair Glenn Thompson says his committee will “without a doubt” mark up a farm bill before Memorial Day on May 27. After repeated delays in the farm bill process, Successful Farming reports that Republicans on the Senate Ag committee plan to release a farm bill framework shortly after the House panel takes action. However, Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow says the Senate hasn’t set a specific timeline to move the bill. A farm bill is six months overdue. Legislators say they’re working hard to pass a farm bill this year despite impasses on crop subsidies, climate, and SNAP cuts. “We’ll move on the bill when I know we can get it done,” Stabenow says. “I do see a path to doing that.” Thompson’s package will get released before the committee vote and will offer a robust farm safety net that’s strengthened with money drawn from a USDA reserve. *********************************************************************************** USDA Helps Increase Healthy Food Access USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small announced that the agency is partnering with Reinvestment Fund to help improve access to healthy foods in underserved communities. The partnership will help strengthen local food financing programs. “No matter where you live across America, you should be able to get affordable, fresh, and healthy food,” Torres Small says. “We’re working to strengthen local and regional food systems so affordable locally grown foods are available closer to home.” She also says USDA is proud to partner with Reinvestment Fund so even more people can find good food options anywhere they live, all while supporting local farmers and ranchers. Reinvestment Fund has selected 16 public-private partnerships to receive $40.3 million in grants under the Healthy Food Financing Initiative. It will help expand access to nutritious and affordable foods in up to 20 states and Washington, D.C. For more information on the partnerships, go to usda.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 18, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be 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. U.S. existing homes sales in March and the U.S. index of leading indicators are both set for 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to monitor events in the Middle East with an Israeli attack on Iran looking more likely after Hezbollah attacked northern Israel Wednesday. Weather A strong cold front is moving into the Central Plains and western Midwest with areas of scattered showers. The front will continue to move south and east throughout the day. Some areas of severe storms will be possible from Texas into the Ohio Valley. Behind the front, temperatures are dropping and will be quite chilly going into the weekend.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 17, 2024 |

Agriculture Emissions Hit Lowest Level in Ten Years America’s farmers and ranchers lead the way in greenhouse gas emissions reduction through voluntary conservation efforts and market-based incentives. The Environmental Protection Agency released the “Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2022.” The report shows that American agriculture reduced emissions by two percent from 2021 to 2022, the largest decrease of any economic sector. “The latest numbers demonstrate farmers’ and ranchers’ commitment to growing the food and fiber America’s families rely on while improving the land, air, and water, a benefit to the farm and climate,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. AFBF’s Market Intel report says U.S. agriculture represents just under ten percent of total U.S. emissions compared to other economic sectors. EPA says emissions from agriculture totaled 634 million metric tons in CO2 equivalents, or 9.99 percent of all emissions in 2022. That’s a 1.8 percent decrease or a drop of 12 million metric tons from 2021. *********************************************************************************** First HPAI Infection in Minnesota The first case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza is now confirmed in Minnesota. The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed the first 2024 outbreak in Minnesota in a Meeker County flock. The current outbreak, confirmed on April 11, has affected 70,100 birds. Meeker County saw four outbreaks in commercial turkey flocks in 2023. Earlier this spring, the Minnesota Board of Health issued guidance for biosecurity measures to help all poultry owners in the state. “Poultry owners might be used to us sounding an alarm on HPAI this time of year and talking about how biosecurity can limit the impact of this disease,” says Shauna Voss, the senior veterinarian for the Minnesota Board of Animal Health. “This year, we’re taking a new approach, and instead of highlighting one disease, we’re highlighting one solution for many diseases, which is effective biosecurity.” Since 2022, the virus has affected 88.11 million birds. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Sue the Biden Administration On behalf of several Texas farmers, the Southeastern Legal Foundation and the Mountain States Legal Foundation filed a preliminary injunction regarding disaster payments. Specifically, they’re asking a federal court to stop the Biden Administration’s USDA from unconstitutionally and unlawfully funneling disaster and COVID-19 relief funds to certain farmers based on race and gender. Precision Risk Management says the plaintiffs are Alan and Amy West, Bryan Baker, and Rusty Strickland. They’ve owned their farms for decades and suffered from the effects of droughts and COVID-19. Rather than help them, USDA is harming them by favoring other producers at their expense based on factors like race and sex that were not authorized by Congress. USDA provides more money to “socially disadvantaged” farmers like women, American Indians, Asians, and many other groups. SLF is suing USDA on the plaintiffs’ behalf for violating the Fifth Amendment Equal Protection Clause and the Administrative Procedure Act. *********************************************************************************** Global Wheat Stocks Forecast at Eight-Year Low The USDA’s April Wheat Outlook shows global wheat ending stocks for 2023-2024 are projected down this month by 0.6 million metric tons to 258.3 million metric tons. The agency says that’s the lowest level in eight years. The biggest factor in this month’s decline is India’s wheat stocks, which are forecast down 2.1 million metric tons to 6.9 million metric tons. India’s government stocks estimates implied a stronger pace of use than previously expected. If this forecast is realized, India’s ending stocks will have declined more than 20 million metric tons from the peak of 27.8 million tons in 2020-2021. Global stocks have slipped 39 MMT from the peak level of 297 MMT in 2019-2020, with China estimated to account for 18 MMT of that decline. Total exporter-held ending stocks have been relatively consistent over the last several years, not showing the same declining trend as China and India’s stocks. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Industry Grateful for Multi-National Recognition The U.S. ethanol industry expressed appreciation for the joint statement from President Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida (Kih-SHEE-dah)on the importance of ethanol as a decarbonization solution. The leaders recognized ethanol as a solution within the transportation sectors in both their respective countries. In the statement on April 10, Biden and Kishida said, “We will advance widespread adoption of innovative new clean energy technologies and seek to increase the globally available supply of sustainable aviation fuel or feedstock, including those that are ethanol-based and show promise in reducing emissions.” The U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy, and the Renewable Fuels Association issued a joint statement saying, “Our organizations appreciate the dedication and support of USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, the U.S. Trade Representative, and other government agencies in advocating for grain-based ethanol in their international discussions. It can be used immediately as a carbon-mitigation tool for the on-road, aviation, maritime, and biochemical sectors.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Workshops on a New Insurance Option The USDA’s Risk Management Agency has expanded the Nursery Value Select crop insurance program to all counties in all states and will host two virtual information workshops on Thursday, April 18. Start times are 1:00 p.m. CDT and 6:00 p.m. PDT for interested nursery producers who want to learn more about the program. These sessions will be valuable for producers in the newly expanded areas and especially for the Nursery Field Grown and Container crop insurance program, which ends with the 2026 crop year. The Nursery Value Select Insurance Program is a pilot program that allows nursery producers to select the dollar amount of coverage that best fits their needs. NVS, which is an asset-based form of insurance, covers damage due to, but not limited to, things like adverse weather conditions and fire. NVS is based on the existing nursery crop insurance program but has a simpler application and renewal process.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 17, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The Energy Department's weekly inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday and includes ethanol production. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book follows at 1 p.m. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook will be out at 2 p.m. Traders remain wary about possible retaliation from Israel after Iran's attack over the weekend. Weather A system that has brought some heavy rain to the western half of the Corn Belt this week will see showers being less widespread as it moves through the Great Lakes on Wednesday. However, some areas of heavy rain and severe thunderstorms are still possible. Behind it, a stronger cold front will be moving through the Northern Plains. It may not have a lot of showers until it reaches Nebraska Wednesday night, but it will be bringing through a burst of colder air that will spread out through the country.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 16, 2024 |

Marshall Eying Republican Majority for Farm Bill Senator Roger Marshall, over the weekend, suggested Congress should wait until a Republican-led Senate to create the next farm bill. The Kansas Republican told the Hagstrom Report Congress may need to pass another one-year extension instead, then write the next bill once Republicans take over the Senate, if they take over the Senate. Marshall made the comments on the sidelines of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission's 2024 Agricultural Commodity Futures Conference. Marshall says, "I think we will have a better farm bill for the farmer if we have a Republican majority [in the Senate] and a Republican president in the White House." In that scenario, Marshall claims the farm bill will be better for the farmer. Democrats are resistant to nutrition and climate-related conservation cuts to fund crop insurance programs. However, Marshall claims there must be cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program because “there are “healthy adult men who have not worked for years” receiving benefits. *********************************************************************************** TFI Releases Latest Report on Fertilizer Industry Sustainability The Fertilizer Institute Monday released new data highlighting industry improvement in sustainability performance of workforce safety, energy and the environment, fertilizer use, and industry innovation. TFI has collected data since 2013 on metrics that provide insight into the industry's sustainability efforts. The data announced Monday was gathered in 2023 and reflects industry operations in 2022. Participating members reported a total of 25 zero-discharge facilities, at which all wastewater is recycled. Farmers in the U.S. have a nitrogen use efficiency of 70 percent, which is much higher than the world average of 55 percent. The 2023 4R Advocates had an average of 100 percent nitrogen use efficiency. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, "Each step of the supply chain is focused on doing more with fewer resources while limiting impacts on communities and the environment." The data includes metrics on segments of the fertilizer industry, including fertilizer use on farms, worker safety, energy and environment, and industry innovation. *********************************************************************************** Retail Food Price Inflation Varied Geographically in 2023 Retail food price inflation varied by locality in 2023, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. New data shows food-at-home, or grocery prices, rose the fastest last year in Houston, Texas, by 7.8 percent, followed by Boston, Massachusetts, at seven percent. In contrast, food-at-home prices declined by 1.3 percent in 2023 in Anchorage, Alaska, and rose by the lowest amount—1.7 percent—in Honolulu, Hawaii. Across the United States, food-at-home prices increased by 5.0 percent on average in 2023. Differences in retail overhead expenses, such as labor and rent, can explain some of the variation among cities, because retailers often pass local cost increases to consumers in the form of higher prices. Furthermore, differences in consumer purchasing patterns for specific foods may help explain variations in inflation rates among cities. Products that consumers purchase vary regionally, and each metro area’s inflation rate is calculated based on a representative set of foods unique to the area. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Pork Exports Continue to Surge in 2024 Exports of U.S. pork continued their robust growth in the first two months of 2024, according to recently released data by the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Commerce. They increased ten percent in volume, to 502,585 metric tons, and ten percent in value, to $1.37 billion, over the same period last year. As it was for all of 2023, Mexico was the top destination for U.S. pork in January and February, totaling 196,452 metric tons, worth nearly $397 million, up 12 percent and 15 percent, respectively, from the same time in 2023. Exports accounted for $61.45 in average value from each hog marketed, which is the price producers received in January and February, up four percent from the same period in 2023, according to the National Pork Producers Council. Exports accounted for 25 percent of total production, an increase of 1.7 percent from the same month one year ago. *********************************************************************************** USDA Partners With Puerto Rico to Improve Food Supply Chain USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service Monday announced a cooperative agreement with Puerto Rico under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program. USDA and Puerto Rico are working together to offer more than $3.5 million in competitive grant funding for projects designed to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain. Puerto Rico is accepting applications for this Infrastructure Grant funding through June 30, 2024. Using the funding, the Puerto Rico Department of Agriculture will bolster the island's agricultural infrastructure with an emphasis on establishing advanced industrial processing facilities. The department will fund projects that expand processing capacity, support new wholesale product lines, increase packaging and labeling capacities, increase cold storage, and purchase specialized equipment and delivery vehicles. The island's priorities are informed by stakeholder engagement and outreach to underserved producers to understand their needs better. USDA Marketing and Regulatory Programs Undersecretary Jenny Lester Moffitt says, “The projects will create new opportunities for the region’s small and midsize producers to thrive.” *********************************************************************************** Gas Prices Higher Again, Diesel Lower The national average gas price increased again last week, climbing 3.1 cents from a week ago to $3.60 per gallon. The national average is up 14.2 cents from a month ago and 5.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 1.2 cents last week and is $4.01 per gallon—16 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan cautions, "With Iran's attack on Israel over the weekend, the stakes couldn't have been higher for a major potential impact on oil and gasoline prices." "If Israel responds with further attacks, the move could push oil prices higher. However, motorists can expect other factors to influence what they're paying at the pump, such as the switch to summer gasoline. The switch could result in prices in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern U.S. to increase as much as 20 to 50 cents per gallon for gas.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 16, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on March U.S. housing starts will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by March industrial production at 8:15 a.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch on South American weather and events in the Middle East. Weather A strong storm system in the Plains continues northeast into the Midwest on Tuesday. The system has had a history of producing severe storms, which continues to be a threat Tuesday as well. Those in Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri stand the best threat of that. Heavy rain that comes with these thunderstorms may slow down planting a bit but will help to increase soil moisture for early crop growth. Winds remain strong around the system as well, which is drying out soils in the southwestern Plains that were bypassed yet again.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 15, 2024 |

Senators Continue Pushing for Summertime E15 Waiver Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Thune (R-SD), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) are calling on the administration to permit nationwide E15 sales this summer. They sent a letter underscoring the geopolitical importance of uninterrupted biofuel access and noted that the president directed the Environmental Protection Agency to issue summertime waivers in 2022 and 2023. “Enabling the year-round sale of E15 helped allow our energy supply chain to ‘address extreme and unusual fuel supply circumstances’ caused by the war in Ukraine that are affecting all regions of the nation,” they said. “To counter these influences, we must pursue an all-of-the-above energy strategy, which includes leveraging domestic biofuels.” They also said as previous temporary waivers have proven, permitting the sale of higher blends of biofuels like E15 through the 2024 summer driving season bolsters domestic fuel supply, lowers consumer costs at the pump, and promotes the environmental benefits of American biofuels and modern agriculture. *********************************************************************************** FCA Board Gets Quarterly Update on Ag Conditions The Farm Credit Administration board received a quarterly report on economic issues affecting agriculture and an update on the financial conditions affecting agriculture. They also got an update on the financial condition and performance of the Farm Credit System. Interest rates remain high after recent inflation reports came in higher than expected, but rate cuts by the Federal Reserve are possible later in the year. Other measures of the economy are favorable, such as low and stable unemployment levels and economic growth. Agricultural producers are facing tightening margins, with cash receipts expected to decline this year and high input costs likely to persist. Crop prices have declined because of elevated supplies. Issues in the livestock industry include recovering from the Texas wildfires and recent HPAI infections in dairy cattle herds. Full earnings for the Farm Credit System were up compared to the prior year but provisions for credit losses increased. *********************************************************************************** Large Tractor Sales Increase Again For the second straight month, unit sales of 100-plus horsepower ag tractors increased in the U.S. New data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says March sales jumped 3.2 percent compared to last year, following February’s increase of 2.8 percent compared to 2023. Total year-to-date sales of ag tractors and combines are below 2023’s pace. Tractors are down 13.3 percent while combines fell 20.4 percent. “Seeing the continued growth in 100-plus horsepower tractor sales is a welcome sight as 2024 progresses, despite the softness in other tractor sizes,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “As we start the planting season, we’re optimistic about the future of the ag equipment market.” Unit sales of 100-plus horsepower tractors also grew in Canada during March, rising 2.7 percent compared to 2023. Four-wheel drive ag tractor unit sales jumped 27.3 percent compared to last year and are up 11 percent year-to-date compared to 2023. *********************************************************************************** Forest Service Invests in Rural Communities The USDA’s Forest Service announced it’s issuing more than $232 million to support public schools, roads, and other municipal services through the agency’s Secure Rural Schools Program. As the agency invests in ways for forests to generate more economic opportunities in rural areas, it also aims to support the quality of life in those communities. “National forests and grasslands cover more than 193 million acres, including across rural counties that are important partners in helping sustainably manage resources,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The Secure Rural Schools program is able to contribute to the economic vitality and well-being of the communities intertwined with our forests.” Forest Service Chief Randy Moore says the Secure Rural Schools Program is just one of the ways the Forest Service supports communities nationwide. “This funding aids schools and roads, reimburses counties for national forest emergency services, and assists in creating community wildfire protection plans,” Moore says. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Could Expand Cropland by 35 Percent Brazil is a major soybean, corn, and cotton grower but could expand its crop area by more than a third. Successful Farming says Brazil could do that by converting overgrazed or overgrown pastureland says a research agency in Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture. A team of university economists say besides the potential addition of 70 million acres of cropland, Brazil could also increase production by devoting more land to second-crop corn. “The potential for Brazil to expand its agricultural output through converting degraded pastureland into cropland is huge,” the U.S. analysts said while writing in Farmdoc. “With approximately 70 million acres identified as suitable for conversion, Brazil could increase its total planted area by 35 percent compared to this year.” There are currently 45 million acres of “degraded” pastureland in four states that are leading corn and soybean producers in Brazil. Experts say Brazil has a lot of unfarmed land with potential. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn Export Sales Decline USDA data shows export sales dropped to a marketing year low in the seven days that ended on April 4, although soybean and wheat sales increased. Corn sales dropped 325,500 metric tons, down 66 percent week to week and 72 percent from the prior four-week average. The agency says that’s the lowest level since the marketing year began on September 1. Japan was the big buyer at 221,100 metric tons, followed by Mexico and South Korea. Weekly exports for the week hit 1.56 million tons, down five percent from the previous week. Soybean sales to overseas buyers rose to 305,300 metric tons, a three percent drop from the average for this time of year. Mexico bought 172,600 tons. Exports totaled 503,400 tons, eight percent lower than the prior week. Wheat sales for export totaled 80,700 metric tons, higher than the prior week’s 16,100 tons but two percent below the average.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 15, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Cattle Numbers, Storm Front Top the Watch List 1. Crop Progress update: Monday's USDA NASS' weekly national Crop Progress report, due out at 3 p.m., will be of interest as there was a bit more field activity this past week where rains didn't keep tractors parked. We'll compare the progress with previous years' early April activity. 2. Cattle on Feed Friday: Latest cattle numbers will hit midday Friday, and we'll have both expectations in a preview piece early in the week as well as the report and professional analysis of it later Friday. S 3. More precipitation in forecast: As much of the country headed into a warmer, but windy, weekend, DTN meteorologists are watching a trough off the West Coast that will move eastward during the weekend and into the middle of the country early the week of April 14th. That storm is likely to produce widespread precipitation, strong winds, severe storms, and areas of snow as it slowly moves across the country throughout the week. 4. Wheat conditions improve: We'll track additional reports from wheat country as that crop begins to kick off spring growth. 5. Economic reports this week: Monday kicks off with the 7:30 a.m. release of U.S. Retail Sales, then at 9 a.m. we'll see Business Inventories and Home Builder Confidence Index. At 10 a.m., weekly Grain Inspections report is due, followed by 11 a.m. release of the Oil Crops Outlook. At 2 p.m. is the Feed and Wheat Crop outlooks, then at 3 p.m. is the USDA NASS' Crop Progress report, followed by our full analysis of the reports. Tuesday the general economic condition reports include the 7:30 a.m. release of U.S. Housing Starts and Building Permits. At 8:15 a.m. is the Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization numbers. â?¯Wednesday we'll see the 10 a.m. release of Weekly Petroleum Status report from EIA, including ethanol data.â?¯ At 2 p.m. the Broiler Hatchery report is released. Thursday starts with 7:30 a.m. release of Grain Export Sales and Initial Jobless Claims.â?¯ At 9 a.m., Existing Home Sales and U.S. Leading Economic Indicators is out, with the Weekly Economic Index hitting at 10:30 a.m. On Friday, at 2 p.m., the Cattle on Feed report is released, followed by DTN analysis of the report. The CFTC Commitment of Traders report surfaces at 2:30 PM.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 15, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts and check news updates from the Middle East. A report on March U.S. retail sales is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Monday. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will have an estimate of members' soybean crush in March later Monday morning. NASS's weekly Crop Progress report is at 3 p.m. with the first estimates of soybean plantings to be included. Weather A storm system in the Rockies will move out into the Plains on Monday. Winds are increasing ahead of it and could create some additional risks of wildfires where it has been dry. Scattered severe thunderstorms are expected to form in the Plains as well, with large hail being the most likely hazard.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 12, 2024 |

April WASDE Calls for Lower Corn and Higher Soybean Ending Stocks The April World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates Report predicts lower corn and higher soybean ending stocks. The 2023-2024 U.S. corn outlook is for greater corn used for ethanol, feed, and residual use. With no supply changes and use rising, ending stocks dropped 50 million bushels to 2.1 million. The season-average farm price is lowered five cents to $4.70 a bushel. The U.S. soybean outlook includes lower imports, residual use, exports, and higher ending stocks. With trade changes and slightly lower residual use, soybean ending stocks were raised 25 million bushels to 340 million. The season-average soybean price is forecast at $12.55 a bushel, down ten cents. The supply and demand outlook for U.S. wheat is for lower supplies, reduced domestic use, unchanged exports, and higher ending stocks, which are raised 25 million bushels to 698 million, 22 percent above 2023. The season-average farm price is down five cents at $7.10. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Ethanol Industry Comments on Brazilian Ethanol Tariffs The U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy, and the Renewable Fuels Association jointly submitted comments to the Brazilian Chamber of Foreign Trade regarding the Brazilian tariff on imported U.S. ethanol. In October 2023, Brazil’s association of fuel importers formally requested the government drop the ethanol duties because data showed the tariff raised fuel costs for Brazil’s domestic consumers. In anticipation of the open comment period, the three organizations mobilized a number of industry stakeholders to seek a permanent removal of Brazil’s tariff on imported U.S. ethanol. As of January 1, 2024, the current duty stands at 18 percent, while Brazilian ethanol imported into the U.S. enjoys free access to the American market. In their comments, the groups say, “We’d like to stress that the U.S. industry will continue to advocate for restrictive measures to entry for Brazilian ethanol into the U.S. if the Brazilian government doesn’t rethink the current tariff policies.” *********************************************************************************** Survey on Farmers and Sustainable Practices McKinsey and Company research reveals that a vast majority of American farmers have an understanding of sustainable farming. While 90 percent of farmers understand the practices, the uptake remains low. Even where farmers are adopting sustainable practices, they are only implementing them on a small share of their acreage, typically under 30 percent. The survey shows a positive outlook for the future of sustainable farming as farmers are willing to adopt the practices. Some major barriers to adoption remain, including obtaining a market premium for sustainably grown crops and implementation difficulties. Adoption of practices is correlated with perceived return on investment. Practices with the highest perceived ROI, such as applying fertilizer based on soil sampling, have the highest adoption rates. Practices that require only behavioral changes, such as reduced or no-till, have the highest adoption levels at 68 percent. Despite the perceived benefits of sustainable practices, farmers expect costs to remain high. *********************************************************************************** Republicans Propose a Crop Insurance Subsidy Boost The University of Illinois’ Farm Policy News says Republicans on the Senate Agriculture Committee proposed putting $4 billion into the national crop insurance program. That means the government would pay a larger share of the policy premiums for the highest coverage levels. The plan, called the FARMER Act, would inject $4.2 billion over ten years. Premium support for revenue and yield protection at the 80 percent coverage level would rise from 68 to 77 percent. At the 85 percent coverage level, protection would increase from 53 to 68 percent. The proposed increases would only be provided to enterprises and whole farm units. The plan counters an earlier suggestion on crop insurance from Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow, who said her proposal was just intended to jump-start negotiations on the farm bill, and she’s “glad it worked.” AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “The FARMER Act will make higher coverage more affordable.” *********************************************************************************** Iowa Takes Action on Foreign Land Ownership Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed into law new reporting requirements and harsher penalties related to foreign land ownership in Iowa. Reynolds says Iowa plays an important role in America’s food chain, and when Iowa speaks on threats to American agriculture, the country listens. “American soil belongs in American hands,” Reynolds says. The law grants the Iowa attorney general more powers related to foreign land ownership. Those powers include the ability to subpoena foreign landowners for financial records and land purchase agreements for investigations into potential violations of foreign farmland owner restrictions. Foreign landowners would be required to provide details to the state about their land owned in other states if it’s more than 250 acres. It also requires the Iowa Secretary of State to file an annual report on foreign farmland ownership in Iowa for consideration by state officials. The law also raises the fine levels on violations for reporting requirements. *********************************************************************************** USDA Sets Date for Pecan Referendum The USDA will conduct a referendum May 10 through June 24 for eligible domestic pecan producers and importers to decide whether to continue their research and promotion program. Current producers that have domestically produced 50,000 pounds of in-shell pecans or 25,000 pounds of shelled pecans from October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2023, are eligible to vote in the referendum. Importers who have brought in 50,000 pounds of in-shell pecans or 25,000 pounds of shelled pecans during the same period can also vote in the referendum. The order will continue if it is favored by the majority of domestic producers and importers voting in the referendum who have been engaged in the production or importing of pecans. The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service will conduct the referendum by express mail and electronic ballot. AMS staff will express mail ballots and voting instructions to all known eligible pecan producers and importers during the voting period.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 12, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for April is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Friday. Traders will keep watch over the weather forecasts in South America and other major crop areas. Any further fighting in the Middle East or Ukraine will also continue to get attention. Weather A storm system continues to slowly push through the Northeast on Friday while another is just off the West Coast. Winds will still be breezy in the East for Friday while quieter conditions will be felt in the middle of the country.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 11, 2024 |

House Ag Chair Intends on Farm Bill Markup in May House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn GT Thompson says "without a doubt," the farm bill will be out of his committee by Memorial Day. Speaking exclusively to Agri-Pulse, The Pennsylvania Republican says he found a way to fund commodity program changes, adding, "it's going to allow us to do what we know needs to be done in terms of safety net issues." Getting a five-year farm bill across the finish line remains the priority for agriculture, following last years' one-year extension of the 2018 farm bill. However, lawmakers in the Senate, like Senator Chuck Grassley, are not optimistic. Grassley said to reporters this week, "What they need is a five-year extension, but I'm very pessimistic about there being an agreement in the Senate on a bipartisan farm bill this year." While the House may ultimately pass a bill, Grassley adds, "I don't think you should assume that that's got much to do with what's happening in the United States Senate.” *********************************************************************************** March Consumer Price Index: Small Increases in Food Prices The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers increased 0.4 percent in March on a seasonally adjusted basis, the same increase as in February. Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased 3.5 percent before seasonal adjustment. The food index increased 0.1 percent in March, while the food at home index was unchanged. Both indexes were unchanged in February. Three of the six major grocery store food group indexes decreased over the month while the remaining three had price advances. The cereals and bakery products index decreased 0.9 percent over the month, the largest 1-month seasonally adjusted decrease ever reported in the series. The food away from home index rose 0.3 percent in March, after rising 0.1 percent in February. The food at home index rose 1.2 percent over the last 12 months, while the index for food away from home rose 4.2 percent over the last year, and the overall food index has increased 2.2 percent over the last year. *********************************************************************************** EPA Finalizes PFAS Drinking Water Limits The Environmental Protection Agency Wednesday finalized PFAS drinking water limits, a move the agency claims will protect 100 million people from PFAS pollution. Farmers and ranchers do not produce PFAS; however, these chemicals can be found in the water that is provided to their livestock and crops. In certain areas of the country, PFAS levels have risen in milk, beef, and row crops, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. EPA is taking steps to protect public health by establishing legally enforceable levels for several PFAS known to occur individually and as mixtures in drinking water. This rule sets limits for five individual substances. EPA estimates that between about six percent and ten percent of the 66,000 public drinking water systems subject to this rule may have to take action to reduce PFAS to meet these new standards. All public water systems have three years to complete their initial monitoring for these chemicals. *********************************************************************************** APHIS Supports Projects to Control and Prevent Chronic Wasting Disease USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service this week announced the availability of more than $12 million to control and prevent chronic wasting disease in wild and farmed deer and elk. CWD is an infectious, degenerative disease of cervids that causes brain cells to die, ultimately leading to the death of the affected animal. The incubation period can be lengthy, and infected animals may look healthy until the end stages of the disease, making it difficult to distinguish them from healthy animals. Animals infected with CWD can transmit the disease to other animals during the "silent" incubation period. The disease has spread widely, and the limited number of tools and their efficacy impact the ability to control the disease effectively. Eligible applicants may submit multiple proposals for each funding opportunity, requesting up to the maximum amount for that funding opportunity in each proposal. The funding opportunity announcements are posted on Grants.gov. Applications are due on June 10, 2024. *********************************************************************************** National Sorghum Producers Seeks New Leaders for Board of Directors National Sorghum Producers has opened applications for two positions on the 2024 board of directors. NSP is looking for new producer leaders who are passionate about advancing the crop and shaping the future of the sorghum industry. NSP Chairman Craig Meeker says, “We are eager to welcome new voices, ideas and perspectives that will help usher in a new era for our industry.” Board members are instrumental in advancing policies and building relationships that benefit sorghum farmers and the industry. Candidates should be NSP members passionate about advocacy and fundraising, with a vision to advance the industry. No prior board experience is necessary to apply. Applications are due Friday, May 10, 2024. After the application deadline, the NSP Nominating Committee will review all applications before making nominations to the NSP Board of Directors. Selected members will serve a three-year term, beginning October 1, 2024—the start of NSP’s fiscal year. For the application and more information, visit SorghumGrowers.com. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeks Nominees for Christmas Tree Promotion Board The Department of Agriculture is seeking nominations for the Christmas Tree Promotion Board. Four seats on the board are available, with terms beginning January 1, 2025, ending December 31, 2027. Eligible nominees must have produced domestically or imported more than 500 Christmas trees during the fiscal period of August 1, 2022 – July 31, 2023. The Christmas Tree Promotion Board seeks nominees for the following seats: two Region #1 - Western Region Producers, one Region #3 - Eastern Region Producer, and one Importer. Throughout the full nomination process, the industry must conduct extensive outreach, paying particular attention to reaching underserved communities, and consider the diversity of the population served and the knowledge, skills and abilities of the members to serve a diverse population. The board is made up of 12 industry members including eleven producers and one importer. Election and nomination details can be found on the board’s website at www.realchristmastreeboard.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 11, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, producer prices for March and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's WASDE report is due out at 11 a.m. Weather A storm system is moving through the Midwest on Thursday and bringing widespread showers and thunderstorms through the eastern half of the country. Some severe storms will be possible as will be heavy rain that could produce some localized flooding. Breezy winds are also developing behind the system.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 10, 2024 |

NASS Discontinues July Cattle Report and Other Reports USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service announced Tuesday that it is canceling the July Cattle report and discontinuing the Cotton Objective Yield Survey and all County Estimates for Crops and Livestock beginning with the 2024 production year. The decision to discontinue these surveys and reports was not made lightly but was necessary, given the appropriated budget levels, according to the announcement. In response, the National Cattlemen's Beef Association urged the agency to reconsider. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says, "It is disingenuous for the same agency which touts its commitment to transparency in livestock markets to arbitrarily cease publication of reports which provide just that." NCBA contends that the July Cattle Report and discontinuing the County Estimates for Crops and Livestock provide critical data to the industry. USDA NASS says it has and will continue to review its estimating programs using criteria focused on the needs of its mission and customers to prioritize budget decisions. *********************************************************************************** ASI, NCBA Release Public Grazing Guidance for FMD Outbreaks Two leading livestock industry groups announced guidance for public land grazing in the event of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. The American Sheep Industry Association and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association announced the framework Tuesday. The guidance provides resources to livestock producers to voluntarily prepare before an FMD outbreak. Using "real-time" scenario exercises, guidance was improved to provide decision makers with necessary information to ensure animal needs and response goals are met. Some decision criteria include assessing adequate feed/water, mitigating interactions with wildlife, and implementing just-in-time biosecurity. ASI President Brad Boner says, "With about half of the U.S. ewe inventory that seasonally graze on permitted federal grazing lands, this project provides needed information for ranchers and decision makers." NCBA and ASI developed the guidance through two years of virtual and in-person meetings with an advisory group of sheep and cattle producers who hold federal grazing permits. Find the guidance online at securesheepwool.org or securebeef.org. *********************************************************************************** Grassley to Schumer: Put the Farm Bill on the Senate Agenda Senator Chuck Grassley calls on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to move forward with a bipartisan Farm Bill in short order. Grassley is urging the Majority Leader to hold true to his commitment to seek compromise with Republicans by passing a five-year Farm Bill reauthorization this year. The Iowa Republican says, "Farmers across the United States deserve the stability of a new five-year Farm Bill," as opposed to another one-year extension. Last week, Schumer sent a letter to Senate colleagues, including your plans for the coming weeks and months for the Senate, saying, "Democrats have an ambitious agenda to help the American people." In a letter Tuesday to Schumer, Grassley pointed out the Farm Bill’s notable absence from Schumer’s recent outline of the Senate’s agenda. Additionally, as the Farm Bill has been sidelined, Grassley notes that other important bills that may otherwise have been considered in the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee have been stalled. *********************************************************************************** NMPF, IDFA Concerned with Final WIC Rule Reducing Access to Dairy The National Milk Producers Federation and the International Dairy Foods Association expressed disappointment in Tuesday's final rule to update the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, or WIC. The final rule maintains the proposed rule's cuts to dairy in the WIC food packages. WIC is a vital program ensuring that pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children have access to key nutrients that may be lacking in their diets, so decreasing the amount of dairy decreases the nutrients they are accessing through it. NMPF president and CEO Gregg Doud responded, “This rule works against the WIC Program’s goal of ensuring all Americans have consistent and equitable access to healthy, safe, and affordable foods.” Milk, cheese, and yogurt are three of the five top redeemed items through WIC, according to NMPF and IDFA. While disappointed in the cuts to the dairy allotments the groups appreciate the rule’s requirement that states offer lactose-free milk and a wider selection of product package sizes. *********************************************************************************** USDA Trade Mission to Pinpoint New Opportunities for U.S. Agribusinesses in India Undersecretary Alexis M. Taylor will lead a Department of Agriculture agribusiness trade mission to New Delhi, India, April 22-25. The delegation of 47 businesses, organizations, and officials from 11 state departments of agriculture speaks volumes about the export sales opportunity the world's most populous country represents for U.S. food and agricultural producers, according to USDA. Taylor says, "India represents a growth economy for U.S. agribusinesses seeking to capture an increasing share of the household food purchases in the fifth-largest economy in the world." Last year, India reduced tariff requirements for U.S. poultry products, vegetables, fruits, pulses, and tree nuts – strengthening the agribusiness trade relationship between the United States and India. While on the trade mission, participants will engage in business-to-business meetings and site visits to build new trade linkages, strengthen existing partnerships, observe U.S. products in the marketplace, and discover the latest Indian consumer food trends. Participants will also receive in-depth market briefings from USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service. *********************************************************************************** Nutrien Announces Multi-Year Commitment to the National FFA Organization Nutrien Ag Solutions recently announced a multi-year commitment of nearly $850,000 to the National FFA Organization in support of its commitment to shape future agriculture leaders. The yearly donation of $282,500 supports a variety of National FFA Organization programs and events during the three years, from 2024 to 2026. The support includes Future Farmers of America members in competitive events, assisting FFA advisors in their professional development, as well as providing National FFA Officers with a $10,000 scholarship at the end of their year of service. In addition, the donations will also support alumni chapter grants. National FFA Foundation President Molly Ball says, “Nutrien Ag Solutions has been unwavering in its support and continues to see the potential leaders in our members and advisors.” Nutrien Ag Solutions provides crop inputs and services, providing solutions through a global Retail network of trusted crop consultants at more than 2,000 locations.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 10, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for March will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. Minutes from the latest Federal Reserve meeting are set for 2 p.m., the same time as the Treasury Department's monthly report on the federal budget for March and USDA's release of Historical Crop Production. Weather A storm system that has already brought flooding rain to portions of the Delta region this week continues to develop on Wednesday across the same area. In addition to the heavy rain, severe weather looks likely near the Gulf Coast as well. The storm system will move northeast into the Midwest Wednesday night and into Thursday, spreading rainfall to more areas of the country.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 9, 2024 |

Coalition Formed to Advocate for Access to Crop Protection Tools Grower and industry groups from across the country have joined together to support a new coalition, the Modern Ag Alliance. The coalition seeks to protect farmers' access to critical crop protection tools to ensure a robust and affordable food supply. Working alongside federal and state policymakers, more than 60 diverse agriculture organizations, led by Bayer, have aligned to voice their support for legislative solutions that ensure consistency in labeling and the continued domestic availability of innovations for farming. The Modern Ag Alliance is working with agricultural partners and policymakers nationwide to reinforce the importance of science-based regulation. Specifically, the need to ensure any pesticide registered with the EPA - and sold under a label consistent with the EPA's own determinations - is sufficient to satisfy requirements for health and safety warnings. Jess Christiansen, Head of Crop Science Communications for Bayer, says, "Farmers need these critical innovations now more than ever - and certainty to ensure the continued long-term availability of products like glyphosate." *********************************************************************************** CropLife International Joines Calls for Action over Illicit Pesticide Sales CropLife International recently joined calls for greater control measures and enforcement regarding the online sale of illicit pesticides. The move follows a report by the Transnational Alliance to Combat Illicit Trade regarding counterfeit and illicit crop protection products on e-commerce platforms. The report, Tackling the Sale of Illicit Pesticides on E-Commerce Platforms, highlights the presence of counterfeit and illicit crop protection products across all major e-commerce platforms and points to the large gap between the platforms' stated policies, their enforcement, and how lawmakers are regulating online sales. As the global association for the plant-science industry, CropLife International worked with the alliance in developing the report, and is committed to supporting their calls to implement the recommendations it contains. CropLife International President and CEO Emily Rees adds, “This puts the spotlight on the platforms to step up and ensure that the purpose for which these products are designed - to nurture and protect agriculture - is not turned on its head through illegal activity on e-commerce.” *********************************************************************************** Report: Missouri Farmers Facing Lower Spring Income The University of Missouri predicts another decline in net farm income this spring. The 2024 Missouri Farm Income Outlook offers a state-level glimpse at projected farm financial indicators, including farm receipts, production expenses and other components that affect net farm income. Projections from the report suggest that declining market receipts and lower crop prices play a role in the estimated $0.8 billion decrease in net farm income for 2024. Scott Brown of the University says, "Although decreased production expenses offer some relief, reduced livestock inventories and lower crop prices are impacting Missouri producers — leading to the projection of lower farm receipts in 2024," Production expenses are forecast to decrease by 5 percent this year. According to the report, Missouri's net farm income is projected to drop 18 percent in 2024, compared to an estimated 25.5% decrease in U.S. net farm income. Looking ahead, the report estimates that Missouri's net farm income will increase in 2025 and 2026. *********************************************************************************** Food Insecurity in U.S. Households Varies Across Race and Ethnicity New data from USDA's Economic Research Service finds that food insecurity varies across races and ethnicities. Researchers say that from 2016 to 2021, 11.1 percent of U.S. households experienced food insecurity, meaning they had difficulty providing enough food for all their members because of a lack of resources. Over the same period, 4.3 percent of U.S. households experienced very low food security, a more severe form of food insecurity in which food intake is reduced and eating patterns are disrupted. Households headed by a reference person who identified as American Indian and Alaska Native, Multiracial—American Indian-White, Black, Multiracial—All Other Combinations, Multiracial—Black-White, Hispanic, and Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, had significantly higher rates of food insecurity than the all-household average. Prevalence of very low food security followed a similar pattern and was statistically significantly different from the all-household prevalence for most race and ethnicity categories. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge Contestants Vie for $100K The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is seeking entrepreneurs to apply online by June 15 for the 2025 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. Now in its 11th year, this national business competition showcases U.S. startup companies developing innovative solutions to challenges faced by America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities. The overall winner of the competition will receive $100,000 in startup funds, the runner-up will be awarded $25,000 and two additional business owners who advance to the final four round will receive $10,000. Farm Bureau is offering a total of $145,000 in startup funds throughout the course of the competition. After the application period closes, ten semi-finalist teams will be selected and announced on Sept. 3. Next, the ten semi-finalist teams will pitch virtually to compete for a spot in the final four round of the contest. Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on June 15. Learn more at fb.org. *********************************************************************************** Gas, Diesel, Higher in the Last Week After a week in which the national average held unchanged, gas prices resumed their climb, rising 6.5 cents compared to a week ago at $3.57 per gallon. The national average is up 17.1 cents from a month ago but 0.8 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price increased 3.1 cents in the last week and stands at $4.02 per gallon—15 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "With oil prices rising to nearly $87 per barrel last week, their highest since October, we are not only facing the seasonal factors that push prices up—refinery maintenance, the switch to summer gasoline, and rising demand—but also escalating crude oil prices." As OPEC maintains strict output cuts, oil prices have continued to find support, climbing on geopolitical escalations in the Middle East and worry about Israel and Iran attacking each other amidst rising global demand.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 9, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports set for Tuesday, but traders will be watching South American weather forecasts and anything else that might get the markets' attention. USDA's next WASDE report will be out Thursday at 11 a.m. CDT. Weather A system in northern Mexico will lead to scattered rain showers and strong to severe thunderstorms from Texas into the Southern Delta Tuesday. Areas of heavy rainfall and flooding are possible in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi Tuesday as rainfall could approach 3-4 inches across parts of these states.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 8, 2024 |

Food Prices Halt Seven-Month Decline The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization’s Food Price Index was 118.3 points in March, up 1.3 points or 1.1 percent from its revised February level. The rise in prices was driven by higher price indices for vegetable oils, dairy products, and meat. That slightly more than offset decreases in those for sugar and cereals. Before the uptick in March following a seven-month-long decline, the index was down almost 10 points from the same time last year. The biggest rise was in the Vegetable Oil Price Index, which averaged 130.6 points in March, up 9.7 points or eight percent from February, and reached its highest average in a year. The biggest drop was in the Sugar Price Index, which averaged 133.1 points in March, down 7.6 points or 5.4 percent from February after two consecutive monthly increases. However, it’s still 6.1 points above its value from a year ago. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Trade Gap Hits $68 Billion In February, America's trade deficit reached $68.9 billion, the highest disparity in almost a year. The Hill says import values exceeded exports by more than analysts were expecting. The total value of imports hit $331.9 billion, while exports were $263 billion, and the overall deficit rose 1.9 percent during the month. Republicans on Capitol Hill have expressed frustration with what they call an unambitious trade strategy and inadequate initiatives undertaken by U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. While they expect trade fluctuations, Republican senators wrote to Tai saying the current sharp decline in America’s agricultural exports is directly attributable to a trade strategy that doesn’t meaningfully expand market access or reduce barriers to trade. February trade data shows a year-to-year decline of $729 million in the foods, feeds, and beverages category of national exports. Soybean exports dropped by $1.9 billion, wheat dropped by $429 million, and dairy products by $97 million. *********************************************************************************** AFT is Looking for Influencers American Farmland Trust is calling for agricultural influencers working in corn, soy, wheat, cotton, and dairy systems to apply for the chance to attend AFT’s Advanced Soil Health Training. It’s a one-year training course made up of four two-day training sessions in the Midwest, Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, New York, and New England. Influencers are soil-health successful farmers and other agricultural professionals who are ready to become Soil Health Advisors to farmers looking to implement climate-smart practices. The training is intended to scale up the adoption of climate-smart practices by establishing trained leaders in farming communities who can provide technical guidance and facilitate learning. AFT says the Advanced Soil Health Training Program is designed for farmers and farm advisors who share an interest in improving soil health. Participants will improve their understanding of the science of soil health, soil health practices, troubleshooting, adapting strategies, and how to effectively communicate about practice adoption. *********************************************************************************** AFB Honors 20th Women’s Boot Camp Graduates Fifteen farm and ranch women leaders graduated from the spring session of the Women’s Communications Boot Camp hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation. The agricultural leaders completed an intensive four-day course that featured hands-on sessions focused on public speaking, working with the media, and messaging. Program graduates will use their training to strategically support the Farm Bureau’s priority issues. This includes participating in local media opportunities, sharing information with elected officials, and joining social media campaigns that spotlight modern agriculture. “Boot Camp class members are ‘all-in’ when it comes to teamwork, supporting one another, networking, and thoughtfully considering how what they’ve learned relates to agricultural advocacy,’ says Isabella Chism (CHIZ-um), chair of the AFB Women’s Leadership Committee. “They’ve been both fully present and forward-thinking about how to apply their skills to benefit agriculture’s future.” AFB President Zippy Duvall says,” We’re proud to recognize the women who completed this training.” *********************************************************************************** Export Sales Down Across the Board The USDA says sales of soybeans and grains to overseas buyers dropped during the week ending on March 28. Soybean sales dropped to 194,200 metric tons, down 26 percent from the previous week and 54 percent from the prior four-week average. The report says China was the big buyer at 154,000 metric tons, followed by Egypt and the Netherlands. Exports for the week dropped 30 percent to 549,000 tons. Corn sales for export were down 21 percent from the previous week and four-week average to 948,000 tons. Japan bought 339,000 tons, followed by Mexico and Colombia. Exports for the week reached 1.64 million tons, the highest amount since the marketing year began, and up 33 percent over the prior week. Wheat sales reached 16,000 tons, down 95 percent week-to-week and 89 percent from the four-week average. USDA said exports of wheat rose 27 percent during the week to 518,000 tons. *********************************************************************************** AFN Sets Criteria for Regenerative Beef Production The American Farmers Network has established and implemented criteria for regeneratively raised beef standards throughout its network of family ranchers. AFN already has USDA approval to use the Regenerative Agriculture claim on its packaging for products currently being distributed throughout retail chains nationwide. That means they’re perfectly situated to pioneer the development of comprehensive certification criteria for regenerative grass-fed beef production across the entire beef category. The collaboration between AFN and third-party certifying organizations will mark a significant step toward establishing transparent and concise certification standards for the beef industry. Drawing from the principles of regenerative agriculture, which prioritizes soil health, biodiversity, and animal welfare, AFN aims to provide consumers with transparent and trustworthy meat choices. American Farmers Network says it believes better meat should be accessible to everyone. Through partnerships, AFN is hoping to incentivize more producers to adopt regenerative farming practices and nurture a more sustainable agricultural landscape.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 8, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be monitoring the latest weather forecasts, especially from South America. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by NASS's weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Light rain showers or a mix of rain and snow will continue across the Midwest Monday as a disturbance exits the North-Central U.S. Meanwhile, another disturbance will provide scattered, heavy rain showers and severe thunderstorms across Texas, southern Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas later today.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 5, 2024 |

NCGA: No Duties on Key Herbicide Imports Growers need reliable access to essential farming tools. National Corn Growers Association President Harold Wolle warned the U.S. International Trade Commission of the consequences for America’s farmers if the agency grants a petition for levying tariffs on imported 2,4-D, an herbicide that’s been on the market for decades. “This scenario under consideration has the potential to limit imports of an important product, raise its price, and create a supply shortage, all while raising the cost of production in an already tight market,” Wolle says. “Farmers are price takers, not makers in selling commodities, and closely managing production costs is crucial to success. Thus, tariffs on these products would create an even more difficult economic scenario for me, my family, and the farmers I represent.” Wolle’s testimony comes after Corteva, Inc., filed antidumping and countervailing duty petitions with the ITC on March 14 over India and China’s trade practices involving the herbicide. *********************************************************************************** HPAI Infection Found in Ohio Dairy Cattle The Ohio Department of Agriculture received confirmation that Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has been found in an Ohio dairy herd. The state’s Department of Agriculture says it’s the first case of HPAI in an Ohio livestock operation. The dairy operation received cows from a Texas dairy on March 8, which was the same dairy that later reported a confirmed HPAI detection in Texas. Ohio’s animal health officials were notified when the livestock began showing clinical signs compatible with sick, lactating dairy cows in other states. The USDA, Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control, and state veterinary health officials are investigating the emerging illness among dairy cattle that’s causing decreased lactation, low appetite, and other symptoms. The FDA and CDC say there is no concern about the safety of commercially pasteurized dairy products due to federal health requirements and pasteurization. The public health risk associated with HPAI remains low. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Fills Beef Tariff Quota in Record Time The U.S. quota for low-tariff beef imports in Japan was filled by the end of February. Nikkei (NEE-kay) Asia says that’s the fastest rate since 2020. That’s not good news for Japan either. The rest of the year, beef imports are subject to higher tariffs, which means Japan will face challenges to increasing exports of its premium Wagyu beef supplies. The import quota resets yearly on January 1. The import quota has already reached the 65,005-ton limit and closed on February 27. Brazil also shipped beef to the U.S. ahead of the new year. Because of soaring inflation, Brazil aggressively marketed its lower-cost beef. That means Japan and Brazil appear to have used up their tariff quota in the first two months of the year, which is two months sooner than in 2023. The shared quota has no country or region-specific caps and is effectively a first-come, first-served system, creating intense competition. *********************************************************************************** $1.5 Billion Available for Conservation and Climate-Smart Ag Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that $1.5 billion is available in fiscal year 2024 to invest in partner-driven conservation and climate solutions through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program. The USDA is accepting project proposals now through July 2 that will help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners adopt and expand conservation strategies to enhance natural resources while tackling the climate crisis. The projects in turn can save farmers money, create new revenue streams, and increase productivity. These investments are estimated to support over 180,000 farms and over 225 million acres in the next five years. “We had unprecedented demand for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program last year, showing the robust interest in conservation from farmers and ranchers,” Vilsack says. “Through the Inflation Reduction Act, we’re able to invest even more this year in this important program, increasing our impact across the landscape.” NRCS will host four webinars to provide additional information. *********************************************************************************** Michigan Growers Approve R&D Continuation Michigan’s apple, cherry, peach, and plum producers have approved a referendum to continue the Michigan Tree Fruit Research and Development Program. Established in 2014, the Michigan Tree Fruit Research and Development Program was developed to improve the economic position and competitiveness of the tree fruit industry by supporting the fruit research stations, research, and extension programs. The program is a public body independent of the Michigan Ag Department and comprised of nine tree fruit producers appointed to the positions. The program will continue an additional five years and end on March 31, 2029. Michigan tree fruit may be assessed at a maximum rate of $2.50 per ton for cherries, four cents per hundredweight for apples, $2 per ton for peaches, and $4.50 per ton for plums sold. 96 voters, or sixty-three percent of the total number of voters, representing over 294 million pounds of apples, cherries, peaches, and plums, approved the measure. *********************************************************************************** CHS Reports Solid Second-Quarter Earnings CHS, Inc., released earnings results for its second quarter that ended on February 29. The company reports quarterly net income of $170.3 million and revenues of $9.1 billion. That compares to net income of $292.3 million and revenues of $11.3 billion in the second quarter of fiscal year 2023. For the first six months of fiscal year 2024, the company reported a net income of $693.2 million and revenues of $20.5 billion. “The first six months of our fiscal year have delivered overall good financial results,” says Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS. “Our supply chain investments and well-diversified portfolio, empowered by our people and technology, are helping us perform well as we connect farmers and local cooperatives with the inputs and services they need to help feed the world.” Among the report highlights, the CHS ag segment earnings rose as agronomy markets were stronger compared to the previous year.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 5, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's nonfarm payrolls and unemployment rate for March will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday. Traders continue to keep watch over South American weather, events in the Middle East and export news. Weather A storm system continues in the Northeast with scattered showers but most of the country is dry until you get to the West where a larger trough continues to spread showers through the region throughout the day, which includes the western Canadian Prairies, with its eyes on the Plains for the weekend.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 4, 2024 |

Farmers, Ethanol Industry Call for E15 Waiver Almost 1,000 farmers, ethanol industry workers, and other supporters from across the U.S. sent a letter to the administration today calling for action on summertime E15. They’re asking for a waiver to allow continued access to E15 throughout the upcoming summer driving season. “With the summer 2024 driving season a few months away, we are asking the administration to take additional action that will ensure consumers across the nation have uninterrupted access to lower-cost, lower-carbon E15,” the letter says. “Allowing gasoline blenders and retailers to sell E15 this summer would help moderate prices at the pump, extend fuel supplies, and deliver relief to American families at a time of year when gas prices are typically at their highest.” The letter also points out that E15 is selling for 10-25 cents per gallon less than standard E10 gasoline, allowing the average American household to save up to $200 a year on gasoline. *********************************************************************************** Smallest Drought Area Since 2020 The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported a sizable drop in drought areas around the U.S. “After wet weather and an early spring across much of the country, drought has decreased to around 18 percent of the U.S. by the end of March, down from 20 percent at the end of February, and from 36 percent at the beginning of winter,” NOAA says. “That’s the least amount of drought across the country since May 2020.” Also, the most intense categories of Extreme and Exceptional Drought covered only about one percent of the country at the end of March, also the lowest amount since May 2020. Farm Policy News says some of the most severe drought conditions currently exist in New Mexico, where 3.51 percent of the state is experiencing exceptional drought and 16.7 percent of the state is experiencing extreme drought. Iowa went from 35 percent extreme drought to 11 percent. *********************************************************************************** Nebraska Issues Restrictions Due to HPAI The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is monitoring the direction of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus in dairy cattle. HPAI has been detected in lactating dairy cattle in Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, Michigan, and Idaho. At this time, there have been no reported detections of HPAI in Nebraska dairy cattle and other livestock. In an effort to protect Nebraska’s dairy herd, the NDA is issuing an import order effective immediately. The importation order will require all breeding female dairy cattle entering Nebraska to obtain a permit issued by NDA before entry. “Animal health and disease control are essential to the livestock industry and health of Nebraska’s economy,” says NDA director Sherry Vinton. “NDA is closely monitoring this HPAI illness in livestock.” She also says the department will do what’s right to advocate for Nebraska producers, protect the health of Nebraska livestock, and minimize the impact HPAI will have in the state. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Producers 2024 Yield Contest Open for Entries National Sorghum Producers will now accept entries for the 2024 National Sorghum Yield Contest. State and national winners are selected from contestants split into East and West regions for the Irrigated, Dryland No-Till, and Dryland Tillage Divisions. One overall winner is selected for Food Grade. The entry deadline for the 2024 National Sorghum Yield Contest is November 26, 2024. A complete field of ten or more continuous acres, planted in the sorghum seed variety named on the entry form, will be designated as the contest field. “With improvements to the contest and the continuous evolution of sorghum and seed genetics, I’m confident we’re setting the stage for unprecedented advancements in sorghum production,” says NSP CEO Tim Lust. “I encourage growers to join us in this journey toward sustainable excellence and look forward to celebrating the yield accomplishments in the upcoming growing season.” For more information or an application, go to SorghumGrowers.com. *********************************************************************************** AEM Announces Second “Ag on the Mall” Event The Association of Equipment Manufacturers will showcase the Future of Food and Farming in Washington, D.C., during the second Celebration of Modern Ag on the National Mall. On May 6-8, more than 20 AEM members will be in the nation’s capital between the Smithsonian Museums to illustrate the equipment manufacturing industry’s contribution to sustainably providing for a growing world. “AEM is honored to lead our member companies and other industry partners in showcasing the sustainability of our food system on the National Mall,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “This is a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate how technologically advanced farms and ranches are today, as well as emphasize why the needs of rural America must be at the forefront of policies that lawmakers support.” AEM and its members will not be alone in educating policymakers about the future of food and farming. A record number of partners will also participate. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeks Nominees for Mushroom Council The USDA wants nominations for the Mushroom Council to fill three seats with terms expiring on December 31, 2027, and one seat whose term will expire on December 31, 2025. Nominees may seek nomination to the council for all the open seats that they are eligible for. Applications are available now at mushroomcouncil.com. The nine-member council includes eight producer members and one importer member. More information is available on the Mushroom Council webpage on the AMS website. The Agricultural Marketing Service policy is that the diversity of the boards, councils, and committees it oversees should reflect the diversity of its industries in terms of the experience of members, methods of production and distribution, marketing strategies, and other distinguishing factors. Throughout the full nomination process, the industry must conduct extensive outreach, paying particular attention to reaching underserved communities and considering the diversity of the population served. Again, go to mushroomcouncil.com for information.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 4, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for February and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. Weather A storm continues to wind down over the Great Lakes, but with heavy snow in the Northeast for Thursday. At the same time, a system is building in the West, which will bring widespread precipitation there and up into the western Canadian Prairies for the next few days. Quieter and warmer conditions are briefly taking over the middle of the country.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 3, 2024 |

Farmer Sentiment Improves in March The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer shows an improved outlook for U.S. farmers during March. The index rose to 114, a three-point increase over February. While the Index of Current Conditions fell by two points to 101, the Index of Future Expectations climbed to 120, up by five points compared to February. The disparity between the two was primarily attributable to farmers’ perceptions that a financial downturn took place over the past year, coupled with expectations for some improvement over the next 12 months. Producers’ expectations for interest rate changes have shifted, which could help explain why producers look for financial conditions to improve. This month, 48 percent of respondents say they expect a decline in the U.S. prime interest rate over the next year. That’s up from 35 percent in December. High input costs continue to be the number one concern, with 36 percent of producers expressing worry. *********************************************************************************** HPAI Confirmed at Texas Poultry Facility Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller confirmed that the Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. poultry facility in Farewell, Texas has received official notification of a positive test for HPAI. Cal-Maine will be required to depopulate 1.6 million laying hens and 337,000 pullets at their facility. This accounts for approximately 3.6 percent of the company’s total flock as of March 2, 2024. Production at the facility has temporarily ceased as Cal-Maine Foods initiates the protocols prescribed by the USDA. “This is absolutely devastating news for Cal-Maine and the entire Panhandle region, which has already suffered so much,” Miller says. “Given this latest development, all producers must practice heightened biosecurity measures because the rapid spread of the virus means we have to act quickly.” This news comes after the CDC confirmed a positive test of H5N1, a form of HPAI, in a Texas dairy worker who had direct contact with cattle suspected of being infected. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Analyzes Bridge Collapse Impact on Ag On March 26, a container ship rammed into Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, resulting in in the structure’s collapse and six lost lives. The American Farm Bureau says there will be an impact on American agriculture. On the export side, in 2023, over 605,000 metric tons of agricultural products were exported from Baltimore, corresponding to nearly $650 million in value. This equates to 0.3 percent of total U.S. ag exports by quantity and 0.4 percent by value. In terms of volume, 415,678 metric tons of soybeans were exports from Baltimore in 2023, or 0.9 percent of all U.S. soybean exports. In terms of the largest export destinations for agricultural products leaving Baltimore, they include Taiwan, China, and Colombia. On the import side, more than 1.59 million metric tons of agricultural products entered the U.S. through Baltimore, corresponding to almost $3.34 billion in value. The most imports in Baltimore come from Brazil. *********************************************************************************** Texas Cattle Raisers Still Accepting Disaster Applications The Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association says applications remain open for help from the TSCRA Disaster Relief Fund. The help is available for cattle raisers impacted by wildfires in the Texas Panhandle and Western Oklahoma. The cattle raisers association will distribute financial assistance to reduce the economic burdens incurred by cattle raisers from recent wildfire damages that were not covered through insurance or other means of aid. Ranchers and landowners from disaster-declared counties impacted by recent wildfires are eligible to apply in the open application period. The current application period does not have a set closing date, and it will remain open to ensure applicants can access funding. Producers are encouraged to apply within the first 60 days of the damage. “As long as we have the funds and people continue to make donations, we will get funding to people who need help,” says TSCRA president Carl Ray Polk, Jr. *********************************************************************************** NACD Supports Conservation in Federal Spending Bill The National Association of Conservation Districts and a coalition of agriculture and conservation groups sent a letter to House and Senate leadership on farm spending. NACD is requesting at least $1.2 billion for NRCS Conservation Operations and full authorized funding for farm bill conservation programs in fiscal year 2025. More than 85 conservation and agriculture groups signed the letter to support the requests. “Funding for NRCS Conservation Operations was reduced in the final Fiscal Year 2024 spending bill, so it’s critical that we make a strong case for reversing course as Congress develops FY 2025 appropriations bills,” says NACD President Kim LaFleur. “Nearly 100 conservation and agriculture groups signing the letter sends a clear message to Congress that increasing funding for CTA is vital to supporting conservation delivery systems and putting effective conservation practices on the ground in all parts of the country.” For more information, anyone interested can go to nacdnet.org. *********************************************************************************** New Technology Key to Increasing Ag Productivity Technological developments in agriculture have enabled continued output growth without requiring many additional inputs. Innovations in animal and crop genetics, chemicals, equipment, and farm organization have made it possible for total agricultural output to nearly triple between 1948 and 2021. During that period, a USDA report says the amount of inputs used in farming declined slightly over time, meaning that the growth in agricultural output over the long term has depended on increases in total factor productivity. TFP measures the amount of agricultural output produced from the combined inputs like labor, capital, and intermediate inputs employed in farm production. Therefore, growth in TPP indicates positive changes in the efficiency with which inputs are transformed into outputs. The USDA report says it can also be seen as an indicator of technical change. In the short term, total output growth and estimated TFP growth can be affected by random events like adverse weather.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 3, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The Energy Department's weekly inventory report is due out at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. Traders continue to monitor South American weather and, after Monday's attack, will keep an eye on events in the Middle East. Weather A storm system continues to spin around the Great Lakes on Wednesday, with a band of heavy snow in and around Wisconsin through this morning before winding down this afternoon. Showers will remain around the Midwest through Thursday, however, as will a burst of some cooler temperatures that is filling in behind a cold front that is moving off the East Coast. Another storm system is heading into the West as our active spring pattern continues.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 2, 2024 |

Beef and Pork Exports Bring Significant Returns to Corn, Bean Producers Beef and pork exports of $18.1 billion in 2023 had a significant impact on the corn and soybean industries. An independent study released by the U.S. Meat Export Federation quantified the returns that beef and pork exports brought to corn and soybean producers nationally and on a state-by-state level for leading corn and soybean-producing states. Nationally, U.S. pork and beef exports contributed an estimated total economic impact of 14.6 percent per bushel to the value of corn and 13.9 percent per bushel to soybeans in 2023. The study shows that despite the headwinds facing the red meat industry in 2023, exports contributed substantially to the value of U.S. corn and soybeans. Beef and pork exports accounted for 512.7 million bushels of U.S. corn usage, equating to a market value of $3.05 billion. Pork exports accounted for 96.8 million bushels of U.S. soybean usage, equating to a market value of $1.36 billion. *********************************************************************************** USTR Releases a Report on Foreign Trade Barriers U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai released the 2024 National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers. It provides a comprehensive review of the significant foreign barriers to U.S. exports of goods and services, U.S. foreign direct investments, and U.S. electronic commerce in key export markets for America. The NTE Report highlights cross-cutting barriers affecting U.S. agricultural trade, including opaque and burdensome facility registration requirements like Indonesia’s unnecessary requirements for dairy, meat, and rendered products. It includes China’s requirements across a wide range of food and agricultural products, such as sanitary and phytosanitary measures that aren’t based on science, are maintained without scientific evidence, or are applied beyond the necessary extent. Other significant barriers include Mexico’s policies regarding agricultural biotechnology products, and the European Union’s non-science-based policies affecting innovative crop protection policies. The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office is determined to ensure that producers can compete on a level playing field globally. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Comments Put Farmers First The National Milk Producers Federation submitted its final formal legal brief on behalf of the Federal Milk Marketing Order modernization to USDA. The brief, submitted on March 29 and hand-delivered to USDA, emphasized that those farmers are the reason the system exists, and by law, their priorities are pre-eminent in USDA’s consideration of a final plan. “We’ve spent almost three years assembling a broad consensus among dairy farmers that modernization needs to succeed,” says Gregg Doud, President and CEO of NMPF. “Our approach is careful and comprehensive, and it benefits farmers of all regions and types of operations.” Among the proposals, NMPF favors returning to the “higher of” Class 1 mover. They also want to discontinue the use of barrel cheese in the protein component price formula. NMPF also wants to extend the current 30-day reporting limit to 45 days on forward-priced sales of nonfat dry milk and dry whey. *********************************************************************************** Public Perceptions of the U.S. Food System The Gardner Food and Agricultural Policy Survey recently completed two years of tracking consumer sentiment on a multitude of food and agricultural policy issues. The survey found that a large majority of consumers believe the food system produces food that tastes good, is accessible, and safe to eat. Consumers also believe the American food system produces food that’s healthy and sustainable and provides healthy returns to supply chain members. Perceptions of the food system seem relatively stable. Perceptions of food system affordability have seen the most change during the past two years. The share of consumers who agree that food is affordable continued to decline during the past two years, hitting a low of 49 percent agreement in August 2023. However, consumer outlook on affordability has gradually started to improve since then. Looking at different segments of the supply chain, the study finds that farmers continue to be the most trusted. *********************************************************************************** HPAI Found in Idaho and Michigan Dairy Cattle Officials from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service have confirmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in a Michigan dairy herd. That herd recently added cattle from Texas, one of the first states to report HPAI in dairy cattle. A University of Minnesota Extension article says APHIS also shared presumptive positive samples from New Mexico, Idaho, Ohio, and Texas. The Idaho Department of Agriculture announced cattle in the state have tested positive for HPAI. HPAI historically affects birds but has been documented in cats, skunks, and foxes. The virus found in Michigan is very similar to the viruses found in Texas and Kansas and appears to have been introduced into the cattle by wild birds. In Idaho, the virus may have been transmitted from cow to cow. USDA has stated that initial testing has not found changes to the virus that would make it easier to transmit to humans. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Disappointed in GHG Standards Clean Fuels Alliance America expressed extreme disappointment in the Environmental Protection Agency’s final Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for heavy-duty vehicles. In the rule, EPA adopts new standards that are designed expressly to incentivize electric vehicles for model year 2027-2032 heavy-duty vehicles. The standards are part of the GHG emissions regulations for trucks and buses. EPA didn’t evaluate the use of biodiesel and renewable diesel as part of engine systems to meet the new standards, focusing instead primarily on tailpipe emissions. “EPA’s rule flatly dismisses the benefits of biodiesel and renewable diesel as the lowest-cost and most widely available options to kickstart decarbonization of the heavy-duty vehicle sector,” says Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels. “There should be no uncertainty that biodiesel and renewable diesel also reduce criteria pollutants from heavy-duty vehicles, which will continue to be manufactured and used during the timeframe of this rule. They merit a role in decarbonization.”

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 2, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. factory orders for February is set for 9:00 a.m CDT. Traders will keep their attention on South American weather and any updates, concerning recent infections of highly pathogenic avian influenza in cattle and/or humans. Weather A storm system is moving from the Southern Plains and deepening in the Midwest for Tuesday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms, including severe weather, will be possible from the Midwest to the Gulf Coast. Some flooding may occur in the Ohio Valley. At the same time, it will be just cold enough to produce some heavier snow around Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan later Tuesday and going into Wednesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 1, 2024 |

USDA Releases Prospective Plantings Report The USDA’s Prospective Plantings Report shows corn planted area will be 90 million acres this year, down five percent or 4.61 million acres from last year. Soybean planted area for 2024 is estimated to be 86.5 million acres, up three percent from last year. The all-wheat planted area for this year is estimated at 47.5 million acres, four percent below 2023 for comparable states. The 2024 winter wheat planted area, at 34.1 million acres, is down seven percent from last year and one percent from the previous estimate for comparable states. Of the total, about 24.3 million acres are Hard Red Winter Wheat, 6.26 million acres are Soft Red Winter, and 3.59 million acres will be White Winter. The all-cotton planted area for 2024 is estimated at 10.7 million acres, up four percent from last year. Upland area is estimated at 10.5 million acres, up four percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** Stocks Report Shows More Corn, Beans in Storage The USDA’s Grain Stocks Report shows corn stocks in all positions on March 1, 2024, totaled 8.35 billion bushels, up 13 percent from March 1, 2023. Of the total stocks, 5.08 billion bushels were stored on farms, 24 percent higher than last year. Off-farm stocks were down one percent from a year ago. Soybeans stored in all positions on March 1, 2024, totaled 1.85 billion bushels, nine percent higher than March 1, 2023. Soybean stocks on farms are estimated at 933 million bushels, 24 percent higher than a year ago. Off-farm stocks were down three percent from last March. All wheat in stored positions on March 1, 2024, totaled 1.09 billion bushels, up 16 percent from a year ago. On-farm stocks are estimated at 272 million bushels, up 20 percent from last March. Durum wheat stocks in all positions on March 1, 2024, totaled 36.6 million bushels, two percent above 2023. *********************************************************************************** Skills Needed in the Agricultural Workforce U.S. employers report challenges in finding suitable job candidates with work-ready skills to fill open roles in the agri-food industry. AgCareers.com surveyed those employers to gain deeper insights into the skills they seek and identify the most significant skill gaps in the workforce. Employers ranked “problem solving and decision making” as the most necessary skills for all employees, followed by “organization and planning skills,” and “teamwork.” Problem-solving and decision-making were also identified as areas with the most significant gap for both current employees and new graduate hires. Only 18 percent of U.S. employers said that new graduate hires were adequately prepared with work-ready skills upon hire, whereas 76 percent said experienced new hires were equipped with those skills. Survey data also examined industry-specific skills required for employee success, such as sustainability, data science, and food science. Results indicate the biggest knowledge needs were in agronomy and precision agriculture, and animal sciences. *********************************************************************************** Driving Corn Demand Through Renewable Chemicals At the Advanced Bioeconomy Conference in Washington, D.C., the National Corn Growers Association sponsored a special session on renewable chemicals and other materials. The session outlined the national incentive for biobased chemicals and renewable materials that NCGA, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, and other partners have been working on. The panel was moderated by Sarah McKay, NCGA Market Development Director. “U.S. corn farmers continue to produce an affordable, high-quality, and reliable crop,” she said. “That crop can be turned into more than food, fuel, and fiber.” The corn kernel can be utilized in so many ways, which is why NCGA focuses on new uses for corn as an industrial feedstock. “NCGA is working on this national incentive with partners across the agricultural and biotech industries to help a variety of new technologies overcome barriers to commercialization so they can begin to grind more corn.” Learn more about the new uses programs at ncga.com/newuses. *********************************************************************************** USDA Hosts Workshops on Nursery Insurance